Sarchu

Sarchu, also known as Sir Bhum Chun, is a popular halt point on the Leh–Manali Highway. Located at an altitude of around 4,290 meters, it is surrounded by snow-capped peaks and barren landscapes that create a unique high-altitude desert charm.

Travellers often include Sarchu in their Himachal Pradesh Tour Packages, as it lies midway between Manali and Leh. Many adventure seekers choose Sarchu for overnight stays during road trips. The vast plains here are also used as a campsite, offering a raw Himalayan experience that attracts trekkers and bikers every year.

With its rugged beauty and peaceful environment, Sarchu has become a favourite among backpackers and adventure lovers. While there are no permanent settlements, tents and camps provide accommodation in summer. For those who love offbeat travel and raw natural beauty, Sarchu is a destination worth exploring.

Best Time to Visit Sarchu

The Best Time to Visit Sarchu is from June to September. During these months, the snow has melted, roads remain open, and the weather is suitable for camping and trekking. Days are moderately cool, while nights can get very cold, even in summer. From October to May, heavy snowfall closes the passes, making the region inaccessible. Travellers planning road trips on the Leh-Manali Highway often prefer mid-June to August, as the conditions are safer. Overall, summer is the most convenient time to enjoy the beauty of Sarchu and its camping experiences.

How to Reach Sarchu

1. By Air:

A. Direct Flight

1. Departure City: Delhi and other cities
2. Arrival City & Airport: Bhuntar Airport (Kullu-Manali), Leh Airport (Kushok Bakula Rimpochee), or Chandigarh Airport
3. Time Taken: Around 1-2 hours (depending on departure city)
4. Airlines: IndiGo, Vistara, Air India, SpiceJet

B. Connecting Flight

1. Departure City: Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, Kolkata
2. Arrival City & Airport: Leh Airport / Bhuntar Airport / Chandigarh Airport
3. Layover Cities: Varies (Delhi or Chandigarh mostly)
4. Time Taken: 4-7 hours, including layover
5. Airlines: IndiGo, Vistara, Air India

2. By Road

Sarchu is accessible only by road via the Leh-Manali Highway, about 250 km from Manali and 260 km from Leh, taking 8-10 hours. From Manali, the route crosses Rohtang Pass, Keylong, and Baralacha La; from Leh, it passes Tanglang La and Pang. Buses, taxis, jeeps, and bikes are available, though the road is open only from May/June to September/October.

3. By Rail

Sarchu has no railway station. The nearest major ones are Chandigarh (600 km) and Joginder Nagar (360 km). From there, the onward journey to Sarchu is by road via bus, taxi, or private vehicle, with Chandigarh being the more convenient option due to better connectivity.

Places to Visit in Sarchu

Though Sarchu is mainly a transit point, its surroundings offer beautiful sights. Here are some of the top Places To Visit in Sarchu

1. Baralacha La Pass: A high-altitude pass connecting Lahaul, Zanskar, and Ladakh. It is famous for its snow-covered views and adventure routes.
2. Suraj Tal Lake: Located near Baralacha La, this is one of the highest lakes in India. Its turquoise water and mountain backdrop make it a perfect photography spot.
3. Gata Loops: A series of 21 hairpin bends on the Leh–Manali road, offering thrilling drives and panoramic views of valleys.
4. Tsarap Chu River: Flowing near Sarchu, this river is known for its clear water and surrounding cliffs. It is an ideal spot for peaceful walks and camping.
5. Camping Grounds: Sarchu itself is popular for tent stays. As part of Sarchu Tourism, the vast open plains allow travellers to experience stargazing and the silence of the mountains.