Taglang La (also spelled Tanglang La) is a legendary name for anyone journeying along the Leh–Manali Highway. Soaring at an altitude of 5,328 meters (17,480 feet), it proudly holds the title of the second-highest motorable mountain pass on this iconic highway and remains one of the highest drivable roads in the world.
Surrounded by desolate beauty, dramatic rock formations, and sweeping views of the Zanskar and Ladakh Ranges, Taglang La is a high-altitude desert marvel. It is often the first taste of true Himalayan altitude for those coming from Manali, and a reward for those journeying southward from Leh.
While Taglang La might not have as much military relevance as Khardung La or Chang La, its importance lies in connectivity. It forms a critical part of the Leh–Manali Highway (NH3), a route often used for transporting goods, supplies, and tourists between Ladakh and Himachal Pradesh. The BRO (Border Roads Organisation) maintains this stretch diligently despite the brutal terrain.
In the past, traders used this route as an alternate link between the Indus Valley and the southern plains. Today, it’s a popular route for bikers, overlanders, and cyclists, seeking adventure and solitude in equal measure.
Distance: ~108 km from Leh (via Upshi)
Route: Leh → Upshi → Rumtse → Gya → Debring → Taglang La
The climb begins gently after Upshi and becomes steep after Rumtse village. The last 20 km is a winding, zig-zag ascent that tests your endurance and your vehicle’s willpower.
Altitude: 5,328 meters (17,480 feet)
Gradient: Moderate to steep incline with long switchbacks
Road Condition:
Leh to Rumtse – good tarmac
Rumtse to Taglang La – mixed; partly tarred, partly loose gravel or broken patches
Frequent snow and meltwater crossings during season
The top is often windy and cold, with snow walls lining the road even in June. It’s best to check road status during early or late travel months, as the BRO may close this route during snowfall or landslides.
Open Season: Mid-June to early October
Ideal Months: July to September (most stable weather)
Avoid: May–early June and after mid-October (snow, landslides, or black ice)
As part of the Leh–Manali route, most travelers cross Taglang La during daytime to avoid bad light and temperature drops at higher elevations.
No permit required for Indian nationals or foreigners for Taglang La itself
If you’re combining the trip with areas like Tso Kar, Hanle, or Tso Moriri, Inner Line Permits will be required
ID proof may be checked at Upshi or Lato if traveling toward Hanle
Tips:
If heading from Leh, ensure 2 days of acclimatization
If heading from Manali, consider night halts at Keylong or Sarchu
Stay hydrated, carry ORS/electrolytes
Avoid rushing or strenuous activity at the top
360° Mountain Views – Barren but beautiful landscapes stretching in every direction
Prayer flags & BRO signboard – A photo-op to remember your climb
Taglang La milestone – “You are passing through the second-highest pass of the world. Unbelievable, isn’t it?”
Minimal traffic – Compared to Khardung La or Chang La, the top here feels much more peaceful
Rumtse Village – A charming settlement known for red rocks and mountain goats
Tso Kar Lake – Just ~30 km ahead from Taglang La toward Debring; a saltwater lake known for birdlife and camping
Gya and Lato – Remote Himalayan hamlets, good for short stops and photography
Debring – An isolated plateau, good for night camping or connecting to Tso Moriri via Polokongka La
Early starts recommended – Leave Leh by 6–7 AM if doing a day trip or heading south
Dress in layers – Winds here can be biting, even in July
Drive cautiously – Road gradients can strain engines and brakes
Carry basic meds – Especially for AMS, headaches, nausea
Fuel up in Leh – No fuel station till Tandi (if heading toward Manali)
Option 1 (From Leh):
Leh → Taglang La → Tso Kar → Return or continue to Tso Moriri / Manali
Option 2 (From Manali):
Manali → Keylong → Sarchu → Taglang La → Leh (with halts at Jispa and Pang)
Taglang La is where silence speaks louder than words. No crowds, no noise—just the wind whispering across the snow, your engine humming, and a vast high-altitude landscape stretching endlessly into the sky. It’s raw, real, and rewards the wanderer in you.
Whether you’re taking the classic Leh–Manali ride or exploring Ladakh’s wild backroads, Taglang La is your reminder of how small you are in the lap of the Himalayas—and how thrilling that feeling can be.
