List of Important Mountain Passes in India 2024

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.

What is Mountain Pass?

“Pass” refers to a path, or part of a body of water, that allows passage through an otherwise shallow waterway, and the mountain pass is a navigable route through a mountain range or over a ridge. Generally, a mountain pass refers to that connectivity route that runs through the mountains and is a gateway that connects different parts of the country and also with the countries situated nearby for different purposes. 

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.

Major Passes in Peninsular India

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.

List of Important Mountain Passes in India – State Wise

The list of important mountain passes in India is given below in the format state-wise:

Major Passes of Himalaya

Mountain Passes of Jammu and Kashmir
Pass Name	Altitude	Important Points
Banihal Pass	2832 meters	Located in the Pir Panjal Range. This is the pass, which links the union territory of J&K with the outer Himalayas and the plains to the south of J&K. Before 1956, these passes connect the road from Jammu to Srinagar. The Zaban Glacier is a famous hill station located near this pass.
Zoji La	3528 meters	Located in the Himalayan Range in J&K. The road NH-1 passes through this mountain pass. Each year, this pass remains closed between December to May.
Mintaka Pass	4709 meters	This is a mountain pass in the Karakorum Mountains. It connects Kashmir and Xinjiang in China. In ancient times, to enter Northern India from the Tarim Basin, Mintaka Pass, and Kilik Pass were the shortest and quickest ways which were usually open whole the year.
Parpik Pass	5467 meters	This pass is located on the eastern side of the Mintaka pass of the Gilgit-Baltistan region. It connects Kashmir of India and China. Parpik Pass is located towards the north of Parpik Glacier.
Khunjerab Pass	4693 meters	This pass is located in the Karakoram Mountains. This pass connects the J&K of India and China. This is one of the highest international border passes in the world.
Aghil Pass	4805 meters	located in the Karakoram Range of Jammu & Kashmir. The pass connects the Ladakh region of India to China. This pass is only accessible between June to October.
Chang La	5360 meters	Located in the Himalayan Range of J&K. This is the pass, which connects the Ladakh region of India to Tibet. Due to snow on the road almost throughout the year, the road which passes through Chang La becomes very dangerous for its slippery nature.
Khardung La	5359 meters	Located in the Karakoram Range in the Ladakh region. This pass is located near the famous Leh town. This pass is also famous as the highest motorable road in the world passing through it.
Karakoram Pass	5540 meters	Located in the Karakoram Range. With the help of the Karakoram Highway, this pass connects India and China. In ancient times this route was part of the famous Silk Route. It is one of the highest trade routes in the world.

Mountain Passes in Leh and Ladakh
Pass Name	Altitude	Important Points
Shipki La	3930 meters	This pass is located in the Himalayan Range of H.P. This pass connects erstwhile Tibet to India’s border. It is inaccessible in the winter months
Bara Lacha La	4890 meters	This pass is located in the Himalayan Range of H.P. It connects Manali to Leh in Jammu & Kashmir. In winter, due to the high altitude road of this pass cannot be used for transport.
Rohtang Pass	3979 meters	This pass is located in the Himalayan Range of H.P. This mountain pass is only open from May to November due to snowfall. During the winter season, Snowfall occurs here in the form of unpredictable blizzards and snowstorms.
Indrahar Pass	4342 meters	Located in the Dhauladhar range of the Himalayas. The pass connects the border between the Kangra and Chamba districts of H.P. Between April and October, it attracts tourists during the trekking season.
Chanshal Pass	3,755 meters	Located on the top of the highest peak of Shimla, the Chanshal Peak. This is the pass, which links between Dodra Kwar and Chirgaon of Shimla. The pass remains open from May to October because, for the rest of the year, it is covered with snow.

Mountain Passes in Uttarakhand
Pass Name	Altitude	Important Points
Triall’s Pass	5321 meters	It is located in Uttarakhand and at the end of the Pindari glacier. It connects the Pindari Valley to the Milam Valley. This pass is very steep and also rugged.
Lipu Lekh	5334 meters	This pass is located in the Himalayan range of the Indian state of Uttarakhand. This mountain pass is generally used by pilgrims to the pilgrimage site Kailash-Mansarovar.
Mana Pass	5632 meters	Since, ancient periods, it is the primary trade route between India (Uttarakhand) and Tibet. It is one of the famous highest vehicle-accessible passes. It is the source of the Saraswati River.
Sin La Pass	5495 meters	It is a very high Himalayan mountain pass. Located in the eastern Kumaon of Uttarakhand. This pass connects Darma Valley to Kuthi Yankti Valley. In the past, this pass was used for trade between Bhotiyas and Tibet.
Kalindi pass	5950 meters	This is also known as Kalindi Khal. It is located in the Himalayan range of the Indian state of Uttarakhand. This pass connects the Gangotri Glacier and the Gastoli Pass.
Sin La Pass	5495 meters	It is a very high Himalayan mountain pass. Located in the eastern Kumaon of Uttarakhand. This pass connects Darma Valley to Kuthi Yankti Valley. In the past, this pass was used for trade between Bhotiyas and Tibet.
Nama Pass	5200 meters	Located in the eastern Kumaon region of Uttarakhand. This pass links between Kuthi Valley and Darma Valley of Uttarakhand.

