The road to Kara-Keche Pass is truly an unforgettable experience

Kara-Keche Ashuu Pass is a high mountain pass at an elevation of 3.384m (11,102ft) above the sea level, located in Naryn province, Kyrgyzstan.

Kara-Keche Pass

Located within the Tian Shan mountains, the road to the summit is gravel, partly in very poor condition. Of course, a 4x4 vehicle is needed. It’s usually impassable from November to March. Not recommended to heavy road motorcycles. The pass links the Jumgal valley to the Song Kul's lake, and the village of Kyzyl Oi with the popular alpine lake of Song Kul.

Part of the Silk Road, the pass is also known as Pereval Karakichi, Karakeche pass, Karakitchi pass and Kara Keche pass. The climb is simply terrible, with a notorius lack of oxygen that tests the organisms and a high degree of steepness. Most people feel altitude sickness at around 2,500-2,800 meters. The drive up to and over is adventurous and well worth it. The views are amazing. It’s a sought-out area with cyclists and off-road enthusiasts for its spectacular and varied mountain scenery. It offers panoramic views on the Song Kul's lake and the open coal-mine of the Karakitchi gorge. It is one of four passes leading up to Son-Kul lake. Even in July there can be snow up there so dress warm and be ready for anything.
Pic&video: vfr800hu

 

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