Head To The Top Of The World With A Journey To Umling La
Yes! You read that right; reaching to the top of the world can now become a reality, YOUR REALITY!
Sounds exciting, right?! We’re sure it is.
The first thought that would be coming to your mind is, where is it?
Well, you’ll be thrilled to know that it is in India itself, and second thought, how do you reach the spot which is the gateway to the top? Well, all you have to do is scroll down and find out for yourself.
Whenever you read about Leh Ladakh and the various Ladakh tour packages, the most significant name that appears in almost all of them is Khardung La. Well, it has all the reasons to be in that position too.
Renowned as the gateway to the Nubra and the Shyok Valley, Khardung La pass offers breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountains surrounding it; the landscape is an amalgamation of rocky mountains, deep valleys and stretches of snow.
Besides the beauty, the Khardung La pass also has a significant history; since time immemorial, it has been a major trade route between India and Central Asia and has been used by caravans for centuries. The pass, in the modern day, is an essential link between Ladakh and the rest of India.
The pass is also known as one of the most unique and one of the 50+ amazing places to visit in Ladakh; well, the reason for that is the altitude of this pass. The Khardung La is located at an elevation of 5,359 metres above sea level and is the highest pass in the world. Well, here’s where things change; we all used to think that Khardung La was the highest pass in the world, but in recent times, it was learnt that Umling La took over Khardung La to become the highest pass in the world.
After renovating, the Border Roads Organisation officially opened the Umling La pass’s doors to the public for the first time. Located at an altitude of 19,024 feet, the Umling La pass officially became the highest pass in the world, giving you the opportunity to actually reach the top of the world. Just like its counterpart, the Umling La pass offers the same thrill, adventure and breathtaking beauty but much better than others.
In order to travel on the pass, one does not need a travel permit but needs to pay a small environmental fee which goes towards the betterment of the region. Well, here’s another thing to keep in mind before travelling to the pass. Since Umling La is located at an altitude of more than 19,000 feet above sea level, acute mountain sickness becomes a common thing there, so before heading to the pass, do read more about it.
Here’s another thing, also the most important thing– how to reach Umling La? Well, there are 3 routes to reach Umling La. They are:
Route 1: Fukche- Royul- Demchok- Umling La
The “Fukche-Royul-Demchok-Umling La route” is known for its challenging terrain and high altitude. It takes you through some of the most remote areas of the area and gives out stunning views of the mountains and valleys. It is important to keep in mind that the area where this route is located is a sensitive border region with China and is subject to strict regulations and permissions from the Indian authorities to visit. Overall, the Fukche-Royul-Demchok route is a unique and adventurous way to explore the remote and beautiful landscapes and to reach Umling La.
Route 2: Hanle-Photi La- Umling La
This is the most favourable route of all, where all one has to do is switch on their GPS and drive straight from Photi La to Hanle. Well, Hanle is the route which we at WanderOn prefer and it has it’s reasons too, since in Hanle you’ll be able to witness the magical Milky Way Galaxy at its best and one does not require special permits to traverse on this route.
Route 3: Hanle-Ukdungle-Umling La
Well this route takes you directly to the second bridge without crossing the first one. The route from Hanle to Ukdungle is a 32 Kms dirt trail, then the distance from Ukdungle to the second bridge is a 28 Kms drive whereas the final lap from the 2nd bridge to Umling La is of 35 Kms.
Well, all the routes have their own pros and cons, all of them offer something different, but there’s one thing common among all of them, they all offer unparalleled adventure.
Well, Umling La is an interesting destination for adventure enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those who seek a unique cultural experience. The world’s highest pass is awaiting one and all, so buckle up and start your new journey to the top of the world.
