China National Highway 219

China National Highway 219 extends for 10,002 kilometers from Kom-Kanas in Xinjiang to Dongxing in Guangxi, following China's western and southern borders.

The construction of this strategic road began in 1951 and reached completion in 1957, later becoming a focal point during the Sino-Indian War of 1962.

The highway passes near sacred Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar, where Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims gather for religious ceremonies throughout the year.

Travelers need oxygen masks and proper equipment when crossing multiple mountain passes above 4,700 meters, where temperatures can drop to minus 25 degrees Celsius.

The road reaches an elevation of 5,394 meters at its highest point, making it one of the highest paved roads on Earth.

Location: Xinjiang

Location: Tibet Autonomous Region

Location: Yunnan

Location: Guangxi

Inception: 1957

GPS coordinates: 35.96667,79.21667

Latest update: May 27, 2025 09:57