How to drive the old paved road to Dariga Pass?
Dariga Pass is a high mountain pass at an elevation of 3,602m (11,817ft) above sea level, located in the Xunhua Salar Autonomous County of Qinghai, China.
Is the road to Dariga Pass paved?
The road through the summit, also known as Dalijia Yakou, is fully paved with concrete. It’s called Provincial Road S202. With more than 60 sharp hairpin turns, the drive is difficult for long vehicles. Most commercial traffic is now diverted through the Dalijiashan Tunnel, leaving the old mountain road as a secondary route.
How long is the road through Dariga Pass?
The pass is 52 km long, running from Qitaibao to Manisigouxiang. The road climbs relentlessly up the limestone peaks, gaining elevation through 60 tight bends that put a constant load on the steering and transmission. The lack of guardrails in many sectors means there is no protection if a vehicle loses traction on the concrete during sudden weather changes.
Is the road over Dariga Pass wide enough for trucks?
The concrete surface is narrow in several switchbacks, with no shoulder room and vertical drops into the valley floor of the Haidong region.
Is the road through Dariga Pass open in winter?
Set high in the Qilian mountain range, the road is usually open year-round, with short-time closures in winters. The concrete surface can become extremely slippery when wet or covered in light frost, which is common at this altitude even in summer. Any mechanical failure on these switchbacks is dangerous due to the narrowness of the ledge road.
Road suggested by: Hugh Wilson
Pic: Richard Clayton