The Khunjerab Pass is the border between Pakistan and China on the Karakoram Highway, at 4,693 metres one of the highest paved border crossings in the world. It is an easy day trip from Hunza: about three to four hours each way from Karimabad, or two hours from Sost. The pass is usually open to visitors from spring to late autumn, and the border crossing itself is seasonal.
Getting there from Hunza
Leave Karimabad early and drive north past Attabad Lake, Gulmit and Passu to Sost, the last town and the Pakistani immigration post. From Sost the road climbs through Khunjerab National Park, where you pay the park entry fee, to the border gate at the top.
Season and weather
The road is cleared of snow in spring and stays open to day visitors until late autumn, weather permitting. Even in summer it can be cold and windy at the top, and snow is possible in any month. Check conditions in Sost before you drive up.
Altitude and what to bring
You climb more than 2,000 metres in a few hours and should not spend long at the top. Walk slowly, drink water and come down if you get a headache or feel dizzy. Spend a night or two in Hunza first to acclimatise.
- Passport or CNIC for the checkposts
- Warm jacket, hat and gloves even in summer
- Cash for the national park fee
- A full fuel tank from Sost
Wildlife in Khunjerab National Park
The park protects the Marco Polo sheep, Himalayan ibex and snow leopard. Ibex and marmots are often seen from the road; the rarer species keep to the high side valleys.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to reach the Khunjerab Pass from Hunza?+
About three to four hours each way from Karimabad, so plan a full day for the round trip.
Do I need a visa to visit the Khunjerab Pass?+
No. Day visitors can drive to the Pakistani side of the border with a passport or CNIC. A Chinese visa is only needed if you are crossing into China.
Is the Khunjerab Pass open in winter?+
The pass is generally closed to tourists in winter because of snow. Plan your visit between late spring and late autumn.
