Leh to Nubra: Khardung La Crossing
Leh to Hunder
Start
Finish
Distance
150 km
Duration
2 days
Best Months
June - September
Budget
$$
EV Ready
1/10
Kid-Friendly
3/10
Key Waypoints
Seasonal Weather
High-altitude desert climate; summers (June-Sept) are pleasant (15°C to 25°C) but nights are cold. Winters (Nov-March) are sub-zero with heavy snowfall, often making the pass inaccessible.
Road Conditions
The route involves crossing Khardung La (17,582 ft) with steep, winding, and often unpaved gravel sections. Road is prone to landslides and black ice; heavy vehicle traffic and oxygen-thin air require cautious driving and frequent engine checks.
Essential Packing
- Portable oxygen cylinder
- High-SPF sunscreen and polarized sunglasses
- Layered thermal clothing (down jackets)
- Diamox (acetazolamide) for altitude sickness
- Offline GPS maps and physical road atlas
- Sturdy hiking boots with ankle support
Where to Stay
Eco-friendly luxury camps in Hunder, traditional Ladakhi homestays in Diskit, and boutique mountain lodges near the Shyok River.
Trip Essentials for Leh
Gas & Juice: Critical Pit Stops
Don't get stranded. These are your essential fuel and supply points.
South Pullu Medical Post
Medical
The last point to get emergency oxygen or altitude sickness medication before the summit.
Khalsar Fuel Point
Fuel/Repair
A small workshop for tire repairs and a place to check your vehicle's vitals after the steep descent.
Diskit Market
Rest Stop/ATM
The only reliable place in the valley to find an ATM or buy basic supplies and medicines.
Iyengar's Puliyogare Company
Savor the legendary, traditional taste of South India with Bengaluru's finest authentic Puliyogare. Hand-crafted in Bangalore using heritage temple-style recipes, bringing the rich, aromatic tang of spiced tamarind rice straight to your journey.
Insider Driving Tips
Acclimatization is non-negotiable: Spend at least 48 hours in Leh before Attempting Khardung La to avoid severe AMS.
The Inner Line Permit (ILP) is mandatory for all travelers; ensure you have multiple physical copies for the various military checkpoints.
Start your drive no later than 6:00 AM to beat the heavy military convoy traffic and the afternoon snowmelt that can turn roads into streams.
Fuel management is critical; fill your tank to the brim in Leh as there are no reliable petrol pumps until you reach the valley floor much later.
Downshift, don't ride the brakes: On the steep descent from the pass, use engine braking to prevent your brakes from overheating and failing.
The Journey: Stop-by-Stop
South Pullu Checkpoint
Local Tea Stalls
“Simple wooden benches offering hot Maggi noodles and salted butter tea, essential for a quick energy boost.”
Permit Office Exterior
The stark yellow signboards against the deep blue sky make for a classic 'adventure traveler' shot.
The Valley Viewpoint
Looking back toward Leh, you can see the road snaking like a grey ribbon across the brown mountainside.
The BRO Cafe
A tiny, unassuming shack run by the army that serves the most soul-warming 'Advrak' (ginger) tea you will ever taste in the mountains.
Khardung La Pass
Mountain Pass
“Experience one of the world's highest motorable roads offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Zanskar and Karakoram mountain ranges.”
South Pullu Viewpoint
Scenic Overlook
“This stop provides a perfect vantage point to admire the dramatic rugged landscapes and alpine scenery leading up to the high-altitude pass.”
Leh City
Cultural Hub
“As the base for your trip, this historic town features ancient monasteries and vibrant markets that showcase the rich Buddhist culture of the region.”
Khardung La Summit
Rinchen Cafeteria
“The highest cafe in the world, serving hot beverages and snacks to weary travelers amidst the snow.”
The Yellow Milestone
The iconic sign declaring the altitude and the status of the pass—the most photographed spot in Ladakh.
Prayer Flag Wall
A dense thicket of flags with the Karakoram peaks in the background, perfect for capturing the spiritual essence of the pass.
The World's Highest Souvenir Shop
A small military-run shop where you can buy 'I Crossed Khardung La' t-shirts and caps to commemorate your feat.
Khardung La Pass Viewpoint
Mountain Pass
“Experience breathtaking panoramic views of the Zanskar and Karakoram ranges from one of the highest motorable roads in the world.”
South Pullu Checkpoint
Scenic Landmark
“This essential stop offers a chance to acclimate to the altitude while enjoying the dramatic, rugged landscape of the Himalayas.”
North Pullu
Scenic Point
“Located on the descent towards the Nubra Valley, this spot provides a stunning vantage point to witness the transition from snow-capped peaks to the lush valleys below.”
North Pullu
Army Canteen
“Offers basic but hygienic refreshments like samosas and hot coffee, often shared with soldiers on duty.”
The Northern Descent
Capture the zig-zagging road descending into the vastness of the Nubra Valley.
The Glacial Stream
A small stream near the checkpoint that reflects the jagged peaks perfectly on a clear day.
