Yela Mountain (Nujiang 72 Turns)

Yela Mountain (Nujiang 72 Turns) Nujiang Mountain

Yela Mountain, also known as "Nujiang Mountain," is located in Baxoi County, Chamdo Prefecture, Tibet Autonomous Region, with a pass elevation of 4,658 meters. After passing the pass from Bangda Town at 4,120 meters, you’ll encounter the famous "Nujiang 72 Turns," also called the "Ninety-Nine Hairpin Bends." These turns are not only steep and sharp, but most are U-turns. One wrong move, and the Nujiang River is waiting right below you. Truly intimidating, it’s considered a marvel of Chinese highways. After conquering the ninety-nine bends, you’ll see the Nujiang Grand Canyon. Further down is the Nujiang Bridge, and shortly after crossing it, you’ll reach Baxoi County at an elevation of 3,260 meters at the mountain’s base.

On the Sichuan-Tibet Highway, some travelers assume there are no more dangerous spots after the Tongmai Dangerous Section was upgraded—but that’s wrong. The biggest hazard on the Sichuan-Tibet Highway is high-altitude driving, and the Nujiang 72 Turns are among the most challenging.

Many travelers stop to take photos at the Nujiang 72 Turns, where a prominent red sign serves as a clear warning.

Located between Bangda in Chamdo and Baxoi, the 72 Turns begin 20 kilometers past Bangda Town. The highest point of the 72 Turns is at the summit of Yela Mountain, at an elevation of 4,700 meters.

Many cycling travelers should be especially cautious here—keep your speed well under control and check your brakes in advance. Don’t ride too fast.

For drivers, even more obvious advice: maintain a speed under 40 km/h and take it slow.

Especially on rainy days, many drivers crawl through the seventy-two turns, counting the overturned vehicles along the roadside as they proceed with extreme caution.

There are far more than 72 turns here, and certainly more than 99 curves—it generally takes about an hour to drive this road.

This road has its quirks—don’t panic, don’t speed, and taking it slow is the best safety measure.

This road has several characteristics:

First, the slopes are extremely steep, with sudden steep ascents and descents.

This leaves many drivers unsure how to handle it—most shift to low gear and proceed slowly, with some manual transmission sections even coasting in third gear.

There are over 40 kilometers of steep sections, so it’s best to stay cautious.

Second, there are numerous turns, mostly hairpins.

When turning, vehicles have a turning radius—the faster you go, the larger the radius becomes, especially on rainy days.

This is also a major reason why roads are closed due to snow in winter.

Third, drivers rarely honk at turns.

Driving quietly is one of the biggest risks here—it’s safer to honk often, letting other drivers know you’re there.

Especially since some turns are close to 360 degrees, haha.

Fourth, visibility is poor at turns, with many blind spots.

At near-360-degree turns, oncoming vehicles are completely invisible, while uphill vehicles are usually accelerating—so honk frequently.

A friendly reminder here:

First, accidents here are usually severe—whether it’s a ditch, a drop-off, or a cliff.

Motorcycle and bicycle travelers, be especially careful to slow down—slower speeds prevent most trouble, and are the best way to stay safe.

Second, on rainy days, be extra cautious, especially when descending quickly—use mechanical braking more.

Rain reduces visibility, and hard braking can cause skidding—who knows where you’ll end up, right?

Third, the high altitude—rapid ascents and descents require your body to adjust.

If you experience altitude sickness, take preventive measures in advance: take medication if needed, use oxygen if necessary, and prioritize prevention.

Fourth, traffic jams are extremely common—delays have lasted up to three days at their worst, with instant noodles reportedly selling for as much as 50 yuan a bowl.

Bring along bottled water, a thermos, and some food. In case of a traffic jam, these will help you get through the day. Nights here are extremely cold, especially at higher altitudes.

Additionally, traveling this road at night is not recommended—the risk level doubles. Source: Internet

Scenic Spot Location

Between Bangda and Baxoi in Chamdo Prefecture, Tibet Autonomous Region