Travel guide to the top of Upyang Pass
China, asia
13.53 km
4,927 m
hard
Year-round
Okay, adventure seekers, buckle up for Upyang Pass in Western Xinjiang, China! This isn't your average Sunday drive. We're talking a seriously high mountain pass, topping out at a breathtaking 4,927 meters (that's 16,164 feet for you imperial system folks!). You'll find it way out west near the border with Pakistan.
Forget pavement; this is an unpaved, raw, and rugged experience. The air gets thin up there, so listen to your body and maybe pack some oxygen if you're prone to altitude sickness. Seriously, though, if you're craving an off-the-grid escape, this is it.
The climb to the summit (also called Wufulang Daban) kicks off from the G314 near Red Qilafu. It's a 13.5 km (8.41 miles) grind with a serious elevation gain of 787 meters. The average incline is almost 6%, so get ready for a steep and winding adventure! Expect killer views, but be prepared for a bumpy ride!
Road Details
- Country
- China
- Continent
- asia
- Length
- 13.53 km
- Max Elevation
- 4,927 m
- Difficulty
- hard
Related Roads in asia
hardWhere is Tera Pass?
🌍 Afghanistan
Okay adventurers, listen up! Tera Pass is a seriously high-altitude experience, topping out at over [elevation] above sea level, right on the border of [location] in the eastern part of the country. The road stretches for [length], winding its way from [place] up to the summit on smooth asphalt. Sounds idyllic, right? Well… Things get real in winter. This pass gets dumped on with snow, making it totally impassable. Even into summer, the north side holds onto that white stuff for dear life. But here's the kicker: the biggest hazard isn't the weather. Travel here is *strongly* discouraged. We're talking a volatile security situation with terrorist attacks, armed conflict, kidnapping risks, and just plain high crime rates. Foreigners, especially those with Western ties, are prime targets. Expect frequent violent attacks even in major cities. Overland travel is super risky, with armed groups running rampant. They might even set up fake checkpoints to rob, kidnap, or worse. Sadly, the military and police can't guarantee your safety. So, avoid overland travel unless you're rolling with serious armed security. If you absolutely *must* go, travel in groups and plan *everything* meticulously. Also, heads up for [nationality]—you'll face extra challenges, especially at checkpoints. So, while the scenery might be incredible and the road itself a fun drive, this one's a hard pass for now due to serious safety concerns.
hardMount Haiz
🇨🇳 China
Okay, adventurers, buckle up for Mount Haiz! This epic pass, sitting pretty at 15,249 feet in China's Garzê Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, is one for the books. You'll be cruising on asphalt (it's the S217 Provincial Road connecting Xiangcheng and Litang), but don't get complacent. This isn't your average Sunday drive! We're talking remote territory, seriously steep inclines, and air so thin your lungs will sing opera. Think you can handle it? Trust me, the views are worth it. Plus, there's a glacial lake waiting for you at the summit. Just remember to prepare accordingly.
extremeDriving the scary Wuxi's Token Stone Road in Chongqing
🇨🇳 China
Get ready for the ride of your life on Wuxi's Token Stone Road in Chongqing, China! This defiant little road is not for the faint of heart, but the views? Totally worth it. Snaking its way through Minzhu Village in Wuxi County, this wild ride connects the tiny Tian Ping Community to the rest of the world, slicing through the Yintiaoling National Nature Reserve. You'll find it nestled high in the Daba Mountains. Locals call it Wuxi's Token Stone Road (or something similar!), so keep an ear out. Clocking in at just 3.7 kilometers (a little over 2 miles), this adrenaline-pumping route climbs from Tianping Village up to the 201 Provincial Road. The main zigzag section, carved through the stones, is only 453 meters, but those are some intense meters! Paved in 2019 with added cement rails, it might look safe-ish, but don't be fooled. We're talking crazy steep – almost every slope is 20% or higher, and some of those bends? Over 36%! With 18 hairpin turns that will take your breath away (or maybe make you a little carsick), it's easily one of the most challenging and exhilarating roads around. Built in 2012 and paved later, this road is more than just a thrill ride. It's a lifeline for 137 residents from 37 families, giving them vital access to the outside world. This place is an amateur photographer's dream! The steep climbs, insane zigzag structure, and those crazy curves make for some seriously dramatic landscape shots. Now, for the nitty-gritty. This road is STEEP, and those turns are TIGHT. It's rumored that no one's ever made it through without having to readjust. You'll need ALL your concentration here. Trucks, buses, and anyone hauling a trailer? Forget about it. And definitely check conditions before you go! You might even need to put your car in reverse for extra power. First gear is your best friend here. Seriously, don't even THINK about shifting to second until you're at the top. Even with those strategically placed wider corners, it's a nerve-wracking experience, but the views? Unforgettable. This drive will test your skills and leave you with bragging rights for days!
hardPotholes and turns on the road to Simbhanjyang Pass in Nepal's Mountains
🇳🇵 Nepal
Okay, adventure junkies, buckle up for Simbhanjyang Pass! This high-altitude beauty sits way up in Nepal's Bagmati Province, clocking in at 2,488 meters (8,162 feet). The H02-Tribhuvan Highway isn't for the faint of heart – it's narrow, winding, and the pavement's seen better days (think potholes galore!). You’ll want to keep your eyes peeled, as vehicles can lose control near the edge. This 42.1 km (26.15 miles) stretch, running north-south from Naubise to Daman, is Nepal's oldest highway, so expect a unique experience. Picture this: hairpin turns, seriously steep climbs, and views that just won't quit. Trust me, you'll be stopping every few minutes to soak it all in! While it's a scenic drive, remember this route is known for accidents due to its condition, so drive carefully! If you make it to Daman, you're in for a treat – it's got some of the best Himalayan views in all of Nepal. The road, built in honor of King Tribhuvan, first connected Nepal to India. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure!