Srinagar Leh Highway Status 2018 for now is Open. The highway this year opened in March itself which is a record in itself. This was due to the fact that it did not snow much anywhere across the Himalayas this year due to which BRO was able to clear snow way sooner than expected.
Like last year, this will be a dedicated post for updating the road status and condition. I will continue updating the status on opening and closing of the road; along with the road conditions as the year progresses. Apart from the blog post here, I will also start a sticky thread at our Community Forum where other members of the forum can also shared their updates. If you have a more recent update than the one provided here, please do share it either in the comments section below or at the forum post; Srinagar to Leh Road Status 2018
Current Srinagar Leh Highway Status 2018: OPEN
Srinagar to Sonamarg: Open
Sonamarg to Kargil: Open
Kargil to Leh: Open
Kargil to Padum: Open
Also read: Srinagar Leh Highway Travel Guide and Route Map
Update: June 30th
Heavy rains for last 2 days have created a flood like situation in Srinagar city. Jhelum river has crossed its danger mark and if the water rose another 2 to 3 feet, it will flood the entire Laal Chowk. Authorities have issued a flood alert in Srinagar, sSchools have been shut down and Amarnath Yatra has been suspended for now. Srinagar Leh highway remained closed all day yesterday and was only reopened in the evening for a little while. There was a landslide at Jammu – Srinagar highway yesterday leaving thousands of people stranded on the road. It would be unsafe to travel towards Srinagar as of now; until situation is back under control and weather clears.
Update: June 24th
Below is an update of road conditions on Manali to Leh highway, Srinagar to Leh highway and in Ladakh.
Bad sections: Udhampur to Nehru tunnel 50 km, zozila pass 20 km, khardung la pass 35 km, some where near to pang to keylong 35 km and 20 km near Rohtang.
Total 250 kms of bad roads on entire circuit
Chandigarh to Udhampur – road is good
Nehru tunnel to Sonmarg – road is smooth
Zero point to Leh – road is smooth
Leh to nubra – 40 kms bad road
Nubra to pangong – road is good
Pangong to pang – 100 km of bad rad
Pang to keylong – 50 kms of bad road and 4 water crossings
Keylong to Rohtang – last 20 km bad and tough water crossings
Rohtang to Manali – heavy rush
Manali to Chandigarh- road OK
Update: May 3rd
For anyone planning to travel on Srinagar Leh highway anytime soon, below is a small update provided by a fellow traveler.
Traffic will be allowed from Drass for Sonamarg in Kashmir from 0500 hrs. Ladakh bound traffic will be allowed from 1100 hrs.
Road condition is mostly good all the way with a few bad patches. Even the road at Zojila is above average and easily doable.
There is not much of slush yet at Zojila which becomes the biggest problem at this pass. But then the temperature at the top is still close to zero and snow has not yet started to melt. Though most of the patches on the climb are now paved with cement blocks, there is some unpaved area and there could be slush one the snow starts to melt away.
Update: April 27th
Traffic resumed on Sonamarg – Drass stretch of the strategic Srinagar – Leh highway on Wednesday after remaining suspended for five consecutive days. The highway was closed last week following heavy snowfall in Zojila and Drass areas. Traffic will be allowed from Drass for Sonamarg in Kashmir from 0500 hrs. Ladakh bound traffic will be allowed from 1100 hrs.
Update: April 22nd
Traffic movement remained suspended on the Sonamarg – Drass stretch of 434 kms strategic Srinagar Leh highway on fifth consecutive day on Tuesday. Officials said that a number of snow slides on Sonamarg – Drass road stretch have hampered the early restoration of the traffic movement on the highway. Officials said efforts are on from both ends of the Sonamarg – Drass stretch to restore the traffic on the highway as early as possible.
For now, the estimate is that it will take at least another 3-4 days to restore the highway. Around 4 feet of fresh snow has accumulated at Zojila Top after the recent snowfall and avalanche last week.
Update: April 21st
Srinagar Leh highway was closed yesterday on temporary basis due to recent snowfall at Zojila. If the weather holds and it doesn’t snow anymore again, road will probably be open again in 2-3 days.
Update: April 7th
After almost 2 weeks since traffic was allowed to ply on Srinagar Leh highway, it has now finally been declared open officially. Beacon division of BRO held a small ceremony and made an official announcement of opening. Traffic however has already been crossing over Zojila and reaching Leh for last 2 weeks. A few people have even made their trip to Ladakh already traversing via Srinagar.
Also read: Is Srinagar Leh Highway Safe for Tourists?
It seems Army was waiting for the local administration to hold some photo op ceremony which was getting delayed for no reason. Finally when the date was still not finalized, BRO decided to open the road nonetheless. Local administration in Ganderbal is quite upset about this and even deciding to file criminal proceedings against BRO Beacon.
Source: GreaterKashmir
Update: April 1st
As I posted earlier, Srinagar Leh highway is open and the locals are already commuting on it; however an official announcement is still getting delayed. It seems a photo op ceremony is pending which the officials want to have before they make an official announcement.
Even though the road is open, I will still recommend that you give it a week more before traveling to Ladakh. Locals do get to move around but tourists may get stopped and now allowed to cross Zojila until it is all official.
