Khardung La Pass in Ladakh is a dream destination for adventure seekers from around the globe. Situated in the Greater Himalayas, the highest Khardung La elevation, as per modern gadgets and equipment readings, is 17,582 feet. This reading challenges the traditional reading of the highest elevation, 18,379 feet. The road sign atop the Khardung La Top, which the Border Road Organization maintains, claims that this is the highest motorable pass in the world, with an elevation of 5,602 meters, which the modern GPS equipment contradicts. Now, even facts show that the record is broken as Umling La Top becomes the highest motorable road in Ladakh.
Significance of Khardung La Pass
Controversies apart, the mighty Khardung La was an essential pass since time immemorial. It was a vital section of the caravan trade route that connected Leh with Kashgar in Central India. Nowadays, the pass is strategically crucial to the Indian military as it’s the only route to Siachin by road. Khardung La Pass connects Leh Town to Nubra Valley, a popular tourist spot in Ladakh. Safari in the high altitude semi-arid desert on two Humped Camels, considered to carry the legacy of caravan trade. This is a popular activity in Hunder, located in the Nubra Valley interiors in Ladakh.
Travel Tips for Khardung La Pass
To reach and travel to Khardung La, Ladakh’s highest point, a tourist must first undergo proper acclimatization in Leh town to avoid acute mountain sickness (AMS). It is always advisable to stay for two days to get used to the atmosphere’s high-altitude air pressure conditions and low oxygen levels. Even after acclimatization, if a tourist traveling to Khardung La by Jeep or Motorcycle detects any symptoms of AMS, they are strictly advised to descend immediately to a lower altitude to avoid any major sickness.
The road to Khardung La from Leh Town is considerably well maintained by BRO despite the high altitude, rugged terrain, and frequent landslides. However, to have a stress-free Khardung La trip, plan your vacation with the Indian Holiday. They offer customizable Leh Ladakh Tour Packages. Their team specializes in arranging everything from permits to transportation and has exclusive bike trips to Ladakh so that you can have a memorable Ladakh holiday.
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