Is the Manali–Leh highway still open in October, and when does it close for winter?

Usually yes, but only until the first heavy snow. The Manali–Leh highway (roughly 430 km) typically carries tourist traffic from early summer until the Lahaul-Spiti administration closes it in November; in 2025 that date was 20 November. In mid-October, fresh snow beyond Darcha can block it at short notice, so confirm road status before you leave.

Quick facts

• Length: roughly 430–435 km from Manali to Leh (sources vary by route and tunnel use)
• Last big town on the Himachal side: Keylong, the Lahaul district headquarters
• 2025 winter closure: vehicle movement stopped from 20 November
• Risk window: late September to November, when early snow can shut the high passes
• Status in October 2026: we could not confirm a live closure order. Check before travelling

Is the Manali–Leh highway open in October 2026?

We found no official closure order for 2026 at the time of writing, and October is normally still within the travel season. That is not a guarantee. The highway is a high-altitude Border Roads Organisation (BRO) route, and one snowfall can stop vehicles beyond Darcha within hours.

Treat the road as "open, but conditional". The same day can start with sunshine at Keylong and end with a police stop at Zingzingbar.

When does the Manali–Leh highway close for winter?

There is no fixed date. The Lahaul-Spiti district administration issues a notification, usually on BRO's recommendation. In 2025, UNI reported that vehicle movement would stop from 20 November on the Jingjingbar–Sarchu, Gulaba–Rohtang and Gramphoo–Losar sections, citing snowfall risk, black ice and freezing conditions.

Earlier disruptions are common. The Tribune reported that on 1 October 2023 snow near Zingzingbar and Baralacha La blocked the road beyond Darcha, and police restricted traffic for public safety. So an October trip can be fine, or it can be cut short.

What are the risks of driving it in October?

The road crosses several passes above 15,000 ft. Beyond Keylong, expect thin mobile coverage and long gaps between fuel and food. October adds three problems: snow, black ice on shaded bends, and short daylight.

• Snow on the passes. Baralacha La and the stretches around Sarchu are the usual choke points.
• Black ice at dawn. Early starts are riskier than they feel.
• Limited help. Rescue and roadside support thin out as the season ends, and traffic drops fast.
• Altitude. Fast ascents without a halt at Keylong or Jispa raise the chance of altitude sickness.

Can you still reach Keylong, Sissu and Jispa from Manali?

Usually, yes. The lower Lahaul side is far more reliable than the Leh end. The Atal Tunnel cuts the old Rohtang climb, and Sissu and Keylong are comfortable day or overnight targets. Our Atal Tunnel and Sissu day-trip guide covers timings, and the Sissu and Keylong pages explain what to expect.

Permits still matter. Vehicles entering Lahaul and Spiti need e-Aagman registration, and Rohtang Pass itself needs a separate permit. See our Rohtang and Atal Tunnel permit guide.

Snow can also hit the approach. The Tribune reported that in March 2024 fresh snow near the Atal Tunnel stopped traffic beyond Solang and left many stranded.

How should you plan a late-season Manali–Leh trip?

1. Check the day before and the morning of. Ask your hotel in Manali or Keylong, the Lahaul-Spiti administration or BRO-linked local sources.
2. Start early, finish early. Aim to be through Baralacha La by midday and off the high stretch before dusk.
3. Split the drive. Manali to Keylong or Jispa, then onward the next day. Avoid a single marathon day.
4. Carry fuel and cash. Fill up before Keylong. Do not count on ATMs or UPI past it.
5. Keep a fallback. If the road closes, you are better off staying in Lahaul or returning to Manali than forcing a pass.

Vehicle choice matters too. A driver who knows the road and weather is safer than an unfamiliar self-drive, which is why many travellers hire a local cab with a driver for the high section. Our rentals page explains the hourly and multi-day model; see also our safety principles.

Frequently asked questions

Is the Manali–Leh highway open right now?

It is normally open in mid-October, but conditions change daily with snow. We could not confirm a closure order for 2026. Check with local authorities the day you travel.

When did the Manali–Leh highway close last year?

In 2025, the Lahaul-Spiti administration stopped vehicle movement from 20 November, per UNI. The date changes every year.

Is October a good month for Manali to Leh?

It can be clear and scenic, but it is the riskiest month for sudden snow on the high passes. Build in buffer days.

How far is Manali from Leh?

Roughly 430–435 km, usually split over two days with a night at Keylong, Jispa or Sarchu.

Is Keylong safe to visit if the high road is closed?

Usually yes. Keylong sits on the Himachal side, but check road status through the Atal Tunnel and snow forecasts first.

Our recommendation

If Leh is your destination, go in June–September, not mid-October. If you are already planning October, treat Keylong and Sissu as your guaranteed goals and Baralacha La as a bonus. Check the road every morning, and be ready to turn back.

Himsafar is currently in waitlist mode and is building fixed-fare, driver-direct transfers for Himachal routes. See how it works or join the waitlist.