For now, traffic from Drass to Sonamarg is allowed until 1 PM and Sonamarg to Drass after 1 PM.
Update: March 29th
Srinagar Leh highway is free of snow and Army is allowing vehicles to cross over Zojila but in limited numbers. It is expected right now that an official announcement of highway opening will be made on Sunday, March 1st; after which all traffic movement will be allowed.
Update: March 26th
This will officially mark the beginning of tourist season in Ladakh. Though an announcement has not yet been made, but Srinagar to Leh route is now open for light motor vehicles. An Ambulance crossed over from Kargil to Srinagar on Sunday, 25th March, after which all civilian vehicles were released and crossed Zojila over safely.
If you have been waiting to go to Ladakh this year, you are good to travel now but I would still advise at least 7 to 10 days before traveling. Road right now is highly unstable with plenty of snow and slush at Zojila. BRO may still close it on temporary basis to continue their restoration work.
Update: March 25th
Srinagar Leh Highway was freed of snow on March 20th; as I updated earlier in this post. It has not been declared officially clear still; but an Ambulance carrying a critical patient from Kargil crossed over Zojila and reach Srinagar safely today. Critical care ambulance of BHC RC started it’s service and became the first civil vehicle to cross Zojila. It is now only a matter of days before the highway gets declared open. Anticipated opening date right now is March 28th but it may get pushed by a few days and open in first week of April.
The road from Kargil to Zanskar valley too was officially declared open on Sunday.
Also read: How to Plan a Trip to Ladakh – A Complete Travel Guide
Source: JKnewstoday
Update: March 21st
The road across Zojila and Srinagar Leh highway has been cleared of snow completely but is not official yet. Project Beacon of BRO has cleared snow all the way till Zero point at Zojila yesterday. Project Vijayank had already cleared the snow till the top from Kargil side on 18th. So the road between Sonamarg and Kargil right now is actually open but not for civilians yet.
If weather favors and it does not snow yet again, Srinagar Leh highway in all likelihood will be open by April 1st week. However considering the fact that it snowed all across Himachal on 20th March, it will not be a surprise if it starts to snow again in Kashmir as well.
Update: March 20th
Snow clearing operation on Srinagar Leh Highway came to a complete stand still after it started to snow at several areas on 14th and 15th March. Zojila received 7 inches of fresh snow whereas it snowed about 4 inches at Sonamarg. The work however was resumed soon after and BRO is working to clear Zojila as soon as possible.
The connectivity on entire stretch has been restored today and civilian traffic was allowed to ply. Right now, the traffic between Srinagar and Sonamarg is allowed between 11 AM to 3 PM. Road is open as far as Sonamarg market only and you cannot go beyond that.
Update: March 13th
Last year Srinagar Leh highway was declared open on May 13th but this year; in all probability it will be open by Mid-April. BRO is hopeful that snow clearance will end by the end of March if weather permits. Zoji La this year has only received about 8 to 10 feet of snow which is way less than the usual amount of snow each year. About 3 to 4 feet of snow has accumulated at Sonamarg – Baltal road. Once the snow is cleared, a decision will be taken on opening the road after assessing the situation. Usually, after snow clearing is done, BRO takes about a week or so to test the road and then allows civilian traffic to ply on it.
Srinagar Leh highway latest news
Srinagar, Mar 13: Jammu and Kashmir is likely to open early this year. A Beacon official told Greater Kashmir that snow clearance work on the highway is going on.
He said that snow clearance operation on the Srinagar – Leh road is going on in full swing, however, we are facing a tough situation at few places due to avalanches along the road,” the official said.
He said snow clearance will end by the end of March if weather permits. “We will take a decision on opening the road after assessing the situation, “he said.
He said snow clearance on Zoji La Pass is very difficult . “However, this year, the Pass received less snow making snow clearance operation easy,” he said.
Reports said that nearly 8-10 ft of snow has accumulated along Zoji La pass while as 3-4 ft of snow along Sonamarg – Baltal road comparative less.
Director works Beacon, Col Hooda while talking to Greater Kashmir said: “We haven’t set any timeline for the road opening however we expect Srinagar – Leh road to be thrown a little early this year and only by mid April” he added.
He said that the toughest work for snow clearance remains on the 30-km road stretch up to zero point of Zoji La from Sonamarg.
Project Beacon of the Border Road Organization is responsible for clearing the road up to zero point near Zoji La from Sonamarg, while the Vijayak of the BRO clears the road from the Kargil side
Update: March 12th
Sharing some current captures of Srinagar Leh Highway and snow clearing operation in progress. Expected opening date of the road right now is between 10th to 15th April (just an estimate, highly prone to change). On 9th March, BRO was only 8 kilometers away from zero point at Zoji La.
Update: March 11th
Sharing a recent pic of area near Sonamarg and Gulmarg that I just received from a friend in Srinagar. Local roads in the region are mostly all operational now and it is not long that Srinagar Leh highway too will be declared open. Local cabs have already started plying towards Sonamarg. The helicopter service between Srinagar and Leh too continued this year. You can buy the ticket from TRC Srinagar for Rs. 5,000 to reach Leh by Helicopter.
