Kǒng Táng Lā: Driving the 32 hairpin turns of the abandoned 5,251m pass
Located in the Nyalam County of the Shigatse Prefecture, Kǒng Táng Lā is a high mountain pass reaching an extraordinary elevation of 5,251m (17,227ft) above sea level. Situated in the heart of the Tibetan Plateau, this pass is a legendary crossing on the route between Gyirong and the stunning Paiku Co lake, offering one of the most technical driving experiences in the region.
The road over Kǒng Táng Lā is a relic of high-altitude Himalayan engineering. While the main flow of traffic now uses a modern tunnel to bypass the summit, the original road remains open for those who seek the thrill of the climb. This old route is entirely paved, but the lack of regular maintenance and the extreme environmental conditions mean the surface is often cracked and littered with debris. It is a journey of "up, down, right, left" that demands absolute focus and a vehicle in perfect mechanical condition.
| Road facts: Kǒng Táng Lā | |
|---|---|
| Location | Nyalam County, Tibet, China |
| Elevation | 5,251 m (17,227 ft) |
| Length | 32.6 km (20.2 miles) |
| Switchbacks | 32 hairpin turns |
| Route | Zhongma to Zharang |
How challenging is the climb through the 32 switchbacks?
The road through the pass spans 32.6 km (20.2 miles), running south-north from Zhongma to Zharang. The most striking feature of the ascent is the relentless series of 32 hairpin turns that zigzag up the steep mountain face. Even for experienced drivers, the constant turning is physically exhausting. The road is notoriously steep, and at an elevation exceeding 5,200 meters, the lack of oxygen drastically reduces engine torque. Most naturally aspirated engines will struggle to maintain momentum, requiring the use of lower gears throughout the climb.
As seen in recent images of the pass, the road features older concrete barriers and some metal guardrails, but these offer little protection against the sheer drop-offs of the Tibetan Plateau. The route is subject to "notorious lack of oxygen," and most people will feel the onset of Altitude Sickness (AMS) long before reaching the summit. Proper acclimatization is mandatory, and carrying medical-grade oxygen is highly recommended for anyone attempting this over-the-top route instead of taking the tunnel.
Winter hazards and high-altitude survival
Due to its extreme summit altitude, Kǒng Táng Lā is subject to heavy winter snowfalls and can be closed at any time if snow clearance crews are prioritized for the main tunnel route. Black ice is a common hazard in the shaded switchbacks, making the steep ramps dangerously slick. During and after a storm, the pass can become impassable for days, with temperatures dropping far below freezing.
There are no facilities, fuel stations, or mechanical workshops along this 32km stretch. Self-sufficiency is paramount. Ensure your braking system is in top condition to handle the long descent toward Zharang, as the constant use of brakes through 32 hairpins can lead to brake fade. Kǒng Táng Lā is a world-class adventure that offers a raw look at the Tibetan wilderness, but it remains a route that leaves no margin for error.
Pic: p. pc高手