Manali to Leh - Pangong Lake Jeep Safari
The Manali - Leh with Pangong Lake jeep safari is an epic trans-Himalayan odyssey stretching about 472 km, traversing some of the world's most dramatic terrain and five iconic passes: Rohtang La (13,050 ft), Baralacha La (16,040 ft), Nakee La (15,547 ft), Lachulung La (16,616 ft), and Tanglang La (17,480 ft). Each pass unfolds breathtaking vistas of glacial valleys, snow - clad summits, and high-altitude deserts, making the journey a true test of endurance and wonder.
The jeep safari for Ladakh begins in Manali, surrounded by pine forests and the Beas River, and goes over Rohtang Pass, marking the transition from the lush Kullu Valley to the rugged landscapes of Lahaul. The route continues through Keylong, Jispa, and Darcha, the tranquil mountain hamlets nestled amid towering peaks and prayer flags fluttering in the thin mountain air. Crossing Baralacha La, travelers reach the open plains of Sarchu, the natural border between Himachal Pradesh and Ladakh. From here, the road ascends the twisting Gata Loops, crosses Nakee La and Lachulung La, and then glides across the vast Morey Plains before crossing Tanglang La, one of the highest motorable passes in the world at 5328 m.
Descending into Ladakh, the trail passes Upshi and Karu, finally reaching Leh, where you will get to explore the nearby monasteries like Thiksey, Hemis, and Shey. From Leh, extend the journey to the serene Pangong Lake, famous for its changing colors; the remote Tso Moriri Lake, cradled in the Changthang plateau; and the surreal dunes of the Nubra Valley, reached via the world's second-highest motorable mountain pass, Khardung La (5342 m).
Every turn of this high - altitude expedition reveals something unique: streams that cross the roads, scenic Indus and Zanskar rivers, sacred monasteries, alpine lakes, and long stretches of desert, making the Manali - Leh with Pangong Lake jeep safari one of the most unforgettable adventures in the Himalayas.
Highlights of the Manali - Leh - Pangong Lake Jeep Safari
- Cross some of the world's highest motorable passes, including Rohtang La, Baralacha La, Nakee La, Lachulung La, and Tanglang La, on this epic trans-Himalayan journey.
- Drive on the legendary Gata Loop, which has 32 dramatic hairpin bends at dizzying altitudes.
- Visit ancient monasteries like Thiksey, Hemis, Shey, and Spituk, each echoing centuries of Tibetan - Buddhist heritage.
- Witness the stunning Pangong Tso, famous for its changing colors, and explore the tranquil Tso Moriri and Tso Kar lakes.
- Encounter Ladakhi villages, prayer - flag - lined roads, and warm mountain hospitality amidst rugged Himalayan beauty.
- Spot Himalayan blue sheep, marmots, and even yaks grazing against the backdrop of snow - dusted peaks.
Best Time to Visit the Manali - Leh - Pangong Jeep Safari
The Manali - Leh - Pangong jeep safari season typically runs from late June to September, when the high mountain passes are open and the weather allows safe and scenic travel across the Himalayas. During this window, travelers can experience the raw grandeur of Ladakh's landscapes, from the lush Kullu Valley to the stark, high-altitude deserts of Leh and the turquoise brilliance of Pangong Lake.
- Summer (April to June) : While April still sees snow in Ladakh, late May marks the onset of tourist season. By June, the snow begins to melt, and legendary passes like Rohtang (3,978 m) and Baralacha La (4,890 m) reveal breathtaking panoramas of glacial valleys and snow walls. The roads are free from snow and are ready for adventure drives, while meadows bloom with wildflowers, and rivers flow in full force.
- Monsoon (July to September) : This is considered the best time to visit Ladakh. The high - altitude terrain is accessible, and the weather remains dry and pleasant. The deep blue of Pangong Tso contrasts sharply with the golden - brown mountains, creating postcard - perfect frames. Due to its geographical location in the rain-shadow region, Ladakh receives minimal rainfall, so while the rest of the country is getting drenched, it enjoys clear - sky warm days.
- Winter (October to March) : Ladakh in October is stunning, with the shades of yellow, orange, and brown taking over. The sky turns intensely blue, and the landscapes glow under softer sunlight. It's also one of the best times for stargazing and night photography, especially near Pangong and Nubra Valley. From November, the Manali - Leh Highway gets closed due to heavy snowfall, marking the official beginning of the winter season in Ladakh. In this season, jeep safaris are not possible.
Quick Info
- Location : Manali - Leh - Ladakh
- Duration : 12 Days
- Grade : Easy to Moderate
- Major Attractions : --
- Best Time : --
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