Driving the dizzying 564 Country Road
China, asia
74 km
4,854 m
hard
Year-round
Alright, adventure junkies, buckle up for Y564, aka 564 Country Road, a real heart-stopper snaking through Zogong County in Tibet! This isn't your average Sunday drive.
We're talking a 74km (46-mile) roller coaster ride that climbs to a dizzying 4,854m (15,925ft) above sea level, up near the Nujiang River. Expect a mix of paved sections and rugged terrain, plus hairpin turns galore. Oh, and did I mention the seriously steep climbs and drops? And let's not forget those dramatic, oh-my-god-don't-look-down drop-offs!
This road links China National Highway 214 to Zhonglinkaxiang, and it’s packed with views that'll leave you breathless (if the altitude doesn't first). So, if you're craving a true test of driving skills and a dose of adrenaline, Y564 is calling your name. Just be prepared for an unforgettable ride!
Road Details
- Country
- China
- Continent
- asia
- Length
- 74 km
- Max Elevation
- 4,854 m
- Difficulty
- hard
Related Roads in asia
extremeTra La, a scary and dangerous journey in Tibet
🇨🇳 China
Okay, adventure junkies, listen up! Tra La Pass in Tibet is calling your name, but only if you’re ready for a serious challenge. We're talking a whopping 5,479 meters (that's nearly 18,000 feet!) above sea level in Xaitongmoin County. The X201, or 201 County Road, is a wild, unpaved route stretching almost 50 kilometers (around 30 miles) from Nadangxiang to Xaitongmoin. You’ll need a 4x4 to conquer this beast! Picture this: insanely steep climbs, thin air, and weather that can change on a dime. Oxygen is definitely a luxury up here, so be prepared for the altitude. Summer’s your best bet to make the trek, but always keep an eye on the conditions. Trust me, the views are totally worth the adrenaline rush!
extremeHow challenging is the road from Kit to Sormoshk?
🇮🇷 Iran
Deep in the Alborz mountains of Iran lies Ashkourat Pass, a seriously high-altitude route topping out at around [elevation] above sea level. You'll find it in the Mazandaran Province, specifically in the Central District of Ramsar County. This isn't just any road; it's one of the highest in Iran, and it's a wild ride through some mind-blowing scenery. This legendary route is a favorite among local overlanders. It's how they connect the lush, green valleys near the Caspian Sea with the drier, more rugged landscapes deeper in the Alborz. Heads up: the weather here is a *major* player. Clouds roll in fast from the coast, and you can get swallowed by a thick "sea of clouds" with zero visibility. Driving here means navigating a narrow track high in the mountains, where the edge of the road and a very steep drop-off can get dangerously close. Alright, let's talk road specifics. The Ashkourat Pass stretches for [length], running from the village of [Kit] to [Sormoshk]. The entire thing is unpaved – think loose gravel, big rocks, and muddy sections lower down. Seriously, a high-clearance 4x4 is a *must*. The track is known for being super narrow, so tight that two vehicles can't pass each other easily. Be prepared to reverse along a cliff edge! And those "dangerous drops"? They're for real. The road clings to the mountainside with zero safety barriers. The climb is steep and relentless, so you'll need a vehicle with a reliable low-range gearbox to keep traction. It's a technical drive that calls for a skilled driver, especially when you're going downhill and risking losing control on the gravel. Because of the altitude and the Caspian Sea nearby, Ashkourat Pass gets hammered with snow. It's usually impassable from late autumn to late spring. Even in summer, sudden rainstorms can turn the dust into a slippery mud pit. Fog is a sneaky danger, so make sure you have good fog lights and definitely don't drive at night. There's nothing between [Kit] and [Sormoshk] – no gas stations, no workshops, nada. You're out in the sticks, so be prepared. Pack recovery gear, extra fuel, and plenty of water. Ashkourat Pass has incredible views of the Alborz peaks and the traditional shepherd huts of the Mazandaran highlands, but it's a route that demands respect and leaves no room for mistakes. If you're looking for the wildest side of the Iranian mountains, this is it.
extremeWhere is the Aizhai Winding Road?
🇨🇳 China
Okay, picture this: you're in China's Hunan province, ready to tackle the Aizhai Winding Road, and trust me, it's a ride you won't forget! This isn't just any road; it's a twisting, turning adventure that climbs up the mountainside, serving up some seriously epic views along the way. So, where exactly is this beast? Head to the western part of Hunan, and you'll find it snaking up the mountain. They've paved it recently, which helps, but don't think it's a walk in the park. It's still a challenge, with a whole lotta steep and bendy bits! We're talking about a road that's only about 6 km in total length, but packs a punch. As you ascend, prepare for stunning views from the highest and most spectacular bridges around, and don't miss the totally Instagrammable 360-degree circular turn about three-quarters of the way up – complete with "China's No. 1 Overpass Bridge!" At the summit, pause to pay your respects at the memorials dedicated to those who built this incredible road. Here's the deal: in less than 100 meters of horizontal distance, you're climbing 440 meters vertically, with slopes that'll keep you on your toes. The road's super narrow in sections, sometimes too tight for two cars to pass! But don't worry, there's a viewing platform with a width of 3 meters, a length of 52 meters, and an area of more than 150 square meters where you can pull over, soak in the scenery, and snap some killer photos. Now, fair warning: this section of the highway is exposed in places, and things can feel a little unsecured. But that's part of the thrill! It honestly feels like you're driving in the sky, with cars appearing above and below as you make your way. Despite its somewhat dangerous reputation, it's usually pretty busy, so you won't be completely alone on your adventure!
hardWhere is Jabal Akhdar?
🌍 Arabian Peninsula
Okay, buckle up for Jabal Akhdar, Oman's "Green Mountain" pass! You'll find this beauty nestled in the Al Hajar range, clocking in at about 44km (27 miles) from Birkat Al Mouz up to Jaylil. Heads up: this climb tops out at a cool 2,312m (that's over 7,500 feet!). The road's paved, mostly in good shape, though it gets a bit tight past Duwaykhilah. Be ready for a bit of a white-knuckle experience, especially with those steep inclines and around 20 hairpin turns! It's a popular climb for the Tour of Oman bike race, so you know it's got some punch. But hey, the views! This road overlooks an incredible gorge, surrounded by the majestic Al Hajar Mountains. Trust me, the scenery is absolutely breathtaking. Just be warned, it can get seriously chilly up there in winter. Get ready for some serious silence and epic views!