Delhi to Leh by HRTC Bus
09/05/2026
Delhi to Leh by HRTC Bus: India’s Most Epic Mountain Journey in 2026. Ticket price for HRTC bus from Delhi to Leh Ladakh starting from ₹1850 per person, book tickets on the official HRTC website.
For adventure lovers, backpackers, bikers, and mountain travel enthusiasts, the direct bus journey from Delhi to Leh is more than transportation — it is an unforgettable Himalayan experience.
Operated by Himachal Road Transport Corporation, the seasonal Delhi–Leh bus service connects India’s capital with the breathtaking landscapes of Leh through the legendary Manali–Leh Highway.
Crossing rugged mountains, deep valleys, frozen rivers, and some of the world’s highest mountain passes, this 32–34 hour road trip has become one of India’s most iconic travel routes.
HRTC Delhi–Leh Bus Route
The route follows the famous Himalayan highway:
Delhi → Chandigarh → Mandi → Kullu → Manali → Keylong → Baralacha La → Sarchu → Tanglang La → Leh
The journey covers approximately 981 km, offering travelers constantly changing scenery — from green valleys in Himachal Pradesh to the cold desert landscapes of Ladakh.
Bus Schedule and Fare
Delhi to Leh
- Departure: Around 12:10 PM
- Boarding Point: ISBT Kashmiri Gate
- Arrival in Leh: Around 8:00 PM the next day
Leh to Delhi
- Departure: Around 4:00 AM
- Arrival in Delhi: Around 8:30 AM the following day
Ticket Price
Ticket price for HRTC bus from Delhi to Leh Ladakh starting from ₹1850 per person, book tickets on the official HRTC website.
- Approximate fare: ₹1,850–₹2,000+ per person
Travelers are advised to check the latest fare and operational updates directly on the official HRTC portal before planning the trip.
Overnight Halt at Keylong
One of the most unique parts of this journey is the overnight stop at Keylong.
Passengers typically arrive in Keylong late evening and continue the journey early next morning.
Important note:
- Accommodation is not included in the bus fare
- Travelers must arrange their own hotel or guesthouse stay
Keylong offers several budget lodges, mountain guesthouses, and local eateries catering to Leh-bound travelers.
Crossing the High Himalayan Passes
The route is famous for crossing some of India’s most spectacular mountain passes.
Major Passes on the Journey
- Baralacha La
- Tanglang La
Travelers experience dramatic altitude changes, barren mountain terrain, glacial rivers, and panoramic Himalayan landscapes rarely seen elsewhere in the world.
Acclimatization and Health Tips
Because the journey reaches extreme altitudes, proper acclimatization is important.
Recommended Tips
- Drink plenty of water
- Avoid alcohol before and during the trip
- Carry altitude sickness medication if prescribed
- Wear layered warm clothing
- Rest for at least one day after reaching Leh
Some travelers may experience mild headaches, fatigue, or breathlessness due to reduced oxygen levels at high altitude.
Best Time to Travel
The Delhi–Leh HRTC service usually begins in June after snow clearance operations and continues until around September depending on weather conditions.
The best months for the journey are:
- June
- July
- August
- Early September
Road conditions can change suddenly due to snowfall, landslides, or mountain weather.
Why Travelers Love This Journey
Unlike flights, the bus route allows travelers to gradually witness the transformation from plains to mountains.
From the forests of Himachal Pradesh to the moonscape-like terrain of Ladakh, every section of the journey offers a different experience.
For many travelers, the HRTC Delhi–Leh bus is not simply a ride — it is a Himalayan adventure that becomes the highlight of the entire Ladakh trip.
