Have you ever wondered what it feels like to drive on the highest motorable road in the world? If yes, then you should definitely visit Khardung La, a mountain pass in Ladakh that lies at an altitude of 18,380 feet above sea level. Khardung La is not only a scenic and adventurous destination, but also a gateway to the beautiful Nubra Valley and the Siachen Glacier, the world’s highest battlefield. In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about Khardung La, its history, weather, road conditions, attractions, permits, tips, and packages.
History
Khardung La, which means “the pass of lower castle” in Ladakhi, was built in 1976 and opened to public in 1988. It was originally used as a trade route between Leh and Kashgar in Central Asia. It was also a strategic pass for the Indian Army, as it provided access to the Siachen Glacier, where India and Pakistan have been engaged in a military conflict since 1984. Khardung La is also a place of historical and cultural significance for Ladakh and India, as it was the route taken by the Dalai Lama when he fled from Tibet in 1959.
Weather
The weather at Khardung La is unpredictable and extreme, as it can change from sunny to snowy in a matter of minutes. The temperature can range from -40°C in winter to 25°C in summer, and the precipitation can vary from heavy snowfall to rain and hail. The climate is also very dry and windy, which can cause dehydration and altitude sickness.
The best time to visit Khardung La is from June to September, when the road is mostly clear and the weather is relatively stable. However, you should always be prepared for any weather conditions and carry warm clothes, sunscreen, sunglasses, and water.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Khardung La depends on your preference and purpose. If you want to enjoy the snow and the thrill of driving on a slippery road, you can visit Khardung La in winter, from October to May. However, you should be aware of the risks of avalanches, landslides, and road closures, and check the weather and road conditions before you go. If you want to enjoy the clear views and the pleasant weather, you can visit Khardung La in summer, from June to September. However, you should be aware of the crowds, traffic jams, and monsoon rains, and book your accommodation and permits in advance.
How to Reach
The most common and convenient way to reach Khardung La is by road from Leh, the capital of Ladakh. The distance is about 40 km, and the duration is about 2 hours. You can either hire a taxi, a bike, or a car, or join a group tour. The cost depends on the mode of transport, the season, and the availability.
You can also reach Khardung La by air from Delhi, Mumbai, or Srinagar, by taking a flight to Leh, and then taking a road trip to Khardung La. The flight duration is about 1.5 hours, and the cost varies depending on the airline and the booking date.
Permits
To visit Khardung La, you need to obtain an Inner Line Permit (ILP), which is a document that allows you to enter the restricted areas of Ladakh. You can apply for an ILP online or offline. To apply online, you need to visit the official website of Ladakh Administration, fill in the application form, upload the required documents, pay the fees, and download the permit. To apply offline, you need to visit the Tourist Information Center in Leh, fill in the application form, submit the required documents, pay the fees, and collect the permit. The documents you need are a valid photo ID proof, such as Aadhaar card, passport, or driving license, and a passport size photo. The fees are Rs. 400 per person for the environment fee, and Rs. 20 per person per day for the wildlife fee.
Attractions
Khardung La is not only a mountain pass, but also a destination in itself. There are many attractions and activities that you can enjoy near Khardung La, such as:
1. Khardung La Top
This is the highest point of the road, where you can see a signboard that says “Khardung La, 18,380 feet, World’s Highest Motorable Road”. You can also see a temple, a cafeteria, a souvenir shop, and a museum. You can take photos, have a cup of tea, buy some souvenirs, and learn about the history and culture of Khardung La.
2. Nubra Valley
This is a valley of flowers, sand dunes, and rivers, located about 150 km from Khardung La. You can see the confluence of the Shyok and the Nubra rivers, the Diskit Monastery, the Hunder Sand Dunes, and the Bactrian camels. You can also enjoy camping, trekking, rafting, and camel safari in Nubra Valley.
3. Siachen Glacier
This is the world’s highest and longest glacier, located about 200 km from Khardung La. You can see the snow-capped mountains, the frozen rivers, and the army camps. You can also pay tribute to the martyrs at the Siachen War Memorial, and experience the life of a soldier at the Siachen Base Camp.
Khardung La is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves nature, adventure, and history. It is a place where you can experience the highest, the coldest, and the most amazing things in the world. If you are planning to visit Khardung La, you can book a package with Tripoto, and enjoy a hassle-free and memorable trip. Contact us today and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime.
