SARCHU, LADAKH


                         Sarchu, Ladakh

Sarchu an important stopover on the Leh – Manali Highway. It is around 236 kms from Leh and same distance from 237 kms from Manali. 
 
Sarchu also known as Sir Bhum Chun is important halt point with tented accommodation. Sarchi is located in Himalayas on the Leh-Manali Highway, between Himachal Pradesh and Ladakh (Jammu and Kashmir) in India. Sarchu is situated between Baralacha La to the south and Lachulung La to the north, at an altitude of 4,290 m.

Sarchu is of great importance mainly due to its location on the Leh-Manali highway. Sarchu also resembles Ladakh with its barren splendour. Sarchu is a beehive of activity between June and September when the snow melts and the Leh-Manali highway is open for traffic. Sarchu is an important route for Ladakh Manali Highway. In other words life line for both states.
Sarchu was an important trading point in the ancient Silk Route. It is still a hot favourite with traders, nomadic tribes and adventure seekers. 

Sarchu becomes the starting point for treks to Zanskar in Ladakh. The route is popular with trekkers and high altitude climbers as one has to deal with hostile conditions and difficult terrain.
Sarchu has its own challenges. Travellers often ascend from lower altitude to acclimatize to the rarified atmosphere. Travellers often start from Keylong and travel upto Sarchu. 

The journey along the Manali-Leh highway at high altitude and variable road conditions, normally takes two days, so travellers and tourists use this spot as an overnight stop. Sarchu also can be used as a start point for the difficult trek into the Zanskar region of Ladakh.

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