Umling La: World’s Highest Motorable Pass Is In India

For the adventurous, Ladakh becomes the first choice for road trips. Far-off in the regions of Eastern Ladakh lies such a gem, and it is meant not only for some adventure-loving souls but literally for those who want to touch the sky. At 19,024 feet (5,799 m), the world’s highest motorable pass, Umling La or Umlung La, will leave you speechless in wonder. Let me take you on an imaginary ride uphill, down winding and steep roads that climb right up to Umling La, also spuriously referred to as “the top.”

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Umling La Pass: A Brief Introduction

Umlung La Pass, also called the Umlingla Pass, is a beautiful mountain pass that is very renowned. Umling La Pass height is believed to be at an altitude of 19,024 feet (or 19, 300 ft sometimes).

However, the Guinness World Record did not find this a pass, but a testimony to human strength and engineering when it recognized it as the world’s highest motorable road in 2021.

The area connects vital strategic places near the Indo-China border and has since been a mecca for bikers, road trippers, and anyone with a penchant for extreme travel.

Getting There: The Route and Umling La Pass Distance

This is the Umling La Pass route to Leh, the multinational capital of Ladakh. It is an exciting quest that takes the voyager through some of Earth’s most breathtaking and untamed landscapes, accounting for it as no less than a pilgrimage.

• Leh to Hanle: The 255 km (or about six hours) road journey across the Changthang Plateau via Karu, Upshi, Kiari, and Chumathang provides precisely the right mix of breathtaking natural beauty and a glimpse into the traditions and culture of the Ladakhi people.

• Hanle to Umlung La: From here, one will have options in route between Hanle and Umlung La, starting from a minimum of 62 km to a maximum of 129 km, depending on how one is taking it. Each has its challenges and sightings of beauties- via Photi La or via the adventurous path of Nurbu La.

The Thrill of the Ascent: What to Expect

The Umling La road is an uneven dirt track in some places and well-paved in others. Climbing upwards, the scenery changes drastically. The mountains turn more ominous, and the air thinner. The winds grow colder, and of course, the pass is surrounded by snow-capped hills on all sides- the hilly desolate plains stretch forever.

Besides the serpentine roads, one of the major deterrents is, in fact, the altitude. At 19,024 feet above sea level, the oxygen level is virtually much smaller than what most of us are used to, and hence, we find ourselves especially vulnerable to altitude sickness. Acclimatization in Umling La Pass to Leh distance and Hanle before ascending becomes necessary.

Pro Tip: Carry a portable oxygen cylinder and keep yourself well-hydrated. If you feel dizzy or nauseous, begin the descent immediately.

Umling La Pass Weather

Conditions are not as extreme at Umling La during the peak season. The ideal season to visit begins from May to mid-October. During this tenure, traveling is fine as temperatures vary around 5 to 15 degrees Celsius.

However, during winter, it is a different story altogether. From November to April, several feet of snow buries the high pass, and the temperature mostly goes down to a minimum of -15 degrees Celsius.

With unpredicted Umling La Pass weather, one should always foresee the weather conditions of Umling La Pass before commencing on sailing. Surprisingly, during summers, when one expects fine weather to travel, snowfalls or rains again make it treacherous.

Essential Information: Permits and Preparations

Since the inner line permit requirement has been waived for Indian nationals circling Umling La, you pay the Ladakh environment fee and take the receipt as proof. It would be wise to ascertain the status in advance because the Army retains the right of way about your ability to move forward. 

Note: Only foreign nationals and holders of OCI cards who travel to Hanle are permitted to return on the same day.

• Nearest Petrol Pumps: The last reliable refueling points are 34 km from Leh in Karu and 36 km from Pangong Lake in Tangste.

• I took connectivity: Jio 4G works till Nyoma; BSNL post-paid has connectivity in some remote villages en route.

• ATMs: The nearest one is in Nyoma, so ensure you’re well-stocked with cash.

Depending on your adventurousness, you could get to Umling La via the best path. 

Here is a selection of possibilities:

1. From Hanle to Umling La via Nurbu La, the drive is about 72—to 88 kilometers. It is partially tarred and partially dirt track, so it’s pretty adventurous but manageable.

2. The shortest and most popular route from Hanle to Umling La, via Photi La, is approximately 75 km in length and full of Pukka roads.

3. From Pangong Lake or Tso Moriri to Umling La – It is about 116-129 km from Pangong Lake or Tso Moriri to Umling La and extends to Loma Bridge. The roads are everything from rough tracks to proper asphalted roads. It is not only much longer but also much more spectacular. A detour can be done to the most remote communities, such as Demchok.

The Ultimate Adventure: Umling La’s Charm

Everything about reaching the Umling La Pass location is more than just a road trip – it’s an achievement and it isn’t complete without packing essentials. It’s lonely, extending to a vast landscape area, and such feelings don’t come from standing atop the world’s highest motorable pass. Be an adventure junkie or a traveler in search of something extra; Umlung La won’t disappoint you.

Here are the Tips for a Safe Road Trip Journey:

• Ensure your car is in great shape.

• Even in summer, pack warm clothes; the weather can change abruptly.

• First-aid supplies, snacks, and plenty of water should be packed.

• Fill up your tank in the last petrol pump before you leave.

• Keep in contact with someone at home, especially since it’s the only time you travel alone.

Final Thoughts

The ride to Umling La is etched in the memory long after one has come down from such a height. Though the ride may be pretty tough, the sense of accomplishment and the memory of being at the top of the world make up for all the hardships. While planning travels on budget, remember that the trip to Umlung La is about the experience, the scenery, and the tales one finds en route rather than the summit itself.

Feel the challenge? Book bus tickets online for your next trip to Umling La, and enjoy more than ever with zingbus, and have a pleasant voyage of a lifetime.