Is there a direct train?

No, there is no rail connectivity to Kargil.

How long is the drive?

Approximately 20 hours of travel time including stops.

You can fly from Srinagar to Chandigarh, then drive to Ludhiana.

Yes, the route is well-traveled by tourists and locals.

What is the best season?

Summer months offer the safest road conditions.

Kargil

Ludhiana

Driving

Kargil to Ludhiana

Updated: 28 May 2026

Reaching Ludhiana from Kargil requires a multi-stage journey covering 700 km. You will traverse the NH 1 highway, passing through the Zoji La pass and the scenic Kashmir Valley. The most common route involves a shared taxi to Srinagar, followed by an overnight bus or train from Jammu to Ludhiana. This route connects the high-altitude desert of Ladakh with the industrial hub of Punjab. Expect a long, tiring journey that rewards you with diverse geographical vistas.

Total Distance: 700 km by road, 420 km straight-line.

Fastest Way

Private taxi to Srinagar, flight to Chandigarh, then taxi to Ludhiana.

Cheapest Way

Shared taxi to Srinagar, then state bus to Jammu, and finally a train to Ludhiana.

Compare Kargil to Ludhiana Routes

Driving

Connecting

Duration

20 hours

Avg Price

3000-5000 INR

Operator

Private Taxi Operators

Route

Kargil - Srinagar - Jammu - Pathankot - Ludhiana

Hire a local driver experienced in mountain driving for the Kargil-Srinagar stretch.

Travel Tips

Clothing
Pack layers; temperatures drop significantly as you cross the mountain passes.
Documents
Keep your Aadhaar card or passport accessible for security checks.
Food
Carry dry snacks and water, as options are limited on the Zoji La stretch.
Booking
Book train tickets from Jammu to Ludhiana well in advance via IRCTC.
Timing
Start your journey from Kargil at dawn to cross Zoji La before afternoon winds.

Safety Tips

Altitude
Monitor yourself for symptoms of AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness).
Road Safety
Stay on the left side and be cautious of oncoming heavy trucks on narrow roads.
Emergency
Save local police and emergency contact numbers for the J&K region.
Weather
Check for road closures due to snow or landslides before leaving.