Is the road to Kori La paved?

Is the road to Kori La paved?

Bhutan, asia

Length

N/A

Elevation

N/A

Difficulty

moderate

Best Season

Year-round

Okay, buckle up, road trip lovers, because the Bumthang-Ura Highway (PNH1) to Kori La is a wild ride! This isn't your average Sunday drive, folks. We're talking a (mostly) paved journey, built back in the 90s, that stretches from Chamkhar to Trashigang.

Now, I said paved...but "paved" is a generous term. Be prepared for some seriously rough patches, maybe even some gravel surprises! But hey, that's part of the adventure, right?

This road hugs the landscape for , winding its way through some seriously stunning scenery. Think deep, lush forests, bursting with rhododendron trees – nature's eye candy at its finest!

Heads up: Kori La sits high up, so expect it to be shrouded in mist a lot of the time. And because we're talking a significant elevation, snow can definitely cause closures, especially in winter. It's strange that in April and May there is no snow at this height. So, keep an eye on the forecast before you go.

But when it's clear, and the road is open, the views are absolutely worth the white-knuckle driving. Just take it slow, be mindful of the narrow sections, and soak it all in!

Share this road

Road Details

Country
Bhutan
Continent
asia
Difficulty
moderate

Related Roads in asia

How long is Guoliang Tunnel?extreme

How long is Guoliang Tunnel?

🇨🇳 China

Deep in the Taihang Mountains of Henan province, China, lies the legendary Guoliang Tunnel. Carved into the cliffs, this 1.2-kilometer (0.75-mile) passage is a testament to human ingenuity and sheer determination. Back in the early 70s, villagers took matters into their own hands, spending five years armed with hammers and chisels to create this link to the outside world. The tunnel stands 5 meters (16 ft) tall and 4 meters (13 ft) wide. What makes it special? Over 30 "windows" punctuate the tunnel walls, offering glimpses into the breathtaking gully below and letting light stream in. These openings, used during construction to clear rubble, frame the landscape in round and square shapes of varying sizes. Be warned, this isn't a Sunday drive! Guoliang Tunnel demands your full attention. Its twists, turns, and unexpected dips can be unnerving, and the narrow passage barely allows for one-way traffic. Locals will tell you, one mistake here could spell disaster. Despite the challenges, the reward is well worth it. This scenic route is a major draw for tourists, offering unparalleled views and a glimpse into a remarkable feat of human endeavor. Open year-round, Guoliang Tunnel is a must-see for adventurous travelers seeking a thrilling and unforgettable experience. Just remember to keep your eyes on the road and your hands on the wheel!

Is Saser La Pass unpaved?extreme

Is Saser La Pass unpaved?

🇮🇳 India

Okay, adventure seekers, listen up! I've got the scoop on Saser La, a wild pass nestled high in the eastern reaches of Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir, India. We're talking serious altitude here—5,411 meters (17,753 feet)! This isn't your average Sunday drive. Currently, the road (and I use that term loosely) is a 52.3 km (32.49 miles) unpaved mud track stretching between Saser and Sasoma, calling for a sturdy 4x4 with high clearance to even attempt it. Picture yourself bumping along a rough track, braving crazy weather conditions in the heart of the Karakoram range. The views though? Epic! You're basically tracing the steps of ancient caravans that once trekked from Leh to Yarkand. Keep in mind, this route is best tackled in the summer months. But hold on, there's a game-changer on the horizon! The Border Roads Organisation is building a brand-new paved road from Sasoma to Gapsam near Murgo, right through this glaciated landscape. This Sasoma–Sasser La Road will be about 56 km long, linking the Nubra Valley to the strategically crucial Daulat Beg Oldi sector. What’s even better? It’ll shave off a huge chunk of travel time from Leh to DBO. The engineers are up against a challenge like no other: building on unstable glaciers and moraines. It's going to be an engineering marvel! So, keep Saser La on your radar – it's about to get a whole lot more accessible!

Is the road to Kotal-e Korgah unpaved?hard

Is the road to Kotal-e Korgah unpaved?

🌍 Afghanistan

Okay, adventurers, listen up! Kotal-e Korgah, nestled in the heart of Afghanistan's Daykundi province, is a mountain pass that'll test your mettle. We're talking serious elevation here, topping out at 3,204 meters (10,511 feet)! Forget smooth asphalt – this is a purely unpaved, rugged experience. The road is super steep and so narrow that passing another vehicle is pretty much out of the question. You'll definitely need a 4x4 for this one. Oh, and did I mention the potential for heavy snow? Yep, Mother Nature can throw anything at you up here. The pass itself stretches for 16.4 kilometers (10.19 miles), connecting Dahane Sarmaqul and Mahmude Khusk in a dramatic south-to-north traverse. Now, a word of caution: traveling to Afghanistan comes with significant risks. The security situation is highly volatile, with ongoing conflict and other threats. Always prioritize your safety.

Driving the scary Wuxi's Token Stone Road in Chongqingextreme

Driving the scary Wuxi's Token Stone Road in Chongqing

🇨🇳 China

Get ready for the ride of your life on Wuxi's Token Stone Road in Chongqing, China! This defiant little road is not for the faint of heart, but the views? Totally worth it. Snaking its way through Minzhu Village in Wuxi County, this wild ride connects the tiny Tian Ping Community to the rest of the world, slicing through the Yintiaoling National Nature Reserve. You'll find it nestled high in the Daba Mountains. Locals call it Wuxi's Token Stone Road (or something similar!), so keep an ear out. Clocking in at just 3.7 kilometers (a little over 2 miles), this adrenaline-pumping route climbs from Tianping Village up to the 201 Provincial Road. The main zigzag section, carved through the stones, is only 453 meters, but those are some intense meters! Paved in 2019 with added cement rails, it might look safe-ish, but don't be fooled. We're talking crazy steep – almost every slope is 20% or higher, and some of those bends? Over 36%! With 18 hairpin turns that will take your breath away (or maybe make you a little carsick), it's easily one of the most challenging and exhilarating roads around. Built in 2012 and paved later, this road is more than just a thrill ride. It's a lifeline for 137 residents from 37 families, giving them vital access to the outside world. This place is an amateur photographer's dream! The steep climbs, insane zigzag structure, and those crazy curves make for some seriously dramatic landscape shots. Now, for the nitty-gritty. This road is STEEP, and those turns are TIGHT. It's rumored that no one's ever made it through without having to readjust. You'll need ALL your concentration here. Trucks, buses, and anyone hauling a trailer? Forget about it. And definitely check conditions before you go! You might even need to put your car in reverse for extra power. First gear is your best friend here. Seriously, don't even THINK about shifting to second until you're at the top. Even with those strategically placed wider corners, it's a nerve-wracking experience, but the views? Unforgettable. This drive will test your skills and leave you with bragging rights for days!