Lungdri La: Driving the unpaved 4,689m pass on the Tibet-Sichuan border
Lungdri La is a high mountain pass at an elevation of 4,689m (15,383ft) above sea level, located in Baiyü County, in the far western part of Sichuan Province, China. Situated directly on the border with the Tibet Autonomous Region, this pass is one of the most technically demanding unpaved routes in the region, requiring maximum concentration and a high-performance vehicle.
The road serves a vital strategic purpose, carved into the vertical landscapes above the Jinsha River (the upper section of the Yangtze). This area is defined by its extreme isolation and the raw beauty of the Tibetan plateau's edge. The track is not just a transit route; it is a lifeline for remote communities, though it remains one of the most treacherous climbs in the Kham region due to its relentless incline and the lack of any modern safety infrastructure.
| Road facts: Lungdri La | |
|---|---|
| Location | Baiyü County (Sichuan) / Tibet Border |
| Elevation | 4,689 m (15,383 ft) |
| Length | 17 km (10.5 miles) |
| Average Gradient | 9.9% |
| Max Gradient | 17% |
| Surface | Totally Unpaved / Rocky |
How difficult is the ascent to Lungdri La?
The climb to the summit, starting from the vicinity of Jidong, is characterized by a sustained and punishing incline. The road is 17 km (10.5 miles) long, overcoming a massive vertical gain. With an average gradient of 9.9%, the climb offers no respite for the engine or the driver. The most critical sections feature maximum gradients of 17%, where the loose rocky surface makes traction extremely difficult even for experienced off-roaders.
A high-clearance 4x4 vehicle is strictly required. The track is entirely unpaved and subject to constant erosion. During the winter months, heavy snowfall turns the pass into a death trap; the combination of 17% ramps and ice makes the route virtually impassable. Optimal gear selection and low-range capabilities are essential to navigate the steep switchbacks that overlook the deep canyons of the Jinsha River.
What are the risks of traveling in this part of China?
Lungdri La is located in an exceptionally remote area where self-sufficiency is a matter of survival. Facilities such as electricity, medical aid, or running water are non-existent along the route. Travelers must carry their own fuel, emergency equipment, and oxygen, as altitude sickness is a real threat at nearly 4,700 meters. The proximity to the Tibetan border also means that travel permits and local regulations can change without notice. The intense cold and low oxygen levels make any mechanical failure a life-threatening situation, as help can be hundreds of kilometers away in the deep mountains of Sichuan.
Road suggested by: Hugh Wilson