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Read More on Khardung La Pass
History
The history of this pass dates back to the time of world war II when an attempt was made through this route to transfer war well to China. The Khardung La was constructed in 1976 and made accessible to public motor vehicles in the year 1988 and is the highest motorable road at an elevation of 5,359 meters. The pass is maintained by the Border Roads Organisation and is used to carry supplies for the Indian army posted in the Siachen Glacier. The road overall is maintained in good condition but consists of melted snow, broken rocks, landslides, etc.
Architecture
Activities
Once you reach the Khardung La Pass and have got enough of its beauty, you can visit the nearby attractions such as-
- Spituk monastery - Also known as the Pituk Gompa or Pethup Gompa is a Buddhist monastery that is beautifully constructed on a hill from where one can get great views.
- Leh Palace - Constructed in the 1600s this nine stories high palace houses numerous archaic paintings dating back to even 450 years! It was a royal palace but was abandoned in the 19th century.
Tips for visiting
- Since it is located at an elevation of 5359 meters, oxygen and air pressure levels are extremely low at Khardung La Pass. Hence, you should avoid running around or indulging in strenuous activities that can lead to sickness or nausea.
- It is advisable to not spend more than 15-20 minutes at the top as it can cause altitude sickness and breathing problems.
- It is important to have proper Acclimatization before visiting Khardung La Pass.
- To perform a thorough check of the vehicle before heading to the pass to be on the safer side.
- It is advisable to carry a first-aid kit and some medicines for basic ailments.
- A travel permit is required to go to the Khardungla pass.
- There are no accommodation places in the nearby areas. So, you have to go down the hill and stay in nearby towns.
- It is advisable to hire a professional for driving or wear a mask if you want to ride a bike, as the roads here are not cemented and are very dusty.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Khardung La Pass is from June to September. During this period the weather is pleasant and road conditions are considerably better. From October onwards, it starts to snow which increases the chance of a person getting stranded, as the road gets blocked, and you may not be able to reach the top and return halfway to Leh.
Nearby Atractions
- Spituk monastery
- Stakna Gompa
- Shanti Stupa
- Leh Palace
- Namgyal Tsemo
- Hall of Fame
Nearby market/ shopping places
Although Khardung La pass is a remote area and one will not find any shopping places here. However, you can visit the following shopping places in Leh-
- Women’s Alliance Of Ladakh Shopping Hub- In this market, you will find shops set up by the women and has items from stationery to woolen garment, from pieces of silver jewelry to spices and vegetables.
- Zanskar Arts- A quaint little shop that sells not only high-quality woolen garments but souvenirs and little figurines as well.
- Main Bazaar- Experience the authentic ambiance of Ladakh by visiting the Main Bazaar. It has a range of items from artifacts, and jewelry to souvenirs, all with the high quality and affordable prices.
Nearby Hotels
- The Driftwood Ladakh
- Hotel Ladakh Palace Boutique
- Grand Himalaya
- The Grand Dragon Ladakh
- The Zen Ladakh
- The Nature Residency
Interesting Facts About Khardung La Pass
- During the second world war, an attempt was made through this route to transfer war well to China.
- Khardung La was constructed IN 1967 and made accessible to public motor vehicles in the year 1988.
- Today the Khardung La pass connects Leh and Nubra Valley and serves as a gateway to the Siachen Glacier.
- This pass works as the lifeline for the Indian Army posted in Siachen Glacier to carry their supplies.
- The pass is maintained by the Border Roads Organisation and remains to be the most attractive spot on a visit to the Leh district.
- The pass is the highest motorable road in the world.
