How to drive the unpaved road to Drakde La in Qinghai?
Drakde La (also known as Dragde La) is a high-altitude mountain pass at an elevation of 4,611m (15,127ft) above sea level, located in Maqên County, within the Golog Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture of Qinghai, China. This dirt track crosses the Tibetan Plateau and serves as the old high-clearance mountain route that was bypassed by the modern G0615 Huajiu Highway via the Xueshan No.1 Tunnel.
| Road facts: Drakde La (Dragde La) | |
|---|---|
| Location | Golog Prefecture, Qinghai Province, China |
| Elevation | 4,611 m (15,127 ft) |
| Max Gradient | 9% |
| Surface | Unpaved (Gravel, Mud and Loose Rock) |
What are the driving hazards of the Drakde La mountain road?
While long-distance trucks and heavy traffic now use the deep Xueshan No.1 Tunnel, the old surface road climbing to the Drakde La summit remains an unpaved 4x4 track. The dirt trail is prone to severe alpine erosion, featuring a maximum gradient of 9%. Near the summit, which is marked by a traditional stupa and prayer flags, the roadbed narrows significantly and is exposed to violent mountain crosswinds that can destabilize high-profile vehicles.
How does the proximity to the Amnye Machen glaciers affect the road?
The track runs close to the massive Mount Amnye Machen glaciers, exposing the driving surface to constant freezing. Mudslides and glacial meltwater streams regularly cut across the path, turning dry gravel into a thick, slippery fangar within minutes. Heavy 4x4 vehicles equipped with all-terrain tires are necessary because the rocks lining the route are sharp and easily cause deep cuts to tire sidewalls. Sudden summer snowstorms are common at this elevation.
What is the state of the road after the G0615 bypass?
Since the opening of the G0615 Huajiu Highway tunnel, local road maintenance crews completely ignore the old mountain pass route. This lack of upkeep means you will encounter deep ruts, unmonitored washouts, and large fallen stones blocking the lanes. There are no guardrails or safety barriers on the 9% ramps, leaving wheels inches away from steep unprotected drops.
Road suggested by: Hugh Wilson
Pic&video: Journey Beyond the Horizon