Karo La: enjoy a paved road among the clouds

Karo La is a high mountain pass at an elevation of 5,010 m (16,500 ft) above sea level, located in the southeastern Tibet Autonomous Region of China.

Karo La

Where is Karo La?

The pass links the Shannan and Shigatse prefectures. At the summit, there are breathtaking views of the Karola Glacier. It’s only 300 m from the road, making it the closest glacier to a highway in Tibet.

Is Karo La paved?

The road to the summit, also known as Koro La, is called 307 Provincial Road and is part of the Southern Friendship Highway. It’s asphalted and not very steep, though it is long and continuous. The road was recently paved and is popular with tourist buses.

How long is the road through Karo La?

The pass is 27.5 km (17.08 miles) long, running west to east from Relong (in Shigatse) to Mujiabu (in Shannan).
Pic: Helge-Werner Benke