Khardung La

Khardung La can also be called Khardung Pass, because, in the language of Tibetans, La means Pass (a passing road). Khardung La is a mountain pass located in the Ladakh region. Residents in the colloquium there call it Khardzong La. This road to the Ladakh border is north of the capital city of Leh, which is also the gateway to the Shyok and Nubra hill areas. The Siachen Glacier is located in the latter. Built-in 1976, this pass was opened to the general public in 1988. This pass is said to be the highest motorable pass though many controversial debates are going on for this claim. Mountain biking is very famous in this pass. The path of the road goes through the mountain peak and let us admire the stunning beauty of the Leh town and mighty mountains around the valley. Some adventure seekers ride to the top of the Khardung La and make the return trip by bicycle to feel the excitement and admire the attractive views. Khardung La is historically important as it is the route from India's main caravan which goes from Leh to Kashgar (Central Asia). Once a year, caravans of about 10,000 horses and camels can be seen passing by here. During World War II, goods of war were also transported to China by this route. Those coming from Leh to Khardung La are allowed from 9 am to 1 pm, while the time from Khardung La to Leh is fixed from 1 pm to 5 pm. Tourists also have to get an inner line permit from the Commissioner's Office in Leh. After this, the tourists have to show permits at every checkpoint. For this, they are advised to carry around 6 photocopies. There is no food stall or place to eat in Khardung La, so tourists have to bring food with them.