Kamba La Observatory

Kamba La observatory is a high mountain observatory at an elevation of 5.151m (16,899ft) above the sea level, located in the Tibet Autonomous Region, People's Republic of China. Do not take this drive if you have respiratory problems or any type of heart condition.

Kamba La observatory
Kamba La observatory

Situated in Shannan Region, the road to the summit is gravel. 4wd vehicle recommended. 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. 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. Starting from Kamba La parking lot, at 4.803m above the sea level, the ascent is 7.50 km (4.66 mi) long. Over this distance the elevation gain is 348 meters. The average gradient is 4.64%.