KHARDUNGLA PASS, LADAKH

      Khardungla Pass, Ladakh
                                The world’s highest Motorable Pass


Khardung La pass or the "Pass of Lower Castle" is the world's highest motorable pass and is the gateway to the Shyok and Nubra valley in Ladakh.
 


One of the most picturesque locales in Leh, Khardung la Pass is situated 39 km by road North of Leh and is at a height of 18,380 ft from the sea level. The road from Leh to Khardung La is asphalted for about 24 km till the South Pullu check post but from there the road is made up of gravel (Loose Rock) and dirt track till the North Pullu check point (15km) and occasional rivulets of snow melt. Khardung la pass connects Leh and Nubra Valley and also serves as a gateway to the famous siachen glacier.

Khardung La pass offers amazing views of the valley and the roads winding up the mountain. The pristine air, scenic vistas and the feeling of being on top of the world have made Khardung La a popular tourist attraction. Inner line permit for Indians and Protected area permit for foreigners is required to visit Khardung La top. A steady climb over winding road gave a panoramic view of Leh town below with Stok Kangri peak in the background. An isolated gompa on a small hill provided an enchanting picture as one climbs up. The weather is highly unstable and can change surprisingly fast leaving you stranded for hours or even days so you need to come prepared when planning to visit Khardung La. Once you are there, the feeling is no less than conquering the world.

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