Chāmkang

An unforgettable drive to Chāmkang, one of the World's highest motorable roads

Chāmkang is a high mountain pass at an elevation of 5.953m (19,530ft) above the sea level, located on the border between Xinjiang and Tibet autonomous regions of China. It’s probably the World's highest motorable road. 

Although claimed by India, Chāmkang pass was controlled by China after the 1962 war. This road was built in recent year by People's Liberation Army of China to link their border posts  空喀山口Kongkashankou (34°19'37"N 79°06'43"E) and 温泉Wenquan/Hot Spring (34°25'31"N 78°55'18"E). It’s one of the highest roads of the country. Due to the high elevations and exposure, the road is subject to strong winds and rapid weather changes. Be prepared for the cold and wind! High winds blow here all year long. Even in summer you can confront with snowy days. Temperatures here in the winter are brutally cold. Adverse weather conditions can prompt closure of the road. It can often be treacherous, with ice and snow accumulating even in the summer, so exercise caution as you make your way. It’s a strictly military road, a continuous track running North-South along the Indian border.
The ride is rather remote, so you need to be prepared. The region is uninhabited and was a conflict zone. In case of a breakdown, there is very little in the way of passing traffic or inhabitants around, and no cell phone service in parts. This route is not suitable for normal cars. The area is strictly military. The road is no open for non-residents. It’s an old jeep track, but is around 18 feet wide at the top. Do not take this drive if you have respiratory problems or any type of heart condition. Babies under 4 months of age should not make the ascent, either. Notorius lack of oxygen that tests the organisms and a high degree of steepness. Most people feel altitude sickness at around 2,500-2,800 meters. Extremely low oxygen for engine combustion. A major hazard of altitude is the sickness that can indiscriminately affect anyone regardless of age or fitness. The summit has about 40% less oxygen than at sea level, thus breathing is more difficult. Your pulse rate will increase and movement will be more laborious at the summit. The high elevation with its risk of altitude sickness, weather concerns, steep road grade, and overall inaccessibility make the travel dangerous and difficult.
Road suggested by: Vroom

 

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