Update: March 9th
The snow clearing operation on Srinagar Leh highway is at full swing. BRO has started to clear the snow towards Zoji La from Srinagar side. Whereas from the other side of the pass, Drass side that is, the snow has already been cleared. The estimate right now is that the road this year will open by early April.
And it is not just on the Srinagar to Leh road. Even the Manali Leh highway is expected to open in the month of April as of now or in early May. Snow this year is way too less and BRO has already cleared the most of the snow in Lahaul Valley.
Update: March 2nd
The recent spell of rain and snow continues across the Kashmir region. It has constantly been raining all across at the lower parts of Jammu and Srinagar while higher reaches like Sonamarg and Gulmarg received a fresh spell of moderate snowfall. Minimum temperature in Srinagar city dipped to 6.8, Pahalgam 1.9 and Gulmarg -1.6 degree Celsius. Leh recorded a minimum temperature of -0.4 degrees Celsius whereas Kargil was the coldest across the region at -4.3
Srinagar Leh Highway Status 2018 – Update: February 28th
Border Roads Organization began snow clearance operation today on the 12 kilometers Gagangeer – Sonamarg stretch of Srinagar Leh highway. Per the officials, if weather doesn’t take a turn, this part of the road will be cleared completely within next few days. The snow this year is very less from the Gagangeer side due to which Sonamarg remained open for tourists entire winter this year.
The tough part however is on the other side of Sonamarg, towards Zoji La. There is a lot of snow on the 30 kilometers long stretch between Sonamarg and Zero Point.
It has been raining cats and dogs between Jammu and Srinagar though; due to which the Jammu – Srinagar highway was closed, reopened and closed again several times last week. The road was closed again yesterday temporarily as the incessant rain was causing the risk of shooting stones.
Srinagar Leh Highway Status 2018 Update: February 23rd
BRO is all set to start its snow clearing operations effective March 1st to restore road connectivity to Ladakh. This year, the entire region has seen very little snow as compared to previous years. There are no major avalanches or landslides in sight and the road is not too bad in condition. Sonamarg for the first time remained opened for tourism throughout the winter. What this necessarily means that the entire stretch between Srinagar and Leh will open early this year; unless there is a major snowfall in the month of March.
So far, the city of Srinagar has witnessed very little now. Below are a few pictures of winter this year.
Srinagar Leh Highway Status 2018 Update: January 26th
The long dry spell this winter finally broke this week in Himachal and Uttarakhand with several areas receiving high amount of snow. Keylong was coldest in the region with minimum temperature settling at -5.8 degrees C, Kalpa -3 degrees and Manali -0.6 degrees and and Dalhousie at -0.8 degrees. The state of J&K was no exception with fresh snowfalls around Sonamarg and Gulmarg. The city of Srinagar however remains deprived of snow still.
Leh continues to remain the coldest city in entire J&K with temperature several degrees below 0. Other areas of Ladakh like Nubra valley and Pangong too are under a grip of cold wave.
Srinagar Leh Highway Status 2018 Update: January 22nd
The dry season across the entire Himalayan region continues. Most of the areas have either see little or no snow at all. Srinagar has seen no snowfall at all this year so far. Road between Srinagar and Sonamarg continues to remain open and so do the roads towards Gulmarg, Pahalgam and Jammu as well. You will definitely however find some snow at Sonamarg and Gulmarg but a little less than usual.
Internal roads in Ladakh are all open. If you reached Leh by air, you will easily be able to journey towards Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri. Even the road across Tanglang La is currently open and you can even take the route through Pang to reach Karzok.
Srinagar Leh Highway Status 2018 – Update: January 14th
Srinagar still continues to run dry. There is not much snow in Srinagar though there is plenty in nearby areas like Sonamarg, Gulmarg and Pehalgam. Road however is open for all these areas so if you were planning a winter trip to Kashmir, you will find plenty of snow in all these places.
Srinagar Leh highway is open until Sonamarg but closed beyond that as Zojila is all snowed out.
Srinagar Leh Highway Status 2018 – Update: January 1st
Temperature continues to dip all across Jammu and Kashmir state; with the town of Leh recording as the coldest city. Nights are recording a temperature of -19 to -20 degrees Celsius with temperature remaining close to -10 degrees Celsius at noon. Temperature at Srinagar goes down to close to -10 degrees during night and 10 degrees at noon.
The region has not seen much snow this year, including Ladakh. There has been no snowfall so far in Srinagar and very less in Leh town. There was a fresh spell of snow on 1st Jan however it was only at the peaks and higher areas. What this necessarily means is that if it continues this way, we are looking at an early Summer and early opening of the road. For now however, to be on a safer side, plan your trip only after late April.
Srinagar Leh Highway Status 2018 – Update: December 10th
Srinagar to Leh road is no longer open. Temperature has been dipping all across the Kashmir and Ladakh region. Srinagar city recorded minus 3.0 degrees Celsius; Pahalgam minus 4.5; and Gulmarg minus 2.2 as the night’s lowest temperatures of this season so far. Ladakh region recorded minus 12.3 degrees Celsius; and Kargil minus 7.2 degrees Celsius as the night’s lowest temperature. The entire stretch connecting Kashmir to Leh will remain closed until further notice next year.
