Top 10 Highest Motorable Passes in India Every Rider Must Conquer
India's Border Roads Organisation (BRO) has built some of the highest motorable roads on the planet through the Himalayas. For motorcycle enthusiasts and adventure travelers, conquering these passes is the ultimate achievement. Here are the top 10 highest motorable passes in India, ranked by altitude.
1. Umling La — 19,024 ft (5,798 m)
The undisputed king. Umling La in Ladakh's Changthang region is officially the highest motorable pass in the world as of 2022. Located near Hanle, the road was built by BRO to connect remote villages. The pass offers 360° views of the Tibetan plateau and is only accessible with special permits. Temperature: -10°C to -20°C even in summer.
2. Khardung La — 18,380 ft (5,602 m)
The legendary pass that held the 'highest motorable pass' title for decades. Located north of Leh, Khardung La connects the Indus Valley to Nubra Valley. Despite being dethroned by Umling La, it remains the most famous high pass in India. Expect thin air, spectacular views, and a mandatory photo-stop at the iconic yellow signboard.
3. Chang La — 17,590 ft (5,360 m)
The gateway to Pangong Tso. Chang La is the third highest motorable pass in the world and the main route connecting Leh to the Changthang region. The pass is named after the sadhu Changla Baba, whose temple sits at the top. The road is well-maintained by BRO and has a popular tea point at the summit.
4. Tanglang La — 17,480 ft (5,328 m)
Located on the Manali-Leh Highway, Tanglang La is the second highest pass on this iconic route (after Taglang La at 17,582 ft). The approach features the stunning More Plains — a 40 km stretch of flat land at over 15,000 ft — and the famous Gata Loops, 21 hairpin bends that climb over 1,500 ft in just a few kilometers.
5. Shinkula Pass — 16,580 ft (5,055 m)
The remote gateway to Zanskar Valley. Shinkula connects Lahaul (Himachal) to the Zanskar region of Ladakh. This road is relatively new and sees very little traffic. The descent into Zanskar offers some of the most dramatic gorge landscapes in the entire Himalayas. Only accessible in summer and requires experienced riders.
6-10: Baralacha La (16,040 ft), Lachulung La (16,616 ft), Nakee La (15,547 ft), Kunzum Pass (15,060 ft), Rohtang Pass (13,050 ft)
Each of these passes features in Mountainbea's expeditions, forming the backbone of our Spiti and Ladakh routes. Every pass has its own character — Baralacha's vast plateau, Kunzum's spiritual stupa, Rohtang's dramatic descent into Kullu Valley.
Riding Tips for High Passes
1. Acclimatize properly — don't attempt high passes on your first day at altitude. 2. Start early — passes are best crossed before noon when weather is most stable. 3. Layer up — temperatures at 15,000+ ft are always cold, even in summer. 4. Stay hydrated — altitude dehydration is real and dangerous. 5. Ride with a group — Mountainbea's expeditions always have a sweep rider and support vehicle.
