Driving the Lalung Valley Road, One of the Highest Roads on Earth
Located in Jammu and Kashmir, in India, the challenging Lalung Valley Road is one of the highest roads on Earth, ending at 5,803m (19,038ft) above sea level.
Where is Lalung Valley Road?
The road is located south of Umling La, the highest paved road on Earth, near the Indian-administered Demchok sector, which is disputed between India and China.
How long is Lalung Valley Road?
The road is completely unpaved. It’s a military road in very poor condition, suitable only for 4x4 vehicles. It’s narrow, with drop-offs and large rocks. The road is about 15 km (9.32 miles) long, starting at Chisumle Campground and ending at a small lake formed by the Lalung River.
Is Lalung Valley Road difficult?
It’s one of the highest roads in the country. Due to its extreme altitude, even normal breathing can be very difficult. If you suffer from respiratory problems or any heart condition, you should avoid traveling to this pass. Altitude Mountain Sickness (AMS) is quite common, so proper acclimatization is essential before attempting the trip. Remember to carry extra supplementary oxygen for emergencies.
Is Lalung Valley Road open in winter?
This is a military road, and it’s closed to civilians. Because of its sensitive location near the Indo-Chinese border, tourist visits may be limited and restricted by the Army. Getting permits to access the area can sometimes be challenging. In winter, the road is completely impassable due to harsh weather conditions.
Road suggested by: Hugh Wilson