
Where is Kulma Pass?
China, asia
113 km
4,362 m
moderate
Year-round
Ready for an adventure? Kulma Pass, straddling the China-Tajikistan border, hits a staggering 4,362 meters (14,311 feet) – talk about breathtaking views (and maybe a little breathlessness!). Also known as Qolma Pass or Karasu Pass, this route connects Tajikistan's Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Region with China's Xinjiang Autonomous Region.
The road, part of Asian Highway AH66, stretches for 113 kilometers (70 miles) between Kalasu Port in China and... well, Tajikistan. It’s mostly paved, making it a smoother ride than you might expect for such a remote locale.
Keep in mind, this isn't a year-round jaunt. Kulma Pass is typically open only from the 16th to the 30th of each month, between May and November. Nestled in the Pamir Mountains, expect seriously cold temperatures. But hey, since 2017, travelers report smooth crossings!
Road Details
- Country
- China
- Continent
- asia
- Length
- 113 km
- Max Elevation
- 4,362 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
Related Roads in asia
hardHere's How To Have The Ultimate Road Trip To Photi La
🇮🇳 India
Alright, adventure junkies, listen up! I just discovered Photi La, a crazy-high mountain pass chilling at 5,532m (18,149ft) in southeastern Ladakh, India. We're talking serious altitude! The road itself, aptly named Photi La road, is mostly paved and stretches for 16km (10 miles) from the historic village of Hanle. But don't let "paved" fool you, this climb is STEEP. Think 15% gradients in sections, with an average gradient of nearly 8% and a total elevation gain of 1,274 meters. The views, though? Unbelievable! You can see the entire Hanle valley spread out below. Just remember, the air is thin up here, and you might not see another soul. Also, the landscape is rough, so a 4x4 is essential. Keep in mind: this road is impassable in winter. And heads up! Before you even get close, you'll hit signs warning that your permit zone ends. Keep going, and you risk some serious trouble with the Indian army. But, if you follow the rules, you can eventually connect to Umling La. So, buckle up and get ready for one wild ride!
extremeWhere is Tossor Pass?
🌍 Kyrgyzstan
Okay, thrill-seekers, listen up! Tossor Pass in Kyrgyzstan is calling your name – if you're brave enough! This isn't your average Sunday drive. We're talking about a wild, unpaved climb to 3,901m (12,798ft) in the heart of the Issyk-Kul Region. Think epic views in the Terskey Ala-Too mountains! When can you tackle it? Aim for June to August; snow and landslides can shut it down otherwise. And seriously, you'll need a proper 4x4 with high clearance for this adventure. Those last few kilometers are steep and rough, especially if you're headed toward Naryn. The stats? From Tosor on Issyk Kul's south shore, it's a 34.7 km (21.56 miles) ascent with almost 2,300 meters of elevation gain. Expect a roughly 6.6% average gradient, and be prepared for some serious switchbacks! Remember, you're going remote – zero cell service and no gas stations, so come prepared. But trust me, the scenery is beyond worth it! Just maybe don't go it alone...
moderateWhere does Road A-364 start and end?
🌍 Kyrgyzstan
Hey adventure seekers! Get ready to rumble in Kyrgyzstan on Road A-364, nestled in the stunning Tian Shan Mountains, in the Issyk-Kul Region! This epic stretch runs north-south, linking the village of Barskoon to Kara-Say, and then heads east to Ak-Shyrak. Heads up: Kara-Say has a border police post, so you'll need a permit to go any further. Word is the road past Ak-Shyrak is a no-go right now. This isn't your average Sunday drive – we're talking 85.6 km (53.18 miles) of pure, unadulterated Silk Road history! Yes, this was once a major trade route between China and Central Asia. These days, you might see a bit of traffic, including some heavy-duty transports. Forget smooth pavement; this is a rough, rugged, and rocky ride all the way. But don't worry, most vehicles can handle it! Just a heads up about winter: Road A-364 climbs high into the Terskey Alatau range, peaking at a whopping 4,024 m (13,202 ft) above sea level, including three notable mountain passes. Snow can cause temporary closures, so check conditions before you go. Is it worth it? Absolutely! Keep an eye out for cool sights like a Soviet truck monument and a bust of Yuri Gagarin – the space dude himself! Apparently, he chilled out on Issyk-Kul's south shore after his big space adventure. Now that's a travel story!
extremeThe Ultimate Guide to Traveling the Xialondong Cliff Tunnel Road
🇨🇳 China
Okay, road trip lovers, listen up! Tucked away in the remote Huayuan County of Hunan Province, China, awaits the Xialondong Cliff Tunnel Road – a seriously inspiring drive and a total hidden gem. This fully paved path clings to a high cliff on the western edge of the province, stretching for about a kilometer with 200 meters burrowing right through a mountain in a cool tunnel! Heads up: this road was carved back in the '60s and '70s, so it's narrow! Take it slow, and keep your fingers crossed you don't meet anyone coming the other way. The tunnel itself is something special, with window-like openings every few meters cut right into the rock face. Keep an eye out for potential rockslides and maybe skip it during the rainy season, just to be safe. But honestly, the views alone make this detour worth it! Recent improvements like lights inside the tunnel and a scenic lookout point make it even better. This road itself has become a tourist attraction and it's easy to see why. Get ready for some seriously breathtaking views along X710 – it's like driving amongst the clouds!