Umling La — Local services in Jammu and Kashmir

"A perfect day turned into a perfect storm"

We reached Umling La - 19300 ft at around 1:00 pm, crossing Nurbu La top - 17238 ft, on a 70 km off-road adventure with a difficult final ascent.

At the top, excitement and emotions gave way to protocols. We threw caution to the wind and stayed there for over an hour, clicking photographs and immortalizing our moment. We then decided to head to Demchok, the last Indian village. The brakes got overheated on the sharp decline, and in fear, we had to resort to engine braking. We reached Demchok within an hour of riding alongside the frozen Indus river. To our pleasant surprise, the Indian Army agreed to let us ride to the furthest possible point. Finally, we reached the place where a 2m wide stream was separating us from China; it was The Line of Actual Control. We could clearly see the Chinese villagers herding sheep and soldiers hunkered down in their bunkers. We even had a rare opportunity to witness negotiations between the soldiers of the two countries. Before we could cope with the mind-boggling experience, the storm rolled in, and we got stuck in an abandoned bunker while it poured heavily.

When the rain subsided, we made our way back to Demchok village, where we shared the lunch prepared by the Indian Army. One of my fellow riders who was missing a rain liner was even provided with an Army-issued raincoat - a gesture for which we are forever grateful. We started from Demchok at around 6:00 pm, and it took around an hour to reach Umling La. The entire way was covered with a fresh coating of snow. Undeterred, we even took photographs at the top, braving a brewing blizzard. We realized that due to the snow, the earlier off-road route wasn't feasible anymore. Adding to our problems, we were now running on reserves. We decided to head through Photi La - 18124 ft, an infamous 22 hairpin juggernaut. It was our only option.

We reached the top of Photi La at 11:00 pm amidst dense fog, snow, and unexplainable supernatural instances. We consider ourselves lucky to have evaded falling off a cliff on this monstrous pass with dead brakes and no fog lamps. We reached Hanle at around 1:00 am, dead tired but proud...

Proud fell when I visited the highest motorable pass in the world. An unforgettable experience at the highest motorable pass in the world!

Umling La Pass is not just a destination, it’s a lifetime achievement for every traveler and rider. At a staggering altitude of 19,024 ft (5,800 m), it proudly holds the record of being the highest motorable pass in the world – and standing here feels like being on top of the planet!

The journey itself is adventurous and challenging. The roads, built and maintained by BRO (Border Roads Organisation), are surprisingly well-paved in most stretches despite the extreme conditions. Still, oxygen levels are very low at this height, and altitude sickness can hit quickly. Proper acclimatization is a must before attempting this pass. Riding or driving here truly tests both your machine and your spirit.

The views are beyond words – vast barren landscapes, snowcapped peaks, and an endless sky that makes you feel tiny in front of nature’s grandeur. The silence at Umling La is something you will never forget; it’s as if the whole world has paused to let you soak in the beauty. The tricolour fluttering proudly at the top fills you with immense pride for our country and for the brave BRO engineers who made this road possible.

Facilities are very limited – you won’t find tea stalls or shops like in Leh or Khardung La. The nearest basic stay and food options are at Hanle or Demchok, so one must go fully prepared with warm clothing, water, energy food, and medical backup. Temperatures drop drastically, often well below –20°C even in summer nights, and winds can be harsh.

Reaching Umling La is not just about travel, it’s about experiencing the extremes of nature and pushing your own limits. It’s a blend of adventure, patriotism, and spirituality. Truly, one of the rarest and most remarkable places on Earth that very few get to witness.

Highly recommended for serious travelers, bikers, and adventurers who want to touch the sky – but with proper preparation and respect for...

Incredible Experience at the World's Highest Motorable Pass!

THE UMLING LA

What a wonderful journey it was from Chennai to Umling la Top by riding my Himalayan motorcycle!

Every man's dream for once in a lifetime is Done and dusted. Thank you my KUTTY for making me proud for the rest of my life that I was a successful rider from a few that I completed all the circuits of Umling La through Nurbula during Chennai to Ladakh Motorcycle Adventure. on 21st September 2024 at around 13.20 hrs i made it to this worlds highest motorable pass Umling La all the way from Chennai, Tamil Nadu. A story short, lots of good & bad patches of roads en route so these are common in Ladakh region so don't check for road conditions, it's one of a kind experience in my lifetime. i would suggest to all our biking community members at least  try to visit once in their lifetime.

Umling La Pass is a breath taking wonder! At an altitude of over 19,000 feet, it is truly the highest motorable road in the world, and the journey is nothing short of extraordinary. The views are absolutely stunning — vast stretches of mountains and valleys, untouched landscapes, and an unparalleled sense of adventure. The road leading to the pass is surprisingly well-maintained, given the extreme altitude and terrain.

Reaching Umling La is not just about the destination, but also the incredible drive through rugged, remote areas. The air is thin, and the temperatures can get extremely cold, so it's important to be well-prepared. Despite the challenges, the experience of standing at the top of the world is unforgettable.

Highly recommended for adventure lovers and those seeking to push their limits! Just be sure to acclimatize well, and bring plenty of warm clothing and essentials for the journey.

This place is a hidden gem for thrill-seekers and offers a unique,...