Is there a direct train from Kargil to Chandigarh?

No, Kargil does not have a railway station; the nearest railhead is Jammu Tawi.

How long is the drive from Kargil to Srinagar?

The drive typically takes 6 to 8 hours depending on traffic at Zoji La.

Are there flights from Kargil?

Kargil has an airport, but commercial flights are currently not operational.

What is the best route to Chandigarh?

The most common route is via Srinagar and Jammu using NH 44.

Do I need a permit for Kargil?

Indian citizens do not need a permit, but foreign nationals require an Inner Line Permit.

Kargil

Chandigarh

Flight Driving

Kargil to Chandigarh

Updated: 21 May 2026

The journey from Kargil to Chandigarh spans approximately 750 km through the Zoji La pass. You must first travel to Srinagar via NH 1, which takes about 6 to 8 hours. From Srinagar, you can take a flight to Chandigarh or continue by road via the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway. The route offers stunning views of the Himalayas before descending into the plains of Punjab. Expect significant travel time variations due to mountain weather and road conditions.

Total Distance: 750 km by road, 450 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Taxi to Srinagar Airport followed by a direct flight to Chandigarh, taking 6 hours total.

Cheapest Way

Shared taxi from Kargil to Srinagar followed by HRTC bus to Chandigarh, costing approx 3500 INR.

Compare Kargil to Chandigarh Routes

Flight

Connecting

Duration

5 hours

Avg Price

7000-15000 INR

Operator

IndiGo

Route

Srinagar Airport (SXR) to Chandigarh Airport (IXC)

Book your Srinagar to Chandigarh flight well in advance for better rates.

Driving

Connecting

Duration

22 hours

Avg Price

8000-12000 INR

Operator

Private Taxi

Route

Kargil - Sonamarg - Srinagar - Jammu - Pathankot - Chandigarh

Hire a 4x4 vehicle for the stretch between Kargil and Srinagar.

Travel Tips

Acclimatization
Spend at least one night in Kargil to acclimatize before heading to lower altitudes.
Permits
Ensure you carry valid ID proof for inner line permits if required in specific border areas.
Cash
Carry sufficient cash as ATMs are scarce between Kargil and Srinagar.
Clothing
Dress in layers as temperatures fluctuate drastically between Kargil and the plains.
Connectivity
Expect poor mobile network coverage on the Zoji La pass; download offline maps.

Safety Tips

Mountain Driving
Avoid driving on the Zoji La pass after sunset due to poor visibility and narrow roads.
Medical Kit
Carry a basic medical kit including motion sickness pills and altitude sickness medication.
Vehicle Check
Get your vehicle's brakes and tires checked thoroughly before starting the mountain descent.
Weather Updates
Check local news for road closures due to landslides before departing Kargil.