Khunjerab Pass is a mountain pass located on the border of Pakistan and China. It is at an altitude of 15,397 ft (4,693 m) above sea level. Karakoram Highway (Silk Route) crosses into China through this pass. Trade between China and Pakistan is carried through Khunjerab.
The name Khunjerab Pass comes from two Wakhi words: "Khun" means "blood" and "Jerab" means "a creek coming from a spring or waterfall." It is in the Karakoram and has a significant strategic position on Pakistan's northern border, specifically in the Hunza and Nagar Districts of Gilgit-Baltistan. Additionally, it is situated in the Xinjiang region on China's southwest border. The Khunjerab Pass is the highest paved international border crossing in the world and the highest point on the Karakoram Highway, two of its many distinctions. The road that crosses this pass was built and finished in 1982. Since then, it has replaced the Mintaka and Kilik passes, which were never paved, as the main way to cross the huge Karakoram Range. The long, relatively flat pass is typically closed to heavy vehicles from November 30 to May 1 and to all vehicles from December 30 to April 1. During the winter, the pass is frequently covered in snow.
Natural Beauty
The pristine natural beauty of Khunjerab Pass is one of the most compelling reasons to visit. Rugged mountains, lush meadows, and crystal-clear streams are all visible from the pass. The dramatic scenery is enhanced by snow-capped peaks, including the formidable Muztagh Ata. The region's diverse flora and fauna are just as captivating, and you can see Himalayan ibex, snow leopards, and marmots.
Best Time to Visit: The pass is generally open from late spring to early autumn, usually from May to October. Winter months are harsh and see heavy snowfall, rendering the pass inaccessible.
Adventurers and nature lovers alike are enticed to take in the Himalayas' unrivaled splendor at Khunjerab Pass. The pass is a dream destination for those looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure because of its natural beauty, cultural significance, opportunities for trekking, cycling, wildlife observation, and photography, and other activities. Plan your trip to the top of the world and learn the secrets of Khunjerab Pass, a place where nature's grandeur and ancient history meet in a truly extraordinary setting.
Written by Khadija Naveed
Photos: Khadija Naveed
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