10 of the Highest Motorable Roads In India

The Himalayas are considered to be one of the most challenging yet beautiful terrains in the world. Driving through this terrain is a lifetime experience as the roads are chaotic, and the distances seem endless. If you are planning a road trip, look at the highest motorable roads in India, which will leave a lasting impression on you.

1. Umling La Pass, Ladakh (19,302 ft – World’s highest)

It is the world’s highest motorable road, situated at a height of 19,300 feet. It’s difficult for anyone to stay at this place for longer because the oxygen level at this altitude is about 50 percent less than at normal places.

2. Dungri La or Mana Pass, Uttarakhand – 18,406 ft

It is a high mountain pass at an elevation of 5.582m (18,406 ft) above sea level and is located in the Himalayas on the border between India and China. It is one of the highest motor vehicle-accessible passes. Dungri La leads to Badrinath, an important Hindu pilgrim. It isn’t easy to get a driving pass in Mana Pass.

3. Marsimik La, Ladakh – 18,314 ft

It is one of the highest motorable roads in India in the Chang-Chemno range of Ladakh at an altitude of 5582 metres. It is relatively easy to get driving permits for Marsimik La as compared to Mana Pass.

4. Photi La, Ladakh, – 18,124 ft

It is located in the Changthang region of Ladakh at the height of 5524 metres. It is a lesser-explored motorable road which is among the highest motorable roads in India.

5. Dongkha La, Sikkim – 18,045 ft

It is located in North Sikkim at an altitude of 18,045 ft having Tso Lhamo Lake that connects Sikkim with Tibet. It is 13 km from Gurudongmar Lake and about 4 km from Cholamu Lake.

6. Kaksang La, Jammu & Kashmir – 17,842 ft

Located in the altitude of Changthang region of Ladakh, it is located at an altitude of 5438 metres. This road is not much explored as it does not serve as a passage to any major tourist attraction in the area.

7. Chang La, Ladakh – 17,586 ft

This is the most popular and one of the highest motorable roads in India, which routes Pangong Lake. It is at an altitude of 5360 metres. It has steep ascends, which makes it challenging to drive on this road.

8. Khardung La, Jammu & Kashmir – 17,583 ft

Khardung La is the world’s highest motorable pass and the toughest one to drive upon. This road routes Shyok and Nubra Valleys and offers breathtaking views. Permits are not allowed for Indians to travel through this route.

9. Tanglang La, Ladakh – 17,481 ft

Tanglang La appears on the way to the scenic Manali-Leh highway at the height of 5328 m. The roads on this highway are well-built but are very dusty.

10. Wari La, Ladakh – 17,428 ft

It is the highest driveable road in India. It takes 12 hours from Kangra to reach Wari La offering spectacular views of the Himalayas. Due to heavy snowfall, the road closes in winter and reopens in May for tourists.

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