Tra La, a scary and dangerous journey in Tibet
China, asia
49.2 km
5,479 m
extreme
Year-round
Okay, adventure junkies, listen up! Tra La Pass in Tibet is calling your name, but only if you’re ready for a serious challenge. We're talking a whopping 5,479 meters (that's nearly 18,000 feet!) above sea level in Xaitongmoin County.
The X201, or 201 County Road, is a wild, unpaved route stretching almost 50 kilometers (around 30 miles) from Nadangxiang to Xaitongmoin. You’ll need a 4x4 to conquer this beast! Picture this: insanely steep climbs, thin air, and weather that can change on a dime. Oxygen is definitely a luxury up here, so be prepared for the altitude. Summer’s your best bet to make the trek, but always keep an eye on the conditions. Trust me, the views are totally worth the adrenaline rush!
Where is it?
Tra La, a scary and dangerous journey in Tibet is located in China (asia). Coordinates: 40.1751, 100.7195
Road Details
- Country
- China
- Continent
- asia
- Length
- 49.2 km
- Max Elevation
- 5,479 m
- Difficulty
- extreme
- Coordinates
- 40.1751, 100.7195
Related Roads in asia
moderateThe closed road to Bedel Pass, on Kyrgyzstan-China border
🇨🇳 China
Okay, picture this: you're straddling the border between Kyrgyzstan and China, practically touching the sky at a whopping 13,428 feet! That's Pereval Bedel for ya, a seriously high mountain pass tucked away in the Tian Shan Mountains. This place has history etched into its very gravel – once upon a time, it was a bustling part of the Silk Road, connecting cultures and trade between China and Central Asia. These days, it's a bit more…rustic. The road on the Chinese side is gravel only, so you'll need a trusty 4x4 to even think about tackling it, and even then, you're pretty much limited to summer adventures. While officially closed, it is still possible to cross with the proper permits. Incredible views come standard, but be prepared for a wild, remote, and unforgettable ride.
moderateAnglet Daban: enjoy a road among the clouds
🇨🇳 China
Okay, buckle up for Anglet Daban, a seriously epic pass soaring to 3,189 meters (10,462 feet) in Northern Xinjiang, China! You'll find it snuggled in the Qapqal Xibe Autonomous County, part of the Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture. This baby's paved the whole way, so no off-roading needed! It's officially known as the S237 provincial road, or the Yizhao highway if you wanna sound like a local. Be warned: it’s steep! The reward is so worth it, though. At the top, there's a parking lot with views that will absolutely blow your mind. Seriously, don’t forget your camera – this is Xinjiang beauty at its finest! Clocking in at 229 km (142 miles), this road trip stretches from Ili in Northern Xinjiang to the border with Kazakhstan, specifically the Raiymbek District of Almaty Region. Get ready for some thrills and maybe a few white-knuckle moments along the way. Heads up, this road is usually closed from October to May, so plan your trip accordingly!
moderateKhongoryn Els
🌍 Mongolia
Okay, picture this: you're in Mongolia's Omnogovi province, ready to tackle the legendary Khongor Sand Dunes. Forget your everyday commute – we're talking massive, dazzling white dunes stretching as far as the eye can see. Known locally as the Duut Mankhan, or "Singing Dunes," these giants reside within the Gobi Gurvansaikhan National Park. These dunes demand respect— and a 4x4 vehicle with someone confident behind the wheel. Trust me, you'll want a driver who knows this dusty, bumpy terrain like the back of their hand. We're talking serious scale here, with dunes reaching up to 300 meters high, 12 km wide, and extending for an impressive 100 km! Situated at the base of the Altai Mountains, this journey takes you through some seriously remote landscapes, so come prepared. This isn't a Sunday drive, so ensure your ride is rugged enough, and you’re stocked with all the essentials: food, water, and plenty of fuel. This area offers unmatched beauty but is definitely unforgiving if you’re not prepared. Get ready for an adventure!
hardHow long is the drive through Yingkuoshan Pass?
🇨🇳 China
Located in the Chindu County of Qinghai Province, the (also known as Jarong La) is a high mountain pass reaching an elevation of above sea level. Situated on the vast Tibetan Plateau between the cities of Yushu and Xining, this pass is a legendary segment of the historic G214 National Highway For decades, Yingkuoshan was a major bottleneck for logistics between Qinghai and Tibet. Today, while most transit traffic uses the modern and its bypass tunnel, the old mountain pass remains fully operational. It serves as a spectacular free alternative for those who prefer unparalleled mountain views and fresh air over the darkness of a tunnel. However, driving at nearly 4,500 meters requires a well-maintained vehicle and a driver ready for the challenges of high-altitude weather. Road facts: Yingkuoshan Pass (Jarong La) Chindu County, Qinghai, China How long is the drive through Yingkuoshan Pass? The road through the pass spans , running in a south-north direction from Nilunlong to Zhenqinzhen . Unlike many other Tibetan passes, the G214 route here is , making it accessible to standard vehicles. However, do not underestimate the climb; the road is very steep in sections, hitting maximum gradients of 7% through several ramps. These inclines, combined with the lack of oxygen at 4,400 meters, will force most vehicles to drop gears to maintain a steady pace. The drive is famous for its "jaw-dropping views" of the Qinghai highlands. As you navigate the winding curves, you are likely to encounter herds of yaks and vast, open landscapes that the new toll highway completely bypasses. It is the ultimate road trip for those seeking freedom and a slower pace through one of China’s most beautiful provinces. Winter hazards and safety on the G214 While the pavement is in good condition, the is subject to extreme winter weather. Snowfall is common from late autumn to late spring, and because the road is no longer the primary transit route, snow clearance may not be as frequent as on the G0613. When the road is covered in snow or black ice, the 7% ramps become dangerously slippery, requiring snow chains or winter tires. For a safe journey, it is ideal to plan your crossing during daylight hours. Night driving at this altitude is discouraged due to the extreme drop in temperature and the risk of encountering livestock on the road. Ensure your braking system is in top shape for the long descent towards Zhenqinzhen, and always carry extra warm clothing and supplies in case of a sudden weather-related delay. The Yingkuoshan Pass is a reminder of the golden age of Himalayan road trips, offering a scenic reward to those who avoid the tunnel. Road suggested by: Hugh Wilson Pic: Too simple, Sometimes naive Xiagete Wall Road: A Nerve-Wracking Cliff Drive in Guizhou New Changlung La is a winding road only for experienced drivers Embark on a journey like never before! Navigate through our to discover the most spectacular roads of the world Drive Us to Your Road! With over 13,000 roads cataloged, we're always on the lookout for unique routes. Know of a road that deserves to be featured? Click to share your suggestion, and we may add it to dangerousroads.org.