How long is Panlong Ancient Road?
China, asia
36 km
4,269 m
moderate
Year-round
Deep in China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, near Kashgar, lies the Panlong Ancient Road. Don't even think about attempting this drive if you're queasy! This 36km (22-mile) stretch of road, also known as Pamir Plateau Sky Road and Wacha Road, opened in 2019 to help local mountain communities. Heads up, foreign travelers: you'll need a border pass for Tashkurgan.
Starting from Habu Sikalai in Waqia (next to the Bandi Dailiya River) on the X614 county road, it twists westward to Taxkorghan township (right off the G314 national road/KKH by the Tashiku'er River).
Prepare for a wild ride with over 208 bends! Drive super carefully, especially in rain or snow, and watch out for potential mudslides.
The highest point, Wuguliyate Daban, sits at a breathtaking 4,269m (14,005ft). The climb is seriously steep, with some sections hitting an 11.8% gradient. Luckily, it's been fully paved since 2020, making it a true driver's dream.
Keep in mind, Panlong Ancient Road is usually closed from late October to late March each year.
Road Details
- Country
- China
- Continent
- asia
- Length
- 36 km
- Max Elevation
- 4,269 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
Related Roads in asia
hardY773 is an otherworldly road
🇨🇳 China
Okay, adventure junkies, listen up! If you're heading to the Ngari Prefecture in Tibet, China, and you've got a serious case of wanderlust, Country Road 773 needs to be on your radar. Forget pavement – this baby's all rugged, unpaved goodness, so make sure you're rolling in a 4x4. We're talking serious altitude here; you'll be cruising well above 5,000m. That air gets *thin*, folks, so acclimatize beforehand or risk a bad time (or worse!). This whole area is super remote, which means you'll likely have the stunning scenery all to yourself. Stretching for 102km (63 miles) between the S301 and X710 Roads, this north-south route isn't just a drive; it's a climb. You'll crest a staggering 5,370m (17,618ft) above sea level. Brace yourself for breathtaking vistas, and remember to breathe (if you can!).
extremeChipchap Pass: Driving the remote Wuersisan-Radome Road in Xinjiang
🇨🇳 China
Guys, you will NOT believe this road! Deep in the Hotan Prefecture of Xinjiang, China, lies the Chipchap Pass, clocking in at a whopping 5,301m (17,391ft) above sea level. This isn't your Sunday drive – it's a full-blown 4x4 expedition! The Wuersisan-Radome Road – that's the name of this beast – is a 132.3 km (82.2 miles) unpaved gauntlet starting from Provincial Road 219. Don't expect a leisurely climb; although the gradient tops out at 7%, most of the drive is above 4,500 meters, which will test both you and your vehicle to the absolute limit. Think raw dirt and gravel under your tires, slippery as anything when it rains or snows. Speaking of weather, hold on tight! Winter temps can nosedive to a bone-chilling -55°C (-67°F). Even in summer, expect sudden and brutal changes. Icy winds are a constant companion, and whiteouts can happen in the blink of an eye. Pack for sub-zero conditions and enough supplies to survive a significant delay. Oh, and did I mention there are *no* facilities out there? None. Zero. Zilch. We’re talking no electricity, no water, no nothing for the entire drive. Also keep in mind that because it's near sensitive borders, travel restrictions can pop up. This is a serious, high-altitude route where oxygen is thin, and mistakes can be fatal due to the complete lack of assistance. But the views… oh, the VIEWS! Just remember: you're completely on your own out there.
moderateNyema La: this road is not for timid drivers
🇨🇳 China
Okay, adventurers, listen up! I've just conquered Nyema La, and wow, what a ride! We're talking about a staggering 5,481 meters (almost 18,000 feet!) in southeastern Tibet. This isn't your Sunday drive—the road is entirely unpaved, a wild mix of rocks and rugged terrain. Seriously, watch your tires! Those rocks are sharp, and you'll need to be on your A-game with the steering. Oh, and a little tip: this might not be the best adventure if you're not a fan of thin air. You're going to want some serious clearance, skid plates, and differential lockers. Basically, leave the family sedan at home. Weather can change in a heartbeat. Expect strong winds and be prepared for chilly conditions, even in summer. Seriously, it can snow anytime. This isn't just a scenic route; it's a mining road on the way to the Luobusazhen mine. So gear up, buckle in, and get ready for an unforgettable experience!
extremeWhen was the road through Taldyk Pass built?
🌍 Kyrgyzstan
Okay, picture this: you're cruising through the Osh Region of Kyrgyzstan, heading for the legendary Taldyk Pass. Perched at a whopping 3,615m (11,860ft), this beauty is part of the iconic M41, aka the Pamir Highway. The pass stretches for about 25km (15.5 miles) between Ak-Bosogo and Sary-Tash, and yeah, it's paved, which is a bonus! But don't get too comfy. This road is no joke. You'll be wrestling with some seriously steep inclines and navigating 14 hairpin turns that'll test your driving skills. The last few kilometers really crank up the intensity, hitting almost an 8% gradient. Word to the wise: winter here is no joke, and this pass can be super dangerous. You might even spot the ghostly remains of trucks that didn't quite make it, tumbling down the cliffs. Despite the challenges, Taldyk Pass stays open all year round, which is pretty wild considering its altitude. Get ready for some unreal views high in the Alai Mountain Range!