What’s India’s Steepest Motorable Road?

Which is the steepest road in India still open to vehicles? Discover the extreme incline that challenges even seasoned drivers, in today’s SpotGenie Facts.

🧠 Did You Know?

India’s steepest motorable road is the Zuluk Loops (also called Zuluk Zigzag Road) in East Sikkim.

🌀 This breathtaking route contains 32 hairpin bends in just 14 km, climbing at an aggressive incline of nearly 11–14% in some sections.
The road rises from around 9,000 ft to over 11,000 ft in a matter of minutes — testing both engines and nerves!

🏞️ Zuluk: A Road with No Straight Lines

• Originally a part of the Old Silk Route to Tibet.
• Now one of the most scenic and challenging strategic army routes, connecting Zuluk to Thambi View Point and Nathang Valley.
• Not for the faint-hearted: sharp switchbacks, sudden fog, and low guardrails are common.

Despite its danger, the road is open to local vehicles, Indian tourists (with permits), and military convoys.

⚠️ Extreme Incline, Extreme Responsibility

• Regular cars can make it — but only with experienced drivers.
• Common challenges: engine overheating, brake failure, and altitude sickness.
• Recommended only during April to November (snow blocks it during winters).

Even Ladakh’s Gata Loops and Khardung La climbs pale in comparison to Zuluk’s density of turns and rapid elevation gain.

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🧱 More SpotGenie Facts That Redefine Roads, Risks & Records

• India’s Highest Motorable Road: Umling La – Altitude, Adventure, and Engineering Feat
• India’s Oldest Operational Bridge Still in Use Today – Loha Pul, Delhi
• India’s Longest Toll Plaza – Khalapur on Mumbai–Pune Expressway
• India’s Shortest National Highway Is Just 5 Km Long
• Get SpotGenie – Stay Reachable Even on India’s Most Remote Roads

This article is part of the SpotGenie Fact series — revealing India's wildest, highest, and most awe-inspiring mobility challenges from road to ridge.