Eighteen Bends on the Heavenly Road

Introducing Eighteen Bends of the Sky Road

The Eighteen Bends of the Sky Road is located on the road from Yajiang to Litang, in Sichuan Province, on National Highway 318, crossing the Jianziwan Mountain at an altitude of 4,659 meters.

The 18 bends of the Tianlu Road on Jianziwan Mountain on National Highway 318 are over 4,500 meters above sea level. Looking down from halfway up the mountain, the winding elbows create a stunning curve beauty!

Climate and best time to travel

Ganzi Prefecture is located in the high mountain plateau area of ​​northwest Sichuan. The winter is long and cold, and the summer is prone to rain, fog and other disastrous weather. Therefore, traveling to Ganzi should be done in spring and autumn.

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Eighteen Bends on the Heavenly Road

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

The Eighteen Bends on the Heavenly Road is a historic and iconic mountain road in Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, renowned for its stunning views and challenging, sharp turns. It has cultural significance as it connects several Tibetan villages and has been a vital route for trade and travel in the region.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

The Eighteen Bends is located in Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, in western Sichuan. The nearest city is Chengdu. From Chengdu, you can take a bus or private car to get to the Eighteen Bends. It is a long drive, around 8-10 hours by road. There are no metro services, but taxis or hired cars are common options.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The Eighteen Bends is an outdoor attraction, so it’s open year-round. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months (April to October), when the weather is milder and the views are clearer. Winter can be difficult due to snow and road closures, while summer can be crowded.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

There is no entrance fee for driving along the Eighteen Bends. However, some nearby attractions or viewpoints may have a small entry fee. Tickets for these can be purchased on-site or through local tour operators.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

For the Eighteen Bends itself, booking tickets in advance is not necessary. However, if you're planning a guided tour or visiting specific nearby attractions, it’s advisable to book at least a few days in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You’ll need around half a day to a full day to drive and explore the 18 bends, taking stops for photos, hikes, and local interactions. If you plan to visit nearby villages or trek the surrounding mountains, it will require additional time.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• The 18 hairpin bends, each offering dramatic views of the landscape.
• The surrounding mountain ranges, including the Hengduan Mountains, for stunning panoramic views.
• The Tibetan villages along the way, offering a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle and culture of the Tibetan people.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available, especially for those interested in exploring Tibetan culture and the region’s natural beauty. English-speaking guides may be available but are not as common, so it’s best to arrange in advance.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The sharp curves of the 18 bends provide several excellent spots for photographing the mountain scenery.
• From the top of the bends, there are expansive views of the surrounding peaks, valleys, and the Hengduan mountain range.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start with a drive along the road, making stops at each of the 18 bends to fully appreciate the views. Hike the trails nearby for more panoramic views of the mountains. End with a visit to one of the Tibetan villages along the route to experience the local culture.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits are not typical due to the challenging terrain. Light shows are not available, as the area is primarily visited for its natural beauty and daytime activities. Special tours may be available, including cultural experiences with local Tibetan families.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The area can get crowded during holidays and peak tourist seasons (summer and autumn). To avoid crowds, it is best to visit during the shoulder seasons (spring or late autumn), and weekdays tend to be less crowded than weekends.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Basic facilities like toilets are available at stops along the route. Food and water are available in some local villages and rest areas. There are small shops selling local crafts and snacks along the way, but options are limited compared to more tourist-heavy areas.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The attraction involves hiking and winding roads, which may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. Some stops may be accessible to children, but it’s important to assess the difficulty of the terrain beforehand.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted, but mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are commonly used. It’s a good idea to have some cash on hand, especially in more remote areas where mobile payments may not be available.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are small local Tibetan restaurants and food stalls along the route offering traditional dishes like yak meat, Tibetan bread, and butter tea. More dining options are available in the nearby towns and villages.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available, especially in Tibetan cuisine. However, vegan and halal food options may be limited in more remote areas.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• There are guesthouses and small hotels in nearby towns and villages, offering basic accommodations.
• For a more authentic experience, you can stay in Tibetan homestays.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Daocheng Yading, known for its scenic beauty and Tibetan culture, is about a 4-5 hour drive away.
• Other Tibetan monasteries and cultural sites in the region can also be visited, like the Larung Gar Buddhist Academy.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are souvenir shops selling Tibetan handicrafts, including jewelry, prayer wheels, scarves, and local textiles. You can also find handcrafted wooden items and religious artifacts.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

From Eighteen Bends, you can hire a private car or take a bus back to Chengdu or head to other nearby attractions like Daocheng Yading. Public transport options are limited in the more remote areas.