How long is the road to Kigunaru Pass?

Kigunaru Pass (also known as Yeban Xian) is an extreme high-altitude mountain pass at an elevation of 5,407m (17,739ft) above sea level, located in Rutog County, within the Ngari Prefecture of the Tibet Autonomous Region. Reaching such an altitude puts this track among the highest motorable routes in the world, crossing a desolate and oxygen-thin landscape in western China.

The drive is a serious expedition that requires full self-sufficiency. At over 5,400 meters, atmospheric pressure is roughly half of what it is at sea level. This leads to a severe loss of engine power—often exceeding 40-50% for naturally aspirated engines—and puts immense strain on the vehicle’s cooling and fuel systems. Travelers must be prepared for extreme isolation, as there is no medical aid, electricity, or mechanical support for hundreds of kilometers.

Road facts: Kigunaru Pass (Yeban Xian)

25.1 km (15.59 miles)

Unpaved / Primitive Track

How long is the road to Kigunaru Pass?

and spans 25.1 km (15.59 miles) to reach the summit. While the

average gradient is 4.21%

, the profile is highly irregular. Drivers will face sudden, brutal ramps where the

maximum gradient hits 11%

. On unpaved surfaces at this altitude, maintaining traction on 11% slopes is extremely difficult; low-range gears and high-torque 4x4 vehicles are essential to avoid stalling or losing momentum in the loose Himalayan scree.

Is the road to Kigunaru Pass open year-round?

Due to its extreme elevation, the road to

is impassable for the majority of the year. Heavy snow and permafrost conditions typically close the track from late October through late June or early July. Even during the short summer window, the "Yeban Xian" road remains unpredictable. Rapid weather changes can bring blizzards or freezing rain in minutes. The unpaved surface can turn into a muddy trap or be blocked by rockfalls, making it mandatory to check for up-to-date local information before attempting the climb.

What are the driving risks at 5,407 meters?

Driving at 5,407m involves risks that go beyond the road surface. Altitude sickness (AMS) is a real threat to drivers, and the mechanical reliability of the vehicle is pushed to the limit. The

1,059-meter elevation gain

over the 25.1 km stretch requires a cooling system in perfect condition, as engines run hotter in thin air. There is no infrastructure in Rutog County for travelers—no western toilets, no running water, and no fuel stations. Total preparation, including carrying extra oxygen, satellite communication, and enough fuel for the return journey, is the only way to safely navigate this remote Tibetan frontier.

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