Srinagar Leh Highway Status 2018
Srinagar Leh highway usually remains open until mid to end November. Last year, the road was operational in December as well. This year too, right now the route is open and used by both Indian Army and locals here. Several stretches however, specially the pass en route, have already seen light spells of snow.
The pass will close in a few days; owing to heavy snowfall and leading to closure of the highway for this year.
If you were planning to traverse on the route anytime soon, I would strongly advise against it. Do not take the unnecessary risk and better plan your trip to Ladakh next year.
I hope the information above on was of help. If you have any further questions, please feel free to ask in the comments section below or at our Community Forum and I will be glad to answer.
174 comments
Hi Vargis, I’ve been following your website for a few days and it has most of the info I need. Thank you and keep up the good work! I have a plan next year to go from Srinagar to Leh in mid April. Will the highway open around that time? I also read that the road from Leh to Manali will be closed during April, is that true?
It all depends on the weather Syabilla, no can predict so early. In 2017, it opened in May and in 2018 it was opened in March itself. All depends on how much it snows. Manali to Leh yes will definitely be closed in April.
Are roads to leh via Srinagar clear now??
Yes
will the Srinagar Leh Highway be open till 15th Nov 2018
Depends on the weather. May close if it snowed heavy at Zojila
Hello sir, is it possible, i rent a bike in jammu and drop in manli
Yes you an but they will charge you money for it, approximately 10 to 15k
Hey Sir, i m planning to go to Leh coming January 2019 and also planning to go to Gulmarg via road…suggest me its okk to travel via road?
You cannot reach Leh from Srinagar by road if that is what you were asking. The road to Gulmarg however remains open in January.
Dear Vargis,
Your website has been so usefull so far! I had one question though: I Have a flight to Srinagar 30 september 2018. I was hoping to take the road to Leh, but my guesthouse in leh told me it might be better to fly to leh because of wheater conditions in beginning of oktober. Would it be best to book now in advance this flight from srinagar to leh? Or could I also wait until im in Srinagar the end of september. Im a bit afraid the flight then will be full in case the road is closed off. Ofcourse I would prefer the road for the experience of it. Thank you!
Arjan
Hi Arjan – 30th September is fine by road. It will be cold but you will still find people traveling by bikes so it is doable. No need to fly.
Hi we have already booked ticket delhi to leh 9 November and return flight 16 november srinagar to delhi.
My question is that mid november road are open or close?
Yes, internal roads in Ladakh remain all open in November. Srinagar Leh route will depend on the weather but historically, it is open until Mid November.
Hi Vargis,
Thanks for the informative blog
We are traveling to Leh from Srinagar on early morning of 5th May. will the roads are open on that day?
what is the current status of the road?
Thanks,
Hi Anil – Yes it will be open by 5th May
Dear Vargis
Thank you very much for all your efforts to keep us updated on Srinagar – Leh and Manali – Leh Highway. After recent snowfall, what’s the possibility of opening Manali – Leh highway within May 20?
I am planning to start my Ladakh trip via Srinagar and if everything goes right, then my Ladakh trip will be completed within May 20-21 . Will it be possible to return to Delhi via Manali – Leh Highway at that time?
Hello Biplob,
It is really hard to predict right now. It snowed at Zojila top even today. It entirely depends on the weather but the way things are right now, chances of Manali Leh opening by May 20th are a little tough. It may get pushed towards June first week as well.
Dear Vargis,
I am planning my trip from Holland and I read your article on Manali to Leh and is was very helpful!! Augustus will be the time I will arrive in Delhi and than on to Shimla and the Manali-Leh Highway. I want to complete the circuit so after Leh go to Kargil and Srinagar, Jammu, Dalhousie, Dharamshala, Amritsar. Until what time is the Leh – Srinagar highway open? Is it better to do the trip in reversed order? Do you have an article on Leh to Srinagar?
Love to hear your repsonse
Buyo
Hello Buyo,
If you are arriving in August then you are OK doing the journey anyway that you wish. Srinagar Leh route remains open until November and Manali Leh route is open until Mid October.
Thank you for your prompt reply!! I might contact you again if i have some more questions……
Buyo
No problem Rene. Happy to help
Thanks Vargis for your assistance To go to leh from Srinagar.we hv completed the journey safely.wonderful journey. It will be memorable.your blog is definitely useful.pl follow it though wañt to go leh by road.
Hi Jagannath Bhai, You are welcome. How was your trip? Would you mid sharing some pictures and a little bit of details to help others?
hello sir, what kind of footwear would you recommend for the Leh trip in first week of May?
Just take your normal sports shoes, they will do fine.
Hello Vargis bhai,
Thank you for putting efforts on providing updates.
I am planning to visit Leh from Srinagar this week: I have few doubts
1. Is it possible to visit major sightseeings such as Nubra valley, Pangong Tso Lake, Tso Moriri, Khardung La etc?
2. Do I need a permit to visit these places? If yes, could you please help with the link or information?
3. What other places I can visit during this trip?
Regards,
Geetesh
Hello Geetesh, Thank you for your kind words.
