Sitting at an impressive altitude of 5,359 meters (17,582 feet), Khardung La is one of the highest motorable passes in the world, located in the Ladakh region of India. It holds a lot of significance both touristically and strategically.
Situated on the route from Leh to Nubra Valley, Khardung La is the first major high-altitude pass most travelers will encounter. This pass, often the first high-altitude experience for visitors, provides stunning panoramic views of the Himalayan ranges, the Zanskar range, and surrounding valleys. With its road constructed by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), the pass serves as a critical supply line for the Indian military and is vital for border security.
Khardung La has long been a key route for trade and military movement. It connects the Leh Valley with the Nubra Valley and Shyok Valley, as well as historically facilitating trade with regions like Central Asia.
Military Route: The road also serves as a supply line to the Siachen Glacier region, one of the highest battlegrounds in the world, making it an essential route for Indian Army logistics.
Trade History: Khardung La was historically part of the old Silk Route that connected Ladakh with Central Asia, allowing trade and cultural exchanges between India, Tibet, and other Central Asian nations.
Distance from Leh: ~40 km (24.85 miles)
Route: Leh → Khardung → Khardung La → Nubra Valley
The road leading to Khardung La starts from Leh, passing through the Khardung Village.
Travelers can take a day trip from Leh to Nubra Valley via Khardung La, or use it as a connection to the Shyok River, Pangong Tso, or other remote valleys. The road is also commonly used to go to Turtuk and Sumur.
Altitude: 5,359 meters (17,582 feet)
Gradient: Moderate to steep ascent, with several tight hairpin bends, especially as you near the summit.
Road Condition:
Leh to Khardung – Well-maintained asphalt road (except for some rough patches)
Khardung to Khardung La Summit – The road turns more uneven, with patches of loose gravel, dirt, and rocks in places, especially near the top.
Though relatively well-maintained compared to other high passes, Khardung La’s road can be challenging due to narrow lanes, occasional rock slides, and snow in the winters.
Ideal Time: May to October
Peak Season: June to September (best for clear weather and access to both sides of the pass)
Avoid Winter (November to March): Heavy snowfall closes the road, making travel impossible.
During peak season, the weather remains clear, but weather patterns can change quickly. Always check road conditions before attempting to travel.
No special permits for Indian nationals are required to cross Khardung La.
However, if you plan to go beyond the pass (such as to Nubra, Pangong Tso, or towards the border), you will need an Inner Line Permit (ILP). You can acquire this permit at Leh’s DC Office for destinations like Nubra or Pangong.
It’s advisable to carry multiple photocopies of the permit for checkpoints at Khardung and Diskit.
At over 5,300 meters, altitude sickness is a concern for anyone not acclimatized to high altitudes. Symptoms can appear unexpectedly, even if you’ve been in Leh for several days.
Precautions for AMS:
Acclimatization: Spend at least 2–3 days in Leh before heading towards Khardung La.
Slow Pace: Avoid rushing and take it slow while driving or biking.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to reduce the risk of AMS.
Avoid Exhaustion: Rest frequently during the journey, especially near the top.
If you feel lightheaded, nauseous, or dizzy, descend immediately.
Panoramic Views – From the top, enjoy 360-degree views of the Nubra Valley, Zanskar Range, and Leh Valley. On clear days, the snow-capped peaks stretch for miles, and you can even spot Siachen Glacier.
Memorials & Signboards – The famous “Highest Motorable Road in the World” sign at the summit is a major photo stop for travelers. There are also small monuments and flags marking the area’s significance for the military.
Trekking and Adventure – Khardung La serves as a starting point for many trekking and motorbiking expeditions across Nubra and Shyok Valley.
It’s a great spot to stop and absorb the stunning scenery, chat with other travelers, and take a few photos of the iconic signpost.
Nubra Valley – After crossing Khardung La, you’ll find yourself in Nubra, famous for its sand dunes, Buddhist monasteries, and the town of Diskit.
Hunder Sand Dunes & Camel Ride – Nubra is famous for its Bactrian camels, and you can experience a camel safari in the desert.
Turtuk Village – One of the last villages before the Indo-Pak border, Turtuk offers glimpses of the life in this remote part of Ladakh.
Fuel: Fill your tank in Leh or Diskit, as there are no fuel stations at Khardung or in Nubra.
Start Early: Leave Leh early in the morning, as travel time to Khardung La can take 2–3 hours depending on weather and road conditions.
Altitude Precautions: Bring Oxygen cans for emergency use (particularly useful for travelers unfamiliar with high altitudes).
Be Prepared for Traffic: Khardung La is popular with tourists and locals alike, so expect some traffic. Sometimes, it can be slow-moving.
Layer Your Clothing: It can be freezing at the top, even in summer, so bring warm clothes.
Mobile Connectivity: There’s limited to no mobile coverage at Khardung La, so plan accordingly.
Leh to Nubra Valley via Khardung La
Leh → Khardung → Khardung La → Diskit → Hunder → Nubra
Distance: 120 km (approximately 5–6 hours)
You can also make a round trip, returning to Leh via the Shyok Valley route or Pangong Tso.
Khardung La is not just about the altitude—it’s about the feeling of standing at the top of the world. Whether you’re a motorbiker, a photographer, or just a traveler seeking to test your limits, Khardung La promises an exhilarating experience. The road, the challenge, the overwhelming sense of space and altitude—they all combine to make this pass unforgettable. If you’re visiting Leh, Khardung La is one of those must-see locations that offers great accessibility, stunning views, and a sense of adventure all in one.
