Srinagar–Manali Highway
India
One of the world's highest motorable roads, from Kashmir's lakes and Mughal gardens over three mountain passes above 4,000m, through the moonscapes of Ladakh, to the green Kullu Valley. Staggering altitude, staggering beauty.
Explore on the interactive map →Stops along the route
- Srinagar
Houseboats on Dal Lake, Mughal gardens terracing the hillside, and saffron fields outside the city.
- Sonamarg
The Meadow of Gold: alpine wildflowers below the Thajiwas Glacier, the last green valley before the high desert.
- Zoji La Pass
At 3,528m, this treacherous pass is the gateway to Ladakh, snow-blocked nine months a year and dramatic when open.
- Kargil
A market town at the crossroads of ancient trade routes, with a war memorial and stunning Suru Valley views nearby.
- Leh
Ladakh's capital at 3,500m. A 9-storey ruined palace towers above town; Thiksey Monastery gleams on a nearby ridge.
- Tanglang La
At 5,328m, one of the highest motorable passes in the world. Vast empty plateau, prayer flags, and icy thin air.
- Sarchu
A tent-camp settlement at 4,290m on the Ladakh-Himachal border, surrounded by eroded canyon badlands and open sky.
- Baralacha La
A 4,890m pass where three valleys meet at the edge of the Himalaya. Snow lies on the road well into summer.
- Rohtang Pass
A 3,978m pass connecting Lahaul to the Kullu Valley. Snow lies here even in July; the descent into green is sudden.
- Manali
A mountain resort where the Himalayan descent ends. Hadimba Temple, Old Manali cafes, and the Beas River below.
Where to Eat
- Ahdoos RestaurantKashmiri
Renowned for authentic Kashmiri Wazwan cuisine, offering dishes like Rogan Josh and Gushtaba in a traditional setting.
- The Tibetan KitchenTibetan
Offers a variety of Tibetan delicacies such as momos and thukpa, providing a cozy dining experience in Leh.
- Chopsticks Noodle BarAsian Fusion
Serves a mix of Chinese, Japanese, and Thai dishes, with favorites like sushi and stir-fried noodles in a vibrant atmosphere.
- Johnson's CaféContinental
Known for its wood-fired pizzas and trout dishes, set in a charming ambiance with mountain views in Manali.
Things to Do
- Shankaracharya TempleHistoric Site
An ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, offering panoramic views of Srinagar from its hilltop location.
- Magnetic HillNatural Phenomenon
A gravity hill near Leh where vehicles appear to move uphill against gravity, creating an optical illusion.
- Pangong LakeLake
A stunning high-altitude lake known for its changing colors and serene beauty, extending into Tibet.
- Hadimba Devi TempleHistoric Site
A unique wooden temple dedicated to Goddess Hadimba, set amidst a cedar forest in Manali.
Travel advisory
Inner Line Permits are required for certain Ladakh sectors and must be obtained before travel. Passes above 4,000 m can close without warning due to snow, even in summer, so monitor road bulletins daily. Carry fuel reserves, warm clothing, and a basic toolkit as mechanical help is scarce.