Khunjerab Pass Travel Guide 2026 – Height, Distance, Route & China Border Complete Info
Introduction
Khunjerab Pass is one of the most spectacular high-altitude destinations in northern Pakistan. Located at the border between Pakistan and China, this mountain pass sits inside the stunning landscapes of the Karakoram Range and is accessible via the famous Karakoram Highway. Travelers visit Khunjerab Pass for its breathtaking views, high altitude experience, wildlife, and the iconic Pakistan-China border gate.
Unlike typical hill stations, Khunjerab Pass offers a unique blend of adventure and geography. The road climbs through valleys, glaciers, and high-altitude plains before reaching one of the highest paved international borders in the world. Tourists often combine this trip with visits to Hunza Valley, Passu Cones, and Attabad Lake, making it a must-visit destination in Gilgit-Baltistan.
This guide covers everything you need to know — Khunjerab Pass height, distances from major cities, travel routes, best time to visit, and practical tips. Whether you’re planning a road trip from Islamabad or traveling from Hunza, this complete Khunjerab Pass travel guide will help you plan the perfect journey.
Khunjerab Pass , Height and Location – Complete Overview
Khunjerab Pass Pakistan – Overview
Khunjerab Pass Pakistan is located in Gilgit-Baltistan within the Khunjerab National Park. It is the highest paved border crossing in the world and connects Pakistan with China. The pass sits along the Karakoram Highway and serves as an official border between the two countries.
Khunjerab Pass China Border
The Khunjerab Pass China border marks the boundary between Pakistan and China’s Xinjiang region. On one side lies Pakistan’s Gilgit-Baltistan, and on the other side is China’s Tashkurgan County. The famous Pakistan-China border gate is a major tourist attraction where visitors can take photos and experience standing at an international border.
The area around the pass is mostly open plains rather than steep mountains, which makes it unique compared to other mountain passes. Snow-covered peaks, cold winds, and wide landscapes create an unforgettable experience.
Khunjerab Pass Connects Pakistan With
Khunjerab Pass connects Pakistan with China through the Karakoram Highway. This route is important for tourism, trade, and cultural exchange. Travelers can see Chinese road signs just across the border, making it one of the most interesting places to visit in Pakistan.
Important facts:
- Located in Gilgit-Baltistan
- Inside Khunjerab National Park
- Border between Pakistan and China
- Accessible via Karakoram Highway
- One of highest paved border crossings
Khunjerab Pass Height (Feet & Meters)
Khunjerab Pass height is one of its biggest attractions. The pass sits at an altitude of 4,693 meters (15,397 feet) above sea level, making it the highest point on the Karakoram Highway.
Height of Khunjerab Pass
The height of Khunjerab Pass makes it colder than most tourist destinations in Pakistan. Even during summer, temperatures remain low, and strong winds are common. Due to high altitude, travelers may experience mild altitude sickness.
Khunjerab Pass Height in Feet
- Height in meters: 4,693 m
- Height in feet: 15,397 ft
- One of highest paved border crossings
- Inside high-altitude national park
Because of this elevation:
- Oxygen levels are lower
- Stay only 20–30 minutes
- Avoid running or heavy activity
- Drink plenty of water
The high altitude also means snow remains for most of the year, and winter temperatures can drop below −20°C.
Hunza to Khunjerab Pass Distance
The Hunza to Khunjerab Pass distance is the most common travel route for tourists. Most travelers stay in Hunza and take a day trip to Khunjerab Pass.
- Distance: 90 km to 100 km
- Travel time: 2.5 to 3 hours
- Route: Hunza → Passu → Sost → Khunjerab
The drive is extremely scenic with views of glaciers, rivers, and mountains.
Distance from Hunza to Khunjerab Pass
Distance from Hunza to Khunjerab Pass varies depending on starting point:
- Karimabad to Khunjerab: 95 km
- Passu to Khunjerab: 50 km
- Sost to Khunjerab: 35 km
Hunza to Khunjerab Pass Route Highlights
- Passu Cones
- Hussaini Suspension Bridge
- Khunjerab National Park
- Pakistan China Border Gate
Most tourists leave Hunza early morning and return by evening. Road conditions are excellent due to the Karakoram Highway.
Islamabad to Khunjerab Pass Distance
Islamabad to Khunjerab Pass distance is long but extremely scenic. Travelers usually break the journey into 2–3 days.
- Distance: 870 km (approx)
- Travel time: 18–20 hours
- Route: Islamabad → Chilas → Gilgit → Hunza → Khunjerab
Khunjerab Pass Distance from Islamabad
Typical itinerary:
Day 1: Islamabad to Chilas (10 hours)
Day 2: Chilas to Hunza (6 hours)
Day 3: Hunza to Khunjerab (3 hours)
The road follows Karakoram Highway and passes through mountains, rivers, and valleys. Private car or 4×4 is recommended for comfort.
