How To Travel The Wild Road to Tsekne La in Tibet
Tsekne La (also known as Cegne La) is a high mountain pass at an elevation of 5,057m (16,591ft) above sea level. It is located on the administrative border between Baqên County (Tibet Autonomous Region) and Zadoi County (Qinghai Province) in China.
Where is Tsekne La located?
The pass is situated in the southern part of the Tibetan Plateau, connecting Sog County in Nagqu (Tibet) with Zadoi County (Qinghai). It is one of the highest navigable points in the region, crossing the mountain range that separates these two provinces.
| ROAD FACTS: TSEKNE LA | |
|---|---|
| Elevation | 5,057 m (16,591 ft) |
| Surface | Unpaved / Gravel |
| Length | 110 km (68 miles) |
| Region | Tibet / Qinghai Border |
How long is the road to Tsekne La?
The route to the summit is 110 km (68 miles) long, starting from the town of Sog (Sog County seat) on the G317 highway. This is an isolated journey through a remote high-altitude environment where basic services—including electricity, medical facilities, and running water—are not available.
Is the road to Tsekne La paved?
No, the road to Tsekne La is entirely unpaved. The surface consists of loose gravel and dirt tracks. Due to the altitude and the technical nature of the climb, a 4x4 vehicle is required to complete the crossing safely.
Is Tsekne La open in winter?
At an elevation exceeding 5,000 meters, the pass is subject to extreme weather. Heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures typically block the road during the winter months. Even in summer, drivers should be prepared for sudden weather changes and high-altitude conditions.
Road suggested by: Hugh Wilson