Khardungla Passleh
Highest Motorable Road
Overview
Located on the Ladakh range, this is the highest motorable pass in the world, and serves as a gateway to Shyok and Nubra Valley.
What To Expect?
A thrilling ascent to an altitude of 17,582 feet (often cited as 18,380 ft on signboards). You will experience sub-zero temperatures even in summer, see prayer flags fluttering in the heavy winds, and enjoy a cup of tea at the world's highest cafeteria. The views of the Karakoram range and the Indus Valley from the top are truly epic.
Tips
- Acclimatization is mandatory; do not attempt Khardungla until you have spent at least 2-3 days in Leh.
- Limit your stay at the top to 20-30 minutes to avoid high-altitude pulmonary/cerebral edema (HAPE/HACE).
- Carry heavy woollens, gloves, and a windcheater even in peak summer, as the temperature at the top can be below freezing.
- Apply high-SPF sunscreen and wear polarized sunglasses to protect against the intense UV rays reflected by the snow.
- Carry a portable oxygen cylinder if you have a history of breathing issues or are traveling with elderly companions.
- Check with local authorities or taxi drivers for road status, as sudden snowfalls can close the pass unexpectedly.
Exploring Khardungla Pass
More About Khardungla Pass
Located on the Ladakh range, Khardungla Pass (Khardung La) is a mountain pass situated about 40 km from Leh. It is historically significant as it lies on the major caravan route from Leh to Kashgar in Central Asia. Today, it remains a critical artery for the Indian Army to supply the Siachen Glacier.
Reaching the summit is a badge of honor for bikers and adventure travelers. The air is extremely thin here, and the landscape is a stark, beautiful desert of rock and perennial snow. It offers a sense of being on 'top of the world' that few other reachable places on Earth can provide.
Exploring a destination...
The joy of travel comes in exploring new things. Planting your feet somewhere you’ve never been before brings with it the rush of discovery and the joy of pushing back on the boundaries of your world.
Discover a new city through a food tour. Food tour’s are the easiest way to take a tour, learn about the local delicacies, and the best of all, get great tips that aren’t just “local” tips for tourists, but sometimes, lessons for a lifetime too.
Use Public Transportation. When you are in a new city, you can possibly see places and people that you wouldn’t normally see when simply walking to the places that checks your list. Some buses or rails take you to parts of the city you wouldn’t get to see otherwise. Whilst using public transportation, just ensure that you are following the local norms and do remember to watch the locals!
Find a local festival. Go beyond what other tourists might do while visiting a place. Look for the unique things you would want to do. Use social media or the local tourism website to find out what’s going on locally.
How to reach Khardungla Pass
Located 40 km from Leh. The most common way to reach is by hiring a private 4x4 taxi or renting a high-powered motorcycle (like a Royal Enfield). The drive takes about 2 to 2.5 hours from Leh town.
Tips for Visiting Khardungla Pass, leh
- Acclimatization is mandatory; do not attempt Khardungla until you have spent at least 2-3 days in Leh.
- Limit your stay at the top to 20-30 minutes to avoid high-altitude pulmonary/cerebral edema (HAPE/HACE).
- Carry heavy woollens, gloves, and a windcheater even in peak summer, as the temperature at the top can be below freezing.
- Apply high-SPF sunscreen and wear polarized sunglasses to protect against the intense UV rays reflected by the snow.
- Carry a portable oxygen cylinder if you have a history of breathing issues or are traveling with elderly companions.
- Check with local authorities or taxi drivers for road status, as sudden snowfalls can close the pass unexpectedly.
