Driving the desolate and fearsome road to Margan Top
India, asia
51.9 km
3,696 m
hard
Year-round
Get ready for an epic adventure on Margan Top Road! This wild, unpaved road snakes its way up to 3,696m (12,125ft) in the Margan range, south of Anantnag in Jammu and Kashmir, India.
This beast of a road, aka Choharnag or Four Lakes, officially opened back in 1987, though construction had a few pauses along the way. The 51.9 km (32.24 miles) route from Rein Aathar to Mungli is a true test of your driving skills (and your vehicle!). Think steep ascents that demand first or second gear, and potholes galore. Seriously, a 4x4 is a must for this one.
Expect a solid 3.5 to 5-hour drive without stops, winding through alpine forests and vibrant green meadows. Keep your ID handy – there's an army check post before the final push. The best time to tackle this road is between May and September. Once you reach Margan Top, prepare to be blown away by stunning mountain lakes.
This whole area, connecting Warwan and Marwah Valley to Vailoo Anantnag, has a fascinating (and intense) history. Once called the "Valley of Death" due to its remoteness and militant activity, Warwan Valley is now comparatively safe with a military presence.
Where is it?
Driving the desolate and fearsome road to Margan Top is located in India (asia). Coordinates: 24.7170, 76.9422
Road Details
- Country
- India
- Continent
- asia
- Length
- 51.9 km
- Max Elevation
- 3,696 m
- Difficulty
- hard
- Coordinates
- 24.7170, 76.9422
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