The Karakoram Highway, known locally as the KKH, is one of the most spectacular roads in the world. It follows the ancient Silk Road from the plains of Pakistan through the Himalaya and Karakoram to the Khunjerab Pass on the border with China. For many travelers, the journey itself is a highlight of their trip to Gilgit-Baltistan.
Facts About the Karakoram Highway
- The highway runs from Hasan Abdal near Islamabad to Kashgar in China
- It was built jointly by Pakistan and China and completed in the late 1970s
- Its highest point is the Khunjerab Pass at 4,693m, one of the highest paved border crossings in the world
- It passes the meeting point of three great mountain ranges: the Karakoram, the Himalaya and the Hindu Kush
The Route from Islamabad to Hunza
Most journeys start in Islamabad and take two days to reach Hunza, with an overnight stop in Besham or Chilas. There are two main routes:
- Via the KKH: Islamabad, the Hazara Motorway, Mansehra, Thakot, Besham, Dasu, Chilas, Gilgit and Hunza. Open all year.
- Via Naran and the Babusar Pass: Islamabad, Kaghan Valley, Naran, the Babusar Pass and down to Chilas, where it joins the KKH. Usually open only from around June to September, and very scenic.
Highlights Along the Way
- Nanga Parbat viewpoint near Raikot, with views of the 8,126m “Killer Mountain”
- Junction of three mountain ranges near Jaglot, where the Indus and Gilgit rivers meet
- Rakaposhi viewpoint in Nagar Valley, facing the 7,788m peak
- Karimabad and the Baltit and Altit Forts in central Hunza
- Attabad Lake, formed by a landslide in 2010, with its turquoise water and tunnels
- Passu Cones and the Hussaini Suspension Bridge in Upper Hunza
- Khunjerab National Park and the border at the Khunjerab Pass
Travel Times
- Islamabad to Besham: around 6 to 8 hours
- Besham to Chilas: around 5 to 6 hours
- Chilas to Hunza: around 5 hours
- Hunza to Khunjerab Pass: around 3 to 4 hours one way
Times vary with road works, weather and stops, so we always build in extra time.
Best Time to Drive the KKH
The KKH can be driven all year, but the most comfortable months are April to October. The Khunjerab Pass is usually open to visitors from around May to the end of November. In summer, heavy rain can cause landslides that block the road for a few hours, and in winter snow can close higher sections.
Road Safety Tips
- Travel with an experienced local driver who knows the mountain road
- Avoid driving after dark
- Carry water, snacks and warm clothing in the vehicle
- Keep your passport and visa copies handy for police checkpoints
- Be patient with road works and landslide clearing
- Plan flexible days in case of delays
Should You Drive or Fly?
Flying from Islamabad to Gilgit saves time, but flights are often cancelled in bad weather, and you miss some of the most beautiful scenery. Many travelers choose to drive one way and fly the other. We can plan either option.
Experience the full KKH on our Hunza and Skardu Tour or Hunza Autumn Tour, and read the best time to visit Hunza to plan your dates.
Drive the Karakoram Highway With Us
Private vehicle, experienced driver and a local guide who shares the story of every valley along the way.