Tanggula Pass

唐古拉山口 · Mountain Pass · Nagqu

Tanggula Pass at about 5,231 m is the highest point of the Qinghai–Tibet highway and railway and the natural boundary between Tibet and Qinghai. Wind and thin air make stops short by necessity.

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TypeMountain Pass
Altitude5,231 m (17,162 ft)
Visit lengthAbout 2 hours
Opening hoursDaylight hours; check seasonal access

Overview

Quick facts about Tanggula Pass

Quick answer

Tanggula Pass at about 5,231 m is the highest point of the Qinghai–Tibet highway and railway and the natural boundary between Tibet and Qinghai. Wind and thin air make stops short by necessity.

TypeMountain Pass
Altitude5,231 m (17,162 ft)
Visit lengthAbout 2 hours
Opening hoursDaylight hours; check seasonal access
Good to knowDo not linger; oxygen is available in nearby service vehicles.

How to visit

Practical advice from our Lhasa team.

  • Walk slowly. Steep stairs at altitude are harder — come on your second or third day, not the day you arrive.
  • Taxi drop-off: Designated parking area at the site entrance
  • Bus: Access is by tour vehicle or chartered car

Hotels near Tanggula Pass

Sorted by walking or driving distance when we have it; otherwise hotels we use in the same city.

Best time to visit

Average daily high and low in °C, and monthly rain in mm. Roads to this area can close in winter.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec14°-19°130 mm
Daily highDaily lowRain
BestGoodCold or limited access

Nearby

Questions

Tanggula Pass is at about 5,231 m (17,162 ft) above sea level. Plan a slow first day and drink plenty of water.
The better months are usually June, July, August, September.
Yes. All foreign visitors need a Tibet Travel Permit, and some areas need extra permits. We file them for you with every booking.
About 2 hours

Visiting Nagqu?

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