Khardung La, Mountain pass in Ladakh, India
Khardung La is a mountain pass in Ladakh, India, rising 5,359 meters (17,582 feet) above sea level and linking the Indus River valley with the Shyok and Nubra valleys. The road winds through barren landscapes with rocky slopes, narrow curves, and views of snow-covered peaks all around.
The pass formed an important link for centuries on the caravan route from Leh to Kashgar, where thousands of horses and camels transported goods between Tibet and Central Asia. In more recent times, the Indian army expanded the road to supply military posts at higher altitudes.
The name Khardung La comes from the Tibetan language and refers to the passage between different valleys. Prayer flags in bright colors flutter on the slopes, placed by travelers as marks of respect and protection for their journey.
Travelers should spend at least two days in Leh to adjust to the altitude before crossing the pass. A permit from the District Commissioner's office is required, and the best time to visit is between May and October when snow-clearing operations open the road.
The Border Roads Organisation maintains this strategic route that supplies the Siachen Glacier, operating in temperatures from 68 to minus 40 degrees Fahrenheit (20 to minus 40 degrees Celsius). Workers must regularly clear snow and debris to keep the road passable for military convoys and civilian travelers.
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