Manali-Leh and Srinagar-Leh Current Status and Updates

If you’re planning a road trip to Leh-Ladakh in 2025, it’s important to know the latest updates about the roads. The Manali-Leh and Srinagar-Leh roads are closed for most of the year due to snow. Here’s what you need to know about when the roads might open and the current conditions.

Current Road Conditions (2025)

1. Manali-Leh Road (NH-3) Status: CLOSED As of March 28, 2025, the Manali-Leh Highway is completely blocked between Darcha (in Lahaul) and Rumtse (in Leh). There have been heavy snowstorms in the area. The road from Manali to Darcha is open, but it’s slippery, so be careful if you are traveling. More than 200 km of the road is still covered in thick snow. The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) is working to clear the snow, and the road should be open by mid-May 2025.
2. Srinagar-Leh Road Status: CLOSED The Srinagar-Leh Road is also blocked due to snow at places like Zojila Pass, Drass, and Sonmarg. The road is expected to open in April 2025, but there will be some restrictions. It may only be safe for vehicles with 4X4 wheels in some areas.
3. Darcha-Padum (Zanskar) Road Status: CLOSED The Darcha-Padum road, which is important for reaching Zanskar, is closed right now. The Shinkula Pass will open for local people by mid-April, but tourists will have to wait until later in the season.

Why Are These Roads Closed?

In the winter, Ladakh experiences heavy snowfall that blocks roads like Manali-Leh and Srinagar-Leh. For example, in February 2025, the Manali-Leh Highway was covered by 1 to 10 feet of snow, with additional fresh snow on top. Snowplows from BRO are working hard to clear the snow, but it’s slow because the weather keeps changing. The roads will not open quickly, so it will take time for them to become safe to travel.

When Will the Roads Open?

1. Manali-Leh Road: The Manali-Leh Highway is expected to open by mid-May 2025. The snow is being cleared, but this process takes time. Check for updates if you plan to travel this route.
2. Srinagar-Leh Road: The Srinagar-Leh Highway should open by April 2025, but it may be open with some restrictions. Make sure to check conditions before you travel, as some parts of the road may only be open for certain types of vehicles (like 4X4).

What to Expect When the Roads Open

• Slippery Surfaces: Even after the roads open, they might still be slippery because of leftover snow and ice. If you’re not used to driving in these conditions, be extra careful.
• Limited Access: Some roads, like the Darcha-Padum Road, will remain closed to non-local travelers for a while. If you’re trying to visit Zanskar, make sure the road is open first.
• Unpredictable Weather: Ladakh’s weather can change quickly. Even when the roads seem clear, heavy snow can return and cause delays. Always check the weather and road conditions before you travel.

Statistics

• The Manali-Leh Highway is approximately 474 km long, connecting the town of Manali to Leh in Ladakh. It is one of the most scenic yet challenging roads to drive on, especially during the winter months when snow blocks large sections of the route.
• The Srinagar-Leh Road crosses Zojila Pass, which is located at an altitude of 11,575 feet (3,540 meters). This makes the road susceptible to heavy snowfall and difficult driving conditions in the winter.

Imagine trying to clear a path through a thick forest after a snowstorm – that’s what the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) is doing to reopen these roads. They are carefully removing layers of snow, but it’s a slow process. Just like clearing a forest path takes time and effort, so does reopening these important highways.

FAQ Section

Q1: Why are the Manali-Leh and Srinagar-Leh roads closed in the winter?
A1: Both roads are closed due to heavy snowfall and difficult weather conditions. The snow can be as deep as 10 feet in some places, making the roads dangerous and impassable. Snowplows and teams from the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) are working to clear the snow, but it takes time.

Q2: When can I expect the Manali-Leh road to open?
A2: The Manali-Leh Highway is expected to open by mid-May 2025. However, the road will be slippery at certain spots for some time, so make sure to check updates before you travel.

Q3: Will the Srinagar-Leh road be open for regular vehicles in April?
A3: The Srinagar-Leh road is expected to open in April 2025, but there will be some restrictions. It may only be safe for 4X4 vehicles in certain sections, and travelers should be prepared for possible delays or roadblocks.

Q4: Can tourists travel on the Darcha-Padum road in April?
A4: The Darcha-Padum road will open for local traffic by mid-April 2025. However, tourists should wait until later in the season when the road is fully cleared for non-local travelers.

Q5: Is the weather in Ladakh always unpredictable?
A5: Yes, the weather in Ladakh is very unpredictable. Even when the roads seem clear, snowstorms can arrive suddenly, which can close roads or cause delays. Always check the weather before traveling.

Conclusion

If you want to visit Leh-Ladakh in 2025, make sure to stay updated on the road conditions for both the Manali-Leh and Srinagar-Leh roads. While the roads are expected to open in April-May 2025, they may still face delays due to snow and weather changes. Travel safely, keep an eye on local updates, and always be prepared for sudden changes in road conditions.

Travel Tip: Always check the weather and road conditions before you travel in Ladakh. Be ready for snow and ice, and plan accordingly.