Khardung Pass Scenic Drive

Experience an unforgettable road trip with the Khardung Pass Scenic Drive, starting in the city of Leh and ending at Hunder in India. This journey of approximately 123km will provide you with stunning landscapes and breathtaking views. Along the way, you will drive through the towns of Khardung Pass and Diskit. The best time of year to take this drive is between May to September, when the roads are in the best condition and the weather is warm. However, be aware that due to weather conditions, the roads may be closed seasonally. The route is partly curvy and partly narrow, so it is advised that you drive with caution. Despite the overall poor road conditions, the experience and memories you will make along the way will be worth it. This road trip is suitable for every driver and can be completed in two days. Plus, it can be managed with a fair budget, making it a perfect way to explore India.

Leh, located in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir, is the ideal starting point for the "Khardung Pass Scenic Drive" road trip. The town is quaint and picturesque, with many ancient Buddhist monasteries and palaces, such as the Leh Palace, to explore. The nearby Shanti Stupa is a particularly beautiful sight, with its white-domed stupa overlooking the city. The area surrounding Leh is also home to many stunning natural attractions, such as the Nubra Valley and Tso Moriri Lake. For those who choose to drive, the roads in the area are well-maintained and offer breathtaking views of the Himalayan Mountains. The closest international airport to Leh is Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport (IXL), located just 4 kilometres away from the city centre. Car rental services are available at the airport, offering a range of vehicles to suit all needs. With its enchanting scenery and vibrant culture, Leh is an ideal starting point for the "Khardung Pass Scenic Drive" road trip. The town and its surrounding area are sure to provide an unforgettable experience.

Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Leh to Khardung Pass! This 71 km journey will take you around 2 hours to complete and you’ll get to see some of the most spectacular landscapes along the way. As you drive, make sure to keep your eyes open for the historical sites and breathtaking scenery that this route has to offer. Please note that some sections of the route may be closed seasonally and you’ll encounter steep ramps, winding roads, and narrow sections. You’ll also be rewarded with some of the most breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountains and valleys. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check the “Itinerary” of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and hit the road!

Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Khardung Pass to Diskit! This 42 km journey will take you less than 2 hours and you will be sure to enjoy the stunning scenery and interesting attractions along the way. Be aware that there may be a lack of gas stations and some sections of the route may be closed seasonally. Also, be prepared for steep ramps, winding roads, and narrow sections of the route. You will find plenty of interesting places to explore; some of the most notable attractions are the Khardung La Pass, Chang La Pass, and Diskit Monastery. You will also find plenty of accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the way. For more information, check the Itinerary of this stage for detailed information. Get ready for a fun-filled and memorable road trip!

Embark on an adventurous road trip from Diskit to Hunder and explore the vast beauty of the region! This 10 km journey takes around one hour and is a great way to explore the scenic beauty of the area. As you drive along, watch out for the winding roads and narrow sections that you may encounter during this journey. There are no gas stations available along the route, so make sure to fill up your tank before starting out. When you reach your destination, you will be greeted by the beautiful Hunder sand dunes. Be sure to explore the Diskit Monastery and the Nubra Valley on your way. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and enjoy the spectacular views that await you on this journey!

Hunder, India is the perfect end of the road trip known as the "Khardung Pass Scenic Drive". Located in the Nubra Valley, Hunder is an ideal place to enjoy the beauty of nature. It's known for its diverse terrain of sand dunes, lush green pastures, and snow-capped mountains. You can explore the area on foot, by car, or on the back of a Bactrian camel. One of the main attractions in Hunder is the sand dunes of Hunder Valley. Here, you can take a camel ride and enjoy the beauty of the desert. There are also several picturesque lagoons and streams that you can explore. If you're looking for a more adventurous experience, you can go hiking or trekking in the mountains. Hunder is also home to several Buddhist monasteries and temples. These are great places to learn about the local culture and religion. You can also visit the local markets in Hunder to purchase souvenirs and other items. If you're traveling to Hunder by air, the closest international airport is Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport (IXL) in Leh. From there, you can easily reach Hunder by car. Hunder is the perfect destination for anyone looking for a peaceful and beautiful place to explore. With its spectacular sand dunes, lush green pastures, and stunning mountains, Hunder is an ideal place to end the "Khardung Pass Scenic Drive" road trip.

Before you set off

Embark on an unforgettable journey on the Khardung La Scenic Drive, which takes you from the historical town of Leh to the mesmerizing landscapes of Hunder in India. This approximately 123km journey is not just a Road Trip but an expedition through the high-altitude desert of the Himalayas, presenting unparalleled scenic beauty and a treasure trove of cultural experiences.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

• Leh: The gateway to your adventure, Leh is a hub of Tibetan Buddhist culture, adorned with ancient monasteries and palaces, such as the 17th-century Leh Palace, which mimics the Potala Palace in Lhasa.
• Khardung La: Ascend to one of the highest drivable passes in the world at 5,359 meters (17,582 feet) above sea level, confirmed by various modern measurements. Here, you'll be greeted by prayer flags fluttering in the wind and a sense of accomplishment at reaching this high-altitude pass.
• Diskit: Venture into the heart of Nubra Valley to explore Diskit Monastery, which dates back to the 14th century and houses a 32-meter (106 feet) statue of Maitreya Buddha, symbolizing peace and protection.
• Hunder: End your journey at the enchanting village of Hunder, renowned for its cold desert featuring sand dunes and opportunities to ride the rare double-humped Bactrian camels.

Best Time to Go:

The ideal time for this expedition is from May to September when the Srinagar-Leh and Manali-Leh highways open up for traffic. During this period, the weather conditions are favorable, offering clear skies and a vibrant display of the region's flora.

Potential Risks:

• Seasonal Road closures and occasional blockages due to landslides or snow.
• Narrow mountain passes and hairpin bends demand skilled driving and attention to safety.
• The risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) due to the significant altitude gain, which necessitates proper acclimatization.

Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:

• Khardung La is historically significant as it lies on the major caravan route from Leh to Kashgar in Central Asia.
• The entire route is dotted with stupas, prayer flags, and Buddhist relics, enriching your drive with spiritual symbolism.
• Completing the Trip typically takes up to two days, but it's advisable to extend the duration for acclimatization and full enjoyment of the sights.
• This journey is a paradise for photography enthusiasts, offering a canvas of snow-capped peaks, verdant valleys, and unique cultural encounters.

A good choice for:

The Khardung La Scenic Drive is a rite of passage for Road Trip aficionados, offering an exhilarating blend of high-altitude challenges and the enchanting tranquility of India's far northern landscapes. This drive is not just about the destination but the extraordinary experiences along the way that will etch themselves into your memory forever.