Zing La: Driving the 4,936m Unpaved Pass in Cona County
At an elevation of 4,936m (16,194ft) above sea level, Zing La is a high mountain pass in Cona County, part of the Shannan prefecture in southern Tibet. Located deep in the Himalaya range near the border, this remote crossing is a technical drive through one of the highest regions in the world.
| Road facts: Zing La | |
|---|---|
| Location | Cona County, Shannan, Tibet |
| Elevation | 4,936 m (16,194 ft) |
| Length | 39 km (24.2 miles) |
| Surface | Unpaved / Gravel and Dirt |
| Vehicle Required | High-clearance 4x4 |
How is the road to Zing La?
The road to the summit is 39 km (24.2 miles) long, starting from Cona. It is entirely unpaved and consists of loose gravel and dirt. The track is famous for having dozens of sharp hairpin turns as it climbs toward the 4,936m mark. Because it is a high-altitude wilderness track, the surface is often uneven, with deep ruts and rocky sections that can damage the underbody of a vehicle. A high-clearance 4x4 is mandatory for this route.
Can you drive to Zing La in winter?
No. For most of the year, the pass is blocked by heavy snow and ice. Even in late spring or early autumn, sudden blizzards can make the track impassable in minutes. The temperatures at this elevation are extremely low, often staying well below freezing even during the day. If you plan to go in summer, you should still carry recovery gear and be prepared for mud if the snow is still melting.
What are the main risks at 4,936 meters?
The biggest challenge is the lack of oxygen. Above 4,500 meters, internal combustion engines lose about 30-40% of their power. Your vehicle will feel sluggish, and you'll need to use low gears to keep the engine from stalling on the steepest climbs. For drivers, altitude sickness is a serious risk. There is no help, no fuel, and no cell service for the entire 39 km stretch, so you must be 100% self-sufficient.
Logistics and Preparation
Before leaving Cona, check your tire pressure and cooling system. The long, steep climb in thin air puts a lot of stress on the radiator. Carry at least one full-size spare tire, as the sharp Himalayan rocks are known for cutting through sidewalls. If you are hiring a vehicle, make sure the driver is experienced with high-altitude snow and gravel conditions. There are no safety barriers on the hairpins, so one wrong move on a soft shoulder can be fatal.