Karakoram Highway
Pakistan
In short: Karakoram Highway is a 933 km mountain road trip in Pakistan, typically driven over 7–10 days, best in May – October. Highlights: Gilgit, Hunza Valley, Passu Cones.
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.
Plan this trip
Third-party planning links may be affiliate links. RoadAtlas stays independent, and you should verify details with the provider.
Stops along the route
Things to Do
Where to Eat
Explore related routes
Nearby and similar drives
Frequently asked questions
How long is the Karakoram Highway drive?
The Karakoram Highway covers 933 km from start to finish.
How long does the Karakoram Highway take to drive?
Most travellers spend 7–10 days on the Karakoram Highway, depending on stops and pace.
When is the best time to drive the Karakoram Highway?
The recommended season for the Karakoram Highway is May – October.
Where does the Karakoram Highway start and end?
The Karakoram Highway runs from Gilgit to Kashgar.
What are the main stops on the Karakoram Highway?
The Karakoram Highway passes through Gilgit, Hunza Valley, Passu Cones.
How difficult is the Karakoram Highway to drive?
The Karakoram Highway is rated hard and is best handled with suv only.
Do I need a 4WD for the Karakoram Highway?
Yes — the Karakoram Highway includes off-road or rough sections that require suv only.
Do I need a permit or border paperwork for the Karakoram Highway?
Yes — the Karakoram Highway requires permits, fees, or border paperwork. Plan ahead: 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.
How many fuel stops are needed on the Karakoram Highway?
Plan around 1 refuels (or about 3 EV charges) along the Karakoram Highway, based on its 933 km length.
Is the Karakoram Highway safe to drive?
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.
What scenic tier is the Karakoram Highway?
The Karakoram Highway is a legendary drive — The world's most extraordinary drives — once-in-a-lifetime road trips with cinematic scenery, legendary roads, and unmatched cultural depth.