If you’ve ever dreamed of driving on the highest road in the world, Ladakh is the place where that dream becomes reality. Known for its dramatic mountain landscapes and high-altitude passes, Ladakh is home to some of the world’s most extraordinary roads. But which pass currently holds the Guinness World Record for the highest altitude road?
The answer is Mig La Pass.
Mig La Pass (also spelled Migla Pass) is a high-altitude mountain pass in Eastern Ladakh, India, situated at an astonishing elevation of 19,400 feet (5,913 m). Constructed by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), it currently holds the Guinness World Record for the world’s highest motorable road, surpassing the previous record-holder, Umling La (19,024 ft).
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Mig La Pass – The World’s Highest Motorable Road
Mig La Pass, located in the eastern region of Ladakh near the India–China border, currently holds the Guinness World Record for the highest motorable road in the world.
The road reaches an astonishing altitude of 5,913 metres (19,400 feet) above sea level. It was constructed by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) and officially entered the Guinness World Records in October 2025, surpassing the previous record held by Umling La.
Mig La Pass at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Elevation | 5,913 m (19,400 ft) |
| Location | Eastern Ladakh |
| Record | World’s Highest Motorable Road |
| Built By | Border Roads Organisation (BRO) |
| Guinness Recognition | October 2025 |
| Best Time to Visit | June to September |
What Happened to Umling La?
Before Mig La, Umling La Pass was widely recognized as the world’s highest motorable road.
Situated at 5,799 metres (19,024 feet), Umling La earned the Guinness World Record in 2021 after the Border Roads Organisation completed the road connecting Chisumle and Demchok.
| Pass | Elevation | Record Status |
|---|---|---|
| Mig La | 19,400 ft (5,913 m) | 🏆 Current world’s highest motorable road |
| Umling La | 19,024 ft (5,799 m) | Former Guinness World Record holder (2021–2025) |
Although it no longer holds the world record, Umling La remains one of Ladakh’s most iconic destinations and continues to attract adventure seekers from around the globe.
Mig La vs Umling La
| Feature | Mig La | Umling La |
|---|---|---|
| Elevation | 5,913 m | 5,799 m |
| Elevation (Feet) | 19,400 ft | 19,024 ft |
| Guinness Record | Current Holder | Former Holder |
| Record Year | 2025 | 2021 |
| Built By | BRO | BRO |
Why Is Mig La So Special?
Driving to Mig La is unlike any other road trip on Earth. The route passes through barren Himalayan landscapes, snow-covered mountains, and remote valleys with almost no permanent settlements.
The road demonstrates remarkable engineering, considering the extreme weather, low oxygen levels, freezing temperatures, and challenging terrain encountered during construction.
Can Tourists Visit Mig La?
Access to Mig La is restricted because it lies in a strategically sensitive border region. Indian and foreign tourists should check the latest travel advisories and permit requirements before planning a visit. Some areas may require special permissions or may not be open for regular tourism.
Travel Tips
- Acclimatize in Leh for at least 48 hours before attempting any high-altitude journey.
- Carry sufficient drinking water and high-energy snacks.
- Avoid alcohol before travelling to high elevations.
- Drive slowly and watch for symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).
- Travel only in good weather and keep an eye on official road status updates.
- Carry warm clothing, even during summer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which pass in Ladakh has the highest motorable road?
Mig La Pass currently has the world’s highest motorable road at 5,913 metres (19,400 feet).
Does Umling La still hold the Guinness World Record?
No. Umling La held the record from 2021 until October 2025, when Mig La surpassed it.
Who built the world’s highest road?
The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) constructed both Umling La Road and Mig La Road.
Is Mig La higher than Umling La?
Yes. Mig La is approximately 114 metres (376 feet) higher than Umling La.
Final Thoughts
Ladakh continues to redefine the limits of mountain road engineering. While Umling La became famous for setting the benchmark as the world’s highest motorable road, Mig La has now taken that title by reaching an incredible elevation of 5,913 metres (19,400 feet).
Whether you’re an adventure traveller, biker, photographer, or road-trip enthusiast, these remarkable Himalayan passes represent some of the most spectacular engineering achievements and travel experiences anywhere in the world.
