
Ode La, a drive you'll never forget
China, asia
709 km
4.2 m
extreme
Year-round
Okay, adventure junkies, buckle up for Ode La! This beast of a mountain pass sits way up high in Tibet's Chamdo Prefecture, clocking in at a lung-busting 4,468 meters (14,658 feet)!
You'll find it along the 303 Provincial Road, which is basically a high-altitude rollercoaster, never dipping below 4,200 meters. This 709 km journey is mostly paved, but don't get too comfortable—there are plenty of unpaved sections to keep you on your toes. Expect hairpin turns galore as you wind your way through stunning snowy mountain scenery.
But here's the thing: this road is rough. Really rough. Think seriously damaged surfaces, potential closures due to rain and landslides, and even flooded sections. Oh, and did I mention the dark, muddy, and dripping tunnels you'll have to navigate? Add in a healthy dose of speeding trucks, and you've got yourself a truly unforgettable drive. The pass itself stretches for 28.7 km, going from Zhongyixiang to Xobando. It’s not for the faint of heart, but if you’re looking for an epic adventure, Ode La is calling your name!
Where is it?
Ode La, a drive you'll never forget is located in China (asia). Coordinates: 36.4066, 103.0463
Road Details
- Country
- China
- Continent
- asia
- Length
- 709 km
- Max Elevation
- 4.2 m
- Difficulty
- extreme
- Coordinates
- 36.4066, 103.0463
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