1. Yes all of these places are open for visit.
2. Yes you do need a permit. Please see the article below.
https://vargiskhan.com/log/obtaining-ilp-for-ladakh/
3. It depends on how many days you have in hand and how you are traveling.
Thanks Vargis bhai I am planning to start from Ambala on 13 Oct and back to Ambala by 21 Oct by my i10. Will it be possible to drive by Manali during 13 Oct. What all places can I see around Leh and where all I need to make a halt during journey.
It all depends on the weather really but historically the route should remain open on 12th. Make this journey in 2 days at most, Manali to Keylong OR Jispa and then straight to Leh the next day.
Hi Vargis bhai, Planning to visit Leh in mid October. Have some queries, kindly spare some time. Which route will be best to enter and exit from Leh from Manali or Srinagar.Can you give me an itenary. Where to stay on route and which places to visit in or near Leh. Will it be possible to drive i10 in this route.
Hi Aninda Bhai, If you can make it in first 10 days of October then you must take Manali route to reach Leh and return via Srinagar. How many days are you planning to travel for? Yes you can do the trip in an i10 but will have to be extremely careful due to low GC.
Dear sir,
I read that due to recent disturbances in valley, the Srinagar- Sonamarg road is closed. Is it so.? Looks like there is also some shutdown in Kangan area. will this affect travel on the Srinagar – Sonmarg road?
We are planning travel on Srinagar – Leh on April 15.
Hello Venkatesh Bhai, There were some protests at Kangan a few days ago but it is all settled now. As a matter of fact, the official opening ceremony of the road was conducted yesterday only
Hello Vargis Khan Sir
I was there when operation is on going. Some bikers and Private car are passed from Kangan.
If you want to pass Kangan, wait there sometime when you get clear raod some hours and you can go easily. And Don’t worry about Kangan people. There are so Good people and also take care about us.
Thanks for sharing this Monti Bhai
I am planing to go Ladakh by April 29 so which route would be better by road to Ladakh from Manali so will Manali Leh road open by that time or should I choose the route of manali-srinagar-leh road
For now plan to go via Srinagar Leh route only. When you are in Leh, ask around about Manali road status and if it is open, then return via Manali.
Thanks for the information and its best blog
so my route is Manali to Srinagar to Ladakh?
Thanks Athif. And yes, ,you will go to Ladakh via Srinagar. If the Manali route is open then you would come back via Manali or you would return to Srinagar only.
So how many day will it for the whole trip and permits required for the trip for manali to srinagar to leh route
10-14 days for the trip at least. For permits, see the post below.
https://vargiskhan.com/log/obtaining-ilp-for-ladakh/
Is there any requirement for permit while traveling to ladakh from manali to srinagar to ladakh
that is till I reach ladakh by that road do I need to get any permit to travel on that road
MANALI-SRINGAR-LADAKH
No you do not need any permit tor each Ladakh by either Srinagar or Manali. Permit is only needed after you reach Leh and want to visit other places like Nubra Valley or Pangong Tso.
Around how much would be the whole cost(rough figure) for Manali – Srinagar – Ladakh by road including stay, bike rent, fuel, food etc
Take a look at this article. Depending upon which bike you rent, add a daily rental of around Rs. 1500 to Rs. 2000 to the calculation I have made here.
https://vargiskhan.com/log/cost-of-motorcycle-trip-to-ladakh/
Just read on your Manali page that the road will be open by April 20th. Can I plan a trip in a way that I go to Leh by Srinagar and return via Manali around 5th May?
You can but nothing is guaranteed right now. Best to wait for now until further updates.
Vargis Sir, just wanted to say that you are doing a great job sharing all thsi information with travelers. Keep up the good work and thank you once again.
Thanks Yuvraj Bhai
Thanks, Vargis.Khan
I had completed my Road trip Srinagar to Leh by private Swift car (30th March to 5th April).
It was imaging journey. I have seen lost of snow at Zijila pass and kargil.
Thanks once again.
That is great Monti Bhai. Do share some pics of your trip. What were the Zojila timings when you crossed the pass?
Will Srinagar Leh bus will be operational in April this year if the road is open already?
Most probably not. It usually gets operational by May
Thanks for your help
You are welcome
Is there any public transport bus operated now from Srinagar to leh..please inform
Not right now. It probably will not start until late April.
Are they letting private vehicles to travel now?
Yes they are
Any idea on by when an official announcement will be made? I have been waiting to travel and right now the plan is of around 15th April.
It will happen sometime this week
vergis bhai kya khardungla pass or marsimik la pass b open ho jaega 11 may se phle????
Shiv Bhai Khardung La toh already open hai. Marismik La ka bhi chance hai ke shayad open mile May 11th tak.
Hi, Vargis, can you please tell, oxygen pouches are available for purchase?
Hi Jagannath, Yes they are available at both Srinagar and Leh. Please take a look at the post below.
https://vargiskhan.com/log/rent-oxygen-cylinder-for-ladakh-trip/
hello vargiss bro I heard somewhere that local traffic will be allowed from sgr to leh on 28 march is that true please reply me fast
The highway opened today Imtiyaz Bhai though it has not been announced officially yet.
