Adventure along the Wild Road to Semiz-Bel Pass in Issyk-Kul Region
Pereval Semiz-Bel is a high mountain pass at an elevation of 2,718m (8,917ft) above sea level, located in Issyk-Kul Region of Kyrgyzstan.
Where is Semiz-Bel Pass?
The pass, also known as Pereval Semisbel’, is located west of the scenic Issyk Kul Lake, in Tong district, in the northeastern part of the country.
Is the road to Semiz-Bel Pass unpaved?
Set high in the Tian Shan Mountains, the road through the pass is totally unpaved. It comprises narrow parts and very steep sections. A 4x4 vehicle is required. Expect to be alone, so plan accordingly, as the drive is really remote. Given its elevation, the road typically experiences closures from October to March due to abundant winter snowfalls at the summit.
How long is the road to Semiz-Bel Pass?
Starting from Kara-Künggöy, a village in the Naryn Region, the road to the summit is 12.9 km (8 miles) long. Over this distance, the elevation gain is 634m and the average gradient is 8.79%.
Road suggested by: Hugh Wilson