
How long is China National Highway 217?
China, asia
1,753 km
3,538 m
moderate
Year-round
Get ready for an epic adventure on China National Highway 217 (G217) in southwest Xinjiang! This newly paved route stretches 1,753 km (1,089 mi) through some seriously stunning landscapes. Starting in Altay, a city in northern Xinjiang, you'll journey through the vast Taklamakan Desert, framed by the Kunlun, Pamir, and Tian Shan mountain ranges.
The section between Dushanzi and Kuqa, crossing the Tianshan Mountains, is a highlight. Just be aware, this high-altitude pass tops out at 3,538m (11,607ft). Due to snow and ice, the G217 is only open from May to October. Keep in mind that vehicles with more than 7 seats are restricted. Watch out for potential mudslides!
Road Details
- Country
- China
- Continent
- asia
- Length
- 1,753 km
- Max Elevation
- 3,538 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
Related Roads in asia
hardHow long is NH 183A in Kerala?
🇮🇳 India
Okay, picture this: you're winding through the lush, green hills of Kerala, South India, on NH 183A. This road is a real rollercoaster – 174 km (108 miles) of pure driving bliss (or terror, depending on your perspective!). You'll be cruising from Kumily to Sasthamkotta, and trust me, your senses will be on overload. Now, a little heads-up: this isn't your average Sunday drive. We're talking thousands of curves, some seriously narrow sections, and inclines that'll make your engine work. You'll climb up to a whopping 1,184m (3,884ft) above sea level, so those views? Absolutely epic. But keep an eye on the weather – a heavy downpour can turn this road into a slippery, landslide-prone hazard. And if you're prone to motion sickness, maybe pack some ginger candies – you'll thank me later!
hardWhere is Salambar Pass?
🇮🇷 Iran
Okay, thrill-seekers, listen up! Salambar Pass in Iran is calling your name! This isn't your average Sunday drive; it's a proper adventure up a narrow, unpaved, and winding road high into the mountains between the Qazvin and Mazandaran provinces. Think Elburz Mountains and imagine yourself near the famed Castle of the Assassins. This serpentine road climbs dramatically, revealing dizzying drop-offs to one side. The pass itself is a decent length, connecting Shahrestan to the south with Pichebon up north. At the summit, you'll find the Pichebon Carvansaray, a small, abandoned relic from the Safavid era. It's a fantastic spot to soak in the panoramic mountain views, imagining travelers of old stopping for rest and refreshment. The well-preserved caravansary is a testament to the historical importance of this route, even when traversed only by mule. Heads up, though: driving here demands respect. Unpredictable weather, especially at night, plus the absence of guardrails and some reckless drivers, mean you need to keep your wits about you. Also, the security situation in this region can be unpredictable, so definitely do your research beforehand. Still, for experienced adventurers, the raw beauty and history make Salambar Pass an unforgettable destination!
hardS201, a road through the mountains
🇨🇳 China
Okay, adventure seekers, buckle up for S201 Provincial Road in southeastern Tibet! This isn't just a road; it's a 226 km (140-mile) ribbon of engineering awesomeness that winds its way from Rawu village (right off the legendary G318, the Tibet-Sichuan highway) all the way south to Xiazayü, practically knocking on India's Arunachal Pradesh border. You'll be snaking along the Sang River for much of the trip, soaking in incredible views. But the real kicker? You'll be summiting a pass at a whopping 4,817m (15,803ft)! Yep, that altitude is no joke, and neither is the weather up here, so be prepared for anything. Although paved, this high mountain road can be challenging. And did I mention the breathtaking views of Ranwu Lake? Trust me, the scenery is worth the thinner air, but remember to take it slow and steady. This is a high-altitude trek, and the lack of oxygen is a serious factor!
hardA road with countless curves to the summit of Pele La
🇧🇹 Bhutan
Okay, buckle up, adventure lovers! Pele La Pass in Bhutan's Wangdue Phodrang District is an absolute must-do if you're craving breathtaking heights and stunning scenery. We're talking a whopping 3,423m (11,230ft) above sea level – seriously high up there! This epic route carves its way through the Black Mountains, which divide western and central Bhutan, so you're basically crossing a geographical boundary. Keep an eye out for the chorten and prayer flags marking the pass. And if you're incredibly lucky with the weather (clear days are a rarity), you might just spot Mount Jhomolhari (7,314m) and Jichu Drakye (6,989m) in the distance. For the hardcore adventurers, a super steep and narrow gravel track at the summit climbs even higher (3,568m/11,706ft) to a radio/TV Repeater Station—4x4 high-clearance vehicles only for that one! The main road itself, the Bumthang-Ura Highway, stretches for 120km (75 miles) between Wangdue Phodrang and Trongsa. Be warned, though: the pavement is rough, and there are gravel sections. Plus, it's seriously steep with what feels like a million turns! Built in the 90s, it’s a long, winding climb along sheer rock faces. And remember, this road is narrow, so if you get carsick easily, maybe have some remedies ready. Ice and snow are also potential travel companions!