tranment

Do you want to go on the Manali Leh Highway trip this winter but don't know about the current status of the highway as it is closed or open? Or Is visiting or driving on the roads of these places in winter risky or safe?In this article, I will explain everything briefly. Stay connected with me and get the maximum knowledge about the current conditions of this highway.The recent months, specifically October and November, have witnessed consistently low temperatures and heavy snowfall in these cities. Due to this, the Manali Leh Highway has been officially closed until June of next year. So, is it closed to all kinds of vehicles or just trucks? When will it open again?Wait, wait! I have answers to all of your questions; just give a 5-minute read to this article to know the valuable answers to your questions.

Are You Planning A Trip To Manali Leh Highway This Winter?

I know Manali Leh Highway is one of the favorite highways for a perfect trip, and it should be.Undoubtedly, the Manali Leh Highway is the best option to visit Ladakh because it offers stunning views and adds adventure to the extreme adventure. Not only this, it is also the shortest path to visit Ladakh.However, the experience of heavy snowfall in these places over the last two months declared that the Manali Leh Highway will be closed until June of the following year for all kinds of vehicles.The road may get open in May, but depending on the weather, to be on the safer side, you should plan your trip to Ladakh in early June.On 15 October 2023, the Manali Leh highway was declared unsafe for the vehicles due to the unsafe and slippery roads. The Himachal police have also removed the Sarchu police post due to the severe weather.But On 18 November 2023, the Leh (Ladakh) administration ordered that no vehicles would be allowed to go to Himachal from 20 November 2023 onwards.

When was the Manali to Leh Highway Opened in 2023?

Last time, it was opened on 23 May 2023 for lightweight vehicles (4x4 and 4x2) with snow chains from 5 am to 9 pm. But on 31 May 2023, the highway was opened for both sides of traffic. Vehicles from Manali to Leh were allowed to cross the Darcha checkpost from 9 am to 11 am, and the vehicles coming from Leh to Manali were allowed to move to Srachu from 2 pm to 4 pm.

Why You Should Don't Go To Manali Leh Highway In Winters?

These are the top 5 reasons that you should not go to the Manali Leh Highway in Winters.

Possibility of Being Stranded and Facing Snowfall

At the end of September, the Himalayas start experiencing snowfall, and the highways or roads of these areas start getting slippery. BRO (Border Road Organization) try to open these highways by the end of October. But if you experience a trip on this highway in October, you will stuck on the Highway for one or two days or maybe more. So, it depends on the weather; if you have a piece of luck, you can go through it without any problem.

Shortage of Accommodations

At the end of September, the Dhabas and the Accommodations will likely close their setups, so you have only been left with fewer resources. If you are stuck in strategic places, then be ready to camp under the mountain passes if there are any sudden issues or if you experience heavy snowfall.

Buses in Manali Leh Highway

Public transport stopped offering its services at the end of September, but buses continue their services only in cities, not on Manali Leh Highway. While shared taxis are available for transportation from Manali to Leh, it is advisable to exercise caution and potentially avoid them, as they may pose safety risks.

Himalaya Car Rallies

In October, Raid de Himalayas happened in the Himalayas. You will observe that most of the section of Manali Leh Highway is closed due to the smooth run of the cars because this highway is also a part of the track. You will also find it difficult to find accommodation on the Highway as the car rally participants book them all.

Very Low Temperature

During winter, you must bear the icy weather conditions while traveling on the Manali Leh Highway. The temperature will be very low at almost 300 km run (Darcha) over an altitude of 4000 meters. Rohtang Pass can be challenging.During the daytime, you can feel slightly warmer, but the cold breeze still makes you numb, especially when biking.Therefore, when heading to Ladakh in October, make sure to wear appropriate clothing and equip yourself with suitable biking or travel gear to withstand the cold conditions on the journey along the Manali-Leh route.

Should I Go On A Manali Leh Highway In October?

You can go on a Manali leh Highway in late September and October only if:

• You are comfortable with the possibility of being stranded for a day or two in the event of snowfall or road closures on the Manali-Leh route in October.
• Being able to handle the cold conditions and having the appropriate clothing and gear to combat the cold is essential for your trip.

Personally, I strongly recommend you not to go on a Manali Leh Highway trip during winter. It can get you in trouble if you run out of food stock.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the current status of the Manali-Leh Highway 2023 - 2024 is closed due to the heavy snowfall in the previous couple of months (October and November) for all kinds of vehicles. It will reopen in June 2024, depending on the weather conditions.

Traveling on the Manali-Leh Highway during winter, especially in October, which presents significant challenges. Moreover, Factors such as limited accommodations, the impact of Himalaya car rallies, and icy conditions further highlight the need for thorough preparation and caution.

It is recommended to plan a trip during more favorable conditions, prioritizing safety and ensuring proper gear. Overall, winter travel on the Manali-Leh Highway demands careful consideration and preparation.Walk on eggshells and make wise decisions before going on the Manali Leh Highway in winter.