Planning an epic road trip from Surat to Leh? This journey covers approximately 1,850–2,000 km, depending on the route you choose, and typically takes 35–45 hours of driving (spread over 5–7 days). The drive takes you through Gujarat, Rajasthan, Haryana, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, and finally into the breathtaking landscapes of Ladakh.
Surat to Leh Distance by Road
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Starting Point | Surat, Gujarat |
| Destination | Leh, Ladakh |
| Distance by Road | Approx. 1,850–2,000 km |
| Driving Time | 35–45 hours |
| Best Travel Duration | 5–7 Days |
| Best Time to Visit | June to September |
Best Route from Surat to Leh
The most preferred route is:
Surat → Vadodara → Udaipur → Ajmer → Jaipur → Delhi → Chandigarh → Mandi → Manali → Atal Tunnel → Sissu → Keylong → Jispa → Sarchu → Pang → Upshi → Leh
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This route follows the famous Manali–Leh Highway, known for its spectacular mountain scenery and high-altitude passes.
Route Highlights
- Surat to Vadodara
- Udaipur’s scenic Aravalli hills
- Jaipur and Delhi highways
- Chandigarh gateway to the Himalayas
- Manali hill station
- Atal Tunnel
- Baralacha La Pass
- More Plains
- Tanglang La Pass
- Leh
Alternative Route
You can also travel via the Srinagar–Leh Highway:
Surat → Udaipur → Jaipur → Delhi → Pathankot → Jammu → Srinagar → Sonamarg → Zoji La → Kargil → Lamayuru → Leh
This route offers a gradual altitude gain, making acclimatization easier.
Estimated Travel Time
| Route Section | Approx. Time |
|---|---|
| Surat to Jaipur | 15–17 Hours |
| Jaipur to Manali | 12–14 Hours |
| Manali to Leh | 14–16 Hours |
| Total Driving Time | 35–45 Hours |
Road Conditions
- Excellent highways from Surat to Manali.
- Mountain roads beyond Manali are narrow and winding.
- Expect rough patches between Sarchu and Pang.
- Weather can affect road conditions, especially near high passes.
Best Time for a Road Trip
The ideal months are:
- June
- July
- August
- September
The Manali–Leh Highway generally remains open only during these months.
Fuel Stops
Fuel stations are available at:
- Surat
- Vadodara
- Udaipur
- Jaipur
- Delhi
- Chandigarh
- Manali
Beyond Manali, fuel availability is limited, with the next reliable petrol pump at Tandi, followed by Leh.
Travel Tips
- Carry valid ID proofs and vehicle documents.
- Acclimatize properly before reaching higher altitudes.
- Keep extra fuel if required after Tandi.
- Carry warm clothing, medicines, snacks, and drinking water.
- Download offline maps due to limited mobile connectivity.
- Check weather and road status before departure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the road distance from Surat to Leh?
The road distance is approximately 1,850–2,000 km, depending on the route.
How long does it take to drive from Surat to Leh?
The drive usually takes 35–45 hours, typically completed over 5–7 days.
Which is the best route?
The Surat–Manali–Leh route is the most scenic, while the Surat–Srinagar–Leh route provides better altitude acclimatization.
Is the road open throughout the year?
No. The Manali–Leh Highway usually remains open from June to September, subject to weather conditions.
