There are two ways of getting to Leh. The first and most convenient way is by air. There are regular flights to Leh from New Delhi. Flights are operated by Indian Airlines and also Jet Airways. The second way, although not as convenient, is the favourite with most visitors. At least for one direction of the journey. This is to reach by road. There are two approach routes. One from Manali in the neighbouring state of Himachal Pradesh and the other from Srinagar in Jammu and Kashmir. The Srinagar - Leh route remains open from early June to November. It is possible to get taxis quite easily at Srinagar for Leh and for the other way around too. For those wanting save a little money, yet travel by taxi, it would make sense to check around for the many shared taxis that also ply on this route. The Jammu and Kashmir Road Transport Corporation also plies regular buses on this route.

The most exciting way to reach Leh is by road

The Manali - Leh route remains open between mid-June to early October. It is not a problem finding transport facilities on this route too. Taxis are available at Manali and Leh. Buses too, government and private operated, ply on this route on a daily basis. The buses also take two days to cover the distance. The overnight halt between Manali and Leh is mostly taken at Sarchu, which falls almost on the border between Himachal Pradesh and Ladakh.

The best way however to get to Leh is on your own vehicle. Whether it is on two wheels or four, the ideal way to make the journey is with your own vehicle and at a leisurely pace. Give yourself enough extra days, if possible, en route to check out the many places interest otherwise missed.

A recommended route, for those with a little extra time, is via the Sangla and Spiti valleys in Himachal Pradesh.