Lahore to Khunjerab Pass Distance by Road
Lahore to Khunjerab Pass distance by road is longer than Islamabad but still manageable with planning.
- Distance: 1,050 km (approx)
- Travel time: 20–22 hours
- Route: Lahore → Islamabad → Hunza → Khunjerab
Lahore to Khunjerab Pass Distance
Recommended itinerary:
Day 1: Lahore to Islamabad
Day 2: Islamabad to Hunza
Day 3: Hunza to Khunjerab
The road from Lahore to Islamabad is motorway, making the first part easy. After Islamabad, the journey becomes mountainous and scenic.
Karachi to Khunjerab Pass Distance
Karachi to Khunjerab Pass distance is very long and usually requires flight or multiple days road travel.
- Distance: 2,200 km approx
- Travel time: 36–40 hours by road
- Best option: Fly to Islamabad or Gilgit
Recommended route:
Karachi → Islamabad (flight)
Islamabad → Hunza → Khunjerab
Most travelers avoid full road trip due to distance.
Gilgit to Khunjerab Pass Distance
Gilgit to Khunjerab Pass distance is shorter and easier.
- Distance: 250 km
- Travel time: 5–6 hours
- Route: Gilgit → Hunza → Sost → Khunjerab
This drive passes through Hunza Valley and is considered one of the most beautiful road trips in Pakistan.
Skardu to Khunjerab Pass Distance
Skardu to Khunjerab Pass distance requires travel via Gilgit.
- Distance: 400 km approx
- Travel time: 10–12 hours
- Route: Skardu → Gilgit → Hunza → Khunjerab
Road conditions vary between Skardu and Gilgit, so start early morning.
Naran to Khunjerab Pass Distance via Babusar Top
Naran to Khunjerab Pass distance via Babusar Top is popular in summer.
- Distance: 320 km approx
- Travel time: 8–9 hours
- Route: Naran → Babusar Top → Chilas → Hunza → Khunjerab
Babusar Top to Khunjerab Pass Distance
- Babusar Top to Hunza: 220 km
- Hunza to Khunjerab: 95 km
This route is open only from June to October due to snowfall.
Mansehra to Khunjerab Pass Distance
Mansehra to Khunjerab Pass distance is similar to Naran route.
- Distance: 420 km approx
- Travel time: 10–11 hours
- Route: Mansehra → Naran → Babusar → Hunza → Khunjerab
This is one of the most scenic routes in northern Pakistan.
Khunjerab Pass Location & China Border Details
Khunjerab Pass is located in northern Gilgit-Baltistan inside Khunjerab National Park. It sits at the Pakistan-China border and serves as an international crossing point.
Khunjerab Pass China Border
The border gate is a major attraction where tourists stop for photos. The area is heavily protected, but visitors are allowed to explore designated areas.
Khunjerab Pass Connects Pakistan With
Khunjerab Pass connects Pakistan with China via the Karakoram Highway. This route is part of CPEC and is important for trade and tourism.
Wildlife found near Khunjerab:
- Ibex
- Marco Polo sheep
- Snow leopard (rare)
- Yak
Best Time to Visit Khunjerab Pass
Best time to visit Khunjerab Pass depends on weather conditions.
Summer (May – September)
Best time to visit
Road fully open
Clear views
Autumn (October)
Cold but beautiful
Less crowds
Winter (November – April)
Heavy snowfall
Road sometimes closed
Extreme cold
Ideal months: June to September
Travel Route to Khunjerab Pass via Hunza Valley
Most tourists travel via Hunza Valley.
Route:
Islamabad → Chilas → Gilgit → Hunza → Passu → Sost → Khunjerab
Travel Tips:
- Start early morning
- Carry warm clothes
- Fuel tank full
- CNIC required
- Stay only 20–30 minutes at top
Entry fee:
- Car: 500–800 PKR
- Person: 100–200 PKR
FAQs About Khunjerab Pass
What is Khunjerab Pass height?
Khunjerab Pass height is 4,693 meters (15,397 feet) above sea level.
Hunza to Khunjerab distance?
Hunza to Khunjerab Pass distance is about 95 km and takes around 3 hours.
Islamabad to Khunjerab distance?
Islamabad to Khunjerab Pass distance is approximately 870 km.
Does Khunjerab Pass connect Pakistan with China?
Yes, Khunjerab Pass connects Pakistan with China via the Karakoram Highway.
Is Khunjerab Pass open all year?
No, heavy snowfall may close the pass in winter.
Can tourists visit Khunjerab border?
Yes, tourists can visit the Pakistan-China border gate during open hours.
Conclusion
Khunjerab Pass is one of the most unique travel destinations in Pakistan, offering high altitude adventure, scenic road trips, and the rare experience of visiting the Pakistan-China border. Whether you travel from Islamabad, Hunza, or Gilgit, the journey to Khunjerab Pass is filled with breathtaking landscapes. Plan your trip during summer, carry warm clothes, and enjoy one of the highest roads in the world.