Sichuan–Tibet Highway (G318)

The southern route of National Highway 318 from Chengdu to Lhasa, crossing more than a dozen passes above 4,000 meters, including Zheduo Pass and Dongda Pass, and known as “China's most beautiful scenic highway.”

The Sichuan–Tibet Highway refers to the Chengdu-to-Lhasa section of National Highway 318, about 2,140 kilometers long. It is the classic self-drive route into Tibet. The route leaves the Chengdu Plain and passes through Ya'an, Luding and Kangding. It then climbs Zheduo Pass (4,298 m), known as the “First Gate of Kham,” to enter the plateau. Continue west past Xinduqiao, Yajiang, Litang and Batang. At Zhubalong, cross the Jinsha River into Markam in Tibet, then pass Zogang and Bangda. Descend the 72 bends of the Nu River to Baxoi, then pass Ranwu Lake, Midui Glacier, Bomi and Tongmai. Cross Sejila Pass into Nyingchi, and finally pass Gongbo'gyamda and Mila Mountain Tunnel to reach Lhasa.

Along the way you cross more than a dozen high passes, including Zheduo (4,298 m), Gaoersi, Jianzi Wan, Kazi La, Haizi Shan, Lawu Shan, Dongda (about 5,130 m, the highest point on the route), Yela Shan, Anjiula and Sejila. The scenery shifts from the high pastures of western Sichuan and the deep gorges of the Hengduan Mountains to the glacier-fed forests of southeastern Tibet.

Allow at least 10–15 days, driving 200–400 kilometers a day. The area around Litang (about 4,000 m) is very high, so it is best to spend a night in Xinduqiao to acclimatize first. The route is now largely paved, and the Tongmai danger zone has been replaced by a major bridge and tunnels. Landslides, debris flows and temporary closures are still common in the rainy season, and icy passes are a serious hazard in winter. County towns have petrol stations and accommodation, but supplies are sparse between Zogang and Baxoi and between Ranwu and Bomi, so keep at least half a tank of fuel at all times. Be alert for altitude sickness when travelling in Tibet, avoid strenuous activity at high elevations, and check road closures and weather before setting out.

Sichuan–Tibet Highway (G318)

Along the route