Khardong La

Khardung La, it means "Pass of Lower Castle" at an altitude of 5602 mt (18380 ft) lies on the road between Nubra valley and Leh in Ladakh northern India. Khardung La is the gateway to the Siachen Glacier, Nubra valley and it was opened to public motor vehicles in 1988. Maintained by the Border Roads Organisation. It is the world highest motorable road as signs put up by the Border Roads Organization proudly proclaim.

The Marsimik La Pass, at 18632 feet, in eastern Ladakh has missed out on the top honours as it allows for only some kinds of four wheeled vehicles across it.

Khardung La is 39 km away from Leh.The nearest sizable town is Leh. Leh is connected by road from Manali and Srinagar for 7 months and daily flights are operated from Delhi to Leh. Khardungla which may also be reached by a hired Taxi from Leh or Rent a Motorbikes.

Weather conditions

In summer temperature raised around 20 Degrees Celsius but the freakly weather could suddenly turn worse and it may be bitterly cold. During winters temperature drop to -40 degrees Celsius with almost 10 feet of snowfall.

Inner LIne Permit

An Inner Line Permit (ILP), which can be acquired at the District Commissioner's office or tourist office in Leh (opposite to the J&K bank main branch) issues the permits, is required for tourists (not needed for J&K citizens). On the southpole checkpost required to check in and must provide photocopies of the permits to be deposited at each checkpoint.

High Altitude Sickness

Arrival at Leh by flight take a complete day rest for acclimatize . High altitude sickness is a serious health concern for people not previously used to high altitudes.