Monda La is one of the highest paved roads on Earth

Monda La is one of the highest paved roads on Earth

China, asia

Length

24.1 km

Elevation

5,408 m

Difficulty

extreme

Best Season

Year-round

Alright, adventure junkies, buckle up for Monda La! This insane mountain pass sits way up high in the Tibet Autonomous Region, clocking in at a staggering 17,742 feet above sea level.

You'll find it in NagarzΓͺ County on the southern Tibetan Plateau, snaking along the G219 Highway. And get this – it’s paved with CONCRETE! Paved in 2015, so it's relatively new. This 15-mile stretch of road climbs like crazy from Longzha to Zharixiang. Expect a seriously steep ascent with around 18 hairpin turns that will have your engine working overtime. Some corners hit a gradient of 14-15%, so be prepared.

Heads up, though: we're talking serious altitude here. The air is thin, the weather can be extreme, and conditions can be brutal. Usually, you won't be able to get through from October to June. Plus, keep an eye out for the Xiya Valley Hanging Tunnel dug out by hand!

Where is it?

Monda La is one of the highest paved roads on Earth is located in China (asia). Coordinates: 36.7928, 106.3839

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Road Details

Country
China
Continent
asia
Length
24.1 km
Max Elevation
5,408 m
Difficulty
extreme
Coordinates
36.7928, 106.3839

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