Mountain Passes of Northeastern States
Pass Name	Altitude	Important Points
Bomdi  La	2217 meters	Located in the Himalayan Range of Arunachal Pradesh. Via this pass, winter people are connected with Arunachal Pradesh and Lhasa, Tibet. Between Tawang and Tibet, this pass serves as a trading point.
Dibang Pass	4500 meters	It is located in Arunachal Pradesh. The pass connects Arunachal Pradesh with Myanmar (Mandalay). At an elevation of more than 4000 meters, it does provide a passage.
Sela Pass	4170 meters	It is a high-altitude mountain pass located in the Himalayan Range of Arunachal Pradesh. The road NH-13 passes through this mountain pass and connecting between Tawang with the rest of India. While this pass gets heavy snowfall in winter, it is usually open the rest of the year.
Diphu Pass	4587 meters	It is situated at the disputed tripoint borders of India, China, and Myanmar. Diphu Pass is also a strategic approach to eastern Arunachal Pradesh and also lies in the McMahon Line.
Nathu La	4310 meters	This pass is located in the Himalayan Range of the Indian state Sikkim. In ancient times this route was part of the famous Silk Route. This pass connects the Indian state of Sikkim with China.
Jelep La	4267 meters	located in the Himalayan Range in the state of Sikkim. Also the part of the ancient Silk Route that led to Lhasa, Tibet
Goecha La	4940 meters	It is part of the Himalayan range in the state of Sikkim. It is around 60 km far from the border of West Bengal and Sikkim. It is the gateway to Kanchenjunga Mountain.

Mountain Passes of Southern India
Pass Name	Altitude	Important Points
Bhor Ghat	622 meters	Bhor Ghat is located between Palasdari and Khandala for railway and between Khopoliand Khandala on the road route to Maharashtra. Plays an important role in the Great Indian Peninsula Railway laid from Mumbai to Pune
Pal Ghat	84 meters	The Palakkad Gap is situated in the western ghats between the states of Tamil Nadu and Kerala. Located between Nilgiris Hills in the north and Anaimalai Hills in the South and connects Coimbatore to Palakkad in Kerala. Important pass in human migration across India.
Shencottah Gap: Madurai- Kottayam	181 meters	It is located in the Western Ghats and joins Madurai City in Tamil Nadu with Kottayam in Kerala. Shencottah Gap, road rails pass through this gap which connects Shencottah to Punalur.
Thal Ghat	585 meters	It is also known as Kasara Ghat in the Western Ghats. Located on the busy Mumbai-Nashik route and one of the 4 major routes. The rails which pass through the ghat are the steepest in India.

Interesting Facts on Passes in India

Lets discussed some of the interesting facts on mountain passes in India:

1. Jawahar tunnel has been constructed under the Banihal pass.
2. The Dungri la Pass is one of the highest-altitude mountain pass and also the highest motorable road with an elevation of about 18,399 feet.
3. Zoji La Pass connects Ladakh and Kashmir Valley.
4. Shipki La is a Himalayan pass which connects India to China.
5. Some of the most famous passes in India include Karakoram Pass, Zoji La Pass, Rohtang Pass, and Diphu Pass.
6. There are approximately 68 mountain passes that are present in India.

Questions and Answers on Mountain Passes of India – FAQs

How many mountain passes are in India?

There are 68 mountain passes in India. Among these, the most important ones are Jelep La Pass, Nathu La Pass, Sipki La Pass, and so forth.

What are the passes between India and China?

The passes between India and China include Chang La, Bara- Lacha La Pass, and Khardung La Pass to name a few.

Definition of Mountain Passes?

Mountain passes refer to the navigable route situated through a mountain range or over the ridge.

Which is the longest pass in India?

Dungri La Pass is the longest pass in India.

Which pass connects India and Afghanistan?

Khyber Pass connects India and Afghanistan.