Kheriya ancient road is a drive you'll never forget
China, asia
335 km
5,170 m
hard
Year-round
Okay, adventure junkies, buckle up for the Kheriya ancient road – a wild 4x4 ride deep in the Kunlun Mountains of Tibet, China!
This high-altitude stunner, also called the Keriya/Keliya trail, carves its way from Xinjiang to Tibet and has recently opened up. Be warned: it's a mixed bag of pavement and gravel, so leave your sedan at home. This is strictly 4x4 territory! You'll start near Pulu village and eventually hit the Kongka La Highway/S519, not far from Shouxing Lake. Seriously, this route is legendary, throwing all sorts of challenges your way.
We're talking serious elevation here in the Tibetan and Xinjiang Kunluns. You'll crest Liuhuang Daban (5,170m), Tuopolagate Daban (5,020m), At To Pass (5,500m) and Kheliya Pass (5,440m). Remember, thin air is the name of the game, and the weather can turn on a dime. Historically, this route has been called "unfeasible" in winter and summer, so plan accordingly. Expect epic scenery – canyons, cliffs, sky-high passes, volcanoes, and those incredible plateau lakes that make Tibet so special.
Road Details
- Country
- China
- Continent
- asia
- Length
- 335 km
- Max Elevation
- 5,170 m
- Difficulty
- hard
Related Roads in asia
extremeA Most Tricky Scenic Drive to Gang La
🇨🇳 China
Okay, adventure junkies, listen up! Gang La Pass in Tibet's Ngamring County is calling your name, if you dare! We're talking serious altitude here – 14,888 feet (4,538m) to be exact. You'll be cruising on Provincial Road 349 (G349), but don't let the "provincial" part fool you. This is hardcore. Picture this: paved roads, yes, but you're pretty much living above 16,400 feet (5,000m) the whole time. Acclimatize, or you're gonna have a bad time. The scenery is unbelievably stunning, a raw, untamed beauty that's also incredibly unforgiving. We're talking long stretches without water or food, freezing nights (think -25 degrees C!), and high mountain passes galore. The journey from Kagazhen to Chawuxiang covers 31.81 miles (51.2km) and is long and challenging, winding through remote areas. Be prepared to be self-sufficient and pack for any situation. And weather? It's a beast! Winter is brutally cold and windy, often shutting down roads due to snow. Even summer can throw snowy days at you. Monsoon season in July and August turns the roads into a muddy mess. Truck stops are few and far between, so load up on supplies. Oh, and be aware of possible internet censorship. But hey, if you're up for an epic adventure, Gang La delivers views and a travel experience that you won't forget. Just come prepared!
moderateDriving a military road to the summit of Cheekha Dar in Kurdistan
🇮🇷 Iran
Alright, adventure seekers, let's talk about Cheekha Dar, a seriously off-the-beaten-path peak straddling the Iran-Iraq border. We're talking 3,592 meters (that's nearly 12,000 feet!) of pure, unadulterated altitude. Known as "Black Tent," this spot connects Iraq's Choman District with Iran's Piranshahr County and boasts the title of Iraq's highest point. Word is, the Iranian army carved out a rough, unpaved road to the top to build a military base, complete with barbed wire – so, yeah, definitely not your average Sunday drive. Nestled way up in the Zagros Mountains of Kurdistan, this area is stunning, but proceed with EXTREME caution. There's a real risk of landmines on the way up, and honestly, you're practically in no-man's land near the border. It's remote, sensitive, and sees virtually no visitors. Plus, recent reports say the Iranian military has been setting up outposts nearby. So, while the views are probably epic, this is one adventure where you need to weigh the risks VERY carefully.
extremeThe road to the disputed Lhari Peak
🇮🇳 India
Okay, adventure seekers, listen up! Lhari Peak, clocking in at a whopping 15,948 feet, sits right in that contested zone between China and India, nestled in the Himalayas. This ain't your average Sunday drive. We're talking a rough, unpaved road with sixteen hairpin turns that'll test your driving skills. Word to the wise: winters? Forget about it. This road's a no-go zone when the snow hits. You're gonna need a high-clearance 4x4 to even attempt this climb. Lhari translates to "holy mountain" in Tibetan, and you'll definitely feel like you're on sacred ground tackling this beast. The views are incredible, but remember you're battling altitude sickness and unpredictable weather. Oxygen is thin up here, folks, so take it slow. This route isn't for the faint of heart. This slice of paradise is currently under Indian administration as part of the Leh district, but China claims it as part of Tibet. Just keep that in mind as you soak in the incredible vistas!
moderateComplete Guide to Motorcycle Rental in Phuket - Everything You Need to Know
🇹🇭 Thailand
Okay, so you're thinking about renting a scooter in Phuket? Awesome! Here's the lowdown from a fellow traveler. First things first, you'll need a valid motorcycle license. Seriously, don't risk it. Renting from a decent shop? Scope out reviews online – you want someone reliable with well-maintained bikes. Before you sign anything, give your potential ride a good once-over. Note any scratches or dings so you're not on the hook for them later. Safety first, always! Helmet – it's the law, but more importantly, it's your brain. Phuket traffic can be wild, so stay sharp and ride defensively. Pay attention to the road – potholes are real, and you don't want to end up in one. Phuket's hot, hot, hot! Keep hydrated. Water's your friend. Finally, the best reason to rent a scooter? Freedom! You can explore hidden beaches, hit up local markets, and just soak in the real Phuket at your own pace. Have a blast!