The inhumane climb to Zhilung La with 20% ramps
China, asia
23.1 km
4,970 m
extreme
Year-round
Okay, adventure junkies, buckle up for Zhilung La! This beast of a pass tops out at a lung-busting 16,305 feet (4,970m) in the remote Tibet Autonomous Region of China. We're talking Ngari Prefecture, way out in the southeastern corner of the country.
Forget pavement; this is a raw, unadulterated dirt track. Seriously, you'll want a 4x4 for this one. And pack accordingly, because you are WAY out there. The climb gets seriously steep in sections – think gradients pushing over 20%! Those ramps are straight up covered in loose rock and scree, so be ready to lock into low gear to keep from spinning out.
The whole stretch is only about 14.35 miles (23.1 km) between Gê'gyai and the stunning Yakemi Lake, but don't let that fool you. Those miles will take over an hour to conquer thanks to the rough terrain. Oh, and a HUGE heads up: altitude sickness is a real threat up here. Know the symptoms and be prepared. Also, keep an eye on the weather because visibility can go from crystal clear to zero in seconds with fog or dust storms. It's epic, challenging, and absolutely unforgettable!
Where is it?
The inhumane climb to Zhilung La with 20% ramps is located in China (asia). Coordinates: 33.4408, 103.2610
Road Details
- Country
- China
- Continent
- asia
- Length
- 23.1 km
- Max Elevation
- 4,970 m
- Difficulty
- extreme
- Coordinates
- 33.4408, 103.2610
Related Roads in asia
extremeTravel guide to the top of Mobdi La
🇨🇳 China
Okay, adventure junkies, buckle up for Mobdi La, a seriously high mountain pass straddling the border between Xinjiang and Tibet in China! We're talking a lung-busting 5,788m (18,989ft) above sea level – one of the highest drives on the planet. Forget smooth tarmac; this is a rough and narrow unpaved track demanding a 4x4 beast. Get ready for some seriously steep climbs, hitting gradients of up to 9% in places! The pass stretches for a hefty 43km (26.7 miles), so settle in for the long haul. Now, a word of caution: altitude sickness is a real threat here. The air is thin, and the risk of pulmonary and cerebral edema is no joke. Plus, up at these altitudes, you can expect strong winds and wildly unpredictable weather changes. But, if you’re prepared to brave the elements, the scenery is simply out of this world!
extremeA wild drive to Juetu La
🇨🇳 China
Okay, buckle up, adventurers, because we're headed to Juetu La, a.k.a. Jueba Mountain Pass, in Tibet! Situated way up high in the Tibet Autonomous Region of China, this mountain pass sits at a staggering 3,916m (12,847ft) above sea level. You'll find it along China National Highway 318 – also known as the China-Nepal Highway, or even the Friendship Highway. Thankfully, the road itself is asphalted, but don't even think about attempting this journey between October and June; you'll be stuck! The views from the top? Absolutely breathtaking! Just be warned, this isn't a Sunday drive. It's a long, challenging trek through remote areas. Come prepared, and seriously consider your health before attempting it, especially if you have any respiratory or heart issues. The altitude is no joke. Most folks start feeling the effects of altitude sickness around 2,500-2,800 meters, and the summit has about 40% less oxygen than sea level. Even your car engine will feel the difference! Breathing gets harder, your heart races, and every move takes extra effort. Plus, that high altitude brings the risk of altitude sickness, unpredictable weather, steep grades, and it's generally hard to get to, making the pass dangerous. Keep an eye out for heavy mist, and never travel this road in bad weather. You'll know you've arrived when you see the prayer flags fluttering in the wind.
extremeThe road to Birukangqing La is not for the faint of heart
🇨🇳 China
Okay, buckle up, adventure seekers! Birukangqing La in Tibet is calling your name! This insane mountain pass tops out at a staggering 17,349 feet, so get ready for some seriously thin air! Located in Biru County, you'll find this beast of a road is totally unpaved. We're talking hairpin turn after hairpin turn as you snake your way up. Definitely bring your 4x4, because this climb is no joke. Oxygen is scarce up here, and the weather can be extreme, so be prepared! This epic 34-mile route connects Xia'e to Suo Gongsongduo, linking up the G317 road with the S303. Get ready for incredible views, if you dare to take your eyes off the road! This drive is as scenic as it is challenging.
extremeWhere is Tsurphu La?
🇨🇳 China
Okay, adventure seekers, buckle up for the ride of your life on the road to Tsurphu La! Nestled high in the Tibet Autonomous Region of China, straddling the border of Doilungdêqên District, this isn't your average Sunday drive. We're talking serious altitude here – a staggering 4,300 metres (14,100 ft) above sea level. Along the way, you might spot the incredible monastery, seat of the Karmapa branch of the Kagyupa order. The 33.4 km (20.75 miles) journey to the top? Let's just say it's... demanding. Think unpaved surfaces that test your mettle, hairpin turns that'll make your head spin (in a good way!), and narrow stretches that demand your full attention. But hey, that's what makes it an adventure, right? Prepare yourself for some breathtaking scenery that will be the envy of all your followers!