India’s diverse terrain, from the towering Himalayas to rugged hills and expansive plateaus, has always posed challenges for connectivity. Over the years, engineers have carved out road tunnels that not only reduce travel time but also ensure safer, all-weather access to remote regions. Here are 10 of India’s longest and most significant road tunnels that are reshaping travel across the country.
Zoji-La Tunnel (Jammu and Kashmir)
Stretching 14.2 km under the Zoji-La Pass, this tunnel is being constructed primarily for strategic purposes. Located near the Line of Control, it will drastically cut travel time between Srinagar and Kargil from three hours to just 15 minutes. Designed as a “smart tunnel” with state-of-the-art technology, it ensures year-round connectivity even during heavy snowfalls, supporting both tourism and defense supply routes. On completion, it is expected to be Asia’s longest bi-directional road tunnel.
Sela Tunnel (Arunachal Pradesh)
The 12.04 km Sela Tunnel in Arunachal Pradesh passes through the Sela Pass along NH-13. Comprising two tunnels of 1,790 meters and 475 meters each, it will connect Tawang with Guwahati more efficiently. Once complete, it will reduce travel distance between Dirang and Tawang by 10 km, offering an all-weather route through this mountainous region.
Syama Tunnel (Jammu and Kashmir)
Also known as the Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee Tunnel, this 9.28 km highway tunnel on NH44 has been Asia’s longest highway tunnel since 2017. Connecting Chenani and Nashri, it reduces travel time and distance between Jammu and Srinagar. Featuring India’s first transverse ventilation system, the tunnel supports strategic, commercial, and tourist travel while navigating the difficult Himalayan terrain.
Atal Tunnel, Rohtang (Himachal Pradesh)
Previously the Rohtang Tunnel, the 8.8 km Atal Tunnel under the Rohtang Pass on the Leh-Manali Highway ensures all-weather access to Lahaul-Spiti and Leh. It cuts travel time from 5–6 hours to just 30 minutes and remains open year-round, bypassing the heavy snow closures that historically blocked the route. Named after former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, it is one of the world’s highest tunnels above 3,000 meters.
Banihal-Qazigund Road Tunnel (Jammu and Kashmir)
This 8.5 km double-tube tunnel will connect Banihal and Qazigund along NH44, easing congestion experienced on the older Jawahar Tunnel. Expected to open soon, it will reduce the travel distance by 16 km while enhancing strategic and commercial connectivity in the region.
Z-Morh Tunnel (Jammu and Kashmir)
At 6.5 km, the Z-Morh Tunnel connects Srinagar with Kargil and facilitates year-round access to Ladakh. Situated near Sonamarg, it will boost tourism and reduce travel time, while ensuring safer, all-weather connectivity in high-altitude Himalayan areas.
Aut Tunnel (Himachal Pradesh)
Part of NH21 on the Chandigarh-Manali route, the 3 km Aut Tunnel near Larji Dam serves as a crucial gateway to Kullu-Manali. Opened in 2006, it was among Asia’s longest tunnels at the time, offering a faster, safer alternative to narrow mountain roads.
Ghat Ki Guni Tunnel (Rajasthan)
A 2.8 km twin-tube tunnel on the Jaipur-Agra Highway, Ghat Ki Guni Tunnel provides an alternative eastern route into Jaipur. Operational since 2013, it is known for scenic views and well-designed interior lighting, combining aesthetics with utility.
Jawahar Tunnel (Jammu and Kashmir)
Also called Banihal Tunnel, this 2.5 km tunnel under the Banihal Pass has been operational since 1956. It connects Banihal and Qazigund, ensuring year-round access between Srinagar and Jammu. Modern upgrades include a two-way ventilation system, CCTV monitoring, and temperature sensors.
Bhatan Tunnel (Maharashtra)
Stretching over 1 km on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway, the six-lane Bhatan Tunnel is part of a series of six tunnels covering more than 5 km. Operational since 2000, it combines engineering innovation with scenic views of the Sahyadri ranges, making it both functional and visually striking.
From strategic military needs to boosting tourism and commerce, India’s road tunnels have transformed travel across challenging terrains. Each of these tunnels not only shortens distances but also ensures safer, faster, and more reliable access, reflecting the nation’s growing expertise in modern infrastructure development.
