For adventure enthusiasts and thrill-seekers, the mystic land of Ladakh reigns supreme as a celestial playground. This resplendent region, cradled amidst the Great Himalayas, unleashes its mesmerizing beauty in ways that words fail to capture. Picture this: rugged landscapes, towering peaks, serpentine roads weaving through high-altitude passes, and clusters of nomadic travellers, each carving their own journey of self-discovery.
The true essence of Ladakh lies not just in its visual grandeur but in the transformative experiences it offers. The adventure truly kicks off from Leh, the capital of this newly minted Union Territory, serving as the gateway to the unexplored territories of Ladakh.
Leh to Khardung La: How to Reach from
Khardung La, about 40 kilometers from Leh, can only be reached by road. Even though there’s a helipad nearby, it’s not for tourist use. So, you’ll need to rent a bike, hire a taxi, or take a bus.
The road to Khardung La is one of the highest you can drive on in the world. The journey isn’t too far from Leh, but it goes up in altitude quite fast. To get there, you’ll have to go through South Pallu and then up to the pass. The trip usually takes at least two hours, depending on how fast you go and what vehicle you’re in.
The road is in good condition from Leh to South Pallu. But, after that, the next 40 kilometers up to Khardung La can be tough, with lots of puddles and rough patches. You should drive or ride carefully and not go too fast.
Route: Start in Leh, go through South Pallu, and end at Khardung La.
The distance is 40 kilometers, and it takes about 2 hours to get there.
Extra Tip: Because the altitude changes quickly, it’s a good idea to spend at least a day in Leh to get used to the high altitude. Make sure your vehicle is in good shape and has things like a puncture kit and a spare tire. Don’t forget to bring any medications you might need, and consider bringing an oxygen tank just in case.
Leh to Khardung La: Places to See and Adventure
One of the most captivating routes within this territory is the road from Leh to Khardung La. As you ascend this pass, you are treated to vistas that remain etched in your memory forever. And the icing on the cake? The thrill of traversing one of the world’s highest motorable roads.
Travel options abound for this journey, ranging from taxis, shared cabs, and buses, to hired bikes or cars. While adrenaline-pumping activities are aplenty, Ladakh also reveals pockets of serenity where tranquility reigns supreme. The journey to Khardung La is a perfect blend of thrill, adventure, and soulful experiences, serving as a gateway to some of Ladakh’s lesser-known territories and challenging terrains.
The road trip from Leh to Khardung La is an exhilarating adventure, featuring an exciting blend of high altitudes, challenging terrains, and unparalleled scenic beauty. The journey, while providing a thrill, also presents a few strategic spots where travelers can pause to capture the beauty of the landscape with their cameras. Here are some noteworthy places you’ll pass on your journey to Khardung La:
Phyank: This quaint village provides a serene environment away from the hustle and bustle. It’s an ideal spot to rest and admire the breathtaking panoramic views of the region.
South Pullu: Positioned strategically, this is where the real climb to Khardung La begins. Here, you can take a break and adjust to the altitude before proceeding.
Khardung La: Your final destination and one of the highest motorable passes in the world, offering magnificent views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Leh to Khardung La: en route Places to eat
Amidst the adrenaline rush and captivating vistas, remember to indulge in the local flavors of Ladakh. A mélange of Chinese, Tibetan, Indian, and Continental influences, Ladakhi cuisine provides a gastronomic adventure.
Some noteworthy eateries that showcase the region’s culinary diversity are The Tibetan Kitchen, Bon Appetit, Alchi Kitchen, Sky Wok Restaurant, and Namza Cafe, among others.
Leh to Khardung La – en route Accommodations
While there are no accommodations on the Leh to Khardung La route, the city of Leh hosts a wide range of options. From cozy guesthouses like Mommy’s BnB, Morning Sky Guest House, and Tsetan Guesthouse to resorts such as Ladakhi Safari Resort, there’s a choice for every preference.
Leh to Khardung La: en route Petrol Stations
If you’re planning a trip from Leh to Khardung La, remember that there aren’t any petrol stations along the route. Leh City is the only place where you can refuel your vehicle. It’s recommended to fill your tank to full capacity before embarking on your journey, as this will be sufficient for a round trip.
Taking a Car from Leh to Khardung La
For those opting to drive to Khardung La from Leh, it’s best to start your journey early in the day. This allows you to take your time and fully enjoy the trip without feeling rushed. Please note that the road conditions from South Pullu onwards can be quite challenging, so safe and careful driving is paramount.
It’s also advisable to ensure your vehicle is well-equipped with essentials like a puncture kit, a spare tire, and ample fuel. Owners of 4WD or SUV vehicles will find it an added advantage on this terrain.
Essential Items for Car Travel
Even though the distance from Leh to Khardung La is just 40 km, the challenging conditions of Khardung La warrant that one should always be prepared. Some essential items you should have in your car include a jack and spanner, a foot pump, a spare tire, engine oil, coolant, and fuses.
Make sure to fill up your fuel tank in Leh before beginning the journey and check your vehicle thoroughly for any potential issues.
Taking a Taxi from Leh to Khardung La
If you’re planning on hiring a taxi, it’s best to do so early in the morning. Be prepared for a bumpy, 40 km drive, and keep your camera handy to capture the stunning views. Ensure you pack any required medication in a medikit.
Bus Travel from Leh to Khardung La
Bus travel to Khardung La from Leh is generally not recommended. Buses regularly travel to Nubra Valley and briefly stop at Khardung La, but these stops are often not long enough for those who wish to spend more than 20 minutes at the pass.
Traveling by Motorcycle to Khardung La
Bike rides to Khardung La are popular and offer an unmatched experience. The road conditions are fairly good until the South Pullu checkpoint but become challenging beyond that point. Be prepared for gravel, mud, and uneven terrain that can make the ride difficult, yet thrilling.
What to Carry on a Bike
When riding to Khardung La, it’s a good idea to carry essential items such as spare spark plugs, a puncture kit, a fuse, chain clean and chain lube, spare bungees, as well as brake and clutch wires.
Best Time to Visit Khardung La
The optimal time to visit Khardung La is between May and September when the weather is more favorable and the roads are clear. Leh experiences heavy rain in the spring and snowfall in the winter, making travel during these seasons challenging.
Availability of ATMs
It’s important to note that ATMs are only available in Leh. It’s advisable to withdraw extra cash in Leh before starting your journey to purchase souvenirs or handle emergencies.
Inner Line Permit
Every traveler is required to obtain an inner line permit from Leh before heading to Khardung La. This permit may need to be shown or even submitted at the South Pullu checkpoint, so ensure you have it ready.
Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS)
The sudden change in altitude can potentially lead to Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Be aware of the symptoms and make sure you’re acclimatized to the high altitude before embarking on your journey. Carrying necessary medicines and even an oxygen tank can be extremely beneficial in this high-altitude terrain.
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