Hotan, Xinjiang

The First Dangerous Gate of Kunlun: Conquering the Rugged Kudi Daban

🚙Road Trip 📸Photography 🧗Adventure

Best Time

☀️ 🍂

Ticket

Free

ℹ️

About This Attraction

Kudi Daban, also known as Kudi Pass, is a legendary mountain pass located on the famous G219 Xinjiang-Tibet Highway, situated within Yecheng County (Kargilik), Kashgar Prefecture, Xinjiang. Known as the "First Pass of the Kunlun Mountains", it serves as the initial and formidable gateway for travelers journeying from the Tarim Basin into the soaring heights of the Tibet Autonomous Region. The pass sits at an altitude of approximately 3,150 meters (10,335 feet), which, while not the highest on the route, is infamous for its steep ascent and rugged terrain.

The name "Kudi" is derived from the Uyghur language, often interpreted to mean "Gate" or "Peaceful Place," though its reputation among drivers is anything but peaceful. It is notoriously described in local sayings: "Kudi Daban, the dangerous barrier; monkeys cannot climb it, and it makes people tremble." This reflects the pass's historical difficulty, featuring sharp switchbacks and precipitous drops that challenge even experienced drivers. As you ascend from the desert oasis of Yecheng, the landscape shifts dramatically from lush greenery to the barren, desolate, and majestic grey-brown rock formations characteristic of the West Kunlun Mountains.

Geographically, Kudi Daban acts as a "throat" or a strategic choke point. It separates the lower altitude plains from the high-altitude plateau. The ascent involves navigating a series of winding serpentine roads that offer breathtaking, albeit dizzying, views of the deep valleys below. Upon reaching the summit, travelers are rewarded with a panoramic vista of the rugged Kunlun range, stretching endlessly into the horizon. Descending the pass leads to the Kudi Checkpoint, a vital stop for document verification and rest before continuing deeper into the mountains towards Mazha Daban and Chiragsaldi Pass (Heikadaban).

For road trip enthusiasts and adventurers, crossing Kudi Daban is a rite of passage. It represents the first real test of the G219, officially one of the world's highest and most challenging highways. The geology here is raw and exposed, showcasing the powerful tectonic forces that created the "Spine of Asia." Whether you are marveling at the stark contrast between the blue sky and the barren peaks or navigating the hair-pin turns, Kudi Daban offers a profound introduction to the "Highland Aesthetics" of the Kunlun wilderness.

✨ Why Visit Kudi Daban

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Gateway to the Kunlun Mountains: Experience the thrill of crossing the first major natural barrier on the Xinjiang-Tibet Highway (G219), marking the transition from the Tarim Basin to the Tibetan Plateau.

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The "Monkey's Slope": Challenge the famous winding mountain road, known for its steep gradients and sharp turns that historically made it difficult even for monkeys to climb.

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Spectacular Geomorphology: Admire the raw, vegetation-sparse landscape of the West Kunlun Mountains, characterized by towering grey and red rocky peaks that create a desolate yet majestic visual impact.

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Strategic Choke Point: Visit a historically and geographically significant "throat" of the ancient trade routes, now a vital modern transport node connecting Xinjiang and Tibet.

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Panoramic Mountain Views: Stop at the top of the pass for sweeping views of the winding road below and the endless layers of rugged mountain ridges, a perfect spot for dramatic landscape photography.

Location & Nearby

📍 Hotan, Xinjiang

Frequently Asked Questions - Kudi Daban Travel Guide

is located in Yecheng County, Kashgar Prefecture, Xinjiang, on the G219 National Highway, approximately 110 kilometers south of the county seat. What is the altitude of Kudi Daban?

The pass sits at an altitude of approximately 3,150 meters (10,335 feet).

Is the road difficult to drive?

Yes, it involves steep climbs and many hairpin turns. While the road.

is paved, caution is required due to the terrain and potential for altitude sickness as you ascend further. Do I need a permit?

Yes, traveling on G219 towards Tibet usually requires a Border Travel Permit (PSB Permit) due to the proximity to border regions.

When is the best time to visit?

The best time is from May to October, when the weather is relatively stable and the pass is free of heavy snow.

✨ Why Visit Kudi Daban

✦Gateway to the Kunlun Mountains: Experience the thrill of crossing the first major natural barrier on the Xinjiang-Tibet Highway (G219), marking the transition from the Tarim Basin to the Tibetan Plateau.

✦The "Monkey's Slope": Challenge the famous winding mountain road, known for its steep gradients and sharp turns that historically made it difficult even for monkeys to climb.

✦Spectacular Geomorphology: Admire the raw, vegetation-sparse landscape of the West Kunlun Mountains, characterized by towering grey and red rocky peaks that create a desolate yet majestic visual impact.

✦Strategic Choke Point: Visit a historically and geographically significant "throat" of the ancient trade routes, now a vital modern transport node connecting Xinjiang and Tibet.

✦Panoramic Mountain Views: Stop at the top of the pass for sweeping views of the winding road below and the endless layers of rugged mountain ridges, a perfect spot for dramatic landscape photography.