- By Aditi Priya Singh
- Sun, 24 Aug 2025 03:09 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
10 Most Dangerous Mountain Roads In India: India is a land of diverse landscapes, ranging from serene plains to majestic mountains. Adventure seekers will find a special place among its natural wonders on the high-altitude mountain roads. These roads are more than just travel routes; they are exhilarating obstacles that will try your patience, bravery, and driving prowess. These mountain paths provide stunning views of deep valleys, isolated villages, and snow-capped peaks. They are also renowned for their harsh terrain, which includes abrupt landslides, narrow passageways, steep turns, heavy snowfall, and erratic weather conditions.
Many of these routes are found in the northeastern and Himalayan regions, which have higher elevations and lower-than-normal oxygen levels. Every road has a unique history; some serve as essential trade routes, while others lead to picturesque locations or significant border regions. Riding these perilous roads is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for thrill-seekers, full of danger and excitement.
If you are planning an adventurous trip to the mountains of India, these 10 roads will give you unforgettable memories and a true taste of nature’s raw beauty.
1. Khardung La, Ladakh (5,359 meters)
10 Most Dangerous Mountain Roads in India (Image: Canva)
One of the world's highest motorable roads is Khardung La. Connecting Leh to the Nubra and Shyok Valleys, it is 5,359 meters high. The road is hazardous due to its narrowness, the presence of snow and ice throughout the year, and the frequent occurrence of landslides. Extreme cold and low oxygen levels present additional difficulties for travellers.
2. Lipulekh Pass, Uttarakhand (5,334 meters)
At 5,334 meters, Lipulekh Pass connects India, Tibet and Nepal. Both the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra path and the historic trade route pass through it. The road is narrow, steep, and vulnerable to landslides. The weather is also unpredictable.
3. Baralacha La, Himachal Pradesh (4,890 meters)
At 4,890 meters, Baralacha La is situated along the Leh–Manali Highway. It has erratic weather and is encircled by snow-capped peaks. Avalanches frequently occur on the road, and breathing problems may result from low oxygen levels.
4. Nathu La Pass, Sikkim (4,310 meters)
Nathula pass (Image: Sikkim tourism)
At 4,310 meters above sea level, Nathu La is a high pass that connects Tibet and Sikkim. It is well-known for its severe weather and strategic significance. The road frequently has snow on it, which makes it extremely slick, with steep turns and poor visibility.
5. Sela Pass, Arunachal Pradesh (4,170 meters)
Most Dangerous Mountain Roads in India (Image: Canva)
Tawang and other regions of Arunachal Pradesh are connected by the 4,170-meter Sela Pass. The majority of the year is spent covered in snow, which makes it hazardous and slick. There are also unexpected fog and snowstorms on the pass.
6. NH-22 (Hindustan-Tibet Road), Himachal Pradesh (4,000 meters)
NH-22 picture (Image: Canva)
The Hindustan–Tibet Road, or NH-22, is about 4,000 meters long. It is carved into cliffs, with falling rocks on one side and deep gorges on the other. It is one of the most hazardous roads in the nation because of its sharp bends and overhanging edges.
7. Rohtang Pass, Himachal Pradesh (3,978 meters)
10 Most Dangerous Mountain Roads in India (Image: Canva)
At 3,978 meters, Rohtang Pass links Lahaul and Spiti with Kullu Valley. It is renowned for its heavy snowfall, thick fog, and erratic weather. Driving is difficult, especially for first-time visitors, due to landslides and slick roads.
8. Spiti Valley Road, Himachal Pradesh (3,800 meters)
Spiti Valley road (Image: Canva)
The 3,800-meter Spiti Valley Road is paved with rocky paths and blind curves. Driving there is dangerous because of the frequent landslides and snowfall. Although the road is picturesque, it calls for skilled driving.
9. Zoji La Pass, Jammu & Kashmir (3,528 meters)
Zoji la pass road (image: Canva)
At 3,528 meters, Zoji La is a dangerous pass that connects Srinagar and Leh. The road is muddy, narrow, and frequently blocked by a lot of snow. This is one of the most difficult routes in the Himalayas because avalanches and landslides are frequent here.
10. Kishtwar Kailash Road, Jammu & Kashmir (2,525 meters)
Kishtwar kailash road (Image: Instagram and facebook)
This 2,525-meter road is well-known for its deadly cliff-hugging route. It is among the scariest roads in India because of its narrow tracks, sharp curves, and lack of railings. This is a route only experienced drivers should try.