Keylong, nestled in the Lahaul Valley of Himachal Pradesh, is a dream destination for road trip lovers. Known for its breathtaking landscapes, rugged terrain, and pristine rivers, Keylong is a gateway to Leh, Spiti, and Ladakh. If you are an adventure enthusiast, taking a road trip from Delhi to Keylong is an experience of a lifetime. The journey takes you through towering mountains, lush green valleys, historic monasteries, and charming villages.
Top 8 Scenic Road Trips from Delhi to Keylong to Explore:
1. Classic Route via Manali (NH3)
Distance: 570 km
Time: 14-16 hours
The most popular route to Keylong is via Manali, following National Highway 3 (NH3). This route is favored for its scenic beauty and adventure-filled drive through the Atal Tunnel. Along the way, you will pass through Kullu Valley, which is known for its apple orchards and vibrant culture.
Before reaching Keylong, you can stop at Solang Valley to enjoy paragliding, zip-lining, or skiing during winter. The Atal Tunnel, one of India’s engineering marvels, shortens the distance to Lahaul Valley significantly, making the journey smoother and quicker.
Highlights:
- Drive through the picturesque Kullu Valley.
- Cross the Atal Tunnel, the longest highway tunnel in India.
- Explore Solang Valley for adventure sports.
- Enjoy the breathtaking beauty of Lahaul Valley.
Best Time to Travel:
May to October (Atal Tunnel remains open year-round, but Rohtang Pass closes in winter.)
7 Nights 8 Days Shimla Manali Trip from Delhi
2. The Challenging Spiti Valley Route (NH5 & NH505)
Distance: 750 km
Time: 20-24 hours (with stops)
If you love extreme road trips, taking the Spiti Valley route via Shimla and Kaza is a thrilling experience. The journey starts with a scenic drive through the lush greenery of Shimla and Kinnaur, gradually transitioning into the stark, moon-like landscapes of Spiti.
You will get to explore some of the most remote villages in India, including Langza, Komic, and Hikkim (home to the world’s highest post office). Crossing Kunzum Pass is another adventure in itself, as the high-altitude road is often covered with snow even in summer.
Highlights:
- Explore ancient monasteries in Tabo and Dhankar.
- Drive through the rugged and barren landscapes of Spiti.
- Witness the beauty of Chandra Tal Lake.
- Cross Kunzum Pass at 4,551 meters above sea level.
Best Time to Travel:
June to September (Roads are blocked in winter due to heavy snowfall.)
6 Nights 7 Days Delhi to Spiti Valley Itinerary
3. The Leh-Manali Highway Adventure
Distance: 1,000 km (via Leh)
Time: 3-4 days
For those seeking an extended Himalayan adventure, traveling to Keylong via Leh is a great option. This route takes you through some of the highest motorable roads in the world, including Tanglang La and Baralacha La.
You can explore Ladakh’s mesmerizing landscapes, visit ancient Buddhist monasteries, and witness the surreal beauty of Pangong Lake. This journey is not for the faint-hearted, as it involves long driving hours at high altitudes, but the stunning views make it worth every moment.
Highlights:
- Experience the thrill of crossing high-altitude passes like Tanglang La and Baralacha La.
- Visit Pangong Lake and Nubra Valley in Ladakh.
- Explore Buddhist monasteries in Leh.
- Witness the confluence of the Indus and Zanskar Rivers.
Best Time to Travel:
June to September (Snow makes this route inaccessible in winter.)
6 Nights 7 Days Ladakh Tour from Manali
4. Delhi to Keylong via Kinnaur & Spiti
Distance: 850 km
Time: 4-5 days
This offbeat route combines the lush green valleys of Kinnaur with the stark landscapes of Spiti, offering a diverse road trip experience. You will pass through Kalpa, which offers mesmerizing views of the Kinner Kailash range, and Sangla, known for its beautiful meadows and river landscapes.
The road then takes you into the rugged terrain of Spiti, where you can visit the famous Dhankar Monastery and the stunning Pin Valley. This journey is perfect for those who love exploring diverse landscapes and cultural heritage.
Highlights:
- Visit the picturesque villages of Kalpa and Sangla.
- Witness the majestic Kinner Kailash range.
- Explore the remote Spiti villages of Hikkim and Komic.
- Enjoy the scenic drive along the Satluj and Spiti rivers.
