Kotal-e Palpi

Kotal-e Palpi

Afghanistan, asia

Length

11.3 km

Elevation

2,885 m

Difficulty

hard

Best Season

Year-round

Hey adventure junkies! Let me tell you about the wild ride that is Palphi Pass in northeastern Afghanistan's Baghlan Province. We're talking serious altitude here - 2,885m (9,465ft) above sea level!

This isn't your Sunday drive. This gravel, rocky, and super bumpy path connects the tiny villages of Godri and Gozar-e Langar. Picture this: hairpin turns clinging to the mountainside with crazy drop-offs, so you'll want to keep your eyes on the road. A 4x4 is definitely your best friend here.

Speaking of the road, it's a beast! Starting from Gozar-e Langar, you'll climb 1,556 meters in just 11.3 km, averaging a steep 9.74% grade (with some spots hitting 15%!). Oh, and did I mention the 33 hairpin turns?

Keep an eye on the weather, too, as this area is prone to heavy mist and winter snowfalls can make it totally impassable. And definitely check current conditions and the security situation before you go. You might even contact your embassy in Kabul as they have really the best info about terrorist attacks, ongoing armed conflict, risk of kidnapping and high crime rate. Stay safe out there!

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Road Details

Country
Afghanistan
Continent
asia
Length
11.3 km
Max Elevation
2,885 m
Difficulty
hard

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