Pune, a bustling city in Maharashtra, is well connected to various parts of India, while Leh, the capital of Ladakh, is a high-altitude desert town known for its stunning landscapes and Buddhist culture. Traveling from Pune to Leh is popular among adventure seekers, spiritual travelers, and those looking for a unique Himalayan experience.

This guide covers all main transport options to help you plan your journey from Pune to Leh confidently. Whether you prefer flying, driving through scenic mountain roads, or combining train and bus travel, you will find detailed, practical advice to make your trip smooth and enjoyable.

Getting from Pune to Leh – Main Options

By Flight

Flying is the fastest and most convenient way to reach Leh from Pune, especially given the challenging terrain and long distances involved in road travel. Although there are no direct flights, connecting flights via Delhi or Chandigarh make this option popular.

• Flight route and duration:

  Book a flight from Pune Airport (PNQ) to Delhi (DEL) or Chandigarh (IXC), then catch a connecting flight to Leh Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport (IXL). The total flying time including layovers ranges from 6 to 10 hours depending on connections.

• Airlines and frequency:

  Airlines like IndiGo, Air India, and GoAir operate on these routes. Flights to Leh are seasonal and more frequent from May to October, coinciding with the tourist season.

• Cost and booking tips:

  Round-trip fares typically range from ₹7,000 to ₹15,000 depending on booking time and season. Book tickets 2-3 months in advance via IRCTC Air or airline websites to secure better prices.

• Airport facilities and transfers:

  Pune Airport has good connectivity to the city center via taxis and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber. Leh Airport is small but well managed; prepaid taxis and shared cabs are available to reach Leh town, about 7 km away.

• Altitude acclimatization advice:

  Since Leh is at 3,500 meters altitude, plan to rest on arrival and avoid strenuous activity to prevent altitude sickness. Carry necessary medication and stay hydrated.

By Train and Bus

There is no direct train to Leh, but a combination of train and bus travel is a budget-friendly option for those with time and adventure spirit. This route involves traveling to Jammu or Srinagar by train, then taking buses or taxis to Leh.

• Train to Jammu Tawi or Udhampur:

  Board a train from Pune Junction (PUNE) to Jammu Tawi (JAT) or Udhampur (UHP). Trains like the Himgiri Express or Jammu Rajdhani take approximately 36-40 hours, with fares ranging from ₹1,000 to ₹2,500 depending on class.

• Bus from Jammu/Srinagar to Leh:

  From Jammu or Srinagar, take a state transport or private bus to Leh. The Jammu-Leh route covers about 700 km via NH44 and NH1D, taking 24-30 hours. Srinagar-Leh buses are shorter, around 420 km and 12-15 hours.

• Bus service and frequency:

  Jammu & Kashmir State Road Transport Corporation (JKSRTC) and private operators run buses from May to October, the only months when roads are open. Tickets cost ₹500-₹1,000 depending on bus type.

• Road conditions and challenges:

  The roads are mountainous and can be rough, with frequent landslides during monsoon. Travel early in the day to avoid night driving risks and carry warm clothing.

• Scenic views and stops:

  The route offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas, with stops at towns like Kargil and Drass. Rest at local dhabas for authentic Ladakhi cuisine and tea.

By Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Pune to Leh is an epic road trip covering over 2,000 km through diverse landscapes. This option suits experienced drivers seeking adventure and flexibility but requires careful planning due to altitude and road conditions.

• Route overview:

  The most common route is Pune – Mumbai – Ahmedabad – Udaipur – Delhi – Jammu – Srinagar – Leh, primarily via NH48, NH44, and NH1D. The journey takes 3-5 days depending on stops.

• Distance and driving time:

  The total distance is approximately 2,200 km, with driving time around 40-45 hours excluding breaks. Plan overnight halts in cities like Udaipur, Delhi, and Jammu.

• Road conditions and permits:

  National highways are mostly well-maintained until Jammu and Srinagar. The Leh-Manali and Srinagar-Leh highways open only from May to October. Inner Line Permits are required for Ladakh and can be obtained online or at entry points.

• Vehicle recommendations:

  Use a sturdy SUV or 4x4 vehicle with good ground clearance. Carry spare tires, basic tools, and emergency supplies due to limited service stations in Ladakh.

• Altitude and weather considerations:

  Acclimatize gradually to avoid altitude sickness. Avoid driving at night in mountainous stretches and check weather forecasts for landslides or road closures.

By Bus Only

While there is no direct bus from Pune to Leh, travelers can use a combination of MSRTC and JKSRTC buses with multiple transfers. This is the most economical but time-consuming option.

