List of Important Mountain Passes in India 2024

A list of the top 10 important mountain passes situated in India is shown below. These mountain passes not only facilitate travel but also showcase the geographical diversity and historical importance of the regions they connect. Whether for trade, tourism, or military significance, each pass contributes to the rich tapestry of India’s landscape.

Rohtang Pass (Himachal Pradesh):

• Connecting Kullu Valley with Lahaul and Spiti Valley, this pass offers stunning views of the Himalayas.
• Rohtang Pass is also known as the “Gateway to Lahaul and Spiti,” two remote and stunning valleys in Himachal Pradesh.

Zoji La (Jammu and Kashmir):

• Vital for connecting Srinagar and Leh, Zoji La is a high mountain pass in the Great Himalayan Range.
• Zoji La is often referred to as the “Gateway to Ladakh,” providing a crucial link between the two regions.
• The pass is notorious for its harsh weather conditions, remaining closed for up to six months due to heavy snowfall.
• The Zoji La Tunnel project, currently under construction, promises to revolutionize travel by providing an all-weather connection between Kashmir and Ladakh.

Nathu La (Sikkim):

• Linking India with Tibet, Nathu La is a strategic pass known for its historical significance and breathtaking landscapes.
• Nathu La, located in the state of Sikkim in India, is a high mountain pass on the border with China’s Tibet Autonomous Region.
• Nathu La, located in the state of Sikkim in India, is a high mountain pass on the border with China’s Tibet Autonomous Region.

Khardung La (Jammu and Kashmir):

• Often claimed as one of the highest motorable passes globally, Khardung La is a gateway to the Nubra Valley.
• Khardung La is strategically important for the Indian Army, providing access to the Siachen Glacier, the world’s highest battlefield.
• Standing at a staggering 5,359 meters (17,580 feet) above sea level, it holds the title of the world’s highest motorable road.

Banihal Pass (Jammu and Kashmir):

• Situated in the Pir Panjal range, Banihal Pass is a crucial link on the Jammu-Srinagar Highway.
• The Banihal Qazigund Road Tunnel, constructed in 2021, now bypasses the most challenging part of the pass, reducing travel time significantly.
• The region surrounding Banihal Pass is home to several historical sites, including ancient temples and Mughal-era fortifications.

Niti Pass(Uttarakhand):

• Towering at 5,086 meters (16,686 feet) above sea level, Niti Pass carves its path through the Indo-Tibetan border, connecting Niti Valley with southern Tibet.
• Niti village is the last village on the Indian side of the Indo-Tibetan border.
• Permits are required to visit Niti Pass. Indian nationals can obtain a permit from the District Magistrate’s Office in Chamoli. Foreign nationals must obtain a permit from the Ministry of Home Affairs in New Delhi.

Nathula Pass (Sikkim):

• Another significant pass in Sikkim, Nathula connects India and China and holds historical importance.
• The name Nathu La comes from the Tibetan words “nathu” meaning “listening ears” and “la” meaning “pass”. The pass is said to be a place where the gods listen to the prayers of the people.
• It was once part of the ancient Silk Road, which connected India to China and Central Asia. The pass was also used by the British during their rule of India.

Shipki La (Himachal Pradesh):

• Serving as an entry point into India from Tibet, Shipki La is strategically important for trade and travel.
• The river Sutlej, which is called Langqên Zangbo in Tibet, enters India (from Tibet) near this pass.

Baralacha La (Himachal Pradesh):

• Located on the Manali-Leh Highway, Baralacha La is surrounded by snow-capped peaks and serves as a trekking destination.
• Baralacha La is located in the Zanskar range of the Himalayas. The pass is surrounded by snow-capped peaks and glaciers.
• Baralacha La is located about 260 kilometers (162 miles) from Manali, the gateway to Himachal Pradesh.

Mana Pass (Uttarakhand):

• Near the India-China border, Mana Pass is known for its challenging terrain and pristine beauty.
• Mana Pass was an ancient trade route between India and Tibet. The Portuguese Jesuits António de Andrade and Manuel Marques became the first known Europeans to enter Tibet across Mana Pass in 1624.
• Mana Pass is a popular tourist destination, offering stunning views of the snow-capped Himalayas. The pass is also a popular destination for hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities.

Mountain Passes in India are found constituting a drainage divide, in some cases, passes make the easiest and shortest routes for people to travel across steep mountain ranges. Passes have played a key role in trade and connectivity.

There are a total of 68 mountain passes in India, among them 43 mountain passes are in the Himalayan region only. Here we will discuss the list of the most important passes in India with proper mapping.