Gydzhen Pass: Driving the paved 28 hairpins in Xinjiang
Gydzhen Pass is a high mountain pass reaching an elevation of 3,988 meters (13,083 ft) above sea level in the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region of China. Located in the Pamir Plateau near the border with Tajikistan, the paved route connects Chat with Ghijek in Akto County.
| Road facts: Gydzhen Pass | |
|---|---|
| Location | Akto County, Xinjiang (China) |
| Coordinates | 38.48261, 75.82267 |
| Elevation | 3,988 m (13,083 ft) |
| Length | 30.0 km (18.6 miles) between Chat and Ghijek |
| Hairpin Switchbacks | 28 turns |
| Surface | Fully paved asphalt |
| Key Hazards | Tight switchbacks, high-altitude oxygen drop, heavy winter snowpack |
Where is Gydzhen Pass located?
The pass is situated in the Kizilsu Kyrgyz Autonomous Prefecture of far western Xinjiang, near the Tajikistan border. The 30-kilometer route runs west-east through the Kunlun mountain range east of the Muztagh Ata massif (7,546 m), connecting Chat with Ghijek at coordinates 38.48261, 75.82267.
Is the road over Gydzhen Pass paved?
Yes. The entire 30-kilometer route is fully paved with asphalt. The ascent features a continuous sequence of 28 hairpin switchbacks cut into the steep mountain face, with single-lane bends requiring heavy engine braking on the descent.
What hazards exist on Gydzhen Pass?
The primary physical hazards are atmospheric oxygen loss at 3,988 meters that reduces engine torque, thermal strain on braking systems along the 28 hairpins, and heavy winter snowfall that blocks the pass. Due to its border proximity, security checkpoints operate along the route.
How long is the road over Gydzhen Pass?
The paved route covers 30.0 kilometers (18.6 miles) between Chat and Ghijek. Navigating the 28 switchbacks and high-altitude climbs takes over an hour of continuous driving.
Road suggested by: Hugh Wilson