Location

Directions

Getting to Leh – Your Journey to the Himalayas Begins Here

Reaching Leh, Ladakh is part of the adventure! Nestled at 3,500m (11,500 ft) in the Indian Himalayas, Leh is remote, breathtaking, and an essential acclimatisation point before tackling the One Hundred® Ladakh – Trail to Heaven. Here’s everything you need to know to arrive safely, smoothly, and ready to race.

Getting to Leh by Air

The fastest and most convenient way to reach Leh is by flying into Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport (IXL), one of the highest-altitude commercial airports in the world.

Flights to Leh

• From Delhi: Daily direct flights (1.5 hrs)
• From Mumbai, Bangalore, and Other Major Cities: Connecting flights via Delhi
• From International Destinations: Fly into Delhi Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL), then take a domestic flight to Leh

Airlines operating to Leh:

• IndiGo
• Vistara
• Air India
• Spice Jet

Important: Flights to Leh can be affected by weather conditions. We recommend booking an early morning flightfor the best chance of smooth travel.

Getting to Leh by Road (For the Adventurous!)

For those looking to experience Ladakh’s legendary mountain roads, there are two incredible overland routes:

Manali to Leh Highway (Best for the Scenic Route)

• Distance: 474 km
• Time: 2 days by car or motorcycle
• Highlights: Rohtang Tunnel, Baralacha La, Gata Loops
• Best Time to Travel: June to September

Srinagar to Leh Highway (Best for a Gradual Ascent)

• Distance: 434 km
• Time: 2 days by car
• Highlights: Zoji La Pass, Drass Valley, Kargil
• Best Time to Travel: May to October

Important: Both routes cross high-altitude mountain passes and can be physically demanding. Road travel is not recommended right before race day due to the risk of altitude sickness.

Travel & Visa Information

• Foreign Nationals: Most travelers require an Indian visa, which can be obtained online via the e-Visa system (https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/).
• Domestic Travelers: No visa required for Indian citizens.
• Inner Line Permit (ILP): Will apply to all participants.

Acclimatisation & Race Prep

Arriving early is non-negotiable—acclimatisation is mandatory for all runners. We recommend arriving at least 5 days before the race to adjust to the high altitude.

Tips for a Smooth Acclimatisation:

Rest for 24-48 hours upon arrival in Leh
Hydrate constantly – drink 3-4 litres of water per day
Avoid alcohol & heavy meals for the first 48 hours
Take short walks around Leh to help your body adjust
Consider medication like Diamox (consult your doctor first)

Where to Stay in Leh

Leh has a range of hotels, guesthouses, and boutique stays that cater to different budgets. We recommend staying close to the town centre for easy access to amenities and the race briefing.

Recommended Areas:

• Changspa Road – Quiet, scenic, close to cafes
• Fort Road – Central, walkable, plenty of accommodation options
• Shanti Stupa Area – Stunning views, peaceful vibe

Hotel Recommendations:

• Luxury: The Grand Dragon Ladakh - 5*
• Mid-Range: Ladakh Sarai Resort - 4*
• Budget: Zostel Leh (for backpackers)

Final Travel Tips

Book flights & hotels early – August is peak season in Ladakh
Travel insurance is a must (covering trip cancellations & high-altitude trekking/racing)
Pack warm layers – Even in summer, Leh gets cold at night
Bring cash – ATMs can be unreliable in Leh

Your Race, Your Adventure—Start It Right

Getting to Leh is part of the journey. Whether you fly in over the Himalayas or drive through breathtaking mountain passes, arriving prepared and acclimatised will set you up for success in the One Hundred® Ladakh – Trail to Heaven.

Book your flights, plan your stay, and get ready for an unforgettable race!

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