Medo La: a new military road on the Chinese-Indian border

Medo La: a new military road on the Chinese-Indian border

India, asia

Length

N/A

Elevation

5,915 m

Difficulty

hard

Best Season

Year-round

Alright thrill-seekers, buckle up for Medo La! This border-crossing beauty sits way up high at a staggering 19,406 feet, straddling China and India. We're talking one of the planet's highest motorable roads, folks!

The road itself? Well, it’s mostly paved, but don't get too comfy – it quickly turns to a rough unpaved track. Military access only, so leave the sedan at home and grab your 4x4. The ascent is brutal, a real lung-buster thanks to the crazy altitude. Seriously, the air is THIN. Oh, and did I mention it's steep?

Finished in 2021, Medo La links Sikkim in India with Kamba County in Tibet. Getting permission to tackle this one is a mission in itself, even for locals, as it's in a super-sensitive area near the Indian border. Get ready for an isolated adventure unlike any other!

Where is it?

Medo La: a new military road on the Chinese-Indian border is located in India (asia). Coordinates: 22.2425, 82.5071

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Road Details

Country
India
Continent
asia
Max Elevation
5,915 m
Difficulty
hard
Coordinates
22.2425, 82.5071

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