SSC Selection Post 2025 PYQ — Question 19

SSC Selection Post - Matriculation Level - 29th August 2025 - Shift 3 • General Awareness • Q19

Name the Indian state that is known as the 'Land of High Passes'?

Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: C

Explanation

Correct Answer

Ladakh

Explanation

Ladakh is widely known as the 'Land of High Passes.' The name itself reflects its geography; in the local Tibetan language, 'La' means pass and 'Dak' means land, translating literally to the 'Land of High Passes.' This Union Territory of India is home to some of the highest motorable mountain passes in the world, including the famous Khardung La, Chang La, and Zoji La. These passes have historically served as crucial transit points along ancient trade routes connecting India with Central Asia and Tibet.

Key Points

Ladakh’s unique high-altitude desert landscape is characterized by its dramatic mountain scenery, stark plains, and Buddhist monasteries. While other states listed in the options—such as Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Sikkim—are also mountainous and feature significant passes, the specific epithet 'Land of High Passes' is uniquely and historically associated with the Ladakh region due to its position in the trans-Himalayan zone.

Important Questions and Answers

Question: Which famous mountain pass in Ladakh is often cited as one of the highest motorable roads in the world?

Answer: Khardung La.

Question: What is the meaning of the word 'La' in the local language of the Ladakh region?

Answer: Pass.