Khunjerab Pass sits at 4,693m on the border between Pakistan and China, making it the highest paved international border crossing in the world. The drive up from Sost through Khunjerab National Park is spectacular, climbing through high altitude terrain that's home to Marco Polo sheep, ibex and occasionally snow leopards.
The pass marks the end of the Karakoram Highway on the Pakistani side and is a full day round trip from Karimabad, a bucket list drive for KKH travelers even without crossing into China.
History
Khunjerab Pass has been a trade route between South and Central Asia for centuries, part of the wider network of passes linking the Indian subcontinent to Xinjiang. It was formalised as a modern border crossing after the Karakoram Highway's completion in 1979, a joint Pakistan China engineering project.
Things to Do Here
Full Day Drive from Karimabad Khunjerab National Park Wildlife Spotting Border Marker Photography Sost Dry Port Stop High Altitude Photography
Tours That Visit Here
Nearby Attractions
Questions
A standard Pakistan visa is sufficient to visit the pass as a viewpoint; crossing into China requires separate arrangements and is not part of standard tourist visits.
Yes, even in July temperatures can be near freezing with strong wind. Bring warm layers regardless of the season.
Quick Facts
Elevation4,693m
StatusHighest paved international border
Open SeasonTypically May October (weather dependent)
Distance from Karimabad~2.5 hrs one way
WildlifeMarco Polo sheep, ibex, occasional snow leopard
Plan a Visit
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