Driving the dizzying 564 Country Road

Driving the dizzying 564 Country Road

China, asia

Length

74 km

Elevation

4,854 m

Difficulty

hard

Best Season

Year-round

Alright, adventure junkies, buckle up for Y564, aka 564 Country Road, a real heart-stopper snaking through Zogong County in Tibet! This isn't your average Sunday drive.

We're talking a 74km (46-mile) roller coaster ride that climbs to a dizzying 4,854m (15,925ft) above sea level, up near the Nujiang River. Expect a mix of paved sections and rugged terrain, plus hairpin turns galore. Oh, and did I mention the seriously steep climbs and drops? And let's not forget those dramatic, oh-my-god-don't-look-down drop-offs!

This road links China National Highway 214 to Zhonglinkaxiang, and it’s packed with views that'll leave you breathless (if the altitude doesn't first). So, if you're craving a true test of driving skills and a dose of adrenaline, Y564 is calling your name. Just be prepared for an unforgettable ride!

Share this road

Road Details

Country
China
Continent
asia
Length
74 km
Max Elevation
4,854 m
Difficulty
hard

Related Roads in asia

Welcome to hell: Khaltaro Valley Road is a scary drivehard

Welcome to hell: Khaltaro Valley Road is a scary drive

🇵🇰 Pakistan

# Khaltaro Valley Road: Pakistan's Heart-Pounding Alpine Adventure Nestled in the Gilgit district of Pakistan's Northern Areas, the Khaltaro Valley Road is genuinely one of the most intense driving experiences on the planet. Picture this: a narrow gravel ribbon clinging to mountainsides, tilted at up to 15%, with stomach-churning drops plummeting down on both sides. Buckle up—this one's not for the faint of heart! This 14.1km (8.7 mile) route connects the small towns of Sassi, Dache (Dassu), and Khaltaro, and it's a masterclass in nerve-wracking mountain driving. Hairpin turns multiply like rabbits—you'll lose count. Your stomach will lurch with every switchback, while sweeping vistas of the Haramosh massif (part of the mighty Karakoram range) unfold before your eyes. If you're prone to vertigo, seriously reconsider this one. The road shadows the beautiful Darchan River and winds through terrain so rugged and remote that snow blankets the region for seven to eight months yearly. The elevation gain is no joke: starting at 1,401m in Sassi and climbing to 2,577m in Khaltaro means a 1,176m ascent with an average gradient of 8.34% (with punishing 15% sections). This is legitimate 4WD territory. You'll need a serious vehicle and an equally serious driver with genuine mountain experience. Pro tip: Khaltaro's famous for emeralds, aquamarines, and fluorite crystals—if you survive the drive, you'll have bragging rights *and* potential souvenirs!

How to get by car to the scenic Mo La Passextreme

How to get by car to the scenic Mo La Pass

🇳🇵 Nepal

Okay, adventure junkies, listen up! Mo La, perched high in the wild Upper Dolpo region of Nepal, is calling your name. This isn't just any road; at a staggering 16,482 feet, it's one of Nepal's highest drivable points! You'll find this gem in the Karnali Zone, way up in the northwest corner of Nepal, practically waving at China. And yes, prayer flags mark the spot to prove you conquered it! Now, let's be real, this "road" is a beast. We're talking rough, unpaved terrain, squeezes where two vehicles can barely pass, seriously steep climbs (up to 14%!), and heart-stopping drops. Altitude sickness is a major concern, so hydrate like crazy and take it slow. This 26-mile stretch winds from Tingjegaon to Chharka, acting as the gateway to the stunning Charkha Valley. A 4x4 isn't just recommended; it's essential. Timing is everything! Hit this road in late spring (April to June) or early autumn (September to mid-November) for the best conditions. Keep in mind Dolpo is a restricted area. You'll need special permits from Nepal's Department of Immigration, so hook up with a local trekking agency to sort that out. Trust me, though, the effort is SO worth it! Dolpo is a world apart, a hidden kingdom where ancient Tibetan Buddhist traditions thrive. The scenery is mind-blowing, from barren valleys and deep gorges to lush forests and snow-capped peaks. Get ready for a visual feast you won't forget!

Kotal-e Faramozmoderate

Kotal-e Faramoz

🌍 Afghanistan

Okay, adventure junkies, buckle up! Let's talk about Pereval Faramoz, a mountain pass that hits a dizzying 10,311 feet (3,143m) in the remote Yakawlang District of Bamyan Province, Afghanistan. Fair warning: this isn't your Sunday drive. We're talking gravel, rocks, and a whole lotta bump-and-grind. Think of it as an off-road rollercoaster! The window to drive this pass is small, typically only July to September, as snow makes it impassable the rest of the year. This one’s definitely for experienced off-roaders with a reliable 4x4. Stunning scenery? Absolutely! But remember, safety first. The security situation can be unpredictable, so get the latest intel before you go. Seriously, check in with your embassy in Kabul for the most up-to-date information. This drive is an epic challenge, but be smart and stay safe out there!

Driving a challenging road through Hang Ban Tham Cavehard

Driving a challenging road through Hang Ban Tham Cave

🇻🇳 Vietnam

Deep in the heart of Vietnam's Sơn La Province lies Hang Bản Thẳm Cave, also called Luong Cave – and it's not your average cavern. This natural wonder, carved into the Son La mountain range in the Thuận Châu District, has a road *running right through it*! Originally a cave, it became a vital lifeline during the Vietnam War, with the Vietnamese army carving out a 500-meter path in 1964. Tucked just off Highway 6, near Tham village, the cave's mouth is wide enough to accommodate smaller trucks. Inside, you'll find both expansive chambers and tight squeezes – some parts are so big, they could house traditional Thai stilt houses! Though it's a working road for locals today, don't expect a smooth ride. The terrain is rugged, to say the least. Forget daylight! Inside, you'll need a flashlight to navigate. The road surface is a mix of dirt and rocks, making for a bumpy journey. Things get even trickier in the rainy season when the path turns into a muddy, slippery mess. This can make even getting to school a challenge! The rough road impacts local agriculture and trade, with traders avoiding the area and forcing villagers to trek to markets themselves. Despite the difficulties, the cave road is a popular spot for adventurous travelers – especially in the summer – though it usually only sees around 20-30 visitors a week.