HELLO,..WHEN SRINAGAR/MANALI TO LEH ROADS ARE OPEN?
YESTERDAY I HAVE PLAN MY TRIP ON 2ND APRIL.
Srinagar leh is open already.
Manali Leh will probably open by late April or early May.
vargis sir i m work in leh i plan a schedule of leh to jammu on 17 april than is it possible to go ..by road
Surender Bhai right now it looks like it will be all open by then
thanks a lot my bro please give me update on regards this and may god bless you to supporting us like as a govt guiders even net is not given update regards this you are osm bro….
Thank you Surender Bhai for your kind words. I really appreciate it. God Bless you and your family !!!
I will update as soon as I receive further word on the opening.
bro current status please
Surender Bhai road is open though it has not been announced officially yet.
Hello Vargis Sir,
First of all, I must say that your blog is the best blog for any information on Leh-Ladakh. You have designed and written the different topics and pages so so very well.
I have following questions as we plan to Travel from Srinagar to Leh instead of Manali.
1) Is bus service available from Srinagar to leh ?
2) Can we get buses from Srinagar to Leh at the spot ?
Please help.
Hello Suprotim Bhai – Thank you so much for your kind words. I am glad that the information posted was of help.
Yes there is a bus available from Srinagar to Leh that you can board on the spot. I have covered the topic with complete details at the link below. Please take a look.
https://vargiskhan.com/log/srinagar-to-leh-bus-service-fare-schedule-book/
Hello Vargas, any update on condition and date of road clearance?
Hello Debarpriya – Snow is expected to be cleared by end of this month. BRO will assess the condition of the road and will probably declared it open around April 10th to 15th.
Vargis bhai any update. ….
Of sgr leh road
Rameez Bhai as of now the estimate on opening is around 10th to 15th of April.
thx alot for information bro
You are welcome Rameez Bhai
Hi, will the road from srinagar to leh opened by April 24 2018?
Per the estimate as of now, yes it should.
Sir, is it possible to go Leh from Srinagar on 14 th April,this year? Is there Chopper services from Srinagar to Kargil at that time? Kindly suggest.
Hello Debapriya – If you mean by road then yes, there is a high chance that the road may open. The Pawan Hans helicopter service remains operational in winter; ticket for which can be bought at TRC Srinagar.
hello vargis khan bro…….any new update. Of Sgr leh road ……
Hello Rameez Bhai – Haven’t heard any new updates yet.
Updated now Rameez Bhai
Hello Vargis
Heard from someone that during the travel season that is May till Oct you can say roads from Srinagar To Kargil or some stretches in between are open alternatively for one side. Is it true? If yes is there any schedule kind of which can help. What I mean is if 6th March is open today towards Kargil it will he closed on 7th but will be open the other way.
Sorry but heard this from somone hence asked.
Hi Prashant – That traffic regulation is around Zoji La Pass, between Sonamarg and Drass. For the first half of the day, traffic from Sonamarg side is released and then from Drass in second half of the day. This is to avoid traffic congestion at Zoji La top and this usually only happens in early opening days of the pass.
Hi Vargis, I am planning a road trip by car from Srinagar to Leh via Zojila. This will be in June 2018…Was wondering how safe it is to self drive (probably an XUV or similar vehicle) through the region especially the 9 Km belt of the pass?
Hi Ankita – It depends on how experienced you are at the wheel. If you have done some amount of driving in the hills and are in a vehicle with good ground clearance, then you will be able to tackle it. There is usually a lot of slush at Zoji La which makes it difficult for people to get across.
Dear
Thanks for your blog. Infact am planning a leh solo drive trip as I will be reaching Delhi by 25th June. Am pretty confused to go with Delhi Manali Leh or Delhi Srinagar Leh. As coming back will be for sure by Manali highway itself. But on my way to Leh will it be safe enough to go with Srinagar highway due to uncertainty conditions. Looking for your expertise advice…
If you are sure that you will be coming back via Manali then you must take the Srinagar route to reach Leh. You must not miss driving on that side of the valley, it is very beautiful. And yes, it is quite safe for tourist. Thousands of people travel each year via Sriangar.
Hello,
We are planning to travel from Srinagar to Leh on 3rd may.. will it be open? We are confused as we are heading from south and flight charges are costly and requires booking at the earliest!!
Srinagar to Leh should be open by 3rd May this year.
I am planning to visit Srinagar during 11 to 18 March 2018. Is there any chance of flights being cancelled due to snowfall in Srinagar
No chance. There is almost no snow in Srinagar this year anyways. Just one snowfall so far in the year and that too very light one.
Great blog Sir. I and a group of 5 friends plan to travel from Sri-Leh-Dri in mid-end Oct. Can you tell me if the road is good enough at that time? Also, while at Leh, is traveling by own vehicle allowed to places like Pangong, Khardungla, Hunder, Changla, Tso-Moriri and other sightseeing places? Or do we have to rent a taxi from Leh?
Hello Mr. Ghosh – If you are not planning on traveling via Manali then yes you can do the trip in October as well. As long as the vehicle is registered in your name then you are free to bring it anywhere in Ladkah, no need to rent a taxi.
