Shertang La
Bhutan, asia
N/A
3,573 m
extreme
Year-round
Okay, buckle up for Shertang La, also known as Ura La! This mountain pass sits way up in Bhutan's Bumthang District at a dizzying 3,573m (11,722ft), making it one of the country's highest roads.
The Bumthang - Ura Highway, built in the 90s, is mostly paved but don't expect a smooth ride! Think patchy asphalt (even some gravel thrown in!), steep climbs, and hairpin turns galore. You'll see prayer flags fluttering at the top, but be warned: the air is thin up here. Altitude sickness is a real possibility.
The road itself? Super narrow. If you're prone to car sickness, this might not be your jam. But the views… oh, the views! Seriously, it's worth it. You're driving through the Black Mountains, after all. And if the weather's on your side, you might catch a glimpse of Gangkhar Puensum towering over the northern valley, plus the charming yellow-roofed lhakhang of Shingkhar village below.
Just a heads-up: the wind can be intense up here year-round, so bundle up. The pass can also be closed for a day or two in the winter due to snow. It's often misty on top. But when the clouds part, you're rewarded with incredible views over the wide valleys and forests of Bumthang. Don't miss it!
Where is it?
Shertang La is located in Bhutan (asia). Coordinates: 27.4199, 90.2869
Road Details
- Country
- Bhutan
- Continent
- asia
- Max Elevation
- 3,573 m
- Difficulty
- extreme
- Coordinates
- 27.4199, 90.2869
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