Kōtal-e Sabzak
Kōtal-e Sabzak is a high mountain pass at an elevation of 2.552m (8,372ft) above the sea level, located on the border of Herat and Badghis provinces, in north-west Afghanistan.
The winding road to the summit is unpaved and very rough. It’s called Lapis route. It’s usually impassable in winters. The road is in poor condition and suffers the harsh meteorological conditions of the area every winter. The surface can ripple like a roller coaster track in places where “frost heaves” are caused by seasonal freezing and thawing of the ground.
Due to the high elevations and exposure, the road is subject to strong winds and rapid weather changes. The pass links Herāt, the third-largest city of the country, and the town of Qala-e-Naw. The road is in dreadful condition and requires strong nerves to negotiate it. Proper preparation is essential to having a safe, enjoyable trip on this road. Due to the remoteness of the area, take special care to ensure that your vehicle is ready for the trip. If you do choose this route please check up to date information due to the security situation: terrorist attacks, ongoing armed conflict, risk of kidnapping and high crime rate.
Road suggested by: Hugh Wilson
Pic: http://sharingmeanscaring.blogspot.com/2007/02/sabzak-pass_02.html