How to drive the unpaved road to Patlian Pass in Kaghan Valley?
Patlian Pass is a high mountain pass at an elevation of 4,261m (13,979ft) above sea level, located in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan.
| Road facts: Patlian Pass | |
|---|---|
| Location | Kaghan Valley, Pakistan |
| Length | 25 km (16 miles) |
| Max Elevation | 4,261 m (13,979 ft) |
| Surface | Rocky Dirt Track (Unpaved) |
| Vehicle Required | High-clearance 4x4 |
Where is Patlian Pass?
The pass is located in the upper reaches of the Kaghan Valley, within the Mansehra District. It sits in a remote alpine environment characterized by steep slopes and glacial rivers. The track begins at Lawat and follows the Chuntar Nar river, climbing towards the ridge that separates Kaghan from Neelum Valley.
Is the road to Patlian Pass unpaved?
The road to the summit is totally unpaved. It consists of a rough and very rocky dirt track. Built between 2019 and 2020, the road is only suitable for 4x4 cars with high clearance and experienced drivers. The track runs along the Chuntar Nar river, and many stretches are frequently washed out by water and debris. The surface is composed of loose shale and large stones that require low-range gearing.
How difficult is the drive to Patlian Pass?
The drive is highly challenging and considered a cliff-edge track. The road is more a mule track than a conventional road, especially as it nears the highest elevations. It features steep dirt sections and sharp drops without protection, often requiring local driving expertise for the most technical segments. High-altitude sickness can also affect drivers, as the pass exceeds 4,000 meters.
How long is the road to Patlian Pass?
Starting from the village of Lawat, the road is 25 km (16 miles) long. Due to the poor condition of the surface and the steepness of the terrain, the drive takes considerably longer than expected for this distance. On average, it takes 3 to 4 hours to complete the ascent depending on the weather and the number of washouts on the track.
Is Patlian Pass open in winter?
No, Patlian Pass is only accessible during the summer months. Because of its extreme altitude, the area is covered in deep snow for most of the year, usually opening only from late June to September. Even in mid-summer, the pass can be hit by sudden blizzards or heavy monsoon rains that make the track impassable in minutes.
What are the safety risks at Patlian Pass?
Beyond the technical driving hazards, the pass is located near the Line of Control (LoC) between Pakistan and India. While the Kaghan side is generally stable, travelers should stay on marked tracks and check current travel advisories. Political tensions in the broader region can lead to sudden road closures or increased military checkpoints. Local guides are highly recommended due to the lack of mobile signal and the presence of nomadic tribes (Gujjars) moving large herds of livestock, which can block the narrow path for hours.
Road suggested by: Jorge Manuel Gómez Sánchez
Pic: Haie Mansoor