Qolma Pass (Kulma/Kalasu) Border Crossing: Tajikistan–China (January 2026 Update)
The Qolma Pass (Tajik side), also known as Kulma or Karasu Pass, connects Tajikistan’s Gorno-Badakhshan (GBAO) region with China’s Xinjiang (Taxkorgan County). At 4,363 m (14,315 ft), it’s one of the world’s highest and most adventurous border crossings, featuring a 14 km no-man’s-land where travelers typically hitch rides with trucks.
This is Tajikistan’s only land border with China, linking the Pamir Highway to the Karakoram Highway (KKH)—perfect for overland routes between Central Asia and Pakistan/China without detours via Kyrgyzstan.
Current Status (January 2026): Open to foreign tourists in both directions (post-2023 reopenings after COVID). Recent cyclist reports (up to 2024) confirm crossings, including hitchhiking. Primarily used by trucks; expect coordination with border officers for rides. Weather-dependent in winter (often closed Nov–Apr due to snow). Always verify via forums like Caravanistan or local contacts—changes are common.
Key Requirements
- Tajikistan: e-Visa ($50) + GBAO permit ($20) online (evisa.tj). Visa-free for many nationalities, but GBAO still required.
- China: Visa in advance (no VOA). Xinjiang travel may involve checkpoints; no special permits needed for this route.
- Other: No public transport across—hitch with trucks (cyclists load bikes). Dress warmly (high altitude, windy).
Hours & Operation
- Open: Monday–Friday (closed weekends/holidays).
- Tajik side: ~10am–4pm Dushanbe time (lunch 1–2pm; flexible).
- Chinese side (Kalasu/Karasu Port): ~11am–5pm Beijing time (lunch 2–3pm).
Time difference: ~2–3 hours (Eastern Pamir unofficially aligns with Kyrgyzstan/China time).
Crossing Directions
China → Tajikistan (e.g., Tashkurgan/Kashgar to Murghab):
- Taxi/bus to Kalasu Port on KKH.
- Exit China (checks, fingerprinting).
- Hitch truck across no-man’s-land (officers help).
- Enter Tajikistan (fingerprinting, possible migration card).
Tajikistan → China (Murghab to Tashkurgan):
- Private car/hitch to Qolma (from Murghab ~470 TJS/$45).
- Exit Tajikistan (checks, hand migration card if issued).
- Chinese military checkpoint (bag/phone scans).
- Hitch downhill to Kalasu Port.
- Enter China (stamps, fingerprinting).
Pre-arrange onward transport (no taxis waiting). Time: 4–8 hours total.
Why Cross Here?
- Epic scenery: Views of Muztagh Ata (7,546 m) and Kongur Tagh.
- Adventure: True overland link (Pamir + Karakoram Highways).
- Obscure stamp for collectors.
This remains a bucket-list crossing for thrill-seekers. Monitor updates—borders in this region fluctuate. Safe travels!