Geography question from JKAS Prelims, 2018 by JKPSC
Through which of the following mountain pass, the World’s highest motorable road passes?
Last updated May 30, 2026
Correct Answer:
Option D —
Khardung la
Important Fact Update
While older general knowledge question banks and official tourism signboards still cite Khardung La (at an official altitude of 17,582 ft / 5,359 m) as the world's highest motorable road, this has changed due to recent infrastructure developments by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO):
Umling La (Current Official Record Holder): The World's Highest Motorable Road now passes through Umling La in Eastern Ladakh at an altitude of 19,024 feet, constructed by the BRO under Project Himank.
Mig La: The BRO has also undertaken construction on the Likaru-Mig La-Fukche road, which scales an altitude of 19,400 feet, set to surpass Umling La.
However, among the specific options provided in this classic question, Khardung La remains the designated answer.
Overview of Other Options:
Karakoram Pass: Situated on the boundary between India (Ladakh) and China (Xinjiang). It is an ancient trade route but is not a motorable highway open to the general public.
Khyber Pass: Located in the Spin Ghar mountains, connecting Pakistan and Afghanistan. It is one of the most historically significant mountain passes in South Asia, used by invaders like Babur and Alexander.
Nathu La: Located in Sikkim, it connects India with the Tibet Autonomous Region of China. It was a major offshoot of the ancient Silk Road and was reopened for cross-border trade in 2006.
Answer verified by Quintessence Classes faculty — Karan Nagar, Srinagar.
