Mountain passes have always played an important role in trade, travel, migration and war in the Himalayan region. Today, they connect various regions that are divided by mountain ranges. And getting to them requires driving or trekking on some of the most hazardous terrain. Take a look.
1. Chansal Pass
The Chansal Pass connects Dodra Kwar and Rohru in Himachal Pradesh. It is about a 5-hour drive from Shimla
2. Dungri La Pass
One can get to Dungri La on a motorable road at a high elevation of 5608 metres. It connects India to Tibet through the Zanskar mountain range and is located in the Nanda Devi National Park. Not very far away is the pilgrimage site of Kedarnath.
3. Rohtang Pass
Located in the Pir Panjal range, the Rohtang pass connects the Kullu Valley with the Lahaul and Spiti Valleys at a height of 3978 metres. It is accessible on the Manali-Leh highway, the best time to visit being between May-November. In winter, there are risks of avalanches and road closures.
4. Khardung La Pass
Located near Leh, it connects the Shyok and Nubra Valleys at an elevation of 5602 metres. It is a popular route for bikers as the pass is motorable.
5. Sela Pass
Perched at an elevation of 4170 metres, the Sela Pass is situated in the Tawang district of Arunachal Pradesh. Currently Tawang is being claimed by China as ‘South Tibet’ but the Sela Pass connects the district to the rest of the country through Assam. It remains open through out the year except at times of heavy snowfall.