Khardung La Pass To Nubra Valley
February 15, 2023
Ladakh is an amazing place. Several beautiful spots, drives, and stretches here are indeed a pleasure to experience. Perhaps the journey from Khardung La pass to Nubra Valley is the most mesmerizing of these drives.
What is Khardung La pass?
As you may know, Khardung La pass is one of the highest passes in the world and home to one of the highest motorable roads in the world. The pass is the main way to go further into Ladakh from Leh but is also an attraction in itself.
Once you have traveled from Leh, the capital of Ladakh, to Khardung La pass, a journey of approximately 160 Km, you can take one of several different routes depending on where you want to go. Nubra Valley is a three-pronged valley with at least three different ways you can take it.
How to get from Khardung La pass to Nubra Valley?
The Khardung La pass road trip is epic. When you descend from the past, you have to be very careful. The road here is very badly damaged and several potholes and puddles of icy water can be dangerous. It is best to travel this stretch slowly and carefully until you reach Pullu.
At the village of Pullu, you may encounter some check-posts where officials will check your permits. Anyone traveling further will have to submit his or her “Inner Line Permit.” You can get these permits easily from authorities at a reasonable cost. Many sure you have these permits ready to show at the check-posts.
At Pullu, you can also get something to eat. There are some small shops and stalls that serve hot tea, biscuits, Maggi-boiled eggs, etc. It is advisable to get something to eat here, as there may be no other stops until Khalsar. Travelers are also recommended to carry cash, as these places do not accept cards.
From Pullu, the road is fairly good to Khardung Village. This is a pretty village with lots of greenery and charming buildings. There are a lot of opportunities to get good photographs here of the snow-clad mountains all around. From Khardung Village, the village of Khalsar is about 35 Km away, which will pass quickly because the road is very good.
At Khalsar, or just before it, the road splits in several directions. If you take the turn to the right, you will be on the way to Sumur, Paramik, and Warshi. If you take the turn to the left, you will reach Dikshit, Hunder, and Turtuk.
From Khalsar, you should take the turn to the right. This will take you to the quieter, more pristine side of Nubra Valley. On this side, you can see the surreal landscapes of Ladakh which have made it such a sought-after destination, visit the famous Samstanling Gompha or Monastery, bathe in the natural hot springs at Paramik and see the cold sand dunes near Sumur.
Where to stay in Nubra Valley, Ladakh?
The best place to stay in Nubra Valley is Lchang Nang Retreat – The House of Trees. This is an eco-resort located on the banks of the Nubra River with stunning views of the Ladakhi landscape. It offers guests an authentic Ladakhi experience with its unique activities and lessons in sustainable living.
The resort offers curated experiences such as sundowners, picnics, cooking classes, star gazing, outdoor movie nights, farming, apple picking, and more to help guests understand the culture and history of Ladakh and the warmth of its people.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Where is Khardung La and Nubra Valley?
Ans. Khardung La and Nubra Valley are in Ladakh. Khardung La pass is about 160 Km from Leh.
Q2. How to reach Nubra valley from Khardung La pass?
Ans. From Khardung La pass, one has to go to Khardung Village and then to Khalsar. From Khalsar, one has to take a right turn, which will take you to Sumur, Paramik, and Warshi.
Q3. What is the best time to visit Khardung La Pass?
Ans. The best time to visit Khardung La pass is in the summer between May and August as the weather is warmer, the road is usually open and there are a lot of people around.
Q4. How many days are needed to visit Khardung La pass
Ans. You can see Khardung La pass and the surrounding areas in 1-2 days. To explore Nubra Valley, you need another 2-3 days at least.
Q5. Where to stay in Nubra valley Ladakh?
Ans. The best place to stay in Nubra Valley, Ladakh is at Lchang Nang Retreat – The House of Trees. It is an eco-sustainable and culture-sustainable resort offering an authentic Ladakhi experience to guests.