Lazhi La: Driving the G317 Pass in Chamdo Prefecture
At 4,501m (14,767ft) high, Lazhi La is a mountain pass in the Chamdo Prefecture of Tibet. It sits right on the line between Karuo District and Jomda County. This isn't a backroad; it's a key part of the main highway system in eastern Tibet.
| Road facts: Lazhi La | |
|---|---|
| Location | Chamdo, Tibet, China |
| Elevation | 4,501 m (14,767 ft) |
| Road Name | China National Highway 317 (G317) |
| Length | 178 km (111 miles) |
| Surface | Paved (Asphalt) |
How is the drive through Lazhi La?
The road through the pass is 178 km (111 miles) long, running from Chamdo to the S501 junction. It is fully paved, but don't let that fool you. Because it's the G317, you'll be sharing the road with a lot of heavy trucks. The asphalt is often worn down or cracked because of the weight of the freight. It's a long, slow haul at very high altitude, so expect the engine to feel sluggish and your fuel consumption to go up.
Can you drive Lazhi La in winter?
The pass is usually open all year, but it’s a gamble in winter. At 4,500 meters, you can get hit with black ice or sudden blizzards at any time. When the weather turns, they might close the road for a few hours or days. If you're heading up there between November and March, you’ll definitely need snow chains and a vehicle that can handle sub-zero starts.
What are the main risks on the G317 here?
The biggest issue is the lack of oxygen and the mix of traffic. Your car will lose power, and you'll need to be patient when overtaking slow-moving trucks on the climbs. The road is carved into the mountainside, so falling rocks are a real thing, especially after it rains. There are no fancy guardrails in many spots—just you, the asphalt, and a long drop. Also, the long descents will cook your brakes if you don't use gear braking to keep the speed down.
Supplies and Logistics
You’ve got 178 km to cover with almost no help in between. Make sure your cooling system is 100% because the long climbs in thin air are brutal on engines. Fill up the tank in Chamdo—don't count on finding reliable fuel until you reach Jomda. There is very little cell service, so if you break down, you might be waiting a long time for a tow.
Road suggested by: Hugh Wilson
Pic: Carl Parker