The HRTC Delhi-Leh bus service, one of India's most remarkable high-altitude public bus journeys, has been suspended for the 2026 season. The Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) Keylong depot stopped operations on September 15, 2026, as the region moves toward the winter season.
The seasonal suspension is closely linked to the harsh weather and road conditions experienced along the Manali-Leh corridor during winter. According to the latest report from Lahaul-Spiti, the service is expected to resume next summer, around May 2027, after the route becomes suitable for regular bus operations again.
For travellers planning a Delhi to Leh road journey, this is an important seasonal update. Although the HRTC bus is currently not operating, road connectivity on the Leh-Manali route remains available for other vehicles, subject to local weather, road and administrative conditions.
HRTC Delhi-Leh Bus Service Suspended From September 15
HRTC's Delhi-Keylong-Leh service officially stopped operating from September 15, 2026. The service had restarted earlier this year on May 26, 2026, meaning this year's operating season lasted only around three and a half months.
The seasonal nature of this bus service is important to understand. The Manali-Leh highway crosses extremely high mountain terrain, and winter snowfall can make several sections unsuitable for normal bus operations. This is why the HRTC service generally operates during the warmer months rather than throughout the year.
HRTC Delhi-Leh Bus: Quick Facts
- Current status: Suspended for the 2026 season
- Suspension date: September 15, 2026
- 2026 service started: May 26, 2026
- Approx. distance: 990 km
- Reported fare: ₹1,839
- Route: Delhi – Chandigarh – Mandi – Kullu – Manali – Keylong – Leh
- Expected next operating season: May 2027, subject to road and weather conditions
Delhi to Leh HRTC Bus Route
The HRTC Delhi-Leh bus covers approximately 990 kilometres. The journey begins in Delhi and travels through Chandigarh, Mandi, Kullu, Manali and Keylong before entering the high-altitude Manali-Leh section toward Leh.
Some of the major locations and sections associated with the journey include Jispa, Darcha, Baralacha La, Sarchu, Gata Loops, Nakee La, Lachung La, Tanglang La, Rumtse and Upshi.
This makes the service much more than a conventional intercity bus. Passengers travelling on this route experience a dramatic change in landscape, from the plains around Delhi to the green valleys of Himachal Pradesh and finally the high-altitude cold desert landscapes of Ladakh.
Why Is the Delhi-Leh HRTC Bus Service Seasonal?
The main reason is the extreme environment of the Manali-Leh highway. Several sections of the route are located at very high elevations, where snowfall, freezing temperatures and road conditions can change quickly.
During winter, heavy snowfall can make high mountain passes difficult or impossible for regular public transport. Before the HRTC service resumes, authorities need to ensure that the road is open and suitable for vehicular movement.
The 2026 service itself resumed on May 26 after the Keylong-Leh route was declared open for vehicular movement and the required arrangements were completed. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
How Much Is the HRTC Delhi to Leh Bus Fare?
The reported fare for the complete Delhi-Leh HRTC journey in the 2026 season was ₹1,839 per passenger. Online booking was also made available through the HRTC system when the service was operational. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
Because fares and schedules can change between operating seasons, travellers planning for 2027 should check the latest HRTC timetable and fare before booking.
How Long Does the Delhi-Leh Bus Journey Take?
The Delhi-Leh journey takes roughly 31 to 32 hours or more, depending on road conditions, traffic, weather and operational halts.
The 2026 schedule reported the bus leaving Delhi at around 12:10 PM. It was scheduled to pass through Chandigarh, Mandi, Kullu and Manali before reaching Keylong the following morning and continuing toward Leh. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
Travellers should therefore treat this as a demanding high-altitude journey rather than a normal overnight bus ride. Delays are possible, particularly on mountain sections.
Which High Mountain Passes Does the Bus Cross?
One of the biggest attractions of this journey is the high-altitude landscape. The route crosses several major mountain passes on the Manali-Leh highway.
- Baralacha La – approximately 16,020 feet
- Nakee La – approximately 15,547 feet
- Lachung La – approximately 16,620 feet
- Tanglang La – approximately 17,480 feet
These high-altitude sections are a major reason why the journey is popular among adventure travellers and people looking for a budget-friendly way to experience the Manali-Leh highway.
What Has Changed After the Atal Tunnel?
The Delhi-Leh HRTC bus no longer needs to travel through Rohtang Pass in the same way it did before the Atal Tunnel became operational. The route now uses the Atal Tunnel while travelling from Manali toward Lahaul.
However, the journey remains challenging because the bus still enters the extremely high-altitude terrain beyond Keylong and crosses several major mountain passes before reaching Ladakh.
