
Anglet Daban: enjoy a road among the clouds
China, asia
229 km
3,189 m
moderate
Year-round
Okay, buckle up for Anglet Daban, a seriously epic pass soaring to 3,189 meters (10,462 feet) in Northern Xinjiang, China! You'll find it snuggled in the Qapqal Xibe Autonomous County, part of the Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture.
This baby's paved the whole way, so no off-roading needed! It's officially known as the S237 provincial road, or the Yizhao highway if you wanna sound like a local. Be warned: it’s steep! The reward is so worth it, though. At the top, there's a parking lot with views that will absolutely blow your mind. Seriously, don’t forget your camera – this is Xinjiang beauty at its finest!
Clocking in at 229 km (142 miles), this road trip stretches from Ili in Northern Xinjiang to the border with Kazakhstan, specifically the Raiymbek District of Almaty Region. Get ready for some thrills and maybe a few white-knuckle moments along the way. Heads up, this road is usually closed from October to May, so plan your trip accordingly!
Where is it?
Anglet Daban: enjoy a road among the clouds is located in China (asia). Coordinates: 37.5762, 104.6085
Road Details
- Country
- China
- Continent
- asia
- Length
- 229 km
- Max Elevation
- 3,189 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Coordinates
- 37.5762, 104.6085
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