Karakoram Highway: The World’s Highest Paved Road — A Self-Drive Guide
The Karakoram Highway (KKH, 喀喇昆仑公路) is often called the “Eighth Wonder of the World” — and for good reason. It is the highest paved international road in the world, crossing the Karakoram Range at an elevation of up to 4,714 meters (15,466 feet).
The highway connects Kashgar in Xinjiang to Islamabad in Pakistan, covering a distance of about 1,300 kilometers (810 miles). It is a spectacular feat of engineering that took 20 years to complete (1959-1979) and claimed the lives of over 800 workers.
This guide covers the Xinjiang section of the Karakoram Highway (from Kashgar to the Pakistan border at Khunjerab Pass). This is the most scenic and accessible part of the highway for self-drive travelers.
The Route (Xinjiang Section)
The Xinjiang section of the KKH runs from Kashgar to Khunjerab Pass (the Pakistan border):
- Kashgar (喀什): The starting point. Make sure to spend a few days exploring this ancient Silk Road city.
- Upal (乌帕尔): A small town about 50km from Kashgar. Last major settlement before the mountains.
- Gez Pass (盖孜达坂): The road starts climbing into the mountains. Elevation: 3,200 meters.
- Karakul Lake (卡拉库里湖): A stunning alpine lake at 3,600 meters, with the Muztagh Ata (7546m) and Kongur Tagh (7649m) peaks reflected in the water.
- Khunjerab Pass (红其拉甫): The Pakistan border. Elevation: 4,714 meters. Open May to October.
Why Drive the Karakoram Highway?
- Epic scenery: Snow-capped peaks, alpine lakes, glaciers, and deep valleys.
- Cultural significance: This was the ancient Silk Road route. You are following in the footsteps of traders, monks, and explorers from 2,000 years ago.
- High-altitude adventure: If you love mountain driving, this is the ultimate challenge.
Best Time to Drive
The KKH is only open from May to October. The best months are:
- June to September: Best time. Warm days, open border crossing.
- May and October: Shoulder season. Can be cold, and the border may be closed due to snow.
Permits and Border Crossing
If you plan to cross into Pakistan, you need:
- Chinese visa (obviously)
- Pakistani visa (get it before entering China, or in Kashgar if you have time)
- Border crossing permit: Can be obtained in Kashgar
Note: The border crossing is not open to all nationalities. Check current regulations before planning.
Safety Considerations
- Altitude sickness: The highest point is 4,714 meters. Acclimate in Kashgar (1,280m) for a few days before driving up.
- Weather: Can change rapidly. Snow is possible even in summer at the highest elevations.
- Road conditions: Generally good (paved), but there are many hairpin turns and steep drop-offs. Not for nervous drivers.
Where to Stay
- Kashgar: Full range of hotels.
- Karakul Lake: Basic guesthouses and yurts. Very rustic.
- Taxkorgan (塔什库尔干): A small town about halfway. Several guesthouses.
Conclusion
The Karakoram Highway is one of the world’s greatest road trips. The combination of epic mountain scenery, ancient history, and high-altitude adventure makes it an unforgettable self-drive experience.
Pro tip: Spend a night at Karakul Lake. The reflection of Muztagh Ata in the lake at sunrise is one of the most beautiful sights in all of Xinjiang.
