Manali to Leh via Zanskar
A Complete Guide to the New Shinkula Pass/Tunnel Route by IA (itineraryAdventures) |LEH-IA-0924
The Manali to Leh road trip is one of the most adventurous and scenic journeys in India. It offers mesmerizing views, challenging terrains, and an unforgettable experience. Whether you're a biker, a road trip enthusiast, or simply a traveler seeking the thrill of the Himalayas, this journey is a bucket-list experience. Let’s dive into the various routes, distances, and some exciting updates for 2024-2025, including a new, faster route being built by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO).
Traditional Manali to Leh Routes
For years, two main routes have been popular with travelers heading to Leh:
Manali to Leh via Atal Tunnel
Distance : 428 km
Travel Time : 12-14 hours
Key Highlights : Atal Tunnel, Baralacha La, Gata Loops, Pang, Tanglang La
Best Time to Travel : June to mid-October
Srinagar to Leh via Kargil
Distance : 438 km
Travel Time : 12-13 hours
Key Highlights : Sonamarg, Zoji La, Kargil, Lamayuru Monastery
Best Time to Travel : May to October
New Manali-Leh Route via Shinkula Pass/Tunnel: A Game-Changer
A third route, now being developed by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), is set to change the landscape of traveling to Leh:
Route : Manali – Atal Tunnel – Shinkula Pass/Tunnel – Padum – Nimmoo – Leh
Distance : 298 km
Travel Time : 4-5 hours
Key Highlights : Atal Tunnel, Shinkula Pass/Tunnel,Gonbo Rangjon, Phuktal Gompa,Padum (Zanskar), Nimmoo
Completion : Expected by 2025-2026
Best Time to Travel : Year-round once completed
This route cuts down the distance to Leh by almost 50%, making the journey much quicker. It also offers scenic views of the Zanskar region, previously less accessible to travelers.
Shinkula Tunnel: The Highest in the World
One of the most exciting developments on this route is the construction of the Shinkula Tunnel, which will be the highest-altitude tunnel in the world at 15,800 ft. This tunnel will be 4.1 km long and is expected to be completed by 2025-2026. Once this tunnel is completed, the route will no longer have any mountain passes, ensuring a smoother journey throughout the year.
Comparing the Routes
| Route | Distance | Travel Time | Key Passes | Travel Window |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Manali - Leh (Via Rohtang Pass) | 428 km | 12-14 hours | Rohtang, Baralacha La, Tanglang La | June to mid-Oct |
| Srinagar - Leh (Via Kargil) | 438 km | 12-13 hours | Zoji La | May to Oct |
| Manali - Leh (Via Shinkula Pass) | 298 km | 4-5 hours | None (after tunnel completion) | Year-round (from 2026) |
FAQ's
The new Manali – Atal Tunnel – Shinkula Pass – Padum – Nimmu – Leh route will be the shortest, with a distance of 298 km, compared to the traditional routes via Atal Tunnel or Srinagar, which are over 428 km and 438 km respectively.
The Shinkula Tunnel is expected to be completed by 2025-2026. Once completed, it will be the highest-altitude tunnel in the world and will ensure a year-round connection between Manali and Leh.
Yes, you can travel to Leh in winter via air. Regular flights operate from major cities like Delhi to Leh year-round. However, road access is currently closed in winter due to snow-bound passes like Baralacha La and Zoji La. Once the Shinkula Tunnel is completed, it will offer year-round road connectivity as well.
The best time for the traditional Manali-Leh route is between June and mid-October when the passes are clear of snow. The Srinagar-Leh route opens earlier, around May, and closes by October. The new Shinkula route will offer year-round travel once complete.
Via Atal Tunnel: 12-14 hours depending on road conditions and weather.
Via Srinagar: 12-13 hours.
Via Shinkula Pass: After the tunnel is completed, the journey will take just 4-5 hours.Currently, the new route is still under construction, but once fully operational, there will likely be accommodation options in Padum (Zanskar) and Nimmu, popular towns along the way.
Yes, the BRO is building this route with all necessary safety measures, and it will be fully operational for safe travel after the completion of the Shinkula Tunnel.