How to get by car to Latong La?

How to get by car to Latong La?

Bhutan, asia

Length

256 km

Elevation

2,750 m

Difficulty

hard

Best Season

Year-round

Okay, buckle up, adventure awaits on Latong La! This beauty sits way up high in the Mongar District of Bhutan, clocking in at 2,750m (9,022ft).

The Bumthang-Ura Highway (aka PNH1) is paved, but let's be real, it's seen better days (think rough patches and even some gravel surprises!). It's a 256km (159 miles) rollercoaster from Chamkhar to Trashigang, and prepare for a workout — this road is steep with a never-ending series of curves, including tons of hairpin turns, and it gets super narrow in spots.

The scenery, though? Totally worth it! You'll be cruising through dense Rhododendron forests, keep an eye out for monkeys, and listen to the incredible sounds of the jungle. Plus, prayer flags line the route, adding to the magic.

Heads up: Latong La, nestled in the Black Mountains, can get hit with heavy snowfall and close for a day or two in winter. Oddly enough, by April and May, the snow's usually gone, but the summit is often shrouded in mist. Just part of the adventure, right?

Where is it?

How to get by car to Latong La? is located in Bhutan (asia). Coordinates: 27.4492, 90.3031

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Road Details

Country
Bhutan
Continent
asia
Length
256 km
Max Elevation
2,750 m
Difficulty
hard
Coordinates
27.4492, 90.3031

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