How to Get There

Khardung La is about 40 km north of Leh and sits at an altitude of 5,359 m (17,582 ft). It connects Leh to Nubra Valleyand is reached via a fully motorable road. The drive takes 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on road conditions and traffic. No special permit is needed just to reach the pass, but an Inner Line Permit (ILP) is required to continue to Nubra or beyond.

What to Expect

Khardung La is one of the highest motorable passes in the world, though no longer the absolute highest. The road is steep, scenic, and often snow-covered, especially near the top. At the summit, you’ll find a signboard, prayer flags, small cafes including a small BRO-run café, and an army checkpoint. Weather can shift quickly, expect cold winds even in summer and possible snow any time of year.

For the Curious

• Built and maintained by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO).

• Historically important as part of the Silk Route connecting Leh to Central Asia via the Karakoram.

• “Khardung” means “narrow pass.”

• Oxygen levels are low, altitude sickness is common. Limit your time at the top to 15–20 minutes.

Good to Know

• Best time to visit: May to September (closed in winter due to snow).

• Carry oxygen canisters(can be bought in the main market).

• Road conditions: Can be rough near the top; carry motion sickness or altitude meds if needed.

• Facilities: One small tea stall (often run by BRO), a toilet, and a souvenir shack.

• Stay: Not recommended, altitude is too high for overnight stays.

• Popular with bikers and photographers, but don’t overstay, quick stops are safer.

• No fuel, no mobile signal at the top, top up and prep in Leh.