How to Drive the Challenging Road through Derbent Gorge?
Located in the Surxondaryo Region of Uzbekistan, Derbent Gorge is a very scenic 7-8 kilometer-long canyon, with steep mountain slopes reaching up to 400 meters high.
Where is Derbent Gorge?
The canyon is located about 30 kilometers from Boysun, near the Qashqadaryo Region, in the extreme southeast of the country.
Is Derbent Gorge Worth the Visit?
Derbent translates as “Closed Gates” or “Narrow Passage.” It is named this way due to the steep 400-meter walls surrounding it. The final two kilometers are so narrow that sunlight only reaches the bottom at noon.
Why Was Derbent Gorge Famous?
It was once the most convenient trade corridor for caravans traveling from Kabul to Bukhara. Every Silk Road caravan was obliged to pay a passage fee. Travelers and traders from India, China, Persia, and even Spain were known to pass through these corridors, earning the nickname "Iron Gate."
Is the Road through Derbent Gorge Paved?
The road runs from Derbent to Pas Machay, and the paved route through the gorge is about 18 km (11.18 miles) long. Locally, it is known as Great Canyon Road or Darband Canyon Road.
How Challenging is the Road through Derbent Gorge?
The road is quite demanding, with hundreds of turns and runs at river level. Due to its nature, the road should be avoided during rainy and windy days because it is often flooded. There is also a high risk of rockslides, so it’s important to drive slowly. It is best to avoid holiday periods, as the road can be very crowded, being a popular destination in the country.
Road suggested by: jorge manuel gómez sánchez
Pic: Mehr UZ