Bingzhongluo–Chawalong–Zayu Road

An off-road route into Tibet from Bingzhongluo in Yunnan along the Nu River gorge, via Chawalong and Chayu to Ranwu, known for its treacherous road conditions and pristine scenery.

The Bing-Cha-Cha Road runs from Bingzhongluo in Gongshan, Yunnan, through Chawalong Township and Chayu County in Tibet, then crosses mountains to Ranwu, where it meets National Highway 318. The distance from Bingzhongluo to Ranwu is about 460 kilometers. The section from Bingzhongluo to Chawalong is about 87 kilometers. It is built right along the cliffs of the Nu River gorge, with narrow roads and tight bends, and passes Qiunatong, the village opposite Wuli, and the notorious “Great Sand Flow” section. From Chawalong to Chayu, the road crosses Xiongzhu La Pass, at about 4,600 meters, passes Muruo Village and Changla Pass, and enters the Chayu Valley. From Chayu to Ranwu, it crosses Demu La Pass (about 4,830 m) and descends to Ranwu Lake near the Laigu Glacier.

The off-road community once called this “the hardest road into Tibet.” Some sections have since been hardened and widened, but there are still many gravel roads along cliffs, sandy slopes and rockfall zones. The route passes villages of Nu, Drung and Tibetan peoples. The First Bend of the Nu River, the dry hot valley of Chawalong, the subtropical farmland of Chayu and snow-capped mountains and glaciers all appear together, and the scenery is extremely wild.

Allow 2–4 days. This route suits only high-clearance vehicles with off-road experience, and travel in groups of several vehicles. A Border Permit is required, and there are checkpoints around Chawalong. Petrol stations along the way are few, so refuel and find accommodation in Chawalong or Chayu. Check the road conditions during and after the rainy season, and do not attempt to cross landslides.

Bingzhongluo–Chawalong–Zayu Road

Along the route