The Most Dangerous Roads in The World
Every road is unique. Driving on some roads can be a pleasure because of the scenic surroundings, while on others it can be tedious and mundane. But, there are quite a few roads in the world which provide a harrowing experience to drivers because of the dangers they present. Here, we bring to you ten most dangerous roads in the world.
The Karakoram Highway (Pakistan-occupied Kashmir)
Stretching some 810 miles, the Karakoram Highway connects Pakistan and China and passes through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. The highway treats the traveler with marvelous sites such as the Nanga Parbat, glaciers, and some majestic mountains. Among the highest paved roads in the world, this highway is a popular tourist attraction. But, driving on this highway can at times also be dangerous. The highway is prone to floods, landslides, and avalanches, which can occur anytime. Even though the road presents a picturesque view of the surroundings, but traveling on it can be pretty hard for people prone with altitude sickness.
Guoliang Tunnel (China)
Located in China, the Guoliang Tunnel is a narrow tunnel, which is around .75 miles in length, 13 feet in width, and 16 feet in height. Carved in the mountain, it requires a high level of concentration to drive on this road. One simple error can result in a fatal accident which can see the vehicle plunging several feet. Though not for the faint-hearted, the Guoliang Tunnel comprises 30 windows which provides the traveler with enchanting views of the Taihang Mountain.
Fairy Meadows Road (Pakistan-occupied Kashmir)
Located in Gilgit-Baltistan region of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, Fairy Meadows Road is a 10-mile long road. Though the road gives the travelers a magnificent glimpse of the picturesque surroundings, it is still among the most dangerous roads in the world. The mountain road is unstable and narrow and as it does not have any guardrails, the drivers have to remain alert all through the journey. One wrong step and the driver can plunge thousands of feet to his/her death.
North Yungas Road/ The Road of Death (Bolivia)
Located in Bolivia, the North Yungas Road is a 43-mile long road that connects La Paz and Coroico. The road has been nicknamed ‘The Road of Death’ because of the large number of travelers that are killed in accidents on the road. According to a 2006 estimate, around 300 travelers every year lose their lives on the road. The road is extremely narrow and occasionally gets wider than 10 feet. Landslides, fog, cliffs, and cascades further make driving on the road an unnerving experience. While driving down the road you would encounter cross markings at some places, a grim reminder of the vehicles that fell from these spots.
James W. Dalton Highway (the United States)
Located in the Alaska, the United States, the James W. Dalton Highway is a 414-mile long road. The fact that there are only three towns along this vast stretch, makes this highway among the most isolated roads in the United States. Conditions on the road are not favorable. This road is made up of a variety of materials ranging from simple gravel to concrete and in winters, the road freezes. Meanwhile those traveling on the road are advised to keep sufficient amount of supplies such as food, fuel, medicines and survival gear, because in case of an emergency, immediate help would not be available due to the road’s isolation.
BR-116 (Brazil)
Situated in Brazil, the BR-116 is a 2,790-mile long highway that connects Fortaleza and Jaguarão. Many accidents have occurred on this long stretch earning BR-116 the nickname of the ‘Highway of Death’. Unstable weather conditions further make driving on this road tough. Not only is the highway poorly maintained but at some places there are narrow single lanes with two way traffic. As hundreds of trucks ply on the highway on a daily basis, the road quickly wears down leading to the creation of potholes.
Skippers Canyon Road (New Zealand)
Skippers Canyon Road is located in New Zealand and is a tourist attraction. The road is located amidst picturesque surroundings and is among the country’s scenic roads. However, driving on it can be dangerous because it is narrow and steep and is mostly one way. An error by driver can lead to a fall of several hundred feet.
Atlantic Ocean Road (Norway)
The Atlantic Ocean Road is an approximately 5.2-mile long road and is one of Norway’s most famous attractions. It is noted for its breathtaking scenic surroundings. The road passes over the river, thus at times driving on the road can also become dangerous, especially during storms. When the sea gets rough, the strong waves often splash on the roads scaring the drivers through fear of being swept away into the sea.
Stelvio Pass Road (Italy)
Located in Italy, the Stelvio Pass Road is one of the highest mountain roads in the world. Though the road lies amidst beautiful landscapes, driving on this road is a bit tough and requires a lot of experience. The road is zig zag and comprises a number of hairpins turns. So, if a driver is not alert, he will surely find himself in trouble. It is said that from Prato and Bormio, climbing is the most tough. In the winters the road can get icy. One wrong move and you are done.
Luxor-al-Hurghada Road (Egypt)
Located in Egypt, Luxor-al-Hurghada Road connects Luxor and Hurghada. It is among the most dangerous roads because of the numerous bandits and terrorists who patrol the road at night. Drivers who have no choice but to drive on the road keep their headlights off to avoid being spotted by the bandits. Though this may help remain concealed from the bandits but little or no visibility does lead to fatal road accidents. It is better to avoid this road, especially at night.
Know More: World Countries Road Maps