How to drive the military road to Kasa Irunun Beli Pass?
Located on the sensitive border between Tajikistan and China, the Kasa Irunun Beli Pass is one of the highest and most restricted mountain crossings in the world. Reaching an elevation of 4,691 meters (15,390 ft), this is not a tourist route but a strategic military road connecting high-security zones in Central Asia. Driving here tests both engine endurance and the driver’s physical limits due to the extreme lack of oxygen. With a permanent military post at the summit, navigating this pass requires more than just a 4x4; it demands total logistical preparation and respect for international border protocols. If you take on this road, be prepared for an unforgiving terrain where asphalt is non-existent and the weather can turn lethal in minutes.
| Road facts: Kasa Irunun Beli Pass | |
|---|---|
| Location | Tajikistan/China border (Xinjiang region) |
| Elevation | 4,691 m (15,390 ft) |
| Length | 27.8 km (starting from Alashidun) |
| Surface | Totally unpaved / Loose gravel |
| Coordinates | 38.743639, 73.750250 |
How does the ascent from Alashidun to Kasa Irunun Beli Pass test your vehicle?
The journey begins in Alashidun (Akto County, Xinjiang) and stretches across 27.8 km of high-altitude desert. During this climb, you will gain 938 meters of elevation. The roads in this part of the Pamir Mountains are notoriously harsh; the surface is entirely unpaved, consisting of loose rubble and fine dust that can compromise traction and clog air filters. It is vital to perform a full mechanical audit of your vehicle before starting the ascent, as the engine's power output will drop significantly in the thin mountain air.
What are the technical risks of the final turns at Kasa Irunun Beli Pass?
While the majority of the track is relatively straight, the final approach to the summit is where the technical difficulty spikes. The road features 4 sharp hairpin turns concentrated in the last kilometer. At 4,600 meters, these turns require precise steering and throttle control. The surface here is often unstable, and the steep incline offers zero margin for error. Navigating these roads demands absolute concentration and a vehicle equipped with high-torque capabilities to manage the final vertical push toward the military outpost.
Is security a factor when crossing the Kasa Irunun Beli Pass?
Reaching the Kasa Irunun Beli Pass is as much a matter of security as it is of driving skill. Because of its location on a sensitive international border, there is an active military post at the summit. This means you will likely encounter strict checkpoints. Carrying all necessary permits and documentation is mandatory. This is not a place for casual exploration; it is a strategic zone where discipline and following military instructions are essential components of your safety logistics.
Conclusion
Kasa Irunun Beli Pass is one of the most remote and challenging spots on Earth to reach on wheels. The combination of extreme altitude, unpaved surfaces, and military oversight makes it a unique and high-risk mission. Safety on these roads depends on a perfectly maintained vehicle and a driver who can handle both the terrain and the physiological stress of 15,000 feet. If you are looking for the absolute limit of off-road driving, this pass is it. Verify your equipment, check your permits, and focus on the road. Reaching this summit is a major logistical victory.
Road suggested by: Hugh Wilson