About Khunjerab Pass
Khunjerab Pass is the dramatic full stop at the top of the Karakoram Highway — the highest paved international border crossing on Earth at 4,693 m, where Pakistan meets China amid snowfields and grazing yaks. For most travellers it is the ultimate day trip from Hunza: a journey up the spine of the Karakoram through Gojal's villages, gorges, and glaciers to a windswept gate on the roof of the world.
The drive is a highlight reel of northern Pakistan. From Karimabad the highway passes Attabad Lake's tunnels, the Passu Cones, the Hussaini Suspension Bridge, and the immigration post of Sost before entering Khunjerab National Park. The final switchbacks climb through alpine tundra where golden marmots whistle from the verges and, with luck, ibex, urial, and even snow leopards patrol the slopes.
At the top, the border gate itself — flanked by Pakistani and Chinese posts and often snow-dusted even in July — makes for one of the most memorable photographs in Asia, along with the world's highest ATM at the National Bank of Pakistan kiosk. Because of the altitude, Khunjerab is best visited after a night or two acclimatising in Hunza, exactly how our Karakoram Highway Grand Drive sequences it.
Top Attractions in Khunjerab Pass
The Border Gate at 4,693 m
The iconic arch marking the Pakistan-China frontier — the highest paved border crossing in the world.
Khunjerab National Park
Habitat of ibex, blue sheep, golden marmots, and the elusive snow leopard; the final 40 km of the highway run through the park.
The Karakoram Highway
The legendary KKH itself — the 'Eighth Wonder of the World' — climbing from Hunza's orchards to high-altitude tundra in a single morning.
Sost Border Town
Pakistan's last town before China, with its dry port, bazaars, and frontier atmosphere.
World's Highest ATM
The NBP cash machine at the pass, certified by Guinness World Records — a quirky must-do photo stop.
Best Time to Visit
The pass is generally open to visitors from May through October; the border trade season traditionally runs April to November. June to September offers the most reliable weather and the greenest tundra, though snow flurries are possible at the top in any month.
Winter visits are not possible — heavy snow closes the upper highway. Aim for a morning arrival at the pass, as afternoons bring wind and cloud more often.
How to Reach
Khunjerab is about 125 km (3 to 4 hours) north of Karimabad, Hunza, on the fully paved Karakoram Highway via Gulmit, Passu, and Sost. Day trips leave Hunza early morning and return by evening.
All visitors pass a checkpoint at Sost and pay Khunjerab National Park entry fees. Foreign travellers need only their passport and Pakistani visa for the viewpoint visit — crossing into China requires separate Chinese visas and border formalities.
Travel Tips
- Acclimatise in Hunza first — the pass is nearly 4,700 m and altitude headaches are common on rushed visits.
- Carry your passport (foreigners) or CNIC (Pakistanis) for the Sost checkpoint.
- Take warm clothing year-round: temperatures at the top can be near freezing even in August.
- Keep snacks and water in the vehicle; facilities beyond Sost are minimal.
- Do not approach or feed wildlife in the national park, and keep to the road corridor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can foreigners visit Khunjerab Pass?
Yes — foreign tourists visit the pass daily in season with just a passport and valid Pakistani visa. Crossing into China is a separate process requiring a Chinese visa.
How long is the trip from Hunza to Khunjerab?
Around 3 to 4 hours each way, making a comfortable full-day excursion with stops at Attabad Lake, Passu, and Sost.
Is altitude sickness a risk at Khunjerab?
Mild symptoms (headache, breathlessness) are common because you gain altitude quickly. Spend a night or two in Hunza first, keep the visit to the top short, and stay hydrated.
When does Khunjerab Pass open each year?
The tourist season typically runs May to October, weather depending. We confirm current road and border-gate status before every departure.