Follow Nikita Chawla as she takes you on the highest motor-able roads in the country which will up your adrenaline
Imagine this scenario: You are all alone and there’s no trace of mankind anywhere on the horizon. The wind is lashing against your face but you can’t stop the bike. Gasping for air, you approach a heady altitude where most won’t dare to go, you park at the only tea stall in the vicinity and are grateful to be alive.
While most would shudder at this thought, if you are an adrenaline junkie and the idea excited you, then read on for the most challenging motorable roads in the country!
Ride to Pangong Lake
Pangong became a hit when it rose to fame after the movie 3 Idiots in 2009. Since then hordes of tourists and thrill seekers have been making their way to this place.
This endorheic lake in the Himalayas is positioned at a height of 4,350 m and lies on the borderline area and the line of real power passes through this lake. You have to cross the mighty Chang La pass to get there and depending on your speed, a one way trip is about 6-8 hours from Leh.
However, don’t venture too far as an area of the lake around (20 km east from the line of real power) is disputed property and currently managed by China but claimed by India.
Khardung-La Pass, Leh
The challenging 39 kilometre-long and winding road that starts from Leh is flanked by mesmerising mountains and valleys and despite the arduous route it is still the most visited place in Ladakh. The scenic vistas and the recent boost in tourism makes this an enticing journey to undertake.
Leh – Phyang – South Pullu – Khardung La that’s pretty much the road map. However remember there is no petrol pump once you leave Leh (not even in Nubra valley) so fill up that tank!
Marsimik-la
This one is relatively easy and is a good starting point for all those who aren’t familiar with high altitudes. There is a Tibetan border and photography is prohibited in some of the areas by the army for security purposes. So if your aim is to flaunt the pictures on social media or build a photography portfolio of sorts, avoid Marsimik-La.
Dongkha-La, Sikkim
Sikkim is beautiful and so are the winding roads that lead to Dongkha-la pass. However, it’s not for all, especially those who suffer from any type of vertigo or fear heights. Besides, the wet conditions and lack of oxygen don’t make it any easier. Also only four-wheelers are fit to take this route. But if you are in for the Mountain Dew-like challenge then go by all means!
Spiti Valley
This route is a tough one to crack. Not because of the difficulty level geographically or terrain wise, but because of the poor maintenance of the roads, hours and hours of jams and badly managed traffic. But if you can stomach all of that then what lies ahead is pure adventure!
Chandratal
This snow surrounded lake in Spiti district lies at a mind-boggling altitude of 4270 metres approx. You can take either of the two routes:
Delhi – Kullu – Manali – Rohtang La (3978 Meters) – Gramphoo – Chattru – Battal – Chandratal
Delhi – Shimla – Narkanda – Karcham – Powari – Puh – Nako – Tabo – Kaza – Losar – Kunzum La (4551 Meters) – Chandratal
The last stretch, whether it is from Battal or Kunzum la is more of a dirt track with heavy boulders and vehicles with a lower ground clearance have a slim chance of making it.
Pro Tip: Stick to an SUV and summer or winter don’t forget to carry heavy woolens on your trip!
