From Height To Oxygen Level, 8 Fascinating Facts About Umling La, World's Highest Motorable Road In Ladakh

Credits: X (Formerly, Twitter)

Umling La stands at a staggering height of 5,798 metres (19,024 feet) above sea level, making it one of the highest motorable roads in the world.

1. Breathtaking Altitude

Credits: X (Formerly, Twitter)

Credits: X (Formerly, Twitter)

At the summit, oxygen levels are a mere 50% of those at sea level, creating an incredibly challenging environment for both humans and vehicles.

2. Low Oxygen Levels

The road was constructed by the Border Roads Organisation of India under extreme conditions, showcasing remarkable human perseverance and engineering prowess.

3. Engineering Marvel

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The area experiences wildly fluctuating temperatures, ranging from a scorching 40°C (104°F) in summer to a bone-chilling -40°C (-40°F) in winter.

4. Temperature Extremes

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The surrounding terrain is so barren and otherworldly that it's often compared to the surface of the moon, offering visitors an out-of-this-world experience.

5. Lunar Landscape

Credits: X (Formerly, Twitter)

Credits: X (Formerly, Twitter)

Despite its remote location, Umling La holds significant military value due to its proximity to both China and Pakistan.

6. Strategic Importance

The pass is home to rare, high-altitude flora and fauna that have adapted to survive in one of the harshest environments on Earth.

7. Ecological Uniqueness

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In 2021, two Indian motorcyclists set a Guinness World Record for the "highest altitude reached by motorcycle" by riding to the summit of Umling La.

8. Record-Breaking Feat

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Would you like to head to the Umling La pass?

Credits: X (Formerly, Twitter)