The adventure begins long before you reach the actual border. The Karakoram Highway, known as the 8th Wonder of the World, is a masterpiece of engineering carved through one of the most dramatic mountain ranges on Earth. Connecting Gilgit-Baltistan in Pakistan to Xinjiang in China, this road winds through deep gorges, glacial rivers, and ancient mountain villages.
We started early from Sost, the last town before the border. As the road climbed higher, the air grew thinner and the mountains taller. I couldn’t take my eyes off the scenery — every turn looked like a postcard.
⛰️ Reaching Khunjerab Pass: 15,397 ft Above Sea Level
At 4,693 meters (15,397 feet), Khunjerab Pass literally takes your breath away — both because of the altitude and the view. Snow-dusted peaks surrounded us on all sides. There was a strange, beautiful stillness, broken only by the sound of wind and the occasional yak bell in the distance.
On one side stood the Pakistani gate, flanked by the national flag and border security; on the other, the Chinese side — with its stark, futuristic gate contrasting the wild beauty around it.
Fun fact? There’s a small Pakistan-China Friendship Monument right at the top, symbolizing decades of alliance and trade between the two nations.
🐆 Wildlife Encounters in Khunjerab National Park
The border area lies within Khunjerab National Park, home to rare wildlife like:
Snow leopards (elusive but legendary)
Ibex and Marco Polo sheep
Marmots, who pop up like curious sentinels as you pass by
If you’re lucky, you might even spot them sunbathing near the roadside!
🥶 Things to Know Before You Go
Altitude: It’s high! Bring warm clothing, move slowly, and stay hydrated.
Best Season: May to October. In winter, the pass is closed due to heavy snowfall.
Entry Restrictions: Tourists can reach up to the border, but crossing into China requires special permissions/visas.
Connectivity: Expect no mobile signals. But hey, isn’t that the point? Disconnect to reconnect.
💡 Moments That Stay With You
Standing there at the roof of the world, breathing in the cold mountain air, I felt incredibly small — but also incredibly alive. Borders are usually seen as dividers, but here, they felt symbolic: two ancient lands, linked by history, trade, and shared peaks.
If you’re ever in North Pakistan and crave a drive that stirs the soul, don’t miss the journey to Khunjerab. It’s not just about getting to the top — it’s about everything you see and feel along the way.
📌 Quick Tips:
Bring snacks, water, and extra camera batteries — you’ll need them!
Stop at Sost Bazaar for souvenirs and chai.
Visit Attabad Lake and Passu Glacier en route — you won’t regret it.
🇵🇰🇨🇳 From Hunza to Khunjerab, it’s a road less traveled — but one you’ll never forget.
