Lungnak La
Lungnak La is a high mountain pass at an elevation of 5.084m (16,679ft) above the sea level, located in the Chopta valley, in the Indian state of Sikkim. The India-China border is just a few kilometres away from the summit.
The road to the summit is gravel, rocky, tippy and bumpy at times. One mistake can have serious consequences. Chopta Valley is restricted for international visitors; however, passes can be procured on request. Road conditions are always changing. The road is usually impassable from October to June (weather permitting). Avoid committing your vehicle to what is in front of you until you are sure of what you are getting into because things could get worse. The terrain is very hostile and yet very beautiful. The land resembles Tibetan plateau, vegetation is very limited and the road is through stony moraine like unpaved path.
4x4 vehicle required. A traveler on this road must be experienced and completely devoted to safe, slow and obstacle-conscious driving to deter danger. This is definitely not a Sunday drive. The steep drive will take some skill, some patience, and some tolerance for vertigo. Since you are gaining altitude while driving on that stretch, your body is slowly getting acclimatized. It is suggested to not over exert yourself by running around, since the body is still adjusting to the lowering levels of oxygen. The best way to deal with this is to walk slowly, take deep breaths and let your eyes feast on what nature has to offer to you.
Road suggested by: Hugh Wilson
Pic: Ankur P