Who Uses the HRTC Delhi-Leh Bus?
The service is useful for several categories of travellers. Tourists and backpackers use it as a relatively economical way to travel toward Ladakh, while local residents also depend on public transport connectivity between the regions.
The service is also relevant for people travelling for work and other essential purposes along the corridor. Its comparatively low fare makes it particularly significant for passengers who do not want to use private taxis or other expensive travel options.
Can You Travel From Delhi to Leh by Road Right Now?
The suspension of the HRTC bus does not automatically mean that the entire Delhi-Leh road route is closed. The latest report states that other vehicle movement on the Leh-Ladakh route was continuing. However, conditions in the high-altitude region can change rapidly during the transition into winter.
Anyone planning a road trip should therefore check the latest road status, weather forecast and local administrative advisories before starting the journey.
When Will HRTC Delhi-Leh Bus Service Start Again?
HRTC's Delhi-Keylong-Leh service is expected to return in the next operating season, around May 2027. The exact reopening date should be considered provisional until HRTC and the concerned local authorities announce the new season's schedule.
The reopening will depend on factors such as snow clearance, road conditions, weather and the official opening of the high-altitude route for regular vehicular movement.
What Travellers Should Know Before Taking the Delhi-Leh Bus
The Delhi-Leh HRTC bus is an economical option, but the journey requires preparation. This is a high-altitude route with a long travel duration and limited facilities across some sections.
- Carry warm clothing even during summer.
- Keep drinking water regularly during the journey.
- Carry essential medicines and personal supplies.
- Keep snacks because meal stops can be limited.
- Be prepared for cold temperatures at high passes.
- Do not expect the same comfort level as a regular luxury coach.
- Keep some buffer time because mountain-road delays are possible.
- Check the latest road and weather conditions before departure.
Delhi-Leh HRTC Bus: A Budget Alternative for Ladakh Travel
For budget travellers, the HRTC Delhi-Leh service is significant because it connects the national capital with Ladakh through one of the most spectacular mountain corridors in India at a comparatively low reported fare of ₹1,839.
The journey also provides a different experience from flying directly to Leh. Instead of arriving in Ladakh within a few hours, passengers gradually travel through the changing landscapes of northern India and experience the Manali-Leh highway by road.
That said, travellers should remember that a bus journey of around 990 kilometres through high-altitude terrain can be physically demanding. People who are uncomfortable with long road journeys should consider their travel preferences and health requirements before choosing this option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the HRTC Delhi-Leh bus service currently running?
No. The HRTC Delhi-Keylong-Leh bus service was suspended from September 15, 2026, for the current season.
When will the HRTC Delhi-Leh bus service resume?
The service is expected to resume around May 2027, subject to road clearance, weather and official HRTC and local administration decisions.
What is the Delhi to Leh HRTC bus fare?
The reported fare during the 2026 operating season was ₹1,839 for the Delhi-Leh journey.
What is the distance between Delhi and Leh by HRTC bus?
The HRTC Delhi-Leh route covers approximately 990 kilometres.
How long does the HRTC Delhi-Leh bus take?
The journey generally takes around 31 to 32 hours or longer depending on weather, road conditions, traffic and operational halts.
Does the HRTC Delhi-Leh bus travel through Manali?
Yes. The route travels through Chandigarh, Mandi, Kullu, Manali and Keylong before continuing toward Leh.
Does the Delhi-Leh HRTC bus cross Baralacha La?
Yes. The route crosses Baralacha La and several other high-altitude passes on the Manali-Leh highway.
Is the entire Delhi-Leh road closed after the HRTC bus suspension?
No. Suspension of the HRTC bus service does not by itself mean that all road traffic has stopped. Other vehicle movement may continue depending on current weather, road and administrative conditions.
Final Takeaway
The suspension of the HRTC Delhi-Leh bus service from September 15, 2026 marks the end of this year's operating season on one of India's most challenging public bus routes. The service covered roughly 990 kilometres from Delhi to Leh through Chandigarh, Mandi, Kullu, Manali and Keylong, with a reported fare of ₹1,839 during the 2026 season.
Travellers planning to experience this journey should now wait for the next official operating-season announcement. If the route and weather conditions allow, HRTC is expected to bring the service back around May 2027.
Before making travel arrangements, always check the latest HRTC timetable, booking availability and local road conditions rather than relying only on previous-season dates.
Last Updated: September 19, 2026
Source note: This article has been prepared using the latest available reporting on the HRTC Delhi-Keylong-Leh service and earlier 2026 service details. Fares, timings and reopening dates may change in the next operating season.
