Sichuan–Tibet Highway

The Sichuan–Tibet Highway (the southern route of China's G318) runs from Chengdu on the Sichuan plain to Lhasa, crossing the eastern Tibetan Plateau and a long series of high passes. It is one of the most extreme and spectacular overland routes on Earth.

The road passes through deep river gorges, Tibetan towns and monasteries, grasslands with yak herds and glacier-fed lakes, with altitude, weather and distance all part of the challenge.

Highlights

• Kangding, the gateway to the Tibetan Plateau
• The grasslands and monastery town of Litang
• The "72 bends" switchbacks down to the Nujiang (Salween) River
• Ranwu Lake and the forests of Nyingchi
• Arriving in Lhasa and the Potala Palace

Best time to ride

May to October, avoiding the heaviest monsoon rain in July and August when landslides are common.

The road

Much of the route is now paved, but landslides, construction, gravel detours and heavy trucks are frequent. Altitude sickness is a real risk.

Riding tips

• Foreign riders generally cannot ride into Tibet independently: permits and an organized tour with a guide are required. Check current rules well in advance.
• Ascend gradually and watch for symptoms of altitude sickness.
• Carry warm gear — temperatures can drop below freezing on the passes in summer.