By IETeam A big part of the Himalayas is right here in India, and a lot of the areas in this part are only accessible because of some roads that connect these areas with the rest of the country. And this fact right here, does it have you ever got thinking like which are the highest roads in India, like elevation-wise? Not just the highest roads, but the highest motorable roads, you know the ones which you can access and drive on. Well, that’s precisely why we have listed out the top 10 highest motorable roads in India. So, just keep on reading if you are feeling kinda intrigued about this topic. Alright, here we go.
1. Umling La
If you search the term “which is the highest motorable road in the world” on Google, only Umling La’s name will come right up on top of the search results. But why? Well, that’s just because this road is actually at an altitude of 19,300 feet above sea level, and yes, it is the highest road in the world where people can drive. And if you’re wondering, well yes, this road is located in Ladakh and connects two small towns, Chisumle and Demchok. Sure enough, driving here is not easy given the condition of the road, the thinness of the air, and the requirement of an Inner Line Permit as you are close to the India-China border.
2. Mana Pass
2nd on this list, you see, Mana Pass aka Dungri La, is a gateway and lies at an altitude of 18,406 feet in Uttarakhand. This road is quite historic as it connects the famous Badrinath Temple and old trade routes to Tibet and China. Sure enough, this road may not be famous but it is really special in its own way. Like, it can be tricky to get a permit to travel here as well as the road to here will be bad, however, once you reach you are in peace because the views are just insanely gorgeous.
3. Marsimik La
Marsimik La is a road that’s bound to give you an adrenaline-filled experience, that’s for sure. Like, with Kagben Village on its way, the road offers major adventure activities. The place is located at a height of 18,314 feet, near Pangong Lake in Ladakh. Sure enough, as you can expect already, the road is steep and rocky, so it isn’t the smoothest road around. But the natural beauty of this place makes it a stop-off for the adventure-loving crowd.
4. Photi La
Next on the list, just to put it simply out there, you see, If you want to get away from the crowd, Photi La is the best option. Why and how? Well, first of all, it is located at 18124 feet and makes for an excellent road less traveled. It takes you to Hanle, a village known for its starry sky and a famous observatory. This road doesn’t see many people, so you can enjoy the peacefulness as you enjoy those incredibly stunning views.
5. Donkia La
It is true that Donkia La down there in Sikkim is an offbeat pass that is 18,045 feet high and very pretty. Sure, it is kinda a weird mix, but you’ll like it when you drive a bike or car there. Close to two beautiful high-altitude lakes Gurudongmar and Cholamu which look like they are from another planet, just ask someone who has been there, and you’ll hear amazing descriptions of these places. Sure, once again, it’s difficult to access the road which is to the Chinese border, and the army permission is required to be there.
6. Kaksang La
Halfway through this list, you see, Kaksang La sits at a height of 17,842 feet. And because of the height and dangerous nature of this road is the very reason why not many people visit here. and that’s exactly why it is so special, you know? If you’re keen to have your fill of breathtaking blue waters, the Pangong Tso to Tso Moriri Lake Road (National Highway 5) is JUST PERFECT. Since the route is not busy, you can enjoy the peace and the beauty of Ladakh in its raw form.
7. Chang La
Next on the list, sure, Chang La is an important pass in Ladakh at an altitude of 17,586 feet and just so you know, it is a famous adventure route. But why exactly? Well, it’s a stop that anyone visiting the famous Pangong Lake should make. Although steep and difficult, the road is in good condition, that’s the best bit.
8. Khardung La
Then, located at a height of 17,583 feet, Khardung La is one of the most famous motorable roads in India, as well as the most dangerous in India. Nonetheless, a visit to the place is amazing! This pass used to be a trade route from Leh to Central Asia and is now the way to the Nubra and Shyok Valleys. The views? Absolutely stunning!!
9. Tanglang La
See, if you’re driving down the Leh-Manali Highway, you can’t miss Tanglang La, which is 17,480 ft from the ground aka sea level. It’s one of the best places in India. Although the road is quite excellent, the weather is more uncertain because of the height, you know? To be honest, in our opinion, Ladakh’s empty and alien-like landscapes are out on display here making it an alluring stop for long-distance road trippers.
10. Wari La
Wari La surely makes it to this list with 17,428 feet above sea level, but it is one of the least explored roads on this list, and that’s precisely what makes it special. Like, if you want to avoid the chaotic tourist crowd, this road that goes from Nubra Valley to Pangong Lake is just an awesome pick, and don’t forget to enjoy those kinda out-of-this-world views.
Conclusion
That’s all. These are by far the highest motorable roads in India, no two ways about that. Like many thousands of feet above the sea level? Yes, that’s what we’re talking about in terms of the height, and that’s precisely what makes these roads so special and kinda dangerous to drive on as well.