How Long is the Karakoram Highway?
Pakistan, asia
1,300 km
2,500 m
extreme
Year-round
The Karakoram Highway, or KKH as the locals call it, is a legendary route stretching 1,300 km (810 mi) between Western China and Pakistan – about 887 km (551 mi) in Pakistan and 413 km (257 mi) in China. Think of it as your gateway through disputed Kashmir, from Hassan Abdal (near Islamabad) all the way to Kashgar in China's Xinjiang province.
While technically open year-round, the Khunjerab Pass – a whopping 4,693 m (15,397 ft) high – is usually snowed in from January to April. Even outside those months, keep an eye on the weather! Harsh winters and monsoon season (July/August) can bring closures due to landslides.
This isn't just a road; it's an adventure! Construction took a staggering 27 years and came at a cost. While conditions have improved, some parts are still dicey, and you'll want a reliable 4x4 to handle the terrain. Expect hairpin turns, potential rockfalls (especially in the rain), and some seriously steep drops.
Don't let that scare you off, though! The KKH carves through the Himalayas, Karakoram, and Hindu Kush ranges, offering mind-blowing views of K2. Spring and early autumn are the sweet spots for travel. But be warned: altitude sickness is a real concern for some.
This isn't just a road trip; it's a journey through the "Eighth Wonder of the World." You'll be tracing the ancient Silk Road, surrounded by some of the most spectacular scenery on Earth. It's a must-do for any adventure seeker.
Road Details
- Country
- Pakistan
- Continent
- asia
- Length
- 1,300 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,500 m
- Difficulty
- extreme
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