🇮🇳 Khardung La, Ladakh – Destination Guide

Khardung La (also spelled Khardong La) is one of the world’s highest motorable passes, located at an altitude of 5,359 meters (17,582 ft) above sea level. Situated about 40 km from Leh, this iconic mountain pass is the gateway to Nubra Valley and Shyok Valley, making it a must-visit for thrill-seekers and adventurers traveling in Ladakh.

🏔️ Why Visit Khardung La?

• Conquer one of the highest drivable roads on Earth

• Unbeatable 360° views of snow-covered peaks and winding valleys

• Adventure bikers’ and road trippers’ dream destination

• Gateway to Nubra Valley, Siachen Glacier, and Turtuk

📍 Location:

• Distance from Leh: ~40 km (2 hours by car)

• Lies on the Leh-Nubra route, maintained by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO)

• Connects Leh to Diskit, Hunder, and Turtuk

🧗 Top Experiences at Khardung La:

🚩 Khardung La Signboard

• Snap a picture at the famous BRO milestone:
  “Welcome to the Highest Motorable Road in the World”

🧊 Snow & Views All Around

• Often snow-covered year-round

• Panoramic views of Stok Kangri, Karakoram Range, and Zanskar Mountains

☕ Army Cafeteria & Souvenir Shop

• Run by the Indian Army, offering hot Maggi, tea, and momos

• Pick up patches, mugs, and “Khardung La Top” souvenirs

🛣️ How to Reach:

• Route: Leh → South Pullu → Khardung La → North Pullu → Nubra Valley

• Permit: Inner Line Permit (ILP) required for domestic tourists

• Best Vehicle: SUV, Royal Enfield, or any high-clearance 4x4

⚠️ Travel Tips:

• Altitude Alert: Khardung La is extremely high—stay in Leh for 2 days to acclimatize

• Carry oxygen cylinders, stay hydrated, and avoid exertion

• Avoid long halts at the top (10–15 mins max recommended)

• Dress in warm layers, even in summer—it’s cold and windy year-round

• Roads may be slippery or blocked due to snow or landslides—check updates in advance

🕒 Best Time to Visit:

• May to September – Roads are open and weather is relatively stable

• October to April – Heavy snow, only open intermittently (weather-dependent)

📜 Historical Significance:

• Historically part of the Silk Route, used to transport trade goods between Leh and Central Asia

• Today, it holds strategic importance for the Indian Army

📷 Quick Facts:

• Often wrongly called the "highest" motorable pass—there are higher roads in India (like Umling La)

• South Pullu & North Pullu checkpoints manage tourist entry

• Great for bike rallies, self-drive expeditions, and road trip lovers

📍 Nearby Attractions:

• Nubra Valley – Sand dunes, double-humped camels, Diskit Monastery

• Turtuk – A remote village near the India–Pakistan border

• Siachen Base Camp (with special permission)