REGIONAL RIDE: SICHUAN TO TIBET (317 NATIONAL ROAD), CHINA

Seeking out an epic road trip in China? This challenging 2,400km route offers an incredible variety of scenery and culture

This adventurous route from Sichuan to Tibet takes you through many different types of scenery as you follow the 317 National Road from China’s western border into the heart of the nation. Along the way, you’ll pass through more than fifty ethnic settlements including Han, Qiang, Hui, Manchu, Mongolian, Menba, Luoba, Tibetans, Jiarong, Muya, Kham, and Uzang.

While the magnificent natural scenery of National Highway 318 on the southern route has its admirers, many believe the rich cultural landscape found on the northern 317 is even better. The prayer flags, mani stone piles, Buddhist temples, and colourful folk customs can be seen everywhere along the way. This ride is best enjoyed over four or five days where you can take in the changing landscapes along the route and immerse yourself in the different cultures found along the way.

The Road to Hell
The starting point of National Highway 317 is in Jinniu District, Chengdu, Sichuan, and the endpoint is Nagqu, Tibet, making it a lengthy trip at 2,400 kilometres. Compared with National Road 318, National Road 317 is more difficult to travel, with many remote and single-track sections that become hazardous in bad weather. It is sometimes referred to it as ‘the road to hell’ so make sure you’re prepared for this ride with plenty of planned stops and supplies.

Click here to see the route.

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