
G217 is a Chinese remote paved road
China, asia
1,753 km
3,538 m
moderate
Year-round
Hey adventurers! Get ready for the ride of your life on China National Highway 217 (G217) in southwest Xinjiang!
This epic, recently paved road stretches for 1,753 km (1,089 mi) through some seriously stunning (and challenging) terrain. Starting in Altay, Xinjiang, it plunges you straight into the heart of the Taklamakan Desert โ think massive sand dunes stretching as far as the eye can see, framed by the majestic Kunlun, Pamir, and Tian Shan mountains. The Dushanzi-to-Kuqa section, also known as Duku Highway, is an absolute beast, carving its way through the Tian Shan range. Finally, you'll roll into Hotan, a vibrant city in southwestern Xinjiang.
Heads up: you'll be hitting an elevation of 3,538m (11,607ft) at Haxilegen Pass! Due to snow and ice, this highway's only open from May to October. Also, larger vehicles (more than 7 seats) aren't allowed, and watch out for potential mudslides. But trust me, the views are worth it! Prepare to be amazed!
Where is it?
G217 is a Chinese remote paved road is located in China (asia). Coordinates: 38.9723, 103.0403
Road Details
- Country
- China
- Continent
- asia
- Length
- 1,753 km
- Max Elevation
- 3,538 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Coordinates
- 38.9723, 103.0403
Related Roads in asia
extremeWhere is Chang La?
๐ฎ๐ณ India
Chang La โ get ready for some serious altitude! We're talking 17,631 feet above sea level in Jammu and Kashmir, India. This Himalayan pass, nestled in the Leh district of Ladakh, is no joke; altitude sickness is real, so keep your visit under 20 minutes. The road, connecting Leh to Pangong Lake and acting as the gateway to the Changthang Plateau, is mostly paved, though you'll hit some dirt patches. Any vehicle can make it, though! Just be prepared for steep climbs โ some sections hit a 14% gradient. The Indian Army keeps this pass in shape (it's close to the Chinese border), and snow sticks around all year. Hit it up between mid-May and October for the best weather, with May and June being prime time. What to bring? Layers, my friend! Warm clothes, covered ears, and sturdy shoes are musts. Sip warm water, too. A medical kit with altitude sickness meds is also a good call. This 44-mile stretch from Karu to Durbuk isn't just about bragging rights. The views of snow-capped peaks are unreal. Plus, it's a great jumping-off point for Pangong Lake, Nubra Valley, Tso Moriri Lake, and Hermis Gompa. Even with the biting winds, Chang La's stunning vistas make it an adventure you won't forget!
extremeThe road to Murgum La is not for the faint of heart
๐ฎ๐ณ 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 โ 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 โ 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.
hardHow long is Khaltaro Valley Road?
๐ต๐ฐ Pakistan
Deep in the Gilgit district of Pakistan's Northern Areas lies the Khaltaro Valley Road, and let me tell you, it's not for the faint of heart. This narrow, gravel path, clinging to the mountainside, is a real adventure โ if you're brave enough! We're talking serious drops on either side and gradients hitting up to 15%! This 14.1km (8.7 mi) stretch connects the villages of Sassi, Dache (Dassu), and Khaltaro within the Khaltaro Valley. Get ready for hairpin turns galore and views that will either thrill you or send you into a spiral of vertigo! The scenery is epic, with mountains stretching as far as the eye can see. You'll be following the Darchan River, and if you're lucky, maybe even spot some of the emeralds, aquamarines, and fluorite crystals Khaltaro is famous for. Just a heads-up: this road isnโt passable year-round. Expect snow to shut it down for seven or eight months. Starting in Sassi at 1,401m above sea level, the road climbs to 2,577m in Khaltaro, a hefty elevation gain of 1,176m. This baby is steep, with an average gradient of 8.34% and sections hitting a wild 15%. Definitely bring a 4WD and, ideally, a driver who knows what theyโre doing!
hardHow long is 24-Zig Road in China?
๐จ๐ณ China
Okay, buckle up road trip lovers! I've got a crazy one for you. Picture this: you're cruising through Guizhou Province in China, near a town called Qinglong. Suddenly, the road throws you into a frenzy of hairpin turns โ *twenty-four* of them to be exact! This is the legendary 24-Zig Road. This crazy, curvy climb is only about 4km (2.5 miles) long, but don't let the short distance fool you. Built on a seriously steep 60-degree slope, this "S" shaped road was built back in 1935. It's only 5 meters wide and climbs like crazy! The road climbs 264 meters (866 feet), taking you from 1,296 meters (4,252 feet) to 1,560 meters (5,118 feet) above sea level. The average gradient is around 8%. Back in the day, this unpaved road was a vital supply line. It was so gnarly that drivers were literally praying before they even attempted it! Word is, there were plenty of overturned trucks back in the day. While it's not actively used anymore, you might spot a motorbike or three-wheeler braving the climb. And hey, if you need a break from the twists and turns, there's a sightseeing platform across the valley with an incredible view of the whole zig-zagging masterpiece.