Tanglang La Pass, Location, Height, Extent, Projects, Features

Tanglang La Pass is a high altitude mountain pass located in the Leh district of the Union Territory of Ladakh. It is situated on the NH3 Leh-Manali Highway. It has an elevation of 5,328 metres (17,480 feet), making it one of the highest road passes in India. The pass lies between Debring and Gya, with the pass section extending for about 49 kilometres. Its strategic location helps connect the Leh region with Himachal Pradesh, while the extreme weather, low temperature and high height create a demanding mountain environment.

Tanglang La Pass Features

Tanglang La Pass is an important transport corridor and a significant example of high altitude road infrastructure in Ladakh.

• Location: The pass is situated in Leh district, Ladakh, on the NH3 Leh-Manali Highway.
• Height: It has an elevation of 5,328 metres (17,480 feet).
• Extent: It is positioned between Debring and Gya, covering nearly 49 kilometres and is clearly identifiable on the regional map.
• Road Connectivity: Tanglang La plays a key role in connecting Leh with the Manali route. Although the road is paved, its steep gradients, sharp bends and high altitude conditions present a major driving challenge, especially during adverse weather.
• Tunnel and Railway Project: Rail-cum-road tunnels are under construction beneath Tanglang La, Lungalacha La (87 km south) and Bara-lacha La (171 km south) to improve transport on NH3 and support the under construction Bhanupli-Leh railway line.
• Railway Significance: After completion of the railway line, the proposed station beneath Tanglang La is expected to stand at 5,256.25 metres, surpassing Tangulla railway station in the Tibet Autonomous Region of China at 5,068 metres, making it the world’s highest railway station.
• Ranking: As of 2015 it ranked as the 12th highest motorable pass in the World.

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