Lalung La and Nyalam Tong La: The Great Himalayan Descent

Lalung La (5,050m) and Nyalam Tong La (5,150m) are two high mountain passes in the Tibet Autonomous Region that mark one of the most dramatic geographical transitions on Earth. Together, they form the final high-altitude barrier on the Friendship Highway before the road plunges toward the Nepalese border.

Where are these passes located?

Located in Nyalam County, these passes (also known as Yakrushong La, Tong La, or Thong La) serve as the southern rim of the Tibetan Plateau. While they are often treated as separate crests, they are part of the same mountain massif. The road connecting them is 56.9 km (35.35 miles) long, running from Mainpu to Yalaixiang, and offers some of the most breathtaking scenery in the Himalayas.

The View of Shishapangma

The true highlight of this section of the Friendship Highway (G318) is the unparalleled view of Shishapangma (8,012m). This is the only 8,000-meter peak located entirely within Chinese territory. On a clear day, the snow-capped giants of the Himalayan range create an unforgettable panoramic view that seems close enough to touch.

The Most Dramatic Descent in the World

What makes the drive through Lalung La and Nyalam Tong La legendary is the "Great Descent":

The Drop: From the summit of Nyalam Tong La 5,150m, the road starts an incredible journey down to the border town of Kodari (1,500m).
Elevation Loss: You lose more than 3,600 vertical meters in less than 100 km.
Climate Change: You start in a cold, arid high-altitude desert and end the drive in a lush, subtropical jungle environment.

Driving Hazards and Safety

The road to the summit is fully paved, but it remains one of the most arduous sections of the Friendship Highway (China-Nepal Highway).

Altitude Sickness: The extremely low oxygen levels can affect both engine performance and human health. Those with respiratory or heart conditions should exercise extreme caution.
Winter Conditions: The passes are typically impassable from October to June due to heavy snow.
The Descent: The average gradient of 3.6% is deceptive. The road features endless hairpins that put immense pressure on vehicle brakes. In the monsoon season, this section is highly prone to landslides.
Pic: 陈冬阳