We soon passed by Sarchu, which has a decent number of tourist camps; bear in mind, though, that here too oxygen levels are low and breathing thus might be difficult for some. Our next pass came up shortly — Nakee La, a quiet little pass accessed via horrid roads. It is marked by just a cement outpost and prayer flags, though it affords stunning views of the Ladakh landscape.
A short drive beyond Nakee La got us to the third pass of the day: Lachung La. The wind buffets you from all directions here, and the access is highlighted by the 21-loop Gata Loops that serve as a good test of hill-driving capabilities and facilitate a 1,500-foot ascent.
This day was to be our most productive yet as, after a short lunch pit-stop at Pang, we came to the fourth pass of the day: Taglang La. This is distinguished by being the highest point on the Leh-Manali route and the second-highest motorable road in the world. The cold winds do their best to whip you around, and there is also a temple here and fabulous views all round. The drive from here on was fairly smooth, with the stretch ahead of Upshi particularly well-paved, because of which we made excellent time towards Leh and reached not too late in spite of the failing light.
