
Bayi Daban, courage is required to drive to the summit
China, asia
50.6 km
5,366 m
moderate
Year-round
Okay, adventure seekers, listen up! Bayi Daban – or Lingkyithang La as the locals call it – is a seriously high mountain pass straddling the border between Xinjiang and Tibet, China. We're talking a lung-busting 5,366 meters (17,604 feet) above sea level!
The road? Well, let's just say it's "rustic." Think completely unpaved, but mostly straight, so brace yourself for a bumpy, yet scenic ride. Be prepared for very basic conditions: electricity, hot water, and Western-style toilets are pretty much non-existent up here, so come prepared.
Starting from China National Highway 219, this 50.6 km (31.44 miles) climb rewards you with insane views of Songmuxi Co, a stunning alpine lake. The road also leads towards Salikyila Genzhi Tso (also known as Surigh Yilganing Kol), so keep your camera ready. Just a heads-up: this journey is definitely not for the faint of heart, so check conditions before you go!
Where is it?
Bayi Daban, courage is required to drive to the summit is located in China (asia). Coordinates: 36.4383, 101.5969
Road Details
- Country
- China
- Continent
- asia
- Length
- 50.6 km
- Max Elevation
- 5,366 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Coordinates
- 36.4383, 101.5969
Related Roads in asia
hardIs Shandur Pass in Pakistan unpaved?
🇵🇰 Pakistan
Okay, adventure awaits on the Shandur Pass! This high-altitude pass sits at a whopping 12,230 feet, right on the border of Chitral and Ghizer districts in Gilgit Baltistan, Pakistan. The "road" – and I use that term loosely – stretches for about 40 miles between Barsat and Mastuj. Forget smooth tarmac; we're talking rough gravel that'll have you crawling in first and second gear. You'll definitely need a 4x4 for this trek. Expect incredibly steep climbs and descents, complete with hairpin turns, all set within a stunning, remote, and rugged landscape. Seriously, it's often called the ‘Top of the World’ for a reason. Keep an eye out for small streams crossing the path! The pass is a haven for hikers and trekkers, but it's most famous for something else: the Shandur Polo Festival. Every July, this place transforms into the highest polo ground on earth! The tradition started in 1936, and it's quite the spectacle. Just remember, this isn't a year-round adventure. The pass is usually snow-covered in winter, so plan your trip between late April and early November. And be prepared to be amazed by the incredible hospitality of the locals; they're some of the most resilient and generous people you'll ever meet.
extremeWhat are the highest roads in Pakistan?
🇵🇰 Pakistan
Pakistan! Picture this: a country slammed up against the Arabian Sea, right where East meets West. It’s all wild contrasts, where you’ve got India, Iran, Afghanistan, and China as your neighbors. But let's be real, Pakistan is the real MVP for adventure. The Himalayas, Karakoram, and Hindukush mountain ranges basically own the skyline here. We're talking seriously HUGE peaks, many over 7,000 meters. All this extreme altitude means the roads are something else—challenging, heart-stopping, but oh-so-spectacular. Get ready for views that'll blow your mind, as you snake through the most dramatic mountains on Earth. It's a journey you won't forget!
hardWhere is the Hor La pass located?
🇨🇳 China
Alright, adventurers, buckle up for Hor La, a seriously high mountain pass in southeastern Tibet, China! We're talking some serious altitude here, so be prepared to catch your breath (literally!). You'll find it north of the stunning Na Riyongcuo lake, acting as a connector between remote villages in the Shannan region. The drive itself is about 33.3 km (or 20.69 miles) between a couple of local towns, so set aside about an hour to soak it all in. The great news? The road (S202) is paved! No crazy off-roading required – your average car can handle it. Just be ready for those classic mountain twists, turns, and constant climbs. Now, a word of warning: at this elevation, the air is thin! Altitude sickness is a real thing, so come prepared. Think about bringing some supplemental oxygen and make sure you're properly acclimated before you tackle this beauty. But trust me, the views are SO worth it. Get ready for some seriously epic scenery!
extremeThe road to Murgum La is not for the faint of heart
🇮🇳 India
Okay, adventure seekers, listen up! Murgum La, sitting pretty high up in the Leh district of Ladakh, India, is calling your name. We're talking a lofty 4,397m (14,425ft) above sea level! This hidden gem in the Zanskar range, also called Margum La, Marugam La, Murugan La, Nietukse La, is a completely unpaved rollercoaster. Built recently, it's still a bit rough around the edges. Word to the wise: scope out the weather before you head out – things can get dicey real quick. Expect a wild ride with tons of hairpin turns and splashy water crossings! This 90km (55.92 miles) stretch, winding through the Zanskar valley from Sumda Dho to Lingshed, is a visual feast. And get this – they're planning to extend it another 52km towards Dipling! But hey, before you commit, get the latest intel on road conditions. Oh, and pro tip? 4x4 is a MUST.