
Where is Zhawa La?
China, asia
73 km
5,021 m
hard
Year-round
Alright, fellow adventurers, buckle up for Zhawa La in Sichuan, China! This isn't your average Sunday drive. Picture this: you're in western Garzê, tackling a mountain pass that climbs to a staggering 16,473 feet.
Forget smooth sailing – this road is a beast. We're talking countless hairpin turns and nerve-wrackingly narrow stretches. But hey, that's what makes it an adventure, right?
Good news, though! A new (ish) paved road opened up a few years back, carving a path north of the actual pass. This scenic route stretches for 45.36 miles, connecting Batang to Gemu.
Don't get too comfy, though. Even with the pavement, it's still a demanding drive, topping out at around 16,148 feet. But trust me, the panoramic views are worth every white-knuckle moment. Expect steep inclines, endless curves, and landscapes that'll leave you breathless.
Road Details
- Country
- China
- Continent
- asia
- Length
- 73 km
- Max Elevation
- 5,021 m
- Difficulty
- hard
Related Roads in asia
hardJiajinshan Pass: a road you really wish you would drive at least once in your lifetime
🇨🇳 China
Okay, buckle up, adventurers! Let's talk about Jiajinshan Pass in Sichuan, China! We're talking serious altitude here—a whopping 4,102 meters (that's 13,458 feet!). You'll find this beauty nestled in the Jiajin Mountains. The road, also known as 210 Provincial Road (S210), stretches for 193 kilometers from Feixianguanzhen (at 1,018m) all the way up to Daweixiang (at 2,917m). And yes, it's paved, so your ride will be smooth-ish. This pass is generally open year-round, so add it to your list no matter the season. Get ready for a rollercoaster of hairpin turns and curves that'll keep you on your toes. The views? Totally worth it! Be warned: it's a steep climb. Expect grades of 9-11% as you power through those bends!
moderateHow long is the highway 85 in Saudi Arabia?
🌍 Arabian Peninsula
Okay, picture this: Highway 85 in Saudi Arabia! This isn't just any road trip; it's an adventure across 1,271 km (789 miles) of pure Saudi landscape, from the coastal vibes of Jubail all the way up to Qurayat near Jordan. But the real kicker? A mind-blowing 822 km (510 miles) of straight road between Arar and Al Nairyah. Yep, you read that right. It's one of the longest, straightest stretches on the planet! Imagine cruising for almost nine hours, the desert unfolding before you, with only the occasional, super gentle curve to break the horizon. The scenery is classic desert stuff, so get ready for some sun-baked views. Word to the wise, though: this is a desert drive, so prep for the conditions. Keep the car in good condition. Keep your water tank full, and get ready for a real taste of Saudi's vastness.
extremeIs the road to Men La paved?
🇨🇳 China
Okay, so you're craving adventure, huh? How about tackling Men La? This wild pass sits way up high in southeastern Tibet, China, at a lung-busting 13,992 feet! We're talking Zayul County, deep in Nyingchi Prefecture. Seriously remote. Forget smooth tarmac; this is a 6.7-mile dirt track snaking through high-altitude meadows and rocky terrain. 4x4? Non-negotiable. It’s a technical drive with zero guardrails and weather that can flip on you in a heartbeat. Linking Meixue in the south to Shadong Farm in the north, it's a vital (but super isolated) connection. The climb is relentless, hitting an 8% gradient in spots, and that thin air? Your engine (and you!) will feel it. Think stunning scenery, and a serious test of your driving skills. Ready to answer the call of the wild?
extremeA drive to the top of Wenquan Daban
🇨🇳 China
Okay, adventurers, buckle up because we're heading to Wenquan Daban (Hot Springs Daban) in Xinjiang, China! This isn't your average Sunday drive — we're talking about one of the highest roads *on Earth*, topping out at a breathtaking 5,808m (19,055ft). Nestled high in the Chang-Chemno Range, this road is a rugged, unpaved beast. Forget your sedan; you'll need a 4x4 to conquer this terrain. Fair warning: this route isn't open to just anyone (civilians and foreigners, take note). It connects Wenquan (Hot Springs) and Hongshantou Co. Beyond the incredible views, prepare for a serious challenge. The air is thin up here; altitude sickness is a real possibility, and even your engine will struggle with the low oxygen. This road, also known as Cayley's Pass and Changlung Yokma La, gets seriously steep, with gradients hitting 10% in places. Built back in 1962, it's a true test of both vehicle and driver!