Zaamin Pass is a climb of 90.3 kilometers (hors catégorie). Zaamin Pass tops out at 2,491 m above sea level. It is located in n/a, Jizzax Viloyati, Oʻzbekiston. The average gradient is 2.6% with a maximum of 15.5%. The climb has 2332 meters of elevation gain.
Difficulty breakdown: With 90.3 km at an average of 2.6%, this climb is a pure endurance test. The difficulty lies in its length and its uneven profile. The first part (KM 0-65) alternates many flat sections at low gradient (0-3%) with a few stretches at 4-5%, which allow you to recover. The real challenge starts after KM 65, with a technical 3 km descent (gradient down to -6%) followed by a very demanding finish: the last 25 km feature the steepest pitches (KM 74 at 11%, KM 88 at 9%) and sustained gradients (mostly between 4% and 5%).
Pacing tips:
1. Managing your pace over the distance: Don't let the easy start fool you. Hold a steady power or heart rate in the 1-3% sections to save something for the end.
2. Anticipating changes of rhythm: Use the 0-1% sections to recover actively (spin easy). The descent between KM 63-65 is crucial for recovering and rehydrating before the final push.
3. Preparing for the finish: Keep some energy in reserve for the last 25 km. The steep pitches (7-11%) demand serious muscular and mental commitment. Avoid blowing up in the final kilometres by pacing your effort well on the long descent before it.
For cyclists who have climbed the road leading to the Zaamin suspension bridge, the experience is often described as an immersion in the "Switzerland of Uzbekistan". Riders report very well maintained, clean roads and an atmosphere where you can fully feel the beauty of unspoiled nature, with fresh mountain air and landscapes that take your breath away.
Reaching the bridge itself is a highlight. Riders describe an impressive structure 305 meters long, suspended 150 meters above the canyon. Crossing it gives a rush of adrenaline, the deck moving underfoot, especially in a strong wind. For some, looking down through the glass sections is an intense sensation, though it may not be recommended for anyone prone to vertigo.
The atmosphere up there is mixed, however. During peak season or on weekends, riders report big crowds on the bridge, which is quite narrow. It can then be hard to stop and enjoy the view, and you sometimes have to queue. Some reckon the view from the canyon rim is just as good and much quieter.
Once you've earned your rest, there are facilities riders appreciate: a spacious car park, clean toilets and a restaurant serving good local food. For the bravest, a bungee jump (300,000 sums) is on offer. Access to the bridge costs money (50,000 sums per adult), and it's worth noting the ticket booth sometimes only took cash.
All in all, riders agree that this climb is a one-of-a-kind experience, combining hard effort, thrills and immersion in spectacular scenery, as long as you pick your timing to avoid the crowds.
90.3 km • 2332 m D+
VAM: average climbing speed, based on elevation gain
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