Karakoram Highway – Silk Route – The Eighth Wonder of the World
The Karakoram Highway (KKH), often called the Modern Silk Route and the Eighth Wonder of the World, is one of the highest paved international roads on Earth. Stretching approximately 1,300 kilometers, the highway connects Hasan Abdal in Punjab, Pakistan, to Kashgar in Xinjiang, China, via the spectacular Khunjerab Pass at an elevation of 4,693 meters (15,397 feet).
Constructed jointly by Pakistan and China between 1959 and 1978, the Karakoram Highway follows the route of the ancient Silk Road, where traders, explorers, and travelers transported silk, spices, gemstones, and other valuable goods between Asia and Europe for centuries.
The highway passes through some of the world’s most dramatic mountain landscapes, crossing the Karakoram, Himalaya, and Hindu Kush ranges. Along the way, travelers encounter glaciers, turquoise lakes, historic forts, ancient rock carvings, and picturesque mountain villages, making it one of the world’s most scenic road journeys.
The Karakoram Highway is more than a road—it’s a symbol of friendship, engineering, and centuries of cultural exchange.
Historical Highlights
- Ancient Silk Road trade route
- Pakistan–China Friendship Highway
- Opened to the public in 1986
- Built by Pakistan and China
- Crosses three major mountain ranges
- Connects South Asia with Central and East Asia
1. Khunjerab Pass
The highest paved international border crossing in the world, where Pakistan meets China. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking mountain scenery and often spot wildlife such as yaks and ibex.
Best Time: May to October.
2. Attabad Lake
Formed after a landslide in 2010, this stunning turquoise lake is one of the most photographed locations along the Karakoram Highway.
3. Passu Cones
The iconic jagged peaks of Passu Cathedral are among Pakistan’s most recognizable mountain landscapes and a favorite destination for photographers.
4. Passu Suspension Bridge
One of the world’s most thrilling suspension bridges, offering spectacular views of glaciers, rivers, and surrounding peaks.
5. Rakaposhi View Point
A popular stop where visitors can admire the majestic Rakaposhi (7,788 m) rising dramatically above the valley floor.
6. Baltit Fort
Over 700 years old, Baltit Fort showcases the rich history and architectural heritage of the former Hunza Kingdom.
7. Altit Fort
One of the oldest surviving forts in Gilgit-Baltistan, beautifully restored and overlooking the Hunza Valley.
8. Hussaini Suspension Bridge
Known as one of the world’s most adventurous pedestrian bridges, it offers incredible views over the Hunza River.
The Karakoram Highway passes through one of the world’s richest mountain ecosystems.
Highlights
- Karakoram Mountains
- Himalaya Mountains
- Hindu Kush Mountains
- Hundreds of glaciers
- Deep valleys
- Snow-covered peaks
- Crystal-clear rivers
- Alpine meadows
The Karakoram Highway is a dream destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Popular Activities
- Road trips
- Motorcycle touring
- Trekking
- Camping
- Mountain climbing
- Jeep safaris
- Photography
- Boating at Attabad Lake
- Wildlife watching
- Cycling
By Air
Nearest airports include:
- Gilgit Airport
- Skardu International Airport
- Islamabad International Airport
By Road
The highway is accessible through:
- Hazara Motorway (M-15)
- Karakoram Highway (N-35)
- Gilgit–Hunza route
- Khunjerab Pass Road (seasonal)
Local Transport
- Tourist coaches
- Private cars
- Rental SUVs
- Motorcycles
- Guided tours
- Local jeeps
The official currency is the Pakistani Rupee (PKR).
Visitors can use:
- Cash (recommended for remote areas)
- Visa and Mastercard at major hotels
- Debit cards
- Mobile banking
- ATMs in Gilgit, Hunza, and larger towns
Carry enough cash, as payment facilities become limited in high-altitude villages.
The Karakoram Highway offers unique local products and mountain handicrafts.
Popular Shopping Stops
- Hunza Bazaar
- Karimabad Market
- Gilgit Bazaar
- Passu handicraft shops
- Sost Dry Port Market
What to Buy
- Gemstones
- Pashmina shawls
- Handwoven carpets
- Traditional caps
- Organic honey
- Dry fruits
- Apricot products
- Handmade jewelry
- Wooden handicrafts
Travelers along the Karakoram Highway can enjoy authentic mountain cuisine from Gilgit-Baltistan and Hunza.
Must-Try Dishes
- Chapshuro
- Hunza Walnut Cake
- Mamtu (dumplings)
- Yak meat (seasonal)
- Trout Fish
- Diram Fitti
- Harissa
- Apricot Soup
Popular Drinks
- Apricot Juice
- Organic Green Tea
- Butter Tea
- Kehwa
- Fresh mountain spring water
Popular Dining Areas
- Gilgit
- Karimabad
- Passu
- Attabad Lake cafés
- Sost
- Allow 7–10 days to experience the Karakoram Highway comfortably.
- Travel between May and October for the safest road conditions.
- Acclimatize gradually before reaching high-altitude areas such as Khunjerab Pass.
- Carry warm clothing throughout the year, as temperatures can change rapidly.
- Keep your camera ready—many of Pakistan’s most iconic landscapes are along the route.
- Fill your fuel tank whenever possible, as petrol stations become less frequent in remote areas.
- Respect local customs and help preserve the natural environment by avoiding littering.
