A remote unpaved road to Mata La
China, asia
40.6 km
4.5 m
hard
Year-round
Okay, adventure seekers, listen up! Deep in southern Tibet, where Comai and Cona counties meet, you'll find Mata La, a seriously high mountain pass topping out at 5,348 meters (that's 17,545 feet!). About 22 miles northwest of the stunning Naryong Co. lake, this baby is accessed via the G219, and the road to the top? Completely unpaved. We're talking rugged, real-deal exploring here!
This isn't a Sunday drive, folks. You're in serious mountain territory, scaling to insane altitudes, so that thin air is a real thing. Altitude sickness and crazy weather are always in play. The entire route sits above 4,500 meters, so be prepared!
The pass road stretches for about 40.6 km (25.22 miles), heading north-southeast from Riru until it hits the 202 Provincial Road (S202). Keep in mind this area is really only accessible in the summer months — and even then, don't expect snow-free conditions until late June or July. Amenities? Forget about it. Electricity, medical assistance, running water? Rare as hen's teeth. Western toilets? Dream on! But hey, that's part of the adventure, right?
Where is it?
A remote unpaved road to Mata La is located in China (asia). Coordinates: 36.9386, 105.7356
Road Details
- Country
- China
- Continent
- asia
- Length
- 40.6 km
- Max Elevation
- 4.5 m
- Difficulty
- hard
- Coordinates
- 36.9386, 105.7356
Related Roads in asia
hardKotal-e Ghar Jawin
🌍 Afghanistan
Okay, thrill-seekers, buckle up for Kotal-e Ghar Jawin in the wild Badakhshan Province of northeastern Afghanistan! This isn't your average Sunday drive; we're talking about a high-mountain pass soaring to a dizzying 3,769 meters (12,365 feet). Gharjawin pass is one of Afghanistan's highest roads, but hold on tight – the road to the top is a rough mix of gravel, rocks, and bumps. Seriously, one wrong move here could have major consequences. Speaking of consequences, this route is usually snowed in from October to June. A 4x4 isn't just recommended; it's essential! The steep climb demands skill, patience, and a good dose of tolerance for heights. Plus, you'll want to check the current situation on the ground before committing, as it's unclear who controls the area. Contacting your embassy in Kabul for the latest intel is a smart move. This is an adventure for experienced drivers only!
hardHow to get by car to Shemshak, the second largest ski area in Iran?
🇮🇷 Iran
Okay, so you're heading to Shemshak, Iran, a ski resort perched way up high at 2,600 meters (8,530 feet)! They say it's the second biggest ski area in the whole country. Built back in '58, this place is nestled in the stunning Alborz Mountains. The road in, called 425, is fully paved, so no worries there. But be warned, it's a *steep* climb with some seriously narrow bits. But hey, the views are worth it! You'll pass through some cool little towns, perfect for a pit stop. And pro tip: you absolutely HAVE to try the kebabs along the way. Seriously amazing. The road itself stretches for 52 km (32 miles), running from Kushkak in the south to Lavasan in the north. And guess what? Keep going past Shemshak, and you'll hit another awesome ski resort called Dizin. Road trip, anyone?
hardYangtianshan Panshan Road is not recommended if you’re prone to car sickness
🇨🇳 China
Okay, picture this: you're cruising through the heart of China's Shandong Peninsula, in Linqu County, ready for an adventure. You're heading for the Yangtianshan Jiulong Panpanshan Highway, a totally paved ribbon of pure driving bliss hidden away in the Yangtianshan Natural Scenic Area. This isn't just any road – it's a 3.5km (2.17 miles) rollercoaster with a whopping 12 hairpin turns that'll have you grinning from ear to ear as you climb to the mountain's peak. Fair warning, though, this baby is steep, hitting a maximum gradient of 13% in places! But trust me, the challenge is SO worth it. As you ascend, you'll be treated to insane views, especially when the flowers are blooming and the red maples are putting on a show. It's a visual feast that'll make you want to stop at every turn...if you can find a safe place to do so! Get ready for an unforgettable driving experience.
hardWelcome to hell: Khaltaro Valley Road is a scary drive
🇵🇰 Pakistan
# Khaltaro Valley Road: Pakistan's Heart-Pounding Alpine Adventure Nestled in the Gilgit district of Pakistan's Northern Areas, the Khaltaro Valley Road is genuinely one of the most intense driving experiences on the planet. Picture this: a narrow gravel ribbon clinging to mountainsides, tilted at up to 15%, with stomach-churning drops plummeting down on both sides. Buckle up—this one's not for the faint of heart! This 14.1km (8.7 mile) route connects the small towns of Sassi, Dache (Dassu), and Khaltaro, and it's a masterclass in nerve-wracking mountain driving. Hairpin turns multiply like rabbits—you'll lose count. Your stomach will lurch with every switchback, while sweeping vistas of the Haramosh massif (part of the mighty Karakoram range) unfold before your eyes. If you're prone to vertigo, seriously reconsider this one. The road shadows the beautiful Darchan River and winds through terrain so rugged and remote that snow blankets the region for seven to eight months yearly. The elevation gain is no joke: starting at 1,401m in Sassi and climbing to 2,577m in Khaltaro means a 1,176m ascent with an average gradient of 8.34% (with punishing 15% sections). This is legitimate 4WD territory. You'll need a serious vehicle and an equally serious driver with genuine mountain experience. Pro tip: Khaltaro's famous for emeralds, aquamarines, and fluorite crystals—if you survive the drive, you'll have bragging rights *and* potential souvenirs!