June 14th, 2019 by Gauri Babele

Out of the many passes in Ladakh, the Khardungla Pass commands special attention and why not? Khardung La (la equates to pass) is a famed mountain pass that is extremely popular with adventure seekers and regular tourists alike. The pass is located to the north of Leh and offers entry into the Nubra and Shyok Valleys. The Siachen Glacier is located near this pass and it was opened for motor vehicles in the year 1988. The BRO (Border Roads Organisation) maintains this pass and it is vital for the country since supplies are carried through this pass to the Siachen Glacier.

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Khardungla Offers An Out Of The World Experience

Khardungla Pass

Khardung La is located 5359 m above sea level which means that you should always take the Khardungla Pass weather into account before visiting. There are several stores and summit signboards which make the claim of Khardung La being the highest motorable pass in the whole world although this claim has been disputed. Khardung La falls in the key route between Central Asia’s Kashgar and Leh which makes it vital.

The best time to visit is between the months of April and June and September to October. The former period means sunny weather and a more comfortable trip. The September-October period is chilly but pleasant. Post October, the pass is often closed on account of considerable rainfall/snowfall. Khardung La is 39.7 kilometres approximately from Leh. The journey can be tough but is worth it in the end for many adventure tourists. There is an army post along this pass along with a temple. Most people usually stop at the North of Pullu to re-energize themselves with some eatables, tea and so on. A travel permit is required by all visitors for entering the

The signboard mentioned is where people usually like to take pictures where it is proclaimed that Khardung La is the highest motorable pass in the world. However, this is not so and the facts have been disputed. All in all, the thrill of traversing a mountain pass at such a high altitude is basically what keeps people flocking to this part of the country. This pass is a magnet for bikers and those who are more adventurous even like to cycle back down.

What Else Can You Do?

Khardungla Pass

12 kilometres away from Khardung La is the Shanti Stupa which is a treat to behold by all means. Getting here is not that hard and you will enjoy the views from the top. There is a tiny café here that will offer you hot beverages to relax and while away your time in comfort. There are sculptures that depict the life of the Buddha at the Shanti Stupa. There is also a gargantuan Prayer Wheel which is approximately 13.4 kilometres away from Khardung La. The Namgyal Tsemo Gompa is a steep trek nearby for the adventure junkies and the monastery on top offers views to die for! There is also the De Pashmina Emporium nearby where you can indulge yourself in some shopping for your loved ones too!

Khardung La is a lifetime trip for most people and with good reason! If you’re looking to challenge yourself by breaking out of your comfort zone, go ahead, assemble a lineup of close ones willing to go on this trip and just do it! If you’re a biker then you have all the more reason to venture on this excursion. It will definitely be a treasure trove of memories that will be cherished all throughout this life and possibly the next! Such is the beauty and harmony offered by this experience.

 

 

About Gauri Babele

Hey! I'm Gauri. Sagittarius by birth, clumsy by choice. An engineer turned writer. Loves animals tolerate humans. Has a thing for pizza and old books. Expertize in awkward conversations and creepy smiles.