How to Get to Zanda County from Gar County (Shiquanhe Town)
Distance and Travel Time
The distance from Gar County (噶尔县) to Zanda County (札达县) is approximately 249 kilometers, and the journey takes about 4 hours and 36 minutes by car. There are no toll fees along the route, and the fuel cost is around 124 CNY. The main transportation methods include self-driving, long-distance buses, and motorcycle riding. Currently, there are no direct flights or train services to Zanda County.
Detailed Travel Guide
1. Self-Driving Guide
Navigation Route
Starting Point: Gar County
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Head south for 20 meters, then turn right onto Gar Road (噶尔路).
Main Route:
Continue on Yezhi Line (叶孜线, G216), passing through Pujicuo Bridge (普吉措纠桥), Qiongbu Bridge (穷布桥), and Cuobu Bridge (错布桥), then switch to Baza Road (巴扎公路) to reach Zanda County.
Ending Point:
Follow Torlin Monastery Road (托林寺路) and Hebei Road (河北路) to reach the center of Zanda County.
Road Conditions
The route is paved throughout, but there are some sections affected by frozen soil and black ice, so caution is needed.
Some sections, such as from Xianqian Township to G216 at 2288 kilometers, are located at altitudes above 5,000 meters, so be cautious of altitude sickness and changing weather conditions.
In winter (November to March), snow can accumulate on certain sections, so it’s advisable to carry anti-skid chains.
Fuel and Costs
Fuel Cost: Approximately 124 CNY
Toll Fees: None
2. Long-Distance Bus Guide
Bus Information
Departure: Gar County Bus Station
Ticket Price: Around 160 CNY
Travel Time: Approximately 4 hours
Bus Type: Jinbei van (金杯车)
Important Notes
It’s recommended to confirm the departure time in advance, as some sections may have route adjustments due to traffic control.
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 total distance is 183 kilometers, and the journey will take approximately 3 hours 42 minutes.
Route Conditions
Some sections of County Road 701 (701县道) and County Road 743 (743县道) are steep and can be hazardous, especially during rain or snow, so avoid these conditions when riding.
Fuel Cost: Approximately 102 CNY
Food and Miscellaneous Expenses: Around 27 CNY
Total Cost: 129 CNY
4. Other Transportation Options
Airplanes/Trains
There are no direct flights or trains to Zanda County. Travelers must first return to Lhasa or Shigatse (日喀则) and then transfer to ground transportation.
Cycling
Due to the high altitude and long distances through sparsely populated areas, cycling is only recommended for experienced cyclists. Be sure to carry enough supplies, including water, food, and extra gear.
Additional Information
Border Permit
As Zanda County is located near the border, travelers must obtain a border pass from Lhasa or Gar County in advance if passing through restricted zones such as the Qiangtang (羌塘) wilderness area.
Altitude Sickness Prevention
The entire route is at a high altitude, ranging from 4,500 meters to 5,200 meters. It’s essential to carry oxygen tanks and medications to prevent altitude sickness.
Weather
During the winter months, some sections may be covered with snow. It’s important to stay updated on real-time road conditions.
Best Time to Travel
The best time to travel is from June to September, avoiding the winter months due to the risk of snow and icy roads.
Scenic Spots
Along the way, you can visit Banggong Lake (班公湖) and Doma Township (多玛乡) along G216, which offer beautiful natural landscapes.
Driving Directions from Gar County to Zanda County
Total Distance: 206.1 kilometers
Estimated Time: 3 hours 42 minutes
Route Details:
Start from Gar County, drive 320 meters along Gar Road (噶尔路).
Turn left onto Yezhi Line (叶孜线), 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 10.4 kilometers on Yezhi Line.
Turn right onto X701 County Road (X701), driving 19.2 kilometers.
Turn right onto X701, continue for 1.8 kilometers.
Continue on X701, heading right for 51.9 kilometers.
Turn left onto Y709, continue for 12.3 kilometers.
Continue right from Y709 to Baza Road (巴扎公路), travel for 45 kilometers.
Turn right onto Baza Road, travel for 2.5 kilometers.
Enter the roundabout and continue on Torlin Monastery Road (托林寺路) for 550 meters.
Turn right onto Hebei Road (河北路), travel for 230 meters.
Arrive at the center of Zanda County.
This scenic route offers an adventurous drive with beautiful Tibetan plateau views and high-altitude mountain landscapes. Whether you’re driving, taking the bus, or riding a motorcycle, this journey provides a unique travel experience in Western Tibet.
