
Is the road from Kishtwar to Keylong scary?
India, asia
235 km
3,005 m
extreme
Year-round
Want a truly unforgettable drive? Head to the border between Jammu and Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh in India, and try the Kishtwar to Keylong road.
"Scary" doesn't even begin to cover it. This 235 km (146 mile) stretch of National Highway 26, hugging the Chenab River, is an unpaved, one-lane cliffhanger carved into the mountainside. Forget guardrails! We're talking a 2,000+ foot drop and overhanging cliffs so low your car barely fits. Rocks jut out, blocking your view of oncoming traffic. Exhilarating and terrifying in equal measure, this road is not for the faint of heart.
For about 100 miles, this windy, narrow path offers incredible views thousands of feet down. It climbs a hefty 2,000 meters (starting at 1,410m and topping out at 3,005m above sea level). You'll want a serious 4x4 with high clearance. Waterfalls often cascade across the road. This road demands your full attention. Take it slow, stay centered, and be mindful of other drivers. Snowfall can completely isolate the area. This route is nicknamed "The Cliffhanger" for a reason, and you definitely won't see buses here.
Road Details
- Country
- India
- Continent
- asia
- Length
- 235 km
- Max Elevation
- 3,005 m
- Difficulty
- extreme
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