Ladakh Road Conditions In May: Manali Leh & Srinagar Leh Highway Best Guide
Leh Ladakh, the land of high passes, remains one of the most sought-after destinations for road trip enthusiasts. The two major routes to reach Leh are:
Manali-Leh Highway (Via Rohtang Pass, Baralacha La, and Tanglang La)
Srinagar-Leh Highway (Via Zoji La, Kargil, and Fotu La)
If you’re planning a trip in May, it’s crucial to understand the road conditions, weather, and challenges that these routes present. In this blog, we will discuss the Manali-Leh Highway and Srinagar-Leh Highway Ladakh road conditions in May, along with travel tips to make your journey smooth and safe.
Ladakh Road Conditions In May
1. Manali-Leh Highway Ladakh Road Conditions in May
Overview of Manali-Leh Highway
Total Distance: ~ 427 km
Time to Cover: 2 Days (with an overnight halt)
Major Passes: Rohtang Pass, Baralacha La, Nakee La, Lachulung La, Tanglang La
Average Altitude: 3,500m to 5,328m
Best for: Adventure seekers, bikers, and experienced drivers
Road Opening Timeline for Manali-Leh Highway
The Manali-Leh Highway is usually closed from November to mid-May due to heavy snowfall.
By early May, the BRO (Border Roads Organization) begins snow-clearing operations.
The road typically opens by mid to late May, depending on snowfall intensity.
Even after opening, certain sections may still have slush and ice, making driving difficult.
Key Sections and Their Ladakh Road Conditions in May
1. Manali to Rohtang Pass (51 km)
Rohtang Pass (3,978m) is the first major hurdle due to heavy snow accumulation.
The road is cleared in early May, but expect mud, slush, and water crossings.
There may be restrictions on tourist vehicles if the snow is excessive.
2. Rohtang Pass to Keylong (72 km)
Road conditions improve after Rohtang, but some patchy sections remain.
Keylong is the first major stop for fuel, food, and accommodation.
Expect a few water crossings due to melting snow.
3. Keylong to Baralacha La Pass (67 km)
Baralacha La (4,890m) is one of the most challenging stretches.
May conditions include snow walls, icy roads, and unpredictable weather.
Suraj Tal Lake remains frozen, offering stunning views.
4. Baralacha La to Sarchu (42 km)
The terrain remains tough with snowy patches and river crossings.
Sarchu (4,290m) serves as an overnight halt, but it’s extremely cold in May.
5. Sarchu to Tanglang La (121 km)
The highway crosses Gata Loops (21 hairpin bends), a thrilling but tricky section.
Tanglang La (5,328m) is among the highest passes; expect snow and icy roads.
6. Tanglang La to Leh (108 km)
Road conditions improve as you descend into the Indus Valley.
By May, Leh experiences moderate temperatures, making the last stretch pleasant.
Challenges on Manali-Leh Ladakh Road Conditions In May
Landslides & Road Closures: Certain sections may temporarily close due to avalanches.
Extreme Cold & AMS (Altitude Sickness): Due to high altitudes, acclimatization is essential.
Unstable Road Conditions: Freshly cleared roads are often slushy and slippery.
Limited Facilities: Fuel, food, and medical help are scarce beyond Keylong.
2. Srinagar-Leh Highway Road Conditions in May
Overview of Srinagar-Leh Highway
Total Distance: ~ 420 km
Time to Cover: 2 Days (with an overnight halt)
Major Passes: Zoji La, Namika La, Fotu La
Average Altitude: 3,000m to 3,500m
Best for: Those seeking a gradual ascent to Leh (fewer altitude-related issues)
Road Opening Timeline for Srinagar-Leh Highway
This highway is operational earlier than the Manali-Leh Highway.
It usually opens by mid to late April, making it the preferred route for May travelers.
Snow-clearing at Zoji La (3,528m) is the biggest challenge, but it’s manageable.
Key Sections and Their Ladakh Road Conditions in May
1. Srinagar to Sonamarg (80 km)
A smooth, scenic drive along the Sindh River.
Sonamarg, known as the “Meadow of Gold,” still has snow-capped peaks in May.
2. Sonamarg to Zoji La Pass (25 km)
Zoji La is a narrow, landslide-prone section.
May conditions include mud, slush, and occasional snowfall.
It’s best to cross early in the day before the snow melts.
3. Zoji La to Drass (37 km)
Drass (3,230m) is the second coldest inhabited place in the world.
The roads here are decent, but expect high winds and cold weather.
4. Drass to Kargil (58 km)
The road conditions are much better post-Drass.
Visit Kargil War Memorial, a must-see landmark.
5. Kargil to Leh (220 km)
This stretch crosses Namika La (3,700m) and Fotu La (4,108m).
By May, roads are clear, and travel is smooth.
Challenges on Srinagar-Leh Highway in May
Zoji La Can Be Risky: Unstable roads, landslides, and fog are common.
AMS Still a Concern: Though altitude gain is gradual, acclimatization is important.
Limited Fuel Stops: Carry extra fuel as petrol stations are sparse.
Which Route is Better in May?
Recommended Route:
If you want an easier journey: Take Srinagar-Leh in May.
If you seek adventure and snow: Choose Manali-Leh, but only after checking road status.
For a circuit trip: Srinagar to Leh, then return via Manali.
Final Travel Tips for May
1. Check Road Updates Daily – Snow clearing and landslides can affect travel plans.
2. Pack for Cold Weather – Night temperatures can drop below -5°C at high passes.
3. Start Early – Roadblocks due to melting snow are common in the afternoon.
4. Carry Essentials – Oxygen cylinders, snacks, fuel cans, and medicines.
5. Get Inner Line Permits – Required for some areas, like Nubra Valley and Pangong Lake.
Conclusion: Ladakh Road Conditions In May
Both the Manali-Leh and Srinagar-Leh highways are thrilling routes with their own challenges. In May, Srinagar-Leh is the safer choice due to better road conditions and an earlier opening. Manali-Leh is riskier but offers breathtaking snowy landscapes.
Choose your route wisely, stay updated on weather conditions, and enjoy your incredible journey to Leh Ladakh!
