Hey guys,
Just wondering if you know when the mountain passes in this region will close for the year due to snow? I believe it's around the start of October, and if you are heading north towards Kashmir is better as that second one is alot lower and closes later. Is this correct?
Hey Tim,
As for last year, the Manali-Leh Highway closed officially in November 15, even though there had been snowfalls in Rohtang and Baralacha La previously. It s hard to predict, for example this year the passes have opened end of May which is early compared to previous years. As for the Leh-Srinagar Road, it stays open longer with the highest pass being fotu La (some 4200m), but Zoji La (some 3500m) receives more snow. Also, the heavy presence of the army and the Border Road Organisation tries to ensure to extend the traffic and keep the roads clear. So yes, you'd better start on the Manali-Leh Highway and come down via Srinagar.
HOwever, be aware that there is some unrest right now in Kashmir resulting in the region being paralyzed. I just come from there, there is a strict curfew, roads are blocked and no traffic is allowed during day time and things seems quite uncertain. But I do hope the situation is coming eventually to normal and it will be fine by the time you are there.