Ladakh is known as the “Land of high passes”. There are a plethora of passes in Ladakh, one of them is Khardung La. Khardung La is the gateway to Shyok and Nubra valley. It is one of the highest motorable passes in the world. Khardung La is located in Ladakh at an altitude of 18,380 ft from mean sea level. Khardung La pass is located 38 kms away from Leh city.
Khardung La pass separates Leh from Nubra subdivision of Leh district. It serves as the gateway to enchanting Shyok and Nubra valley. Khardung La pass is popular amongst bikers and adventure seekers for thrilling road trips.
When traveling from Leh to Khardung La Pass, you’ll pass through several picturesque villages known for their culture, scenic beauty, and historical significance. The pass holds immense significance as it serves as a vital route for the Indian Army to access the Siachen glacier. It requires Inner Line Permit (ILP) to reach Khardung La region.
Experience the raw beauty of ladakh, as you traverse through the rugged terrains and breathtaking passes. Khardung La is a famous gateway to Nubra valley where the golden dunes of Hunder contrast against the Himalayan backdrop. It is a historic pass that remains a symbol of adventure and wonder. Khardung La pass altitude is 5,359 m (17,580 feet) above sea level.
Khardung La: A Thrilling Ride Through Ladakh’s Rugged Terrain
Places to Visit around Khardung La
Nubra Valley
Nubra valley is located in the Ladakh region of northern India. It is formed with the confluence of Shyok river and Nubra river. The valley stretches to the part of India and Pakistan border, where lies the last village of India, Turtuk. Nubra valley is a mix of sand dunes, rocky mountains, lush green villages and rivers. You will get to see the Double-humped Bactrian camel in Nubra valley. You can reach Nubra valley via Khardung La pass from Leh.
Diskit Monastery
Diskit monastery is the oldest and the largest monastery in Nubra valley, Ladakh. It is famous for the 106-foot-tall Maitreya Buddha statue, which symbolizes peace and protects Nubra from conflicts. The monastery offers panoramic views of Nubra valley. Diskit monastery is approximately 120 kms from Leh via Khardung La pass.
Sand Dunes in Hunder
Hunder is a village located in Nubra valley, it is located about 10 kms from Diskit monastery, it is a cold desert which has a unique landscape where golden sand dunes meet snowy peaks. You can reach Hunder via Khardung La. Hunder is famous for camping and stargazing.
Turtuk Village
Turtuk village is a picturesque village located near the Indo-Pak border. The village is best known for its rich Balti culture and heritage. Turtuk is located at a distance of around 200 kms from Leh, and you have to pass Khardung La in order to reach Turtuk village.
Sumur Village and Samstanling Monastery
Sumur village is another beautiful village located in Nubra valley, that you can visit around Khardung La pass. It is known for Samstanling monastery, which is a famous 19th century Buddhist monastery. The lush green views, rivers and stunning mountain landscapes will amaze you with its beauty.
Panamik Hot Springs
Panamik hotsprings are located in Panamik village, Nubra valley. It is located at a distance of approx 137 kms. From Leh via Khardung La. Panamik hotsprings is the top tourist attraction in Nubra valley, Ladakh. The hot spring water is known to have medicinal properties.
Yarab Tso Lake
Yarab Tso is one of the beautiful lakes in Ladakh. It is located at the foothill of the Himalayan peaks near Sumur village. The lake is considered sacred because it is believed that the lake is blessed by Padmadambhava. Monks and villagers visit Yarab Tso for meditation and silent prayers.
Best time to visit Khardung La
The best time to visit Khardung La is between May and September. During these months the weather remains favorable for exploration and the roads remain open.
- May to June are the summer months, the weather remains pleasant and ideal for exploration, you can get to see snow.
- July to September is the monsoon season in Ladakh region,it is the best time for bike trips. Because the snow gets fully melted making the roads fully accessible. Many bikers take a road trip during these months.
How to reach Khardung La
Khardung La is a gateway to the Nubra valley, the distance from Leh to Khardung La is approx. 38 kms. You can reach Khardung La by taking a road trip.
- You can hire a taxi or cab and pass one of the highest passes in the world.
- You can ride a scenic bike trip.
Khardung La pass Altitude
Khardung la is perched at an altitude of 17,580 feet above sea level. This legendary pass is a gateway to Nubra valley.
Khardung La pass Temperature
Khardung La pass experiences extremely cold temperatures as it lies at an altitude of 17,580 feet. Khardung La pass is a must-visit for adventure seekers.
- During summer months (March to October) the temperature in Khardung La pass ranges from 10°C to 20°C.
- During winter months (November to February), during the day the temperature ranges from -10°C to -20°C. And at night time it ranges from -20°C to -40°C. It is not recommended to visit Khardung La during these months as the pass remains closed due to heavy snowfall.
Best Itinerary for Khardung La
Traveling to Ladakh and passing through Khardung La is one of the adventurous thing that every traveler look for. We have got you the best itinerary for your Ladakh trip. Do check it out.
- Day 1: Arrival at Leh Airport | Acclimatization Day
- Day 2: Leh Local Sightseeing
- Day 3: Leh to Nubra Valley Via Khardung La (130 Kms)
- Day 4: Nubra to Turtuk (170 Kms) | Last Village of India on Indo-Pak Border
- Day 5: Nubra Valley to Pangong (180 Kms) Via Diskit Monastery
- Day 6: Pangong to Leh (150 Kms) Via Chang La Pass
- Day 7: Departure to Leh Airport | Tour Ends
Click here to read full itinerary.
Tips for visiting Khardung La
- Acclimatize in Leh for at least 24 hours in Leh.
- Wear warm clothes, even in summer.
- Carry medicines for altitude sickness (Diamox recommended).
- Inner Line Permit (ILP) is required for visiting Khardung La. You can get a permit from the Leh DC Office or online at the Ladakh tourism website.
- Avoid staying longer at the pass because of lower oxygen levels present in the pass due to high altitude.
FAQs
Which is the highest pass in the world?
The highest motorable pass in the world is Umling La Pass (5,798 m or 19,024 ft) in Ladakh, India. It surpasses Khardung La and connects Chisumle and Demchok villages near the Indo-China border.
Khardung La pass connects which area?
Khardung La pass connects Leh with Nubra valley.
What is the oxygen level in Khardung La Pass?
Oxygen levels at Khardung La are about 50% lower than at sea level due to its high altitude (5,359 m / 17,582 ft). Travelers may experience altitude sickness, so proper acclimatization is essential.
Khardung La pass is in which state?
Khardung La pass lies in Ladakh, which is a union territory of India.
Is it safe to go to Khardung La Pass?
Yes, but it requires precautions. Due to low oxygen levels and extreme cold, visitors should acclimatize in Leh for at least 24 hours, carry warm clothing, and avoid prolonged stays at the pass to prevent altitude sickness.
What is the highest pass near Leh?
Umling La Pass (5,798 m) is the highest, but Khardung La (5,359 m) is the most famous and accessible pass near Leh, serving as the gateway to Nubra Valley.
Why is Nubra Valley famous?
Nubra Valley in Ladakh is known for its stunning landscapes, sand dunes, double-humped Bactrian camels, monasteries, and the confluence of the Shyok and Nubra rivers. It is a must-visit for adventure seekers and nature lovers.
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