Khunjrab Pass isn't just a high-altitude border—it's one of the most scenic, soul-stirring stops on any road trip through northern Pakistan. In this blog, discover why it deserves a top spot on your itinerary, what makes it unique, and how to make the most of your visit.
Introduction: Beyond Roads—Into the Sky
As a travel filmmaker and explorer, I’ve seen countless passes, peaks, and border crossings. But Khunjrab Pass, perched at an altitude of over 15,400 feet, feels like something else entirely. It’s not just the highest paved international border crossing in the world—it's a portal into the sublime.
Nestled in the heart of northern Pakistan, this breathtaking pass connects Pakistan with China via the iconic Karakoram Highway. For road trippers chasing raw, high-altitude beauty and the thrill of the unknown, Khunjrab Pass is more than a destination—it's a climax.
What Makes Khunjrab Pass So Special?
- It’s the highest border crossing in the world (4,693 meters above sea level)
- Part of the legendary Karakoram Highway, one of the most scenic drives globally
- Surrounded by snow even in the summers
- Gateway to the Khunjrab National Park—home to rare wildlife like the snow leopard and Marco Polo sheep
As Rahaal, I’ve often described it as “Pakistan’s rooftop”—a place where the clouds seem to kneel down and greet you.
Where Is Khunjrab Pass Located?
Khunjrab Pass is located in the Gilgit-Baltistan region of northern Pakistan, right along the border with China’s Xinjiang region. It marks the end of the Pakistani side of the Karakoram Highway, and the beginning of China’s National Highway 314.
How to Reach Khunjrab Pass
Via Road Trip
Start your journey from Islamabad or Lahore and head towards Hunza Valley. From Hunza (usually from Sost), the pass is about 85 kilometers away—a scenic 2–3 hour drive.
Route Overview:
- Islamabad → Abbottabad → Chilas → Gilgit → Hunza → Sost → Khunjrab Pass
- Total time: Around 20–24 hours of drive (split over multiple days)
Best Time to Visit Khunjrab Pass
Important Tip: Always confirm weather and road status before planning your trip. Flash snowfalls can block the route unexpectedly.
What You’ll Experience at the Top
- A giant arch gate marking the Pakistan-China border
- Breathtaking panoramic mountain views
- Crisp, thin air and freezing temperatures, even in summer
- Soldiers on duty, protecting the land with pride
- Tourists bundled in jackets, snapping selfies, stunned by the silence
Things to Do at Khunjrab Pass
1. Capture Epic Content
Whether you’re a content creator like Rahaal, or a casual traveler, Khunjrab offers cinematic views. The endless snowfields, dramatic skies, and towering peaks are a visual feast.
2. Stand at the Border
One of the few places in the world where you can literally stand beside an international border gate at such high altitude—with China just meters away.
3. Enjoy a Cup of Tea from a Mobile Van
Surprisingly, there’s often a tea or snack van at the top during tourist seasons. Nothing feels better than a cup of hot chai at 15,000 feet.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Altitude sickness is real. Acclimatize before going.
- Carry warm clothing, no matter the month.
- No phone signals at the top. Enjoy being unplugged.
- Bring snacks and water from Sost—no shops ahead.
- Check for permit requirements (usually not needed for Pakistani citizens, but check for foreigners)
Nearby Attractions to Combine with Khunjrab Pass
Hunza Valley
The cultural and scenic heart of northern Pakistan. Stay a few nights in Karimabad or Passu and enjoy the landscapes.
Attabad Lake
A turquoise beauty formed by a landslide in 2010. Great for boating and lakeside dining.
Passu Cones
Iconic pointed mountains near Gulmit—perfect for photography and drone shots.
Vlog Recommendations from Rahaal – The Explorer
If you want to see what it’s like before you go, watch my journey through northern Pakistan:
- Journey to Babusar Top & Lulusar Lake | Northern Pakistan
- From Kashmir’s Waterfalls to Islamabad | Northern Pakistan
- Baboon Valley Jeep Track Adventure | Northern Pakistan
- Trekking to Dudipatsar Lake | Northern Pakistan
These videos capture the spirit of road tripping through the northern areas in Pakistan.
Where to Stay on the Way
While Khunjrab itself has no hotels (due to its altitude and climate), here are great spots along the route:
Why It’s Worth the Journey
Khunjrab isn’t just about ticking off another location on your map. It’s about the sense of stillness, awe, and international unity. It’s where two powerful cultures meet, and where travelers from around the world come to feel humbled by nature’s raw grandeur.
As Rahaal, I often say: "It’s not just about reaching Khunjrab—it’s about everything you see, feel, and understand on the road that takes you there."
FAQs About Visiting Khunjrab Pass
Q: Is Khunjrab Pass open year-round?
No, it’s usually closed from November to April due to snow.
Q: Do I need a visa to visit the border gate?
No. Pakistani citizens and tourists can go right up to the gate. You cannot cross without proper visa documentation.
Q: Can I take my car to the top?
Yes, if it's well-maintained. But a 4x4 is recommended. Most people hire jeeps from Sost.
Related Blogs You’ll Love
- Why Hunza Valley is the Heart of Northern Pakistan
- Top Tourist Destinations in Northern Pakistan 2025
- 10 Stunning Places to Visit in Northern Pakistan
- How to Reach Fairy Meadows from Islamabad Easily
- Northern Pakistan’s Best Spots for Nature Lovers
Final Words
Whether you’re a first-time traveler or a seasoned road-tripper, Khunjrab Pass offers an experience you won’t find anywhere else. It's a place where roads end and perspectives begin. It’s cold, high, and remote—but incredibly rewarding.
If you’re planning your northern Pakistan trip, make this your final stop—and maybe, like me, you’ll find a little more than just views up there.
– Rahaal, your storyteller on the road
