Which highway connects Srinagar to Leh?

The road from Srinagar to Leh runs via NH-1, NH-3. Total distance is 420 km with an estimated drive time of 9h 30m. Fuel and toll cost is approximately ₹4,011.

Is NH-1 the fastest route from Srinagar to Leh?

Yes, NH-1 (and NH-1, NH-3) is the primary highway connecting Srinagar and Leh, covering 420 km. Drive time is approximately 9h 30m under normal traffic conditions.

Srinagar to Leh: 420 km Road Guide NH-1 · 9h 30m Drive — Complete Travel Guide 2026

Planning a trip from Srinagar to Leh? This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the 420km journey. Explore detailed information about travel options, costs, attractions along the way, and insider tips to make your trip memorable.

explore Explore Srinagar location_city Discover Leh

straighten Distance

420 km

Total Distance

directions_car By Car

9h 30m

Drive Time

₹4,011

₹1,003/person (4 pax)

flight By Air

1h 00m

Flight Time

train By Train

~5–7h

Est. Time

₹339 – ₹1,077

Min – Max

directions_bus By Bus

~7–10h

Est. Time

₹599 – ₹4,637

Min – Max

info

All prices are estimates. Train: Check IRCTC. Bus: Prices vary 25-50%, check redBus (not recommended >2,500km). Flight: Check airlines for current rates. Drive: Costs assume 4 travelers; fuel/tolls may vary.

info

Train availability: Prices shown are estimates based on distance. Please check IRCTC or train booking platforms for actual availability, routes, and current ticket prices as they vary by class, train type, and booking time.

analytics Travel Comparison: Srinagar to Leh

Mode	Duration	Estimated Cost
directions_car Private Car	9h 30m	₹4,011 Fuel & Tolls
flight Flight	1h 00m	₹1,470 - ₹2,940
train Train	12h – 16h	₹339 – ₹1,077
bus Bus	12h – 16h	₹599 – ₹4,637

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How to Reach Leh from Srinagar: Car, Train, Bus & Flight Options

Compare different travel modes to find the best option for your budget, schedule, and preferences.

directions_car

Drive Srinagar to Leh (420 km, 9h 30m)

Flexibility, scenic stops, family trips

9h 30m

Duration

420 km

Distance

₹4,011

Fuel + Tolls

flight

Fly Srinagar to Leh (1h 00m flight)

Speed, long distances, business travel

1h 00m

Flight Time

420 km

Distance

₹1,470 — ₹2,940

Airfare Range

lightbulb Our Recommendation

At 420km, both driving (9h 30m) and trains are excellent options. Choose driving for flexibility and scenic stops, or trains for comfort and relaxation.

What to Eat in Srinagar Before You Hit the Road

Fuel up with these authentic local dishes before hitting the road:

restaurant

Must-Try Food in Srinagar Before Your Drive

local_dining
Rogan Josh - A signature Kashmiri dish made with lamb in a rich gravy (Try at Ahdoos Restaurant).
local_dining
Yakhni - A yogurt-based lamb curry flavored with cardamom and ginger.
local_dining
Gushtaba - Soft meatballs cooked in a creamy yogurt sauce.

location_on Recommended Restaurant

Ahdoos Restaurant • Residency Road

Road Trip Stops: Best Cities Between Srinagar and Leh

These cities sit along your Srinagar to Leh route corridor and are worth a brief stop:

location_city

Anantnag

schedule ~95 min detour

Stop #1

travel_explore Complete Anantnag Travel Guide

location_city

Sonamarg

schedule ~55 min detour

Stop #2

travel_explore Complete Sonamarg Travel Guide

location_city

Pahalgam

schedule ~20 min detour

Stop #3

travel_explore Complete Pahalgam Travel Guide

location_city

Kargil

schedule ~115 min detour

Stop #4

travel_explore Complete Kargil Travel Guide

location_city

Lamayuru

schedule ~35 min detour

Stop #5

travel_explore Complete Lamayuru Travel Guide

Things to Do in Leh: Attractions & Highlights

Leh offers a unique travel experience. For detailed information about local attractions, dining options, accommodations, and insider tips, visit our comprehensive destination guide.

Srinagar to Leh FAQ: Distance, Cost, Time & Best Routes (2026)

What is the distance from Srinagar to Leh?

The distance from Srinagar to Leh is 420 kilometers by road.

How long does it take to drive from Srinagar to Leh?

It takes approximately 9h 30m to drive from Srinagar to Leh, depending on traffic conditions and the number of stops you make along the way.

What is the cheapest way to travel from Srinagar to Leh?

The most budget-friendly option is usually by bus or train. Driving costs approximately ₹4,011 for fuel and tolls. Buses are typically the cheapest, while trains offer a good balance of comfort and affordability.

Is there a direct flight from Srinagar to Leh?

Yes, flights are available from Srinagar to Leh with a flight time of approximately 1h 00m. Flight costs typically range from ₹1,470 to ₹2,940 depending on booking time and airline.

What are the best stops between Srinagar and Leh?

Popular stops along the route include Anantnag, Sonamarg, Pahalgam, Kargil, Lamayuru. These cities offer interesting attractions, local cuisine, and comfortable rest facilities.

What is the best time to travel from Srinagar to Leh?

October to March is generally the best time for road trips in India, with pleasant weather and clear skies.

More Road Trips from Srinagar: Popular Nearby Routes

Planning to explore more destinations? Check out these popular routes from Srinagar:

How to Reach Leh from Other Cities

Traveling to Leh from a different city? Explore these alternative routes:

🏖️ Planning a Weekend Getaway?

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