
Pereval Chamaldilga
Kyrgyzstan, asia
N/A
3,414 m
hard
Year-round
Okay, adventurers, let's talk about Pereval Chamaldilga, a seriously breathtaking mountain pass nestled in Kyrgyzstan's Tian Shan range. We're talking high altitude here – a whopping 3,414 meters (that's 11,200 feet!).
Also known as Shamaldi-Jilga Ashuu pass, the road is gravel, but generally well-maintained. Just be aware that winter snow can sometimes cause temporary closures. Now, fair warning: this climb is a beast. The air gets thin, making every breath count, and the steepness will definitely test your mettle. Keep in mind altitude sickness can kick in around 2,500-2,800 meters, so pace yourself. The views? Absolutely worth it.
Road Details
- Country
- Kyrgyzstan
- Continent
- asia
- Max Elevation
- 3,414 m
- Difficulty
- hard
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