Are you planning a road trip to Ladakh and wondering about the cost? Well, the answer is not straightforward as it depends on various factors such as the mode of transport, duration of the trip, accommodation, food, and activities. However, we have estimated the average cost for a 10-day Ladakh road trip based on our experience.
Transportation:
The most popular mode of transportation for a Ladakh road trip is by bike or SUV. Renting a bike can cost anywhere from INR 800 to INR 2000 per day depending on the make and model.
On the other hand, an SUV can set you back by around INR 4000 to INR 6000 per day. If you are traveling in a group, then sharing the cost of an SUV can be more economical.
Pro tip: Choose a reliable rental agency that provides well-maintained vehicles with necessary permits.
Fuel:
The fuel expenses depend on the distance covered and your vehicle’s fuel efficiency. A round trip from Delhi to Leh covers around 2500 km and requires approximately 120-130 liters of petrol/diesel. The current fuel prices in Leh are similar to other Indian cities.
Pro tip: Carry extra fuel in jerry cans as petrol pumps are scarce after Kargil.
Accommodation:
Ladakh offers various types of accommodation ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious hotels. The average cost per night for a decent guesthouse is around INR 1000-1500 while mid-range hotels charge around INR 2500-3500 per night. If you are traveling during peak season (June to September), then it’s advisable to book in advance as availability can be an issue.
Pro tip: Carry your own sleeping bag and tent for camping which is not only cheaper but also offers a unique experience.
Food:
The food expenses depend on your taste and preferences. The local cuisine is delicious and budget-friendly, with meals costing around INR 150-200 per person. However, if you prefer international cuisine, then the cost can be higher.
Pro tip: Carry some packaged food items and snacks as a backup as restaurants are not available everywhere.
Activities:
Ladakh offers various adventure activities such as trekking, rafting, and mountain biking. The cost of such activities depends on the duration and the agency you choose.
An average trek can cost around INR 8000-10000 per person for 5-6 days. Similarly, rafting costs around INR 1500-2000 per person for a 2-hour session.
Pro tip: Bargain with the tour operators and choose wisely after reading reviews online.
Total Cost
Based on the above estimates, an average 10-day Ladakh road trip cost for two people would be:
- Transportation (bike rental) – INR 16,000
- Fuel – INR 10,000
- Accommodation (guesthouse) – INR 15,000
- Food – INR 10,000
- Activities (trekking/rafting) – INR 20,000
Total = INR 71,000
Of course, this is just an estimate and the actual cost can vary depending on your preferences and travel style. However, we hope this article gives you an idea of how much a Ladakh road trip can cost so that you can plan your budget accordingly.
Happy traveling!