How to get by car to the scenic Mo La Pass

How to get by car to the scenic Mo La Pass

Nepal, asia

Length

42 km

Elevation

5,024 m

Difficulty

extreme

Best Season

Year-round

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!

Where is it?

How to get by car to the scenic Mo La Pass is located in Nepal (asia). Coordinates: 27.9282, 84.3833

Share this road

Road Details

Country
Nepal
Continent
asia
Length
42 km
Max Elevation
5,024 m
Difficulty
extreme
Coordinates
27.9282, 84.3833

Related Roads in asia

Driving the defiant X716: A 223km high-altitude journey across Tibetextreme

Driving the defiant X716: A 223km high-altitude journey across Tibet

šŸ‡ØšŸ‡³ China

Alright, adventure junkies, listen up! If you're craving a seriously off-the-beaten-path experience, the X716 in Tibet is calling your name. This isn't your Sunday drive; this is a proper expedition into the heart of the Ngari Prefecture, one of China's most remote corners. The X716, or 716 County Road, stretches for 223 km between Baga (near the G219) and Xungba (on the S301), carving a rugged path through the southern Tibetan plateau. Forget smooth tarmac – we're talking gravel, dirt, and rocks that'll give your suspension a workout. A high-clearance 4x4 isn't just recommended; it's essential, along with some serious off-road driving skills. The highlight (literally) is the Naktse La pass, soaring to a staggering 5,533m (18,152ft). You'll be spending a *lot* of time above 5,000 meters, making it one of the highest roads on the planet. Speaking of high altitude, be warned: altitude sickness is a real risk. Pack your meds and be prepared for a serious lack of oxygen. This road is isolated. Don't expect any luxury – medical aid, electricity, or even a proper toilet are basically non-existent out here. And don't think it's all flat! The X716 throws some seriously steep climbs your way. Some sections, especially near the passes, boast gradients of up to 12%. The thin air makes those inclines even tougher on your engine. Forget about attempting this in winter. The X716 is buried under snow and ice. Summer is the only window, but even then, be prepared for anything Mother Nature throws your way. Pack extra fuel, food, and water – self-sufficiency is key on this epic journey. The scenery? Absolutely breathtaking. The challenge? Unforgettable.

Why is it called Vardenyats Pass?extreme

Why is it called Vardenyats Pass?

šŸŒ Armenia

Vardenyats Pass is a high mountain pass at an elevation of 2.410m (7,906ft) above sea level, located in the Vayots Dzor Province of Armenia. Why is it called Vardenyats Pass? Set high in the Vardenis mountains range, the road to the summit, also known as Selim Mountain Pass or Sulemayi Lernants’k’, is called M10. The pass was formerly known as Selim Mountain Pass, but the name was recently changed. According to the governor of Vayots Dzor province, Edgar Ghazarian the name changed because ā€˜Selim’ name is often used in the press, electronic mass media, tourist guides and reference books when the matter concerns a mountain pass, a caravanserai, etc. After consulting with historians, it became clear that Selim is the name of a person, rather than a place. This foreign barbarian was only famous for his evil deeds and destruction he caused. Our picturesque sites and historic monuments should not be linked to his name. I want to inform everyone that changes were officially made in the place names, with Selim mountain pass renamed Vardenyats mountain pass and the Selim caravanserai renamed Orbelian’s caravanseraiā€.  How long is Vardenyats Pass? The pass is 55.7 km (34.61 miles) long, running north-south from Martuni (a town in the Gegharkunik Province on the southern shores of Lake Sevan) to Yeghegnadzor (a town in Vayots Dzor Province, on the southern part of the country). Is Vardenyats Pass challenging? The road leading to the summit is completely paved, but it presents numerous challenges to any vehicle's suspension due to the abundance of potholes and broken surfaces. The road's perilous nature is primarily attributed to the extreme weather conditions, including blizzards, strong winds, dense fog, limited visibility, sections with black ice, and the constant risk of avalanches. Depending on the season of your visit, it's crucial to monitor local weather reports, as heavy snowfall can pose significant problems. Additionally, the occasional tumbling rocks demand constant vigilance while driving. Is Vardenyats Pass worth it? While driving through this challenging road, with hairpin turns, steep sections and countless curves, you’ll get stunning views.  As you traverse the terrain, the road leads you to the highland steppe, just beyond the pass, where the beauty of Armenia's majestic mountains unfolds.  Moreover, this pass serves as a gateway to Lake Sevan, offering an opportunity to experience this natural wonder. At the summit, you'll encounter a remarkable piece of history - the ancient Silk Road guest house, known as Selim Caravanserai.  This establishment was constructed in 1332 by Prince Chesar Orbelian, as revealed by inscriptions in both Armenian and Arabic.  Throughout its existence, the caravanserai extended hospitality to countless travelers journeying along the highway that traversed the Selim (Sulema) mountains. Selim Caravanserai stands as a gem amongst Armenia's historical treasures, representing an example of secular Armenian architecture during the Middle Ages. What are the highest roads in Armenia? Driving the demanding road to Aragats Research Station Embark on a journey like never before! Navigate through our to discover the most spectacular roads of the world Drive Us to Your Road! With over 13,000 roads cataloged, we're always on the lookout for unique routes. Know of a road that deserves to be featured? Click  to share your suggestion, and we may add it to dangerousroads.org.

