Khardung La is the most well-known and highest motorable road in the world, located at an altitude of 18,379 ft (5,5 km) in India's Ladakh region. It's a high pass in the Karakoram Range, north of Leh. You can see the valley and the roads winding up the mountain from the pass. Khardung La is a popular tourist spot thanks to its clean air, beautiful views, and on-top-of-the-world vibe. So let's dive in and explore!
From Leh to Khardung La, the road is paved for about 15 mi (24 km) up to the South Pullu checkpoint. After that, the road is gravel and dirt until the North Pullu checkpoint. To cross the pass, tourists need an Inner Line Permit (ILP), which they can get from the office of the District Commissioner in Leh.
The best time to visit
The weather is whimsical and can change quickly, leaving you stuck for hours or even days. However, you can still make the most out of your trip if you know when to go. That being said, the best time to visit Khardung La is between May and October. Unless there is a sudden change in the weather, the pass stays open during these months.
Where to stay
At Khardung La, there are no places to stay unless you bring your own tents. Since Leh is the closest town and has a lot of places to stay and eat, your best bet is to go back there. So, if you don't feel like sleeping in a tent, remember to book your accommodation in advance and have a wonderful time!
Practical info
What is the recommended duration to visit Khardung La?
The journey to Khardung La road is best done during the summer months between May and October when the pass remains open. Visitors should also prepare for inclement weather as it can change quickly and cause delays. One should also acclimatize to the high altitude in Leh or other lower-altitude destinations before attempting to visit Khardung La. So, plan to spend at least three days in Leh to get used to the altitude and enjoy the Khardung La ride comfortably. Show more
What is the closest town to Khardung La and where should tourists stay?
Khardung La doesn't offer any tourist facilities, so visitors need to stay in Leh, the closest town. Accommodation and dining options are plentiful in Leh, and travelers can rest and recharge themselves after their Khardung La visit. It's best to reserve your lodging in advance, particularly during their peak tourist season (July to August) when demand is high on a first-come, first-serve basis. Show more
What is the altitude of Khardung La and how can tourists stay safe?
Khardung La has an altitude of 18,379 ft (5,5 km) above sea level. As it is the highest motorable pass worldwide, visitors should remain aware of the potential dangers of altitude sickness and acclimatize themselves to the high altitude in Leh or some other lower-altitude destination before attempting to visit Khardung La. Tourists should also take things slow and move cautiously to stay safe. Show more
What kind of road conditions should visitors expect on Khardung La road?
The road leading to Khardung La's pass is smooth for around 15 mi (24 km) until the South Pullu checkpoint, beyond which it becomes gravelly and dusty things until the North Pullu checkpoint. Traveling on the road might be a little bumpy and challenging, providing tourists with a thrilling ride. Visitors should consider renting a motorbike or private vehicle suitable to handle the road conditions and find it exciting. Show more
What documents are required to visit Khardung La?
A visitor needs to acquire an Inner Line Permit (ILP) to visit Khardung La. One can obtain the necessary permit from the Leh office of the District Commissioner. Visitors must also ensure that they hold a valid permit before crossing the pass. To avoid any inconvenience on the trip, one should take several necessary permits required for visiting other restricted areas in Ladakh well in advance. Show more
