How to drive to the summit of Lame La in Ngari Prefecture
China, asia
37 km
4,832 m
extreme
Year-round
Lame La is a seriously high mountain pass, hitting a whopping 4,832m (15,853ft) above sea level in the Ngari Prefecture of China.
You'll find this beast straddling the border between Gar County (formerly Senge Tsangpo County) and Rutog County, nestled in western Tibet.
The road itself? That's the 219 National Road, aka the Tibet–Xinjiang Highway. It was a labor of love, built between 1951 and 1957 but finally fully paved in 2013.
This epic stretch is 37km (23 miles) long, running roughly north-south from Lamei (Gar County) to Qukang (Rutog County).
Heads up: this journey is not for the faint of heart! You're heading into remote territory. The scenery? Absolutely breathtaking, but also seriously inhospitable. Think long stretches without water or food, multiple high passes, and potentially weeks without a proper shower. Nighttime temperatures can plummet to –25°C or lower! There are truck stops along the way, but pack extra food, a sleeping bag, and even a tent, just in case. Despite feeling like you're in the middle of nowhere, the G219 actually winds past some significant historical and religious sites.
Also known as the “Sky Road,” be prepared for altitude. You’ll be hanging out above 5,000m! Unacclimatized? This can be dangerous, so check the weather forecast before you go. Tibet throws down harsh winters with extreme cold and constant winds. The weather changes quickly, so always be prepared for wind and cold. Winter travel is generally a no-go because of heavy snowfall and road closures. Monsoon season (July-August) brings heavy rain, making self-driving a challenge. And FYI, internet access in China can be limited, so some sites might be blocked.
Where is it?
How to drive to the summit of Lame La in Ngari Prefecture is located in China (asia). Coordinates: 30.1812, 106.2613
Road Details
- Country
- China
- Continent
- asia
- Length
- 37 km
- Max Elevation
- 4,832 m
- Difficulty
- extreme
- Coordinates
- 30.1812, 106.2613
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