What is a Motorable Pass and Why to Explore Them?

Explore Motorable passes

A motorable pass is a road that goes through mountains, often at very high altitudes. These are not just paths, they are engineering marvels that connect remote areas and offer some of the most breathtaking views in the world. If you are an adventure seeker and looking for places with unique adventure activities, then must have heard of the highest lakes, highest motorable roads and passes with a twist of ups and downs. Isn’t it so? 

The highest motorable pass is proof of the human spirit of exploration and adventure. Let us dig more details into the top highest motorable passes in the world and the reason behind their popularity.

Why to explore?

Each road has a story to tell of human perseverance, beauty, danger, and achievement for those who dare to take it on. For adventure seekers, motorable passes are the ultimate thrill. Driving up steep inclines, rough roads and harsh weather demands skill and determination. If you dont find this convincing then continue reading and know abourt each pass, that will definiely make your mind to plan a trip to these passes.

Umling La Pass- Ladakh, India

Height- 19,024 Feet

Travel Route: Leh-Hanle-Umling La

Distance from Leh: 342 Km

With 19,024 feet (5,790 meters) height, Umling La Pass in India is the highest motorable pass in the world. It connects the remote villages of Chisumle and Demchok near the Indo-China border and is the lifeline for local connectivity.

Mana Pass or Dungri La- Uttarakhand, India

Height- 18,399 Feet

Travel Route: Joshimath-Manal Village- Mana Pass

Distance from Joshimath: 75 Km

Located at 18,399 feet (5,608 meters) in Uttarakhand, Mana Pass is another highest motorable passes in the world. Near the Tibet border, it has deep religious and cultural significance as it’s close to Badrinath, a sacred pilgrimage site. If you are planning a Himalayan Motorcycle Tour, Mana Pass is a must-add to your itinerary.

Uturuncu Volcano Road, Bolivia

Height: 18,953 feet (5,770 meters)

Travel Route:Uyuni – Quetena Chico – Uturuncu Volcano Road

Distance: ~260 km from Uyuni

It is one of the highest drivable roads in the world. This rough road leads to the Uturuncu Volcano and a surreal landscape of mountains, salt flats and volcanic craters.

The road is not paved and you need a reliable 4x4 vehicle to drive here. It’s a favourite among extreme adventurers. 

Marsimik La, Ladakh

Height: 18,314 feet (5,582 meters)

Travel Route: Leh – Karu – Chang La – Durbuk – Tangtse – Lukung – Phobrang – Marsimik La

Located near Pangong Lake, this pass is closed to tourists due to its location in a military-restricted area. Despite being off the beaten path, it attracts die-hard adventurers who consider it one of the toughest routes in the world.

Semo La, Tibet

Height: 18,258 feet (5,566 meters)

Travel Route: Lhasa – Shigatse – Raka – Coqen – Semo La Pass

Semo La in Tibet is called the gateway to the Tibetan Plateau. It connects central Tibet to the Changtang Plateau, with vast grasslands and far-away snow mountains.

Final Thoughts

Riding the world’s highest motorable passes is more than a journey it’s an adventure that stays with you forever. These high motorable roads whether in the Himalayas or the Andes are full of natural beauty, challenges and triumphs. With careful planning and preparation, a trip to these altitudes becomes an enriching experience. Combination of adventure, culture, and the beauty of the blissful nature at these passes are top reasons for bike ride in Himalayas.