Pangong Lake and Nubra are two gems on Ladakh’s crown while what used to make it tough was crossing KhardungLa top for Nubra and to come back on same route to Leh town and then go back to Pangong Lake via ChangLa Pass.
To promote tourism and improve the lives of locals, govt has made two routes connecting Nubra with Pangong Tso. Wari-la route is shorter; it makes you cross WariLa Pass (stays frozen most year) and then ascend ChangLa while other one passes thru Agham – Shyok villages connecting to Durbuk. It has been 5 years since this route has been made, but it has remained mostly closed due to major landslides which occur every now and then. Some of the sections between Agham and Shyok villages are extremely difficult, very much landslide prone and will most likely get your heart in the mouth at one or the other curve.
Route is definately one of the most scenic ones in this circuit however be prepared for troubles ranging from Loose rocks, big rocks, rocks under water, stones sharp enough to damage your vehicle’s tires, you name it and this road has it. There are sections when you drive on the river bed (makes it impossible to cross in June- July when the flow is at peak)
What makes it tough is that rarest of people takes this route and if at all one gets stuck then leaving behind vehicle and moving with essentials will be the only option. Its advisable to move in convoy and avoid this route in summers.
The total distance on this road between Khalsar to Pangong Tso is approximately 140 kms and total travel time is about 6-8 hours. For a while, the road will run right next to the Shyok river and then there will be a tremendous gain in altitude.
Best time to cross:
- Avoid June to August months as the water flow increases because of melting ice
- Can be attempted either Early May or mid Sep onwards
- Road remains open until late October and closes almost at the same time as Srinagar Leh highway
Suggestion for best commute:
- Its a sedan/ hatch killer and should be avoided at all cost
- 4×2 vehicle with expert skills driver
- 4×4 vehicle with moderate skills
Yeah, it is referred to as the ‘Paagal Naala’ (the mad stream). The water level increased as the sun rose and the ferocity of the waters was so high, that one could not cross through it due to the fear that it may wash the vehicle away.
Glad that they have now built a bridge, for vehicles to go a bit more smoothly.
Ladakh is heaven on Earth,
Thanks,
-hema