Here's How To Have The Ultimate Road Trip To Erkeshtam Pass
China, asia
10 km
2,838 m
moderate
Year-round
Welcome to Erkeshtam Pass, a thrilling border crossing nestled high in the mountains at 2,838m (9,311ft) above sea level where Kyrgyzstan shakes hands with China! This legendary pass connects Sary-Tash, Kyrgyzstan to Ulugqat, China, carving its way through the heart of Central Asia.
You'll be cruising on smooth, paved roads (A371 in Kyrgyzstan, S309 in China). The road's in great shape on both sides, assuming the weather cooperates, and the Chinese side is freshly rebuilt.
This pass is a bustling hub year-round. Be warned: the Kyrgyz and Chinese border posts are almost 10 km apart, and strolling between them is a no-go. Remember, Kyrgyz vehicles aren't allowed to cross, so you'll need to switch to a Chinese ride at the border. The border is only open during the day, and it slams shut on weekends and holidays, so time your trip wisely. Expect anywhere from 1 to 3 hours to clear customs, and prepare for potentially gruff immigration officials.
Where is it?
Here's How To Have The Ultimate Road Trip To Erkeshtam Pass is located in China (asia). Coordinates: 34.0401, 99.1086
Road Details
- Country
- China
- Continent
- asia
- Length
- 10 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,838 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Coordinates
- 34.0401, 99.1086
Related Roads in asia
moderateYashikul Lake
🌍 Tajikistan
Yashikul lake is a fresh-water alpine lake at an elevation of 3.976m (13,044ft) above the sea level, located in Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Province, in southeast Tajikistan. Nestled in the center of the Pamir Mountains in the Alikhur valley, the road to the lake is unpaved. It is subject to winter snowfalls with such a high summit altitude, and it can be closed anytime when the access is not cleared of snow. 4wd vehicle required. Being 50 metres deep at its deepest point, Yashikul lake is 19 km long and from 1 to 4 km across. After rain, even a single rainfall, conditions of the road can be challenging. Watch out for sudden loose-gravel breaks. Locals believe the lake is a home for a huge and magic animal - "Tuya Suu" - the water camel. The area offers many “lunar landscapes”, scenic views and spectacular sunsets. The terrain here is desolate but grandiose. The water is fresh and has rich flora and fauna. It is known as one of the coldest places in the former Soviet Union, with a record minimum temperature of -63 degrees Celsius recorded. Even in summer, you should dress warm once the sun goes down. Pic: Gianfranco di Summa Embark on a journey like never before! Navigate through our to discover the most spectacular roads of the world Drive Us to Your Road! With over 13,000 roads cataloged, we're always on the lookout for unique routes. Know of a road that deserves to be featured? Click to share your suggestion, and we may add it to dangerousroads.org.
moderateWhere is Gurudongmar Lake?
🇮🇳 India
Okay, adventure seekers, let's talk about Gurudongmar Lake! This incredible glacial lake sits way up high in Sikkim, India, at a whopping 5,154 meters (that's over 16,900 feet!). We're talking one of the highest lakes on the planet! You'll find this beauty about 190 km north of Gangtok and 67 km from Lachen, pretty close to the Chinese border in the northeast of India. Prepare to be amazed by the views – think snow-covered mountains all around, especially the Kangchengyao range. The lake, also called Chho Lhamo, Cholamu Lake, or Cholamoo Lake, is a sight to behold, especially when it freezes solid in winter! The road to get there, Gurudongmar Road, starts in Chungthang (about 91.4 km/57 miles). Good news: it's paved! But don't get too comfy – that high altitude demands serious caution. The road is often closed in winter due to heavy snow, so plan accordingly. Keep in mind that it is sacred to Buddhists, Hindus, and Sikhs, named after Guru Padmasambhava, the founder of Tibetan Buddhism. If you're an international traveler, you'll need a special permit from Delhi. And a heads-up: it's pretty remote, so pack plenty of snacks. Food options are scarce up there!
hardHow long is NH 183A in Kerala?
🇮🇳 India
Okay, picture this: you're winding through the lush, green hills of Kerala, South India, on NH 183A. This road is a real rollercoaster – 174 km (108 miles) of pure driving bliss (or terror, depending on your perspective!). You'll be cruising from Kumily to Sasthamkotta, and trust me, your senses will be on overload. Now, a little heads-up: this isn't your average Sunday drive. We're talking thousands of curves, some seriously narrow sections, and inclines that'll make your engine work. You'll climb up to a whopping 1,184m (3,884ft) above sea level, so those views? Absolutely epic. But keep an eye on the weather – a heavy downpour can turn this road into a slippery, landslide-prone hazard. And if you're prone to motion sickness, maybe pack some ginger candies – you'll thank me later!
hardThe road to Lawoche La is truly an unforgettable experience
🇨🇳 China
Okay, thrill-seekers, listen up! Lawoche La, also known as Laochi La, in Tibet is calling your name! This insane mountain pass clocks in at a whopping 17,673 feet above sea level. Forget the smooth tarmac – we're talking raw, unpaved adventure! This is one seriously steep climb, so if heights aren't your thing, maybe sit this one out. You'll need a 4x4 to even attempt this, and if it's been raining, prepare for some seriously muddy conditions. This pass, connecting Namru and Tielong, is super remote. Don't expect any traffic! It's crazy windy up there, you can literally feel the wind blasting you from all directions. Oh, and pro tip: this road is totally impassable from September to June. Only attempt it in the summer months. Get ready for views that will blow your mind on Kheriya ancient road!