Driving to Rib La: The remote mountain pass to China’s smallest township
Rib La is an epic high-mountain pass reaching an elevation of 4,760m (15,616ft) above sea level, located in Lhünzê County, within the southeastern Tibet Autonomous Region of China. This dangerous and narrow route is the vital link to one of the most isolated settlements in the world.
| Road facts: Rib La | |
|---|---|
| Location | Lhünzê County, Tibet (China) |
| Length | 30.9 km (19.2 miles) |
| Elevation | 4,760 m (15,616 ft) |
| Hairpin Turns | 16 |
| Surface | Unpaved / Dirt and Ice |
| Hazard Level | Extreme (Dangerous drop-offs) |
Where does the road to Rib La lead?
The road stretches for 30.9 km (19.2 miles), running north-south from Legaduo in the Tsari Valley to the tiny town of Yumai (Yümai). Known as China’s smallest township, Yumai historically had only a single household of three people and currently houses around 32 inhabitants. For years, the trek over Rib La was the only way to reach this remote outpost near the border.
What are the driving conditions on Rib La?
The winding road to the summit is incredibly steep and narrow. It is a strictly 4x4 route that demands high concentration. Drivers must navigate 16 sharp hairpin turns while dealing with dangerous, unprotected drop-offs along the edge of the cliff. The track is not recommended for inexperienced drivers due to its technical difficulty and psychological pressure.
How does weather affect the pass?
At an elevation of 4,760 meters, winter arrives early and stays late. When the snow falls, the surface becomes extremely slippery and treacherous. In the past, the pass was completely blocked by snow for up to six months a year, leaving the residents of Yumai totally cut off from the outside world. Even with modern maintenance, things get very tough and unpredictable during the winter season.
Is Rib La a dangerous drive?
Yes, it is considered one of the most enthralling but dangerous roads in southeastern Tibet. The combination of high-altitude thin air, narrow gravel tracks, and the constant risk of avalanches or landslides makes it a high-risk journey. The scenery is epic, but the focus must remain entirely on the road to avoid a fatal mistake on the steep embankments.
A vital strategic link
Beyond its scenic beauty, Rib La serves as a strategic route in a sensitive border region. The road has seen recent improvements to ensure year-round connectivity for the small population of Yumai, but it remains a raw and wild mountain experience that showcases the extreme geography of the Himalayas.
Road suggested by: Hugh Wilson
Pic&video: New China TV