At 5602m, Khardung La is claimed, disputably, to be the world’s highest motorable pass. There's permanent glacial ice on its north face and a predictable plethora of prayer flags. What is less predictable is the little souvenir-shop, tea stand and an information panel outlining the history of Maggi instant noodles! Most transport to/from the Nubra Valley makes a brief stop here but an interesting alternative is to rent a bicycle, have it shipped up to the top, and free wheel all the way back down.
Several Leh companies offer such a package along with support vehicle. The dust and potholes of the uppermost 14km (above South Pullu army camp) aren't great for fun riding, and passing South Pullu adds the annoyance and extra expense of getting a permit, so in fact it might be more fun to simply start the experience at South Pullu. From there the 25km to Leh are well paved.
