Bayi Daban, courage is required to drive to the summit

Bayi Daban, courage is required to drive to the summit

China, asia

Length

50.6 km

Elevation

5,366 m

Difficulty

moderate

Best Season

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

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Road Details

Country
China
Continent
asia
Length
50.6 km
Max Elevation
5,366 m
Difficulty
moderate
Coordinates
36.4383, 101.5969

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