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The Karakoram Highway: The Sky Road Connecting China and Pakistan
The Karakoram Highway (KKH), hailed as the "Eighth Wonder of the World," is a vital international road connecting Kashgar in China's Xinjiang region with northern Pakistan. Stretching 1,224 kilometers in total, the highway starts from Kashgar in China, traverses the Karakoram Mountains, passes through the Khunjerab Pass, and ends in Thakot in northern Pakistan. Of its total length, 415 kilometers lie within China, while 809 kilometers are in Pakistan.
Construction of the Karakoram Highway began in 1966 as a joint effort between China and Pakistan and was completed in 1979. The highway crosses one of the world's highest mountain ranges—the Karakoram Mountains—reaching an elevation of 4,733 meters at its highest point. Along the way, it passes through glaciers, gorges, and highland lakes, earning its reputation as one of the "world's most dangerous roads."
The construction conditions were extremely harsh. Workers had to endure severe cold, oxygen deprivation, avalanches, and mudslides at altitudes above 4,000 meters. It is estimated that over 800 Chinese and Pakistani workers lost their lives during the construction, with an average of one life lost every 1.5 kilometers.
Starting Point of the Karakoram Highway
The highway begins in Kashgar (39.28°N, 75.58°E), a city in the southwestern part of China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region and a key hub on the ancient Silk Road. From Kashgar, the road extends southwest, passing through Shufu County and Tashkurgan Tajik Autonomous County, before reaching the Khunjerab Pass (37.08°N, 75.25°E) on the China-Pakistan border. At 4,733 meters above sea level, this pass is one of the highest border crossings in the world.
The Karakoram Highway: Majestic Landscapes and Historical Legends
The Karakoram Highway is not just a transportation route but also a corridor through time, showcasing breathtaking landscapes and rich historical culture. Its unique charm lies in the natural wonders and profound history along its path.
I. Majestic Landscapes
1. Khunjerab Pass: At 4,733 meters, it is the highest border crossing in the world. With perpetual snow and swirling clouds, it is known as the "Gateway in the Clouds."
2. K2 (Mount Godwin-Austen): The world's second-highest peak at 8,611 meters, its majestic snow-capped summit is awe-inspiring.
3. Hunza Valley: Known as the "Shangri-La," this paradise features snow-capped mountains, glaciers, and pastoral landscapes.
4. Attabad Lake: Formed in 2010 by a landslide, this turquoise lake is surrounded by towering peaks, creating a stunning panorama.
5. Baltoro Glacier: One of the world's longest glaciers at 62 kilometers, it is a breathtaking natural wonder.
II. Historical Stories and Legends
1. Xuanzang's Journey: In the 7th century, the Tang Dynasty monk Xuanzang passed through this region on his pilgrimage to the West, documenting the local customs in The Great Tang Records on the Western Regions.
2. Marco Polo's Footsteps: