Pamir Highway: M41, Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan

Distance: 726 km (451 miles), Khorog to Osh. Five to seven days. Altitude: 4,655 m (15,272 ft) at Ak-Baital Key passes: Koitezek (4,122 m), Naizatash (4,134 m), Ak-Baital (4,655 m), Kyzyl-Art (4,280 m), Taldyk (3,615 m) Best for: remote adventure, gravel, expedition riding Best time: June to September Technicality: Very high. The hardest route in this guide. Golden section: Murghab to Karakul over Ak-Baital, around 130 km (81 miles)