The road to Gang La: be ready to make room for oncoming vehicles
China, asia
18.2 km
4,824 m
moderate
Year-round
Hey adventurers! Ready for a wild ride? Buckle up for Gang La, a mountain pass that hits a staggering 15,826 feet! You'll find this beauty nestled in Biru County, part of Nagqu in Tibet, China.
This isn't your typical highway cruise – think unpaved paths and serious off-road vibes along the G317. We're talking about a 11.3 mile (18.2 km) stretch from Gangla Daoban to Gangduocun, running west to east, that'll have your heart pumping.
The road's usually open year-round, but keep an eye on the weather, especially in winter – things can get dicey. Get ready for stunning views, but remember, this route isn't for beginner drivers!
Where is it?
The road to Gang La: be ready to make room for oncoming vehicles is located in China (asia). Coordinates: 32.5736, 100.6829
Road Details
- Country
- China
- Continent
- asia
- Length
- 18.2 km
- Max Elevation
- 4,824 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Coordinates
- 32.5736, 100.6829
Related Roads in asia
moderateDare to drive the defiant road from Gilgit to Skardu
🇵🇰 Pakistan
Get ready for an epic road trip from Gilgit to Skardu in the heart of Pakistani Kashmir! This 167 km (104 mi) stretch, also known as Strategic Highway 1 and Skardu Road, winds its way from Gilgit (elevation 1,500m/4,900ft) up to Skardu (elevation 2,226m/7,303ft). This isn't just a drive; it's an adventure! Expect hairpin turns and heart-stopping drop-offs, all while hugging the mighty River Indus. While it's now mostly paved, thanks to recent upgrades completed in 2021, landslides are still a real risk, and weather can shut things down for days. Budget about 3-4 hours for a non-stop drive. Originally built between 1970 and 1982 by Pakistani and Chinese engineers, this route isn't just strategically important; it's a feast for the eyes. Picture postcard villages, massive suspension bridges, and breathtaking valleys await around every bend!
extremeIs the road to Mount Sinjar paved?
🌍 Iraq
Okay, thrill-seekers, listen up! Ever heard of Mount Sinjar in Iraq? This beauty sits in the Nineveh Governorate, towering 1,319 meters (4,327 feet) above sea level. The road up, Sinjar Mountain Road, is fully paved, but don't think it's a Sunday drive! We're talking around 100 hairpin turns, narrow stretches, and seriously steep inclines. It's a defiant climb, stretching for 13.5 km (8.38 miles) from the city of Sinjar, with an elevation gain of 805 meters. Expect an average gradient of almost 6%! Now, a HUGE word of caution: this isn't your typical scenic route. The security situation in Iraq is volatile and unpredictable. Sadly, this region has seen significant conflict, and landmines and unexploded ordnance are a serious risk. Many governments advise against travel to this area. Road travel, in particular, remains highly dangerous, so please weigh the risks carefully before considering a trip. Assuming safety improves, you'll be rewarded with stunning scenery— when you're not dodging crazy drivers who don't respect traffic laws, speeding and tailgating are common practices. And be prepared for extreme weather, think blazing heat in summer and freezing conditions in winter. Stay safe out there!
extremeThe road to Sha Zi La isn't an easy one
🇨🇳 China
Sha Zi La, topping out at a staggering 4,717m (15,475ft), is a Himalayan high-altitude pass in Tibet, China that will take your breath away – literally! This stretch of the G219 National Road, nicknamed the "Sky Road", is a long haul. Construction began in 1951 and wasn't fully paved until 2013. Be warned, you'll be consistently above 5,000m, a potential danger zone if you're not acclimatized. The scenery is mind-blowing, but the terrain is seriously harsh. Think long stretches without supplies, numerous high passes, and weeks without a proper wash. Nighttime temperatures can plummet to -25 degrees C! This route demands preparedness as it winds through incredibly remote landscapes, though you'll find some historical and religious sites along the way. Expect strong, relentless winds that seem to hit you from every direction. The pass is located 24km after Ali heading towards Kailash in western Tibet. The weather here can be brutal, so check the forecast before you go. Winter is especially harsh, with extreme cold and constant, strong winds. Snow can close roads, and the air becomes incredibly dry. Even summer can bring snow. Truck stops are spaced about a day's drive apart, but bring your own food, sleeping bag, and maybe even a tent for emergencies. Monsoon season (July-August) can make driving difficult. And remember, internet access in China can be limited.
moderatePereval Tuzduu-Suu
🌍 Kyrgyzstan
Alright, adventure seekers, listen up! Wanna tackle a real mountain pass in Kyrgyzstan? Then Pereval Tuzduu-Suu in the Jalal-Abad Region needs to be on your radar. We're talking about a climb up to 1,970 meters (6,463 feet) above sea level. Now, the road isn't paved perfection; expect gravel and rocks. Fair warning: if your travel buddies get carsick easily, maybe pack some ginger ale. And don't overeat before you go – let’s just say things could get… messy. The pass is generally open year-round, but winter can throw a curveball with short closures due to nasty weather. This route connects the charming villages of Torkent and Almalu, offering a glimpse into authentic Kyrgyz life. Get ready for some incredible views, if you can handle the rough ride!