Take An Unforgettable Drive to Zhawa La
China, asia
73 km
5,021 m
extreme
Year-round
Alright, adventure junkies, listen up! Zhawa La, also called Tsawa La, is a seriously high mountain pass sitting way up in Batang County, Sichuan Province, China. We're talking a lung-busting 5,021m (16,473ft) above sea level!
Now, the original road through the pass? Think unpaved, super twisty, and seriously narrow – a real test of your driving skills (and nerves!).
But here's the good news: a new, paved road was built a few years back, just north of the original pass. This baby stretches for 73km (45.36 miles), connecting Batang and Gemu with a westward to eastward trajectory. Don't get complacent though! This route still packs a punch with crazy steep sections, hairpin turns galore, and a summit elevation of 4,922m (16,148ft). Plus, keep an eye out for falling rocks – they’re a real hazard here.
But hey, all that effort is rewarded with absolutely jaw-dropping views of the Genyen range. Trust me, the scenery alone is worth the white-knuckle drive!
Where is it?
Take An Unforgettable Drive to Zhawa La is located in China (asia). Coordinates: 36.5179, 103.7970
Road Details
- Country
- China
- Continent
- asia
- Length
- 73 km
- Max Elevation
- 5,021 m
- Difficulty
- extreme
- Coordinates
- 36.5179, 103.7970
Related Roads in asia
extremeHow long is Tuen Mun Road?
🇨🇳 China
Okay, picture this: Tuen Mun Road in Hong Kong, a major artery connecting Tuen Mun and Tsuen Wan, but with a seriously spooky reputation. This 19.4 km (12.1 mi) stretch of paved road isn't just about getting from A to B; it's got a history, and some say, a haunted one! Built way back in 1977, this road has seen its fair share of traffic and, tragically, accidents. We're talking hundreds of incidents since 1978, some with fatal outcomes. The locals whisper stories of ghostly figures appearing out of nowhere, causing drivers to lose control. Some blame poor road design and narrow lanes from back in the day, while others swear they've seen spectral hitchhikers. Adding to the eerie vibe, there was a massive bus crash in 2003, claiming 21 lives, and legend has it their spirits still roam the area. So, while you're cruising along Tuen Mun Road, remember to keep your eyes on the road...and maybe an eye out for anything else!
hardThe Volcanic Road to Mount Sabalan: Navigating Iran's Majestic Stratovolcano
🇮🇷 Iran
Okay, adventure seekers, listen up! If you're headed to Iran and craving a serious off-road experience, you HAVE to check out the road to Mount Sabalan in Ardabil province! This semi-active volcano isn't just a pretty peak (the third highest in Iran, BTW); it’s also home to one of the country’s highest roads! Starting near Lahrud, you'll climb for about 33 kilometers on a rugged, unpaved track straight north. Think steep, uneven terrain made of ancient volcanic rock. We're talking 4x4 territory only, people! You'll be winding your way through the Alborz mountains to the Sabalan Second Eastern Shelter, topping out at a breathtaking 3,675 meters above sea level. Keep your eyes peeled for nomadic shepherds chilling in their encampments along the way! Word of warning: Mother Nature has a mind of her own here. Heavy winter snow makes this route impassable for much of the year. And with tons of annual precipitation and even some permanent glaciers up top, be prepared for icy conditions. This isn't a Sunday drive, but the views are totally worth it if you're up for the challenge.
extremeThe road to Trchkan Waterfall isn’t an easy one
🌍 Armenia
Okay, adventure seekers, listen up! Deep in Armenia's Shirak Province lies the incredible Trchkan Waterfall, reportedly the country's tallest. Getting there is half the fun, if you're into that sort of thing. The dirt road to the base winds above the Chichkhan River at about 6,000 feet, crossing the river... well, more than once! Keep a close eye on the weather, folks. This area can get hit with avalanches, heavy snow, and landslides, not to mention sneaky patches of ice. Seriously, proceed with caution! The road itself is gravel and can be totally impassable in winter. Think of it as a scenic challenge! If unpaved mountain roads aren't your jam, maybe skip this one. You'll definitely want a 4x4. But for those who dare, the views are epic. You'll be cruising through meadows alongside the Chichkhan, with mountains towering on either side. They even call Trchkan Waterfall the "Armenian Niagara". This place is popular with locals who are used to the tough road. Word to the wise: the weather is WILDLY unpredictable. Don't be surprised if you go from dry autumn to snow-covered mountains in just a few hundred yards! It can change on a dime.
extremeA Very Bumpy, Grueling Road to Mahodand Lake
🇵🇰 Pakistan
Okay, adventure seekers, listen up! I've found a hidden gem in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province that you HAVE to add to your bucket list: Mahodand Lake. Perched way up high in the Swat Kohistan region, this alpine beauty sits at a cool 9,400 feet above sea level. Getting there? Well, that's half the fun (and the challenge!). The route, known as Saifullah Lake Road, from Kalam in Swat District stretches for about 20 miles of mostly unpaved, bumpy, and often tricky terrain. Seriously, a 4x4 isn't just recommended, it's essential. Nestled in the foothills of the mighty Hindu Kush mountains, Mahodand is a summertime paradise. Winter? Forget about it. Heavy snow and avalanche risks make it nearly impossible to reach. Even in summer, expect to see snow clinging to the peaks! The views? Absolutely unreal.