Khardung La, also known as Khardzong La, is a high mountain pass in the Ladakh region of Jammu and Kashmir, near Leh. It serves as the gateway to Shyok and Nubra Valleys. Khardung La is famous as the highest motorable road in India at an elevation of 5602 meters. However, contrary to the belief, its actual elevation is 5359 meters making Dungri La the highest motorable road pass in India.
The pass is a perfect getaway for adventure enthusiasts, peace seekers, and mountain biking aficionados. The tourists require an Inner Line Permit to enter the pass and travel through it. Due to heavy rains and snowfall, the Khardung La pass remains closed from October to May.
Khardung La was built in 1976 and was opened for the public in 1988. The pass is crucial for India as it is used to carry supplies to the Siachen glacier. From the top, you can get picturesque views of the Karakoram range and the Himalayas.
Weather & Best Time To Visit
The best time to visit Khardung La pass is between April to June and September to October. During summers, you will find the route less dangerous as the roads are dry. The sun shines bright, with the temperature lingering at 21 degrees Celsius. However, nights can get cold when the mercury dips down to 7 degrees Celcius. Incessant rains and heavy rainfall from July to August and November to February make the pass inaccessible. Often, the pass is even closed down during these months.
How To Reach Khardung La
The nearest town from Khardung La is Leh which is accessible by road from Manali and Srinagar. Also, direct flights operate between Leh and New Delhi. After reaching Leh, you can opt for daily buses that ply between Leh and Nubra valley via Khardung La pass. Alternatively, you can hire a taxi with an experienced driver or self-drive. Tourists also prefer cycling or riding a bike. At each checkpoint, photocopies of permits are required to be submitted.
Road Condition
Road condition is good for about 25 km on your way to the pass until South Pullu. From South Pullu to Khardung La, you will encounter bad patches and broken roads. For around 14 km, the route condition deteriorates with slush and water streams caused by melting snow.
For more information about Leh & Ladakh Tourism, visit https://leh.nic.in/tourism/
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