Khardung La is a mountain pass located north of Leh in the Ladakh region, standing at 5,359 meters (17,582 feet) above sea level. Once claimed as the world's highest motorable pass, it connects Leh to the Nubra Valley and serves as a gateway to some of Ladakh's most remote and pristine landscapes. The pass offers breathtaking panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, vast plateaus, and barren mountains that define the stark beauty of the high Himalayas.
Khardung La is a bucket-list destination for adventure seekers and high-altitude enthusiasts, offering stunning vistas and the thrill of driving one of the world's highest motorable passes. The pass provides access to the picturesque Nubra Valley with its double-humped Bactrian camels and is essential for trekking and exploration in the trans-Himalayan region.
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A remote river valley with stunning landscapes, ideal for camping and exploring the trans-Himalayan terrain beyond the pass.
Located in Nubra Valley beyond Khardung La, these golden sand dunes offer a surreal desert experience in the mountains with Bactrian camel rides.
Ancient Buddhist monastery perched on a hilltop in Nubra Valley accessible via Khardung La, featuring a giant golden Buddha statue and panoramic views.
Cab or local transport cost from Leh
Time
Half day
Cost
₹2k–₹4k
Effort
Moderate
Time
2-3 hours
Cost
Free
Effort
Easy
Transport and camel safari costs
Time
Full day
Cost
₹2.5k–₹5k
Effort
Moderate
Guide and equipment rental
Time
1-2 days
Cost
₹3k–₹7k
Effort
Hard
Time
Half day
Cost
Free
Effort
Easy
This destination has a high-altitude climate with temperatures ranging from -14°C to -6°C annually.
Climate averages based on 10-year historical data · Open-Meteo
From Leh, drive north towards Nubra Valley on the Leh-Khardung La-Nubra road. The journey takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours to reach the pass from Leh town. The road is well-maintained during summer months but becomes treacherous in winter and is often closed due to heavy snowfall.