Lungzang La, the road less traveled
China, asia
46.4 km
6,310 m
moderate
Year-round
Okay, adventure junkies, buckle up for Lungzang La in Tibet! This high-altitude pass punches in at a whopping 17,450 feet, so prepare for thin air. You'll find it tucked away in Xaitongmoin County, Shigatse.
The road, known locally as Qingqu Line, is a 28.83-mile mix of rough and smooth, mostly unpaved but with some paved stretches as you approach from the south. Be warned: the weather can be brutal, so keep an eye on the forecast. This is serious mountain territory, and oxygen is definitely at a premium!
Best time to go? Definitely summer. Don't expect any luxuries up here – you're lucky to find the basics. But the views? Unreal. You'll be staring right at Sholapu Gangri, a majestic peak towering over 20,000 feet. Lungzang La isn't for the faint of heart but if you're looking for an unforgettable SUV adventure, this is it!
Where is it?
Lungzang La, the road less traveled is located in China (asia). Coordinates: 35.5556, 105.5382
Road Details
- Country
- China
- Continent
- asia
- Length
- 46.4 km
- Max Elevation
- 6,310 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Coordinates
- 35.5556, 105.5382
Related Roads in asia
hardWhere is Korzok?
🇮🇳 India
Okay, adventure seekers, listen up! Wanna visit Korzok, one of the highest towns in Jammu and Kashmir, India? This little village (they also call it Korjak!) sits pretty near the northwest end of the stunning Tso Moriri lake. Plus, the Drukpa Buddhist Korzok Monastery is right there! Getting there is half the fun. The road stretches for about 45 km (28 miles). And guess what? It's newly paved! But don't get too comfy—it's still a *very* challenging drive. Think narrow stretches, super steep climbs, and a massive climb up to the Namang La, a high mountain pass sitting at a whopping 5,475m (17,963ft). Get ready for some serious views and maybe a little white-knuckle driving. You've been warned!
extremeDriving to Kel-Suu Lake is only for special prepared vehicles
🌍 Kyrgyzstan
Okay, adventure seekers, listen up! Kel-Suu Lake in Kyrgyzstan is calling your name! Perched way up in the At-Bashi District of Naryn Province at a whopping 3,525m (11,564ft), this alpine gem is not for the faint of heart. Picture this: a gravel road snaking its way through the mountains near the Kyrgyzstan-China border. Bumpy? Rough? You bet! But oh-so-worth it. The weather here is a force to be reckoned with, think strong winds and surprise weather changes. Seriously, pack for cold and windy conditions, and be prepared for snow, even in August! This road demands respect, and a 4WD vehicle is an absolute must. We're talking serious preparation, people! The road stretches all the way to the lake, but erosion and water levels can throw a wrench in your plans, with bridges often damaged. You're deep in the southeastern part of the country here, remote but incredibly beautiful. Cell service? Forget about it. Food options? Scarce. So, double-check availability, road conditions, and stock up on supplies before you go. This journey is isolated, so be self-sufficient. Break down, and you might be waiting a while for help. But hey, near that stunning glacial lake, you'll find Jyrgal's Yurt Camp! Just a heads up: getting there involves at least one challenging river crossing, and that difficulty is a gamble on the weather. But trust me, the views make it all worthwhile!
hardHow long is the drive through Yingkuoshan Pass?
🇨🇳 China
Located in the Chindu County of Qinghai Province, the (also known as Jarong La) is a high mountain pass reaching an elevation of above sea level. Situated on the vast Tibetan Plateau between the cities of Yushu and Xining, this pass is a legendary segment of the historic G214 National Highway For decades, Yingkuoshan was a major bottleneck for logistics between Qinghai and Tibet. Today, while most transit traffic uses the modern and its bypass tunnel, the old mountain pass remains fully operational. It serves as a spectacular free alternative for those who prefer unparalleled mountain views and fresh air over the darkness of a tunnel. However, driving at nearly 4,500 meters requires a well-maintained vehicle and a driver ready for the challenges of high-altitude weather. Road facts: Yingkuoshan Pass (Jarong La) Chindu County, Qinghai, China How long is the drive through Yingkuoshan Pass? The road through the pass spans , running in a south-north direction from Nilunlong to Zhenqinzhen . Unlike many other Tibetan passes, the G214 route here is , making it accessible to standard vehicles. However, do not underestimate the climb; the road is very steep in sections, hitting maximum gradients of 7% through several ramps. These inclines, combined with the lack of oxygen at 4,400 meters, will force most vehicles to drop gears to maintain a steady pace. The drive is famous for its "jaw-dropping views" of the Qinghai highlands. As you navigate the winding curves, you are likely to encounter herds of yaks and vast, open landscapes that the new toll highway completely bypasses. It is the ultimate road trip for those seeking freedom and a slower pace through one of China’s most beautiful provinces. Winter hazards and safety on the G214 While the pavement is in good condition, the is subject to extreme winter weather. Snowfall is common from late autumn to late spring, and because the road is no longer the primary transit route, snow clearance may not be as frequent as on the G0613. When the road is covered in snow or black ice, the 7% ramps become dangerously slippery, requiring snow chains or winter tires. For a safe journey, it is ideal to plan your crossing during daylight hours. Night driving at this altitude is discouraged due to the extreme drop in temperature and the risk of encountering livestock on the road. Ensure your braking system is in top shape for the long descent towards Zhenqinzhen, and always carry extra warm clothing and supplies in case of a sudden weather-related delay. The Yingkuoshan Pass is a reminder of the golden age of Himalayan road trips, offering a scenic reward to those who avoid the tunnel. Road suggested by: Hugh Wilson Pic: Too simple, Sometimes naive Xiagete Wall Road: A Nerve-Wracking Cliff Drive in Guizhou New Changlung La is a winding road only for experienced drivers Embark on a journey like never before! Navigate through our to discover the most spectacular roads of the world Drive Us to Your Road! With over 13,000 roads cataloged, we're always on the lookout for unique routes. Know of a road that deserves to be featured? Click to share your suggestion, and we may add it to dangerousroads.org.
hardDriving the wild Dongu La
🇨🇳 China
Alright, adventure junkies, listen up! Dongu La Pass in Tibet is calling your name! This epic mountain pass, chilling at a whopping 16,220 feet (4,944m) in the Western Nyenchen Tanglha Mountains, is not for the faint of heart. You'll find it in the Namling County of Shigatse, part of the Tibet Autonomous Region in China. Forget smooth sailing – this is an unpaved adventure, but totally doable in your everyday ride, as long as the weather's playing nice. It's known as 304 Provincial Road (S304) and the good news is it's usually open year-round, though winter weather can sometimes throw a curveball. The 41-mile (66km) journey kicks off in Dazhuka and throws some seriously steep climbs your way. Heads up: a past earthquake roughed things up a bit, so expect a wild ride. But trust me, the views from the top are SO worth it!