Hi Vargis, I hv booked tickets along with my friends to go to Leh via Srinagar and night stay at kargil.we will reach Srinagar on 14th April,and planning to go road to leh on 16th. What will be the road conditions.is it wise to go by road, pl suggest
Road conditions will definitely be bad so early in the season. But a bigger question is of whether or not the road will open. To be on a safer side, delay the plan towards April end or early May.
Hi bro…we are planing road trip on 10th april
Will any chances road open by 10 april?
We will come via scorpio
When will the srinagar.leh road open this year?
Hi Sandeep – Chances are opening by 10th April are a bit slim right now. The road is expected to open sometime around 20th.
hello vargis
Sir I have booked my tickets to Srinagar and return tickets from Leh.. here goes my itinerary
June 2nd Arrive Srinagar mid afternoon
June 3rd Srinagar – Kargil Enroute Sightseeing
June 4th Kargil – Leh enroute Magnetic hill, Gurudwara Sahib, Spituk Kali Mata mandir, sangam, Hall of fame. Leh
June 5th Local Siteseeing
June 6th Rent bike to Leh – Khardungla Pass – Deskit – Hunder
June 7th Hunder –Khardungla – Leh
June 8th Leh – Pangong Lake over Changla Pass
June 9th Pangong lake – Tsomoriri Lake via Tsagla
June 10th Tsomoriri Lake –Leh via Tsokar Enroute visit Shey, Thiksey , 3 Idiot School
June 11th Leh Airport Drop
We are 6pax and thinking to take a innova for entire trip.. all of same age group 26-28..
Sir should I take a package from Srinagar or just book a taxi and do everything by our own we are looking to cut down prices because our flight price is way too high.
Will the road from Srinagar to Kargil be open by this time?
Hi Sharan,
1. Yes the roads will be open
2. Your itinerary is OK except for June 9th. That is ideally a 2 days journey. Pangong to Hanle and Hanle to Tso Moriri
3. If you are on budget then try to use shared cabs and bus services wherever you can.
1)You are saying we cant travel directly to tsomoriri from pangong?
2) I have taken qoute from few taxi drivers directly all are qouting plus or minus 3-4k to 50k..
3) but the travel agents are scaring me that you may get stay in leh but interior places like kargil nubra, tsomoriri were only few options of stay it is diff to get accommodation as june is a peak season.. online booking in this place seems to be too high
1. No I am saying that it is a 2 days journey, not one. You will have to stop midway at Hanle and then continue to Karzok the next morning. If you want to do this in one day then make sure that you start early From Pangong, possibly by first light of the day and keep your breaks limited to minimum.
2. That sounds about right. Taxi charges in Ladakh are quite high.
3. They will definitely scare you because if they don’t, no one will hire them and everyone will travel on their own. Do not worry, you easily get accommodation everywhere.
Thank you so much.. sir do you have any recommendation for cheap n best accommodation or taxi ?
You are welcome. Are you asking about Private or shared taxis? Shared taxis are more like on the spot thing. Reach the bus stand and find one going towards your destination. Take a look at the posts below for some hotel information.
https://vargiskhan.com/log/tag/where-to-stay-in-ladakh/
Hi Vargis,
Am planning to fly to leh on may 10th(10th to 16 i will be staying in LEH),then on may 16th i will be travelling to srinagar via kargil, Is this fine to travel, we are 2 kids and 4 adults, is it safe.. am not able to plane late may as the flight prices are super high 🙁
TIA,
Smitha SV
Hi Smitha – The only problem will be of acute mountain sickness on first two days since you will be reaching there by flight. Are you planning to board a bus to Sriangar or rent a private taxi?
Hi.. If i plan to stay overnight at kora camp pangong lake.. How wud the experience be? Wud it be too unbearable to spend the night in the tent. Pls advise
hi..in continuation to the above query.. I meant travel dates from may 4th to may 14th
No it will not be too unbearable. All the camp sites are pretty warm and protected so you will be OK.
thanks so much:) but what wud be the min night temps like at pangong and nubra valley camp sites? Also i hv heard there are no heaters provided at pangong camp sites. Is it true?
There are no heaters but the camp is quite windproof with proper warm bedding so you will not really need a heater. Temperature at nights can be close to or below 0
Is it possible to road trip to leg via Kashmir and kargil in the first 2 weeks of April?
*road trip to leh.
Most probably not. Sriangar Leh road opens by Mid April and even at this time, chances of closure again are high. Better plan towards late April or early May.
if i want to travel mumbai-leh-mumbai in the month of may…which dates in may would be the best to enjoy the scenic beauty and the snow?
If you mean to travel by flight then early May, if you mean to go by road then mid to Late May.
Hi vargis
Any updates on road condition. Will BRO start clearing road in March 1st like the previous year. I think the snow is not very heavy when we compare it with last year. So any chances for early opening. Last year they opened on May 8 to 12…
Hi Srinivasan – Yes the snow is not that great this year so the snow clearing and road opening may even be a bit early this year.
I may travel from Srinagar to law on April 8
Is there any govt or private buses available for travel to leh from Srinagar
Nothing that early in April. Buses most probably will not be available until May.
Hi.. i am planning Jammu to leh by road trip with family, will May end be a good option.?
