Jalebi bends: 23 hairpin bends on the old road to Fotu La
Jalebi Bends, also known as Jalebi Road or the Old route to Fotu La, is a series of 23 hairpin bends located in the Leh district of Ladakh, India.
What is the Jalebi Bends road like?
The Jalebi Bends road is described as an epic and enthralling drive, a masterpiece of design and engineering featuring 23 hairpin bends that make it quite scenic. However, it is not for the faint-hearted, as the curves are very sharp and difficult to negotiate. The paved road twists and turns tortuously into loops and whorls. It's considered one of the most sensational roads of Ladakh, but drivers must be very cautious due to the steep and sharp loops and the potential for traffic. The road is totally impassable in winters.
How long is the Jalebi Bends road?
This winding mountain drive is 20.5 km (12.73 miles) long, running from Lamayuru down to Khaltse.
Why is it called Jalebi Bends?
The road was named so by Border Roads Organisation workers because the curves of the road resemble that of the sweet dish jalebi. It is also called Hangro Loops.
What are the views like while driving the Jalebi Bends?
The drive strews down a mountainside with precipitous drops and astonishing landscape views beyond. The journey offers very impressive mountain views into the Moon Land. The view below once you climb up the last loop is quite good too.
How high is the Jalebi Bends road?
Set high in the Himalayas Zaskar Range, the road is pretty steep, topping out at 3,626m (11,896ft) above sea level.
What is the significance of the Jalebi Bends road?
It was the main road to the Fotu La mountain pass but has since been bypassed by the new NH1 (Srinagar-Leh Highway). The area is prone to rock slides.
Road suggested by: Jorge Manuel Gómez Sánchez
Pic: Jayaprakashan K P