Start very early from Delhi in your own SUV; expect ~12-14 hours depending on traffic — stay focused on safety and rotate drivers. This is a long haul day to get you close to the mountains.
Comfortable mid-range hotel with good parking and a warm bed — use this night to rest, check the vehicle for high-altitude readiness and collect/verify documents for permits.
Visit the Manali SDM/permit counter (usually open 9:00am-5:00pm next day) to learn about Rohtang/Leh route requirements; prepare RC, driving license, ID and car insurance.
Pass Rohtang (seasonal permit needed; Rohtang area opens typically from May to Nov; check live updates) then continue through Gramphu, Sissu and Keylong towards Jispa; expect 6–8 hours depending on stops.
Riverside tents / guest houses in Jispa give basic but comfortable accommodation with secure parking; ideal for resting before higher-altitude camping at Sarchu.
Visit the DC office or local permit counters (usually open 9:00am–5:00pm) to obtain any remaining permits for Nubra / Pangong; you may need RC, ID and vehicle papers.
Shanti Stupa offers sunrise/sunset views and is open roughly 6:00am–8:00pm; Leh Palace (9:00am–5:00pm) provides the historical overview of Ladakh and great town views. Both are light activities suitable for acclimatisation.
Khardung La is high altitude (~5359m) and is open generally from early morning to evening but can close for landslides — plan to cross early and check local updates. Drive time ~3–4 hours to Diskit.
Pangong’s colour changes with light and is best at sunset; the lake area is accessible 24/7 but check camping check-in times (camps typically allow evening arrival).