Sala La: The Road That Has It All
Sala La is a high mountain pass at an elevation of 4.459m (14,629ft) above the sea level, located in Sêrxü County of the Garzê Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture in the northwest of Sichuan Province, China.
The road to the summit is totally paved. It’s called 217 Provincial Road (S217). The road is long and arduous and crosses several mountain passes through remote areas, so you need to be prepared.
The road is 315km (195 miles) long, running from Xiewuzhen (in Chindu County) to Manigangezhen (in Dêgê County). Classical nomads country all around. The zone is prone to heavy mist and can be dangerous in low visibility conditions. Do not travel this road in severe weather conditions. Drive over wide high plains with many nomads with yaks and horses. Beautiful views into the Chola Mountains.
Pic: Jaap Vinke