Best Time to Travel:
June to September
Himachal Pradesh Offbeat Tour 9 Days
5. The Extended Himachal Circuit (via Dharamshala & Manali)
Distance: 850 km
Time: 4-5 days
For travelers who want to explore more of Himachal Pradesh, this route takes you through Dharamshala, Palampur, Mandi, and Manali before reaching Keylong. You can immerse yourself in Tibetan culture in McLeod Ganj, explore the tea gardens of Palampur, and enjoy a peaceful retreat at Prashar Lake.
The drive from Mandi to Manali offers picturesque river views, and from there, you can continue towards Keylong through the Atal Tunnel. This route is ideal for travelers who want a mix of adventure and cultural experiences.
Highlights:
- Visit the Tibetan monasteries in Dharamshala and McLeod Ganj.
- Explore the tea gardens of Palampur.
- Enjoy the serene beauty of Prashar Lake near Mandi.
- Experience the adventure activities in Manali.
Best Time to Travel:
May to October
8 Days Manali Dharamshala Dalhousie Tour
6. The Great Himalayan Road Trip via Uttarakhand & Himachal
Distance: 1,200 km
Time: 5-6 days
For those who love long drives, this route takes you through Uttarakhand before entering Himachal Pradesh, providing an immersive Himalayan experience. Start your journey in Rishikesh, where you can experience river rafting or meditate by the Ganges.
Continue to Mussoorie and Nainital, enjoying the colonial charm of these hill stations. From there, drive towards Himachal’s lesser-explored areas, such as Kinnaur and Spiti, before reaching Keylong. This route offers an exciting mix of spirituality, adventure, and natural beauty.
Highlights:
- Explore the spiritual town of Rishikesh and its yoga culture.
- Visit the hill stations of Mussoorie and Nainital.
- Drive through the remote villages of Kinnaur and Spiti.
- Enjoy mesmerizing views of snow-capped peaks.
Best Time to Travel:
May to October
7. Delhi to Keylong via Chamba & Sach Pass
Distance: 900 km
Time: 4-5 days
For experienced road trippers, traveling via Chamba and crossing the treacherous Sach Pass is an adventure like no other. Sach Pass is one of the most dangerous yet breathtakingly beautiful mountain passes in India, known for its snow-covered roads and challenging terrain.
Along the way, you can explore the ancient temples of Chamba and Bharmour, visit remote Himalayan villages, and soak in the untouched beauty of Pangi Valley. This route is recommended only for those with good driving skills and a passion for extreme road trips.
Highlights:
- Visit the historic town of Chamba and Bharmour.
- Cross the dangerous yet stunning Sach Pass.
- Enjoy breathtaking views of the Pangi Valley.
- Experience the remoteness of the Himalayas.
Best Time to Travel:
July to September (Roads remain closed due to heavy snowfall in other months.)
8. Delhi to Keylong via Mandi & Banjar Valley
Distance: 650 km
Time: 3-4 days
For those who wish to take a more scenic and less crowded route, traveling through Mandi and Banjar Valley before reaching Manali is a wonderful choice. Banjar Valley, also known as Himachal’s “Best Kept Secret”, is home to lush green forests, charming wooden houses, and peaceful villages.
You can visit the Great Himalayan National Park for nature walks, stay in a riverside homestay in Tirthan Valley, and enjoy fresh trout fish by the riverside. After this relaxing detour, drive through the Atal Tunnel to reach Keylong.
Highlights:
- Explore the lush green valleys of Banjar and Jibhi.
- Visit the Great Himalayan National Park.
- Enjoy the peace and tranquility of Tirthan Valley.
- Cross Atal Tunnel before entering Lahaul.
Best Time to Travel:
May to October
Final Thoughts
Each of these road trips from Delhi to Keylong offers a unique adventure, whether you are looking for a quick getaway or a long expedition through the Himalayas. Choose your route based on your experience level, the time of year, and the kind of adventure you seek. No matter which route you take, the journey promises stunning landscapes, challenging roads, and an unforgettable experience.
Follow-up Articles:
- Himachal Places to Visit in March 2025
- Top 15 Honeymoon Places in Himachal
- 10 Best Destinations to Visit in Keylong
- How to Travel to Jispa – Routes & Travel Tips
- How to Reach Jibhi: Best Routes & Travel Options
- Top 10 Destinations to Visit Sangla
- Best Time to Visit Leh Ladakh via Manali
- Ladakh Tourist Places to Visit in April 2025
- Places in Ladakh to See in June 2025
- A Trek to Triund Hill, Dharamshala: Travel Guide