A curvy paved road to the top of Kazerun Pass in the Zagros Mountainshard

A curvy paved road to the top of Kazerun Pass in the Zagros Mountains

šŸ‡®šŸ‡· Iran

Okay, road trip enthusiasts, listen up! If you're cruising through Iran, you HAVE to experience the Kazerun Pass! We're talking a seriously scenic route winding through the heart of western Fars Province, nestled in the Arjan Protected Area. This baby climbs to a whopping 2,203 meters (7,227 feet), so get ready for some serious elevation! The road itself is fully paved, thankfully, but don't think it's gonna be a boring drive. Expect a wild ride with hairpin turns galore, and a few tunnels thrown in for good measure. Clocking in at 61 kilometers (38 miles), this west-to-east route connects Kazerun with Dasht-e Arzhan, slicing right through the breathtaking Zagros Mountains. Trust me, the views alone are worth the white-knuckle driving! Get your camera ready!

Norikura Skyline Road is the highest public road in Japanhard

Norikura Skyline Road is the highest public road in Japan

šŸ‡ÆšŸ‡µ Japan

Hey fellow adventurers! Have you heard about the Norikura Skyline in Japan's Nagano Prefecture? Nestled in the ChÅ«bu region, this paved beauty offers views that will absolutely knock your socks off. Winding its way up Mount Norikura, a massive dormant volcano in the Northern Japan Alps, this road takes you all the way up to 2,700m (8,858ft)! Fun fact: it's the highest public road in Japan, although the actual summit is only reachable on foot. Word to the wise: this toll road is usually buried under snow for more than half the year. Think towering snow walls over 10 meters high! It's generally open from mid-May to the end of October, with slightly different hours depending on the month. Also, private cars aren't allowed above 1,800m – you'll need to hop on a bus, taxi, or bicycle to continue. Trust me, the experience is unforgettable. The views of the Yarigatake and Hodaka Mountain Range are simply spectacular, and you’ll get a stunning panoramic view of the Northern Alps along the way. Once you reach Tatamihira, the last stop, take a stroll and soak in the alpine plants, dwarf pines, and maybe even spot some cool birds! This 14.4 km (8.94 miles) route climbs steeply in parts (up to 12%!), and has 10 tunnels so keep your eyes peeled. This road is a toll road that runs from Hirayutouge to Norikuradake Tatamihira. So, if you're looking for an epic driving adventure with scenery that'll leave you breathless, the Norikura Skyline is calling your name!