Kyrgyz High Road
The M41 over three 3,000 m passes — Töö-Ashuu, Ala-Bel, Töö-Ashuu Tunnel — through Soviet relics and Kyrgyz nomad camps.
The Kyrgyz High Road is a 672 km mountain pass in Naryn, Kyrgyzstan. It runs from Bishkek to Osh in about 16 hours of driving. Highlights include Töö-Ashuu Tunnel and Toktogul Reservoir. Best driven June – September; rated expert difficulty.
- Road length
- 672 km
- Duration
- 16 hrs
- Vehicle
- Motorcycle
- Difficulty
- Expert
- Best season
- June – September
Road length is the scenic route itself — your actual door-to-door driving distance depends on where you start and which stops you take.
Best time to drive
June – September
Expect more visitors in July–August peak season; shoulder months (May–June, September) are usually quieter and often offer better light.
High mountain passes on this route can close in winter due to snow. Always check local road status and seasonal closures before setting off.
General guidance only — always confirm local road and weather conditions before departure.
How many days for Kyrgyz High Road?
Plan around 4 days for this route.
At ~5 hours of driving a day, you'll want 3 overnight stops along the way. The route has 4 recommended stops to help you break it up.
Estimate based on total driving time — actual pace depends on stops, traffic, and breaks.
The route at a glance
Stops along the way
- ●
- 01Open in MapsBishkek
Capital start, fuel up.
- 02Open in MapsTöö-Ashuu Tunnel
3,200 m horror tunnel.
- 03Open in MapsToktogul Reservoir
Turquoise lake.
- 04Open in MapsOsh
Silk Road bazaar finish.
- ◆
Travel tips
- ★Carry filter masks — tunnel smoke.
- ★Yurt stays beat hotels.
- ★Bring all spare parts.
Music for the road
AI-curated mood for this route — open in your favorite player.
Community comments
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Frequently asked
How long does it take to drive the Kyrgyz High Road?
The Kyrgyz High Road takes about 16 hours of driving non-stop to cover its 672 km. Actual trip length depends on how often you stop at viewpoints and towns along the way.
How long is the Kyrgyz High Road?
The Kyrgyz High Road is 672 km long, running from Bishkek to Osh.
When is the best time to drive the Kyrgyz High Road?
Best driven June – September. Expect more visitors in July–August peak season; shoulder months (May–June, September) are usually quieter and often offer better light. High mountain passes on this route can close in winter due to snow. Always check local road status and seasonal closures before setting off.
Is the Kyrgyz High Road hard to drive?
The Kyrgyz High Road is rated expert difficulty. It is classified as a mountain pass.
What are the main stops on the Kyrgyz High Road?
The route runs from Bishkek to Osh, with key stops including Töö-Ashuu Tunnel, Toktogul Reservoir.
Where is the Kyrgyz High Road?
The Kyrgyz High Road is located in Naryn, Kyrgyzstan. It runs between Bishkek and Osh.