The Karakoram Highway (KKH) is one of the world's great road journeys — 1,300 kilometres of asphalt connecting Islamabad to the Chinese border at Khunjerab Pass (4,693 m), threading through some of the most dramatic mountain scenery on earth. This guide covers everything you need to plan a KKH road trip in 2027.
What Is the Karakoram Highway?
The KKH was built jointly by Pakistan and China between 1959 and 1979, at enormous human cost — over 800 workers died during construction. It follows the ancient Silk Road trade route through the Karakoram, Hindu Kush and Himalayan mountain ranges. The highway passes through Kohistan, Gilgit-Baltistan and into China's Xinjiang province.
Route Stops — Islamabad to Khunjerab
Starting point. Collect permits and supplies.
Kohistan gorges. The Indus churns far below.
Ancient Silk Road petroglyphs. Nanga Parbat views.
Mountain crossroads. Kargah Buddha carved into the cliff.
Baltit Fort, Altit Fort, Rakaposhi panorama.
Turquoise lake formed by the 2010 landslide.
Passu Cathedral spires — one of the great mountain silhouettes.
4,693 m — the China–Pakistan border. The road ends here.
Key Highlights Along the Route
Besham and the Kohistan gorges, Chilas and the ancient Silk Road petroglyphs, Gilgit as the mountain crossroads, Hunza Valley and Baltit Fort, Attabad Lake (formed by a 2010 landslide), Passu Cones, and Khunjerab Pass at the Chinese border.
Best Time to Drive the KKH
June to September is the best time for the full KKH including Khunjerab Pass. April and May offer spring blossoms in Hunza. September and October bring autumn colours. The highway to Khunjerab is closed from November to April.
Practical Information
The KKH is open from approximately April to October. Khunjerab Pass closes in winter. Road conditions vary — some sections are excellent, others require a 4×4 vehicle. Noble Voyages uses comfortable 4×4 vehicles with experienced local drivers for all KKH journeys. Fuel stations are available in major towns but carry extra fuel for remote sections.
Drive the Karakoram Highway with Noble Voyages
Our 14-day Karakoram Highway Explorer tour covers the full route from Islamabad to Khunjerab and back.