How to Get to Burang County from Gar County (Shiquanhe Town)
Distance and Travel Time
The distance from Gar County (噶尔县) to Purang County (普兰县) is approximately 344.9 kilometers, and the journey takes about 5 hours by car. The entire route follows G564 National Highway and G219 National Highway. There are no direct flights or trains to Purang County. The primary transportation methods include self-driving, long-distance buses, and motorcycle riding.
Detailed Travel Guide
1. Self-Driving Guide
Navigation Route
Starting Point: Gar County
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Begin the journey on Gar Road (噶尔路) for about 320 meters.
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Turn left onto Yezhi Line (叶孜线), drive for 440 meters.
Main Route:
Follow Yezhi Line (叶孜线) and then take G564 National Highway (G564) via Rengong Bridge (仁贡桥) and Zhangjie Bridge (樟杰大桥) to Purang County.
Ending Point:
Continue straight along G564 to the center of Purang County.
Road Conditions
The route is paved throughout, but some sections, especially around the intersection of G564 and G219, are winding mountain roads, so be cautious of high-altitude conditions and sharp bends.
In winter (November to March), snow can accumulate, so it’s recommended to carry anti-skid chains for safety.
Fuel and Costs
Fuel Cost: Approximately 207 CNY
Toll Fees: None
2. Long-Distance Bus Guide
Bus Information
Departure: Gar County Bus Station
Ticket Price: Around 120 CNY
Travel Time: Approximately 5-6 hours
Bus Type: Medium-sized bus (中型客车)
Important Notes
It is advisable to confirm the bus departure time in advance, especially during holidays when the schedule may change.
Bus Station Contact: For further details, call 0897-2821234.
3. Motorcycle Riding Guide
Route
The motorcycle route follows the same path as the self-driving route. The journey will take approximately 2-3 days with suggested segments like Gar → Renbu → Purang.
Route Conditions
Some sections of the road, particularly around the high-altitude areas like Lameila Pass (拉梅拉达坂, 5200 meters), can be challenging, so it’s important to carry oxygen tanks.
Along the way, there are very few supply points, so it’s crucial to carry sufficient water and food.
Costs
Fuel Cost: Approximately 102 CNY
Meals: About 27 CNY
Total Cost: Approximately 129 CNY
4. Other Transportation Options
Airplanes/Trains
There are no direct flights or trains to Purang County. Travelers need to return to Lhasa or Shigatse (日喀则) and transfer to road transport.
Cycling
Given the high altitude and long distances in remote areas, cycling is recommended only for experienced riders. It’s essential to carry enough supplies, including water, food, and extra gear.
Additional Information
Border Permit
As Purang County is a border area, travelers need to obtain a border pass from Lhasa or Gar County in advance if traveling through restricted areas like Qiangtang (羌塘) wilderness.
Altitude Sickness Prevention
The entire route spans high-altitude regions ranging from 4,500 meters to 5,200 meters, so it’s vital to carry oxygen tanks and necessary medications for altitude sickness prevention.
Weather
In winter, some sections of the route may experience snow, so it is important to stay updated on road conditions before setting off.
Best Time to Travel
The best time to travel is from June to September, as it avoids the harsh winter conditions with snow and icy roads.
Scenic Spots
Along the way, you can explore famous landmarks such as Mount Kailash (冈仁波齐峰) and Mansarovar Lake (玛旁雍错), both of which are significant religious sites and scenic spots in Tibet.
Driving Directions from Gar County to Purang County
Total Distance: 344.8 kilometers
Estimated Time: 4 hours 53 minutes
Route Details:
Start from Gar County and drive 320 meters along Gar Road (噶尔路).
Turn left onto Yezhi Line (叶孜线) and drive 440 meters.
Continue straight, crossing Pujicuo Bridge (普吉措纠桥) for 30 meters.
Keep driving straight for 61.5 kilometers on Yezhi Line.
Continue straight across Gar River Bridge (噶尔河桥) for 100 meters.
Continue for another 13.5 kilometers on Yezhi Line.
Keep straight and pass Qiongbu Bridge (穷布桥) for 30 meters.
Continue straight for 39.7 kilometers on Yezhi Line.
Keep straight, passing Cuobu Bridge (错布桥) for 30 meters.
Continue on Yezhi Line for 17.2 kilometers.
Keep straight, passing Hamuqu Bridge (哈母曲桥) for 40 meters.
Continue on Yezhi Line for 130.2 kilometers.
Turn right onto G564 National Highway, drive for 63.5 kilometers.
Continue straight, crossing Rengong Bridge (仁贡桥) for 30 meters.
Continue for 18 kilometers on G564.
Continue straight, crossing Zhangjie Bridge (樟杰大桥) for 120 meters.
Continue for 140 meters on G564 to reach Purang County.
This route provides a scenic journey across the Tibetan Plateau, with opportunities to experience breathtaking landscapes, including sacred sites like Mount Kailash and Mansarovar Lake.
