Distance
1,700 km
Duration
10–20 days
Elevation
40,000m
Route Map
Start Finish · Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors
Elevation Profile
Gain
+9,400m
Loss
−9,400m
Max
4,200m
Key Points
Kara-Keche Pass · 3,200m · 200km
Ak-Baital Pass · 3,800m · 500km
Tosor Pass · 3,500m · 900km
Kegety Pass · 4,200m · 1100km
About This Route
The Silk Road Mountain Race is one of the most demanding ultra-distance bikepacking races in the world. Set entirely within Kyrgyzstan, it winds through the Tian Shan mountains, crossing remote high-altitude passes, yurt-dotted valleys, and ancient trade routes. Riders must be fully self-sufficient across vast stretches with no resupply.
Route Highlights
- Multiple passes above 3,500m elevation
- Crosses the Tian Shan mountain range
- Passes through traditional nomadic yurt camps
- Extremely limited resupply options
- Annual race held in August
Route Details
Start
Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan
Finish
Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan (loop)
Best Season
July – August
Surface
Mountain tracks, gravel, some singletrack
GPX Track
Available for download
Community Ride Reports
First-hand accounts from riders