Driving the Wild 4x4 Road to Kalpani Pass
Kalpani Kandao is a high mountain pass at an elevation of 2,206m (7,237ft) above sea level, located in the Upper Dir District of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, Pakistan.
How Long is Kalpani Pass?
Situated in the northwestern region of the country, the pass is 32.2 km (20 miles) long, running north-south from Barawal Bandi to Lal Qila.
How Challenging is Kalpani Pass?
The road through the pass is extremely challenging. It is mostly unpaved, with numerous curves (many of them hairpin turns), narrow sections, steep grades, and dangerous drop-offs. It’s not an easy drive, and high-clearance vehicles are required.
Is it Safe to Drive to Kalpani Pass?
Traveling to this area poses significant risks. Ongoing security issues, including frequent violence, military operations, and the presence of militant groups, make the region highly volatile. In remote areas, threats like terrorism and kidnappings are common. Many regions are restricted, and even with permits, safety is not guaranteed, as most governments strongly advise against travel. Given these high risks, it is best to avoid this region altogether.
Road suggested by: Hugh Wilson