Which is the second highest motorable road in the world located in Ladakh?

Khardung La: Ladakh’s High-Altitude Drive and the Myth of its Ranking

Khardung La, a mountain pass nestled in the rugged terrain of Ladakh, India, holds an allure for adventure seekers and road trip enthusiasts. Its towering presence and the challenging drive have cemented its place as a popular tourist destination. Often touted as the world’s second-highest motorable road, reaching a dizzying 5,359 meters (17,582 feet), Khardung La’s actual ranking is shrouded in a bit of mythology.

The persistent claim of Khardung La’s extraordinary elevation, sometimes exaggerated to over 5,600 meters, has been largely debunked by accurate surveying. While undoubtedly a high-altitude experience, several other passes, particularly in the Tibetan Plateau region, surpass Khardung La in genuine elevation. This misinformation, perpetuated over the years through road signs, travel guides, and even some official sources, has contributed to the pass’s inflated reputation.

So why does the myth persist? Part of the answer lies in the sheer thrill of the experience. The arduous journey up Khardung La, with its steep inclines, hairpin bends, and unpredictable weather conditions, certainly feels like conquering one of the world’s highest roads. The thin air, breathtaking vistas, and sense of accomplishment contribute to the perception of extreme altitude. Furthermore, the remoteness of the region and the historical limitations on accurate surveying in the past played a role in the initial miscalculation and its subsequent propagation.

This is not to diminish the significance of Khardung La. The pass remains a strategically important route, connecting Leh to the Nubra and Shyok valleys, and offering access to remote villages and stunning landscapes. The challenging drive demands respect, careful preparation, and acclimatization to the high altitude. Visitors should be aware of the potential for altitude sickness and take necessary precautions.

The demystification of Khardung La’s height doesn’t detract from its appeal. Instead, it highlights the importance of accurate information and encourages a shift in focus from chasing superlatives to appreciating the unique experience the pass offers. Khardung La remains an incredible feat of engineering, a gateway to breathtaking scenery, and a truly memorable high-altitude adventure. It’s time to celebrate Khardung La for what it is – a spectacularly high, albeit not the second-highest, motorable pass – and appreciate the remarkable journey it offers, rather than relying on an outdated and inaccurate ranking.