How to drive the high road to Kyakyen La in Tibet?
Kyakyen La is a high mountain pass at an elevation of 4,837m (15,869ft) above sea level, located in the heart of Cona County, within the Shannan Prefecture of the Tibet Autonomous Region in China. Standing at nearly 5,000 meters, it is one of the most demanding high-altitude crossings in the southern Himalayas.
The pass is situated in a strategically sensitive and geographically dramatic region, where the high Tibetan plateau begins its descent towards the lower valleys of the eastern Himalayas. This remote area is characterized by its raw, untouched beauty, dominated by jagged peaks and crystalline alpine lakes. The drive over Kyakyen La offers a rare glimpse into the isolation of the southern Tibet region, providing stunning views of the nearby Geching Tso lake, a vast body of water that reflects the surrounding snow-capped mountains.
| Road facts: Kyakyen La | |
|---|---|
| Location | Cona County, Tibet (China) |
| Elevation | 4,837 m (15,869 ft) |
| Length | 30 km (18 miles) |
| Route | Tsona City to Shao |
| Surface | Mostly Unpaved / 4WD Required |
Is the road to Kyakyen La unpaved?
The road over Kyakyen La is mostly unpaved and presents a significant technical challenge for any driver. Spanning approximately 30 km (18 miles), the route runs north-south, connecting Tsona City with the remote settlement of Shao. The track is famous for its relentless geography, featuring thousands of turns, many of which are tight, unpaved hairpins that climb steeply up the mountainside. Due to the extreme gradients and the unstable nature of the high-altitude surface, a high-clearance 4x4 vehicle is absolutely required to navigate the pass safely.
What are the conditions at Kyakyen La?
Due to its staggering altitude, Kyakyen La is subject to extreme weather conditions throughout the year. Winter snowfalls are heavy and can occur without warning, even outside the peak winter months. The road is frequently blocked by snow and can be closed for extended periods when access is not cleared. Beyond the snow, travelers must deal with the effects of thin air, as oxygen levels are significantly lower at 4,800 meters. The area is highly remote with no services available along the 30 km stretch, so self-sufficiency, extra fuel, and cold-weather gear are essential for anyone attempting to cross this high-altitude Himalayan gateway.
Road suggested by: Hugh Wilson