Yepuchen La: Conquering the 5,113m Pass in the Tibetan Himalayas
Yepuchen La is a challenging high mountain pass located deep within the Tibet Autonomous Region of China. Situated at a staggering elevation of 5,113 meters (16,774 ft) above sea level, this route—also known as Yipuqin La—tests the limits of both the vehicle and the driver due to its remote location and demanding gradients..
Where is Yepuchen La Pass located?
The pass, also known as Yipuqin La, marks the boundary between Biru County (Nagqu) and Banbar County (Chamdo) in the eastern Nyenchen Tanglha mountains. Travelers should be aware of both names when consulting maps or local sources. The road is located to the west of Samu Co lake, a blue alpine lake, in the south-central part of the country. From the pass, drivers are rewarded with a fine view of Sepu Kangri, a prominent peak reaching 6,956 meters. To the southeast of the pass, the road follows the scenic Nok Chu valley.
How long is the route, and what are the driving conditions?
The road through the pass is 33 kilometers (20 miles) long, running north-south from Tsapuka to Yaibug. The road to the summit is unpaved and characterized by being pretty curvy and extremely steep. The engineering of the road is demanding, with some ramps hitting a maximum gradient of 13%. Near the summit, there are 12 sharp hairpin turns that require maximum concentration.
What vehicle is recommended for the climb?
Given the rugged terrain, steepness, and the numerous tight turns, a 4x4 vehicle is highly recommended for safety and passage assurance.
How remote is the drive to Yepuchen La?
Travelers must be fully self-sufficient when attempting this high-altitude journey. Facilities and services are almost non-existent. Resources like electricity, medical aid, hot running water, and western toilets are rare to find or completely unavailable. Given the extreme altitude and remoteness, proper preparation and updated information are essential.
Road suggested by: Hugh Wilson