Driving the extreme road to Gyandro La: A 5,147m mountain pass with 62 hairpin turns
Gyandro La is a high mountain pass reaching an elevation of 5,147m (16,886ft) above sea level, located on the boundary between Lhünzê and Cona counties in the Shannan Prefecture of Tibet. This remote Himalayan pass offers one of the most technical unpaved driving experiences in the southern part of the region.
| Road facts: Gyandro La | |
|---|---|
| Location | Shannan Prefecture, Tibet |
| Length | 46.6 km (28.9 miles) |
| Elevation | 5,147 m (16,886 ft) |
| Hairpin Turns | 62 |
| Surface | Unpaved (4x4 required) |
| Hazard Level | Extreme (Altitude & Sharp turns) |
Where does the road to Gyandro La run?
The road through the pass is 46.6 km long, running in a south-north direction. It connects the settlement of Yonggaerding with Lenong, crossing through a wild and isolated section of the eastern Himalayas near the border area.
Is the road to Gyandro La paved?
No, the road to the summit is totally unpaved. It consists of a rough dirt and gravel surface that is susceptible to weather changes. Driving this route requires a high-clearance 4x4 vehicle to navigate the uneven terrain and steep sections.
How many hairpin turns are on the Gyandro La road?
The descent and ascent of Gyandro La are incredibly technical, featuring a staggering **62 hairpin turns**. These sharp bends are tightly packed into the mountain slopes, requiring precise steering and a lot of patience from the driver.
What is the maximum gradient of the Gyandro La climb?
The road is pretty steep, with some ramps hitting a maximum gradient of **8%**. While this might not seem extreme on paper, driving at an altitude of over 5,000 meters makes the climb much more difficult for both the driver and the vehicle's engine due to the thin air.
Is driving to Gyandro La dangerous?
Yes, driving here is a high-altitude challenge. The notorious absence of oxygen at 5,147 meters can cause altitude sickness, and facilities like medical aid, electricity, or running water are rare to find in this remote region. You must be fully self-sufficient and prepared for extreme weather conditions.
When is the best time to drive to Gyandro La?
Always check the weather forecast before starting your journey, as adverse conditions are very common at this altitude. The road is usually only accessible during the summer months; winter snow makes the pass dangerous or completely blocked.
Road suggested by: Hugh Wilson