Khardung La
Ladakh · 5,359m
5,359m pass north of Leh — the gateway to Nubra Valley and a rite of passage for motorcyclists.
- Price
- ₹N/A/night
- Best window
- Jun – Sep
- Access
- 39km from Leh (1.5–2h ascent with acclimatisation and photo stops).
- Emergency
- 108 · SNM Hospital Leh (39km).
- Permit required
- ILP / PAP — see process →
Why Special
Khardung La sits on the Leh–Nubra road at 5,359m (the official BRO signage claims 5,602m; surveys place it closer to 5,359m). Whichever measurement you accept, it is one of the highest motorable passes in the world and the logistical gateway to the Nubra and Shyok valleys. It is a checkpoint more than a destination — most travellers pause for ten minutes, take a photograph, and descend on the other side. The altitude is uncompromising: AMS strikes fit adults here with no warning.
Who Should Think Twice
Infrastructure concerns
BSNL only — limited signal, no 4G data
Difficult last-mile access
High altitude (5,359m) — AMS risk for children and elderly
Extreme access — multi-day trek or extreme roads
Infrastructure Reality
Network Coverage
BSNL postpaid only — prepaid and other carriers do not work. Signal patchy even then.
Medical & Emergency
Hospital: SNM Hospital Leh (39km).
Ambulance: 108
Getting There
39km from Leh (1.5–2h ascent with acclimatisation and photo stops).
Roads: Paved and maintained by BRO — one of the best high-altitude roads in India. Top section can get rutted mid-season.
Public transport: No scheduled buses. Shared taxis Leh–Nubra pass through with a brief stop.
Fuel & Stay
Fuel: Leh (Indian Oil, 39km).
⚠ Carry extra fuel
Stay: ₹N/A/night
0Emergency: Army canteen at the top — tea only, no overnight. Closest stays at South Pullu or Leh.
Helpline: 1363 / +91-1982-252010 (Leh Tourism).
Daily Budget Reality
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