Dare to drive the dangerous 711 County Road

County Road 711 (X711) is a high-altitude mountain road located in the Tibet Autonomous Region of China. Known for its extreme isolation and brutal conditions, it is one of the highest roads in the country, constantly challenging drivers with altitudes that rarely drop below 4,500 meters.  

Where is the 711 County Road?

The road straddles the border between Drongpa County (Shigatse) and Coqên County (Ngari), in the remote western part of the Tibetan Plateau. It connects the X716 road in Yarexiang with Provincial Road 206 near Coqên. This area is virtually untouched by tourism due to its extreme distance from Lhasa and the harsh climate.

Is the 711 County Road unpaved?

Yes, the entire 342 km stretch is unpaved. The surface is often in poor condition, featuring deep ruts, loose gravel, and steep sections with gradients reaching 12%. A high-clearance 4x4 vehicle is not just recommended; it is a life-saving necessity. There are no repair shops or fuel stations for the vast majority of the route.

The Altitude Challenge: Crossing the Lunggar Mountains

Set high in the Gangdise Mountains (Lunggar range), the road reaches its highest point at 5,154m (16,909ft). Driving at this altitude for several days is extremely dangerous. The risk of AMS (Altitude Mountain Sickness) is constant, and severe cases of Pulmonary or Cerebral Edema can be fatal if the driver does not descend immediately. The road is usually only passable during the brief summer window (June to September).

Scenic Wonders: Salt Lakes and Soda Waters

Despite the danger, the road offers surreal landscapes. It runs along the shores of Renqingxiubu Lake, a massive salt lake, and the hypersaline Lake Zabuye (Chabyer Co). Zabuye is globally significant as one of the world's largest sources of lithium, and its white, crystalline shores provide a stark, beautiful contrast to the desolate Tibetan landscape.
Pic: 陈炜

 

 

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