After spending few days in and around Leh and all accustomed to high altitude, it was time to start exploring Ladakh and first destination was Nubra valley via Khardungla Pass. Khardungla Pass at the height of 18380 feet is the highest motorable pass in the world which made me excited as well as little nervous.
Khardungla pass is not very far from Leh, so its like a rapid climb from 11k feet to 18k feet but road is fine. In fact if you compare with road in some other areas in Ladakh like Pangong, its a very well managed road. As you approach Khardungla, you will find more construction activity is going on and road is being expanded.
Khardungla pass is generally the first destination for people when they start from Leh and its just the perfect one because it not very far, roads are good and is a great morale booster.
After conquering Khardungla pass, it was time to start a downward journey to Nubra valley. This part of trip was not really challenging with relatively smooth roads. You head towards Khardung Village and then via Diskit, Hunder you head towards Nubra valley.
As one approaches Nubra valley through a maze of snaky roads, you reach Milkha Point. Its the place where shooting took place for “Bhag Milkha Bhag” movie. Best part about this place is the long straight stretch of road between mountains. People say that this is same stretch which is also seen in “3 Idiots” movie but i am not sure.
From Milkha point it will take another 40 minutes or so to reach Nubra valley. After a day long journey of about 150 kms from Leh, reaching Nubra valley was like reaching home and felt great. Nubra has some nice views but i wouldn’t really say its stunning. You will find desert and camel rides there.
If you are at Nubra valley then sunrise and sunset will give you some great views
Nubra trip was an ideal way to start the bike tour, it was like a warm up trip for bigger challenges ahead. Roads are fine for major part of journey from Leh and it gets you accustomed to mountain terrain. It will not provide you the most stunning views but the place has a sense of comfort and relaxation about it.