Karakoram Highway
Pakistan
Originally part of the ancient Silk Road, the Karakoram Highway crosses the world's three highest mountain ranges, the Hindu Kush, Karakoram, and Pamir, from the Hunza Valley in Pakistan to Kashgar in China, peaking at 4,693 m at the Khunjerab Pass. Chiselled from bare rock and ice over 20 years by Chinese and Pakistani labourers, it remains one of the most extraordinary feats of road engineering ever attempted.
Explore on the interactive map →Stops along the route
- Gilgit
Northern Pakistan's mountain hub where the Hindu Kush, Karakoram, and Himalaya collide. One of the world's oldest polo grounds sits in the bazaar.
- Hunza Valley
Rakaposhi (7,788m) looms above apricot orchards and the turquoise Hunza River. The Baltit and Altit forts of the Mir of Hunza are 700 years old.
- Passu Cones
Razor-sharp cathedral spires rise directly from the highway's edge. The Hussaini rope bridge swings over a turquoise river 30m below.
- Sost
The last Pakistani town and China dry port. Stock food and fuel here; next services are 200km away in Tashkurgan, China.
- Khunjerab Pass
The KKH's summit at 4,693m, the highest paved international border crossing on Earth. Marco Polo sheep graze the tundra; snow leopards prowl nearby.
- Tashkurgan
A Tajik-majority frontier town on the Silk Road with a crumbling Stone Fort and the first Chinese customs post after the Khunjerab descent.
- Kashgar
The Silk Road's great western terminus. The Sunday livestock market, Id Kah Mosque, and mud-brick old city are the most Central Asian place in China.
Where to Eat
- Mountain Delight RestaurantLocal Diner
Offers traditional Hunza cuisine with panoramic views of the valley.
- Yak GrillBarbecue
Specializes in yak meat dishes, a local delicacy in the region.
- Silk Road DinerInternational
Serves a fusion of Pakistani and Chinese dishes, reflecting the region's heritage.
- Passu Cones CaféCafé
Cozy spot offering coffee and local pastries with views of the Passu Cones.
- Khunjerab View RestaurantLocal Diner
Serves hearty local meals near the Khunjerab Pass, ideal for travelers.
Things to Do
- Baltit FortHistoric Site
A 700-year-old fort offering insights into the region's history and architecture.
- Attabad LakeScenic Viewpoint
A stunning turquoise lake formed after a landslide in 2010, popular for boating.
- Hussaini Suspension BridgeLandmark
One of the world's most dangerous bridges, offering thrilling crossings over the Hunza River.
- Karakoram HighwayScenic Drive
Drive along the world's highest paved international road, offering breathtaking mountain views.
- Khunjerab National ParkNational Park
Home to diverse wildlife including snow leopards and ibex, located at the highest border crossing.
Travel advisory
Crossing into China requires a Chinese visa obtained in advance and travellers must join an organised group or hire a guide once inside Xinjiang. The highway is largely paved but sections near Khunjerab Pass are rough and the pass sits at 4,693 m. Check Pakistani and Chinese border crossing schedules as hours are restricted.