How long is Kandovan Pass?
Iran, asia
12.1 km
2,989 m
hard
Year-round
Hey thrill-seekers! Get ready for an epic adventure on the Kandovan Pass, a sky-high route straddling the Alborz and Mazandaran provinces of Iran. This isn't just any road; we're talking about soaring to a breathtaking 2,989m (9,806ft)!
Wind your way through the heart of the Central Alborz mountains on this 12.1 km (7.51 miles) stretch, also known as the Kandevān Pass. While it's mostly unpaved, most cars can handle it, so no need to leave your trusty ride behind.
Prepare to be mesmerized by the views as you snake between the Karaj and Chālūs rivers. This road, nestled in northwestern Iran, is a real challenge, with gradients hitting up to 8% on some ramps. Expect tons of twists, turns, and narrow sections that'll keep your adrenaline pumping.
Just a heads up: Mother Nature calls the shots here. This pass is usually snowed in from late October until late June or early July.
For those looking for a smoother ride, the infamous Kandovan Tunnel bypasses this pass. The tunnel is a key part of the Chalus Road, one of Iran's busiest and most scenic routes, built way back in the late 1930s.
Road Details
- Country
- Iran
- Continent
- asia
- Length
- 12.1 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,989 m
- Difficulty
- hard
Related Roads in asia
extremeHow long is Nargis Pass?
🌍 Afghanistan
Alright, fellow adventurers, let's talk about Kotal-e Nargis, a seriously epic mountain pass chilling way up in Afghanistan's Wilāyat-e Bāmyān province. We're talking 3,134 meters (10,282 feet) high! This isn't your Sunday drive, folks. The A77, as it's known, stretches for 37.3 km (23 miles) between Panjab and Aqzirat, and it’s mostly unpaved. Expect a wild ride filled with potholes that could swallow your tires, seriously steep climbs, and sections so narrow you'll be holding your breath. Oh, and did I mention the death-defying drop-offs and hairpin turns galore? Buckle up! Now, let's be real. Driving in Afghanistan is next level. Security is a real concern, and you've got to be super aware. Remote areas can be risky, and help is often far away. If you absolutely HAVE to travel this route, tread carefully. Despite the challenges, the raw, untamed scenery along this road is something you won't soon forget. Just keep your eyes on the road!
extremePereval Ketmen'
🌍 Kazakhstan
Okay, thrill-seekers and adventure junkies, listen up! If you're anywhere near the Almaty Region in southeastern Kazakhstan, especially close to the Chinese border, you HAVE to check out the Ketmen' Pass. We're talking serious elevation here, almost 10,000 feet! This crazy pass connects Karasaz and Ketpen, winding its way through the Ketmen mountains. Now, fair warning: this isn't your Sunday drive kind of road. Expect gravel, rocks, and a whole lot of bumpiness – your car will definitely earn its keep! Word to the wise: plan your trip carefully. This pass is usually snowed in from September to June, so timing is everything. Think steep inclines, hairpin turns that will make your head spin, and potentially slick mud if it's been raining. Speaking of danger, keep your eyes peeled. This road has it all: hairpin curves, terrifying drop-offs, possible avalanches, landslides, and even sneaky patches of ice. A 4x4 is an absolute MUST, and if you're afraid of heights, maybe skip this one. But if you're up for an epic adventure with breathtaking scenery, the Ketmen' Pass is calling your name!
moderateIs the road to Nurbula Top paved?
🇮🇳 India
Okay, adventure seekers, let's talk about Nurbula Top! This beast of a mountain pass sits way up high in the Leh District of Jammu and Kashmir, India, clocking in at a staggering 5,310m (17,421ft) above sea level. We're talking seriously high! Now, picture this: you're winding your way up a *recently paved* road (yes, you read that right!), stretching for 84.1 km from Loma Bridge in the north to Ukdungle, a small Indian Army outpost. This isn't just any road; it's a strategic route, built by the Indian Army to connect to the Demchok zone. But don't let the smooth pavement fool you—this trek isn't for the faint of heart. You're in for a wild ride! Mother Nature throws her worst at you with brutally cold winters (think -40°C… brrr!), and the weather can change on a dime with icy winds. While usually off-limits to foreigners, this road offers stunning views and a sense of accomplishment unlike any other. Just be prepared for extreme conditions and remember—it's all part of the adventure!
moderateEla Shankou: enjoy a drive among the clouds
🇨🇳 China
Ela Shankou is a high mountain pass at an elevation of 4.502m (14,770ft) above the sea levele, located in Xinghai County, in the Hainan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, in the east-central part of Qinghai Province, People's Republic of China. Set high in the Tibetan plateau, the road to the summit is totally paved. It’s called G214 Highway. Always check the weather forecast before you start your journey: adverse conditions are common. Expect strong winds. The pass has been bypassed by the scenic G0613 (Gongyu Expy Toll Road). The pass is 110 km (68 miles) long, running from Wenquan Town to Hekazhen. It features steep sections, hitting a 10% of maximum gradient through some of the ramps. There are hot springs just below the pass. Road suggested by: Hugh Wilson Travel guide to the top of Peacock Mountain Pass Driving the wild Tingri-Penjixiang road 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.