Marmot Colony
Just a few kilometers past the checkpoint, keep an eye out for Himalayan marmots in the grassy patches; they are surprisingly friendly.
Khardung La Pass
Mountain Pass
“As one of the world's highest motorable roads, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks and deep valleys.”
North Pullu Checkpoint
Scenic Lookout
“This essential transit point serves as a stunning vantage spot to witness the rugged, high-altitude landscape of the Ladakh region.”
Shyok River Valley
Natural Landmark
“The scenic drive near North Pullu provides access to the pristine, dramatic vistas of the Shyok river basin, perfect for landscape photography.”
Khalsar Village
Khalsar Dhaba
“A local favorite serving hearty Thukpa (noodle soup) and Skyu (traditional Ladakhi pasta) that is filling and authentic.”
The Road Fork
A signpost indicating the way to Siachen and Hunder, symbolizing the extreme geography of the region.
Buckthorn Thickets
The bright orange berries against the grey river stones provide a stunning color contrast.
Shyok River Bank
A short walk from the main road leads you to the sandy banks of the river, perfect for a quiet moment away from the engines.
Diskit Monastery
Buddhist Monastery
“This ancient 14th-century monastery offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Nubra Valley and houses a magnificent statue of Maitreya Buddha.”
Hunder Sand Dunes
Natural Landmark
“Experience a unique high-altitude desert landscape where you can ride double-humped Bactrian camels amidst the stunning backdrop of the Karakoram mountains.”
Panamik Hot Springs
Natural Landmark
“Located near the Siachen Glacier base camp, these sulfur-rich thermal springs are renowned for their natural healing properties and serene mountain setting.”
Diskit Monastery
Diskit Monastery Cafe
“A peaceful spot offering panoramic views and excellent herbal teas made with local mountain flowers.”
Maitreya Buddha Platform
An unobstructed view of the giant Buddha with the entire Nubra Valley floor spreading out behind it.
Monastery Steps
The steep, white-walled staircase provides a dramatic perspective of the traditional Ladakhi architecture.
The Old Prayer Hall
Located at the very top of the complex, this ancient room contains fierce-looking protector deities covered in silk cloths.
Diskit Monastery
Buddhist Monastery
“As the oldest and largest monastery in the Nubra Valley, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and ancient architecture.”
Maitreya Buddha Statue
Monument
“This towering 32-meter tall statue of the Future Buddha provides a serene atmosphere and acts as a guardian overlooking the entire valley.”
Hunder Sand Dunes
Natural Landmark
“Located just a short drive away, these unique high-altitude cold desert dunes offer the rare opportunity to ride double-humped Bactrian camels.”
Hunder Sand Dunes
Desert Himalayan Resort Cafe
“A garden cafe serving fresh salads and wood-fired pizzas, a rare treat in this remote corner of the world.”
Camel Safari Line
Capture the silhouette of a camel caravan against the setting sun for the ultimate Nubra Valley photograph.
Dune Crest
The highest point of the dunes offers a 360-degree view of the Shyok River and the surrounding Karakoram peaks.
Hunder Village Streams
Beyond the dunes, the village of Hunder is crisscrossed by glacial meltwater streams that are incredibly clear and cold.
Hunder Sand Dunes
Natural Landmark
“Experience the unique spectacle of high-altitude cold desert dunes where you can take a ride on the rare double-humped Bactrian camels.”
Diskit Monastery
Buddhist Monastery
“Visit the oldest and largest monastery in the Nubra Valley to see the majestic 32-meter tall Maitreya Buddha statue overlooking the landscape.”
Panamik Hot Springs
Thermal Spring
“Relax your muscles in these naturally occurring sulfur-rich hot springs, which are known for their therapeutic properties amidst the rugged Himalayan scenery.”
The Detour Index
Worth the extra mileage for these iconic side-quests.
Turtuk Village
A village that was under Pakistani control until 1971, offering a completely different Balti culture and lush apricot orchards.
Why It's Worth It
“It is the northernmost village in India open to tourists, offering a unique glimpse into Balti heritage and stunning views of the K2 range.”
Panamik Hot Springs
Located on the other side of the valley, these natural sulfur springs are believed to have medicinal properties.
Why It's Worth It
“A therapeutic soak in the middle of a cold desert is an experience unlike any other, plus the drive offers views of the Ensa Gompa.”
Sumur Village
A quieter alternative to Hunder, known for the Samstanling Monastery and its beautiful, flower-filled lanes.
Why It's Worth It
“Perfect for those seeking solitude and a more traditional, less touristy experience of Ladakhi village life.”
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Frequently Asked Questions
While the BRO tries to keep it open, Khardung La often closes in winter (Jan-March) due to heavy snowfall. The best time to visit is May to September.
It is possible but not recommended. High clearance vehicles or 4WDs are much safer due to the water crossings and rocky patches near the summit.
Only postpaid BSNL and Airtel connections work intermittently. In Hunder, most hotels have very slow Wi-Fi, but expect to be offline.
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