Khardung La
Topic: Structure and Physiography of India: Himalayas, Plains, Peninsula, Coasts and Islands · NCERT: Beyond NCERT
Meaning
Khardung La is a high mountain pass in the Ladakh range, north of Leh. It links Leh with the Nubra and Shyok valleys and leads on towards the Siachen glacier. It is among the highest motorable passes in the world, which means vehicles can drive over it. Its road is important for carrying supplies to army posts in the far north of Ladakh.
Example
A road from Leh climbs over Khardung La and drops into the Nubra valley. From there, routes continue north-west towards Siachen, and the army depends on this road to keep its posts supplied.
Don't confuse with
- Zoji La: this pass, at about 3,500 m, links Srinagar with Leh across the Great Himalaya and is often blocked by snow. Khardung La lies north of Leh, in the Ladakh range, and leads to Nubra.