• Bus segments:

  Take an MSRTC bus from Pune to Mumbai or Ahmedabad, then onward to Delhi by private or government buses. From Delhi, board a bus to Jammu or Srinagar, and finally a JKSRTC bus to Leh.

• Travel time and cost:

  The entire journey can take 4-6 days with fares under ₹3,000 total. Frequent breaks and overnight stays are necessary.

• Booking and schedules:

  Tickets can be booked via MSRTC and JKSRTC websites or at bus stands. Bus frequency varies seasonally, so check schedules in advance.

• Comfort and challenges:

  Buses may be crowded and less comfortable for long journeys. Carry snacks, water, and warm clothing. Night travel is not recommended on hilly roads.

• Local transport at stops:

  Use local taxis or rickshaws for transfers between bus stations and accommodations in cities like Delhi, Jammu, and Srinagar.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary is designed for first-time travelers from Pune to Leh, balancing convenience, acclimatization, and sightseeing.

• Book your Pune to Delhi flight early:

  Secure tickets 2-3 months in advance to get the best fares and preferred timings. Use airline apps or IRCTC Air for easy booking.

• Arrange connecting flight to Leh:

  Choose a morning flight from Delhi to Leh to avoid weather delays. Confirm baggage allowance and carry altitude sickness medication.

• Reach Pune Airport early:

  Arrive at least 2 hours before departure. Use prepaid or app-based cabs like Ola for hassle-free airport transfers.

• Acclimatize on arrival in Leh:

  Rest for a day in Leh town to adjust to high altitude. Avoid heavy physical activity and drink plenty of fluids.

• Plan local transport in Leh:

  Use shared taxis or rent bikes to explore nearby attractions like Pangong Lake and Nubra Valley. Book through trusted local operators.

• Prepare for return journey:

  Book return flights early and check weather conditions. Carry extra warm clothing for the airport wait and possible delays.

Practical Travel Tips

• Altitude sickness prevention:

  Carry Diamox after consulting a doctor and start acclimatization on arrival. Avoid alcohol and heavy meals during the first 48 hours in Leh.

• Booking strategy:

  Use IRCTC for train tickets and airline websites or apps for flights. Avoid last-minute bookings during peak season (June-August).

• Local commute in Leh:

  Prefer shared taxis or rent motorcycles for flexibility. Use prepaid taxis from the airport to avoid overcharging.

• Food and water safety:

  Drink bottled water and eat at well-reviewed eateries to avoid stomach issues. Ladakhi cuisine is delicious but can be heavy; try momos and thukpa.

• Luggage packing:

  Pack warm layers, sunscreen, and sturdy footwear. Keep essential medicines and chargers handy as power outages can occur.

• Seasonal travel warnings:

  Avoid traveling during winter (November-April) as roads are closed and flights limited. Monsoon can cause landslides on road routes.

Best Time & Conditions

The best time to travel from Pune to Leh is during the summer months when the weather is pleasant and roads are open. Winter travel is challenging due to snow and limited connectivity.

Planning your journey to avoid peak traffic and weather disruptions will ensure a safer and more enjoyable trip.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Diwali and Eid to prevent overcrowding and higher prices.

• Summer months (May to September) offer clear skies and open roads, ideal for flights and road trips.

• Start early in the day when driving or taking buses to avoid afternoon weather changes and traffic jams.

• Check weather forecasts regularly, especially for landslides or flight cancellations during monsoon.

Arrival at Leh & What to Expect

Upon arrival at Leh Airport, travelers experience the crisp mountain air and stunning views of the Himalayas. Leh town is compact, with a mix of traditional Ladakhi culture and tourist-friendly amenities.

Local transport options include prepaid taxis at the airport exit, shared cabs, and motorcycle rentals. Popular stay areas include the town center near the Leh Market and quieter guesthouses near the Leh Palace.

Nearby attractions like Shanti Stupa, Leh Palace, and local monasteries are easily accessible. For further exploration, arrange day trips to Pangong Lake, Nubra Valley, or Hemis Monastery through local tour operators.

Conclusion

Flying from Pune to Leh via Delhi remains the most efficient and comfortable travel option, saving time and reducing altitude-related travel fatigue. It allows travelers to focus on acclimatization and enjoy the breathtaking beauty of Ladakh without the long road journey.

However, for those seeking adventure and scenic routes, combining train and bus travel or self-driving offers a unique experience through diverse Indian landscapes. With proper planning and awareness of seasonal conditions, you can confidently embark on your journey from Pune to Leh and create unforgettable memories in the Himalayas.