Top 10 Highest Motorable Passes in India

India's majestic mountains aren't just scenic wonders—they are home to some of the world's highest motorable passes, cutting through rugged terrain and connecting remote regions. These routes aren't just about altitude; they symbolise the extraordinary blend of engineering, endurance, and cultural significance. Each pass tells a story—of soldiers braving the borders, of travellers chasing adventure, and of hidden villages woven into the country's soul. Whether in Ladakh’s stark landscapes or Uttarakhand’s mystical edges, these roads defy gravity and human limits. In this article, we explore the top 10 highest motorable passes in India—gateways not only to altitude but also to untold beauty, strategic importance, and an unforgettable travel experience.

These passes or roads are not just any passes; rather, these passes connect those places that are in some way disconnected from India’s culture and significance.

So, in this article, we will cover the top 10 highest motorable passes in India, which connect not only the remote regions but also all people who usually visit these places to explore high-altitude regions.

Top 10 Highest Motorable Passes in India

Here is the list of the top 10 highest  motorable passes in India

Now let’s see the brief about the top 10 highest motorable passes in India

1. Umling La or Umlingla Pass: As per the Border Road Organisation, Umling La or Umlingla Pass is considered the highest road pass in India. This pass is located in Ladakh in the Himalayan mountain range.

Source: travelwithroosh

Some facts about Umling La or Umlingla Pass

• BRO built and inaugurated the road here in 2017.
• It is claimed to be the world's highest road.
• It links the villages of Chisumle and Demchok.
• It is 105 km from Hanle Village and 235 km from Leh.
• It is currently not accessible to the general public.
• Requires permits from the army and government (currently not being issued).

2. Marsimek La or Marsimik La

Source: discoverlehladakh

• Located in Ladakh near the India-China border, making it a strategically significant high-altitude pass.
• Known for its extremely challenging off-road conditions, which often require high-clearance 4x4 vehicles.
• Due to its very high elevation, oxygen levels are critically low, necessitating careful acclimatisation for visitors.
• Access for civilians typically requires prior permits from the army and/or local administration.
• It is situated in the remote Chang Chenmo Range, northeast of the famous Pangong Lake.

3. A Road Uphill: Mana Pass or Dungri La

Source: 365hops

• Located at the boundary between Tibet and India, in Uttarakhand.
• Mana village near the pass is known as the "Last village of India" towards the Tibet border.
• It is the country's second-highest motorable road (based on the text's context relative to Umling La).
• It is the third-highest motorable road in the world (based on the text's claim).
• Requires prior army authorisation to visit.

4. Photi La

• Photi La is a high mountain pass located in southeastern Ladakh, India.
• It is situated in the Changthang region of Ladakh.
• The road to Photi La is steep and challenging, with many turns.
• It is accessible from Hanle village.
• Photi La is part of a route that can potentially lead towards Umling La.
• Access may be restricted, and permits might be required.
• The pass is typically closed during winter due to snow.

5. Dongkha La or Donkia La Pass

• Dongkha La or Donkia La Pass is a high mountain pass located in Sikkim, India.
• It connects North Sikkim in India with Tibet.
• The pass offers picturesque views, including those of the Tibetan Plateau.
• It is situated close to the highly revered Gurudongmar Lake.
• The area is controlled by the Indian Army due to its proximity to the border.
• Special permits are required for civilians to visit the pass.

6. Kaksang La

• Kaksang La is a high mountain pass located in the Changthang region of Ladakh, India.
• It is situated at an elevation of 5,438 metres (17,841 feet).
• The road to Kaksang La is considered challenging, involving a mix of paved and unpaved sections, including dirt and possibly mule tracks at higher elevations.
• It connects areas like Chushul and Mahe.
• Access to Kaksang La typically requires an Inner Line Permit (ILP), as it is in a restricted border area.
• The pass offers scenic views of lakes, mountains, and valleys in the remote Changthang landscape.
• It is less frequented by tourists compared to the more famous passes in Ladakh.

7. Chang La

• Located in Ladakh.
• Situated on the route to Pangong Lake from Leh.
• It is one of the higher motorable passes in the region.
• The pass is named after Changla Baba, a sadhu.
• There is a temple dedicated to Changla Baba at the pass.

8. Khardung La

• Located in Ladakh, north of Leh.
• Historically famous as a gateway to the Shyok and Nubra valleys.
• Once widely believed to be the highest motorable pass in the world (though this claim has been surpassed by others like Umling La).
• It is a very popular destination for tourists and bikers.
• Maintained by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO).

9. Taglang La or Tanglang La

• Located in Ladakh, on the Manali-Leh Highway.
• It is one of the highest passes on this popular highway.
• The road surface can vary, from paved to rough patches.

10. Wari La

• Wari La is a high mountain pass located in Ladakh, India.
• It is situated at an elevation of 5,312 metres (17,428 feet).
• Wari La serves as an alternative route connecting Leh to the Nubra Valley.
• The pass is known for having challenging road conditions, often unpaved and with streams crossing.
• It is a less frequented pass compared to Khardung La, offering a more solitary experience.
• Due to its high altitude, low oxygen levels are a factor, requiring acclimatisation.
• The pass is typically open during the summer months but closes in winter due to heavy snowfall.

Conclusion

These incredible high mountain passes in India are more than just roads; they are an example of human effort and nature's glory. Connecting remote landscapes and offering unparalleled views, they provide challenging yet rewarding journeys to some of the highest points accessible by vehicle, truly showcasing the adventurous spirit of exploring India's towering peaks.