India is planning an ambitious railway project through the Himalayas that could put the country on the global railway map. The proposed 489-km Bilaspur-Manali-Leh railway line, connecting Himachal Pradesh with Ladakh, could feature the world’s highest railway station at an altitude of approximately 5,256 metres (17,244 feet) above sea level. If built as planned, it would surpass China’s Tanggula railway station, which currently holds the record at around 5,068 metres. Scroll down to know more.
India’s World-Largest Railway Station Could Break China’s World Record
The project is estimated to cost approximately ₹1.31 lakh crore, according to its Detailed Project Report (DPR). While the Railway Ministry has completed the survey and prepared the DPR, the project is yet to receive construction approval. The proposed station is planned beneath the Tanglang La mountain pass in Ladakh, according to a report by The Times of India. At an elevation of around 5,256 metres, it would be nearly 188 metres higher than China’s Tanggula railway station on the Qinghai-Tibet Railway.
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However, building a railway station at this altitude will require extensive engineering work. The region experiences extreme weather and presents significant geographical challenges, making construction considerably more complex than developing a road.
489-Km Railway Line To Pass Through 270 Km Of Tunnels
The proposed corridor will run from Bilaspur through Sundernagar, Mandi, Manali, Sissu, Darcha, Keylong, Sarchu, Pang, Rumtse, Upshi and Kharu before reaching Leh. Around 270 km of the 489-km route is expected to pass through tunnels, meaning more than half the railway line could run underground. Beyond improving passenger connectivity, the project has strategic importance. Ladakh is a sensitive border region, and its connectivity currently depends largely on roads and air transport. The Manali-Leh highway can face disruptions due to heavy snowfall and harsh winter conditions. A railway link could provide another route for transporting passengers, essential supplies and equipment.
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Despite its potential, the project remains at the planning stage. It will require financial investment, engineering assessments and statutory clearances before construction can begin. The project has also faced land acquisition hurdles. In October 2026, the Himachal Pradesh High Court quashed a preliminary land acquisition notification, citing non-compliance with statutory requirements for extending the deadline to issue the declaration. There is currently no confirmed construction or completion timeline. If approved and completed as proposed, the railway line could significantly improve connectivity to Ladakh and potentially give India the world’s highest railway station.
Cover Image Courtesy: Wikimedia Commons
FAQs
Is Leh Ladakh safe for girls?
Yes, Leh-Ladakh is widely considered one of the safest regions in India for women traveling solo or in all-girls groups.
What is the best time to travel to Leh, Ladakh?
The best time to visit Leh-Ladakh is June to September, when the weather is warm and dry, major mountain passes are clear, and road trips via Manali and Srinagar are fully open.
Is Ladakh part of Kashmir?
Ladakh is no longer part of Jammu and Kashmir; it became a separate, directly administered Union Territory of India on October 31, 2019.