Also want to know if there are any cab/taxi services available from jammu to Leh?
Because i want to travel via Kargil
Hello – Yes you can travel towards May end. Shared taxis too will be available from Srinagar.
Thankx,
Thank you so much for the reply. 🙂 🙂
However are there any cab/taxi available from Jammu to leh direct? in order to avoid hassle from Jammu to Srinagar and then from Srinagar to Leh
Unfortunately no. You will have to first reach Srinagar and look for a mode of transport there for Leh
Thanks for sharing the information…
You are welcome
Hi, I want to travel sringar kargil leh from on 10th may.will roads be opened? How will be the atmosphere by then in leh kargil. As you say roads are just a nightmare to travel in may, will it be so much of hectic?
Hello – You can travel in early May as the highway usually opens in April. The road is usually bad towards early season while BRO works to restore it but you can still make the journey. A lot of people do it.
Hi mr Khan, I am planning a trip to Vesno Devi from Delhi on May 18th. On May 20th my plan was to hire a Inova and travel through Sri Nagar>SonMarg>Kargil>Leh by May 23rd. Will it be safe to travel to Manali from leh by then? Roads open? Do you suggest Rothang Pass? We wanted to come back to New Delhi after Manali. Please suggest safe route or plan. If we need to eliminate Manali and go back that also is not a problem. Looking forward to your guidance .
Hello Prince,
You can travel from Srinagar to Leh but do not plan Manali route as of now. That road usually opens by late May or early June. There is not much snow this year so it may open a bit early but do not count on it. For now, just plan to return to Srinagar itself. While you are in Leh, ask around and if the Manali route is open, you may consider to change your plan.
Hi Vargis,
Can you share when sonemarg and yousmarg will open to visit i am planning to visit kashmir in march last week.
Hi Pramod – It is open right now. There is not any snow at all this year. Hasn’t snowed in Srinagar even once this season.
Thankyou very much for this information.I will visit both .
You are welcome
Very nice blog and hope so the manali leh will be open and can I help me with umlingla information for traveling there on bike in June month ?
Thank you Sameer. Please take a look at the link below or more information on Umling La.
https://vargiskhan.com/log/umling-la/
Is October a good time for travelling to Leh and Kargil.
Yes it is. Try to plan in early October though and avoid Manali Leh route.
Hi sir, we’re planning a ride on 5th June to Leh, Jammu, Srinagar, Kargil, keylong and Manali. In Royal Enfield will that be a right time?
Hi Andrew, Yes you can plan your ride at this time. All the roads will be open by June
Hi
Sir we are planning to travel on 8th may from srinagar to leh via kargil stop. Is it good to travel on this date.
The highway will most probably be open by that time but since it is just start of the season, roads will be in terrible condition with a high chance of temporary closure. To be on a safer side, delay your plan by a couple of weeks.
Hi. Your blog is very interesting and useful. We, an enthusiastic group of 25 members half of it 60 plus, and the remaining adventurous and very energetic youth, planning a trip to Srinagar from 16 th to 23 rd May 2018. Trip includes Leh. Please give suitable advice.
Please let me know what your questions are and I will be happy to answer.
Thank you. We are in Srinagar on 16 th May. Can we make a comfortable tour to and fro Kargil to Leh (19th May to 22nd) 19 th at Kargil and then to Leh . Have to return back to Srinagar Airport by noon on 23 Rd May.
Yes you can.
19th – Kargil
20th – Leh
21st – Sightseeing in Leh, take a drive to Khardung La
22nd – Board a shared taxi from Leh that runs non-stop to Srinagar. About 15-16 hours of journey
Will it be open from 1st June 2018 to 10th June 2018
Yes it will be open at that time
We are planning to Leh from Srinagar by 15th May. Will that be a right time by road to Leh?
You can plan but roads will be terrible. Better to delay it by a few weeks and plan in June
i just want to know whether leh-kargil-Srinagar highway will be open on 1 june to 8th june since we are planning our trip in between tohse dates
Yes it will definitely be open by then.
is may mid good for doing the circle manali -leh- srinagar ?
Manali Leh highway usually opens by late May or early June so best to delay your plan by a few weeks. June mid at earliest will be good.
We are planning to go Leh from Srinagar by road on 17th April 2018. Kindly suggest whether road will open during April or suggest to skip program.
To be on a safer side, delay the travel by a couple of weeks at least. This year the highway opened towards early May. Very low chance of opening by Mid-April and even if it does, the roads will be a total nightmare with a high chance of temporary closures along the route.
We plan our Leh trip during march-2012 (2ndweek). is there any chance for road from Srinagar to Leh get openned on march 2nd week
No, it will open sometime in April
Sir, thank you the way you are helping the travellers. We want to plan our Leh trip during May-2018. When the road from Srinagar to Leh get openned for tourist?
Hello Mhp – Srinagar Leh highway usually opens by late April or early May. To be on a safer side, plan after Mid-May.
If i want to travel leh via zhozila in dec 2017 last week . Will roads remain open til that time.
No the highway is already closed
Thank you so much, it will be of great help to the travellers like us who wish to explore the route to reach Ladakh ,July 2018
You are welcome and thank you for your encouraging words.