
Nyalu Lagna Pass
Nepal, asia
N/A
4,995 m
hard
Year-round
Alright thrill-seekers, buckle up for Nyalu Lagna Pass in the Karnali Province of northwestern Nepal! This beast clocks in at a whopping 4,995 meters (16,387 feet), making it one of Nepal's highest roads.
The road? Let's just say it's an *experience*. Think rocky, think gravel, think STEEP. We're talking loose stones and gradients that can hit 30% in places – not for the faint of heart! You’ve only got a small window to tackle this one – roughly mid-April to mid-November. Be prepared for some serious wind – it whips through these mountains year-round. And even in summer, don’t be surprised by a rogue snow flurry. Winter? Forget about it, unless you’re into brutally cold conditions.
The scenery? Absolutely breathtaking. It's a ski-station service road, but that's just a bonus on top of some spectacular views. Just remember to keep your eyes on the road... mostly.
Where is it?
Nyalu Lagna Pass is located in Nepal (asia). Coordinates: 28.2170, 84.6074
Road Details
- Country
- Nepal
- Continent
- asia
- Max Elevation
- 4,995 m
- Difficulty
- hard
- Coordinates
- 28.2170, 84.6074
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