While traveling on the Manali Leh highway, travelers always need clarification on where to stop. Jispa and Sarchu are the two most convenient stops, with pros and cons. Sarchu is on the border of Ladakh and Himachal Pradesh. Therefore, many travelers think it is better to make a stop there.

Besides the distance, many other factors can help you decide where to stay. Your presence here reveals that you are also debating on the same issue. Worry not; we have solved your problem. Keep on reading and find the right place to stop.

Which Is The Best Place To Stay, Jispa Or Sarchu?

Jispa is the best place to stay while traveling on the Leh Manali highway. Now, if you think why it is so, below you will find the reasons:

Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS)

Many people traveling to Leh by road think they are strong enough to deal with the mild discomforts that usually arise due to the lack of oxygen. If you exercise regularly or climb the hills, your lungs can manage the slight difference in the oxygen level. But, if you are not fit, you can suffer from acute mountain sickness.

People usually develop the symptoms of acute mountain sickness after 10,000 feet, and Manali is about 6,700 feet above sea level. According to the experts, you must climb up 1000 feet after 24 hours. This way, your body gets normal to the lower oxygen levels and adjusts to the new conditions. If you climb gradually, you prepare your body for the new environment.

Remember that the lack of oxygen can cause serious issues, including headaches and nausea. So, if you decide to stop at Sarchu, it can cause trouble as Sarchu is far higher. You can suffer from acute mountain sickness and may need the proper treatments.

Distance

Jispa is 137 kilometers from Manali, and you can easily cover this distance in five to six hours. You can reach the around 3 pm if you start the journey at 8 am and take a lunch break. After reaching Jispa, most travelers think they can easily reach Sarchu, just 78 kilometers away from Jispa.

Though you can cover this distance within two to three hours, you will reach there at night. The long journey will make you tired. Taking a break at Jispa will make you feel fresh and relaxed. Also, you can leave the Jispa early in the morning, reach Leh before 5 pm, and enjoy a delicious dinner there. Also, you can enjoy the beautiful scenery in a better way.

Route From Jispa to Sarchu

Sarchu is about 78 kilometers away from the Jispa. There are so many places like Baralacha-la on the way that you will love to take a break and appreciate their beauty. Suppose you are tired and are just interested in reaching your destination; how can you explore the beauty of these places? It is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, so you must explore the beauty of these magical places. There are also many restaurants on the way. You can take a break there and enjoy your tomato soup there. You can also capture some photos there.

Weather

Sarchu is colder than Jispa and Manali. The temperature at night drops drastically, and you will feel yourself on barren ground. Besides that, the wind makes the environment even colder. Therefore, the travelers who stop at Sarchu suffer from acute mountain sickness. The lack of oxygen, gain in altitude, and sudden decrease in temperature make it difficult for the body to handle. Therefore, if you don't want to develop acute mountain sickness symptoms, you must take a break at Jispa.

Scenic Beauty

Jispa is one of the most beautiful villages you will find on your journey. Therefore, it is necessary to stop here and admire the beauty of this place. Also, there are many places that you will love to explore like Rohtang. So, if you want to enjoy your journey, stay at Jispa and enjoy the beautiful views of the surroundings as much as possible. You can visit the monastery there or explore the museum. The village is attractive; you can walk there and interact with the locals. Besides that, you can also visit the Bhaga River.

Camping

If you want to add more adventure to your journey or are already considering camping, Jispa will be the best location. You can go for the self-camping or can also stay at the campsite. Remember that the river is situated at the Bhaga River bank, so that you will be camping near the river. So, it will be a perfect location for this activity. You will also find the wooden huts near the river; staying there will be a unique experience. Plus, you can enjoy the bonfire at night as well.

Time Constraints

Every traveler wants to reach Ladakh as early as possible and wants to spend maximum time there. But here, you must understand that the journey is always more beautiful than the destination. If you end your journey at Ladakh you will miss many places you can explore on your way. The scenery changes after every curve, so why not stop, relax, and admire nature?

Conclusion:

Manali Leh highway is one of the most adventurous roads. Also, while traveling, you can enjoy the magnificent views of the Himalayas. If you are traveling on the Manali Leh highway or plan to travel soon, you must stop at Jispa instead of Sarchu. Reaching the Sarchi in one day can cause acute mountain sickness. Besides that, a sudden decrease in temperature can make you sick. If you take a break at Jispa, you can enjoy the journey and beauty of the place.