Fuel is limited in Ladakh, and supply can be interrupted by road closures, weather and demand. Fill up whenever you can and carry a small spare can if your vehicle allows it.
Main towns with petrol pumps
- Leh: several pumps in and around town. This is the best place to fill up before leaving.
- Kargil: pumps in and around town on the Srinagar–Leh highway.
- Diskit (Nubra): a pump is generally available. Check before relying on it.
- Padum (Zanskar): a pump is generally available. Supply may be limited.
- Nyoma and Tangtse (Changthang): limited. Confirm locally.
- Khaltse and Nimmu (Sham): pumps along the Srinagar–Leh highway. Verify before relying on them.
Where fuel is not available
- Along stretches between major towns, for example on long routes toward Hanle, Tso Moriri, Spangmik and Zanskar's remote valleys.
- On the Manali–Leh highway, the last reliable pump before Leh is generally in Himachal. Verify the current location before travel.
Tips
- Fill up at every opportunity. Do not expect a pump at the next village.
- Carry cash. Digital payments often fail due to poor network.
- High altitude reduces engine efficiency, so budget extra fuel.
- Ask your host or driver for up-to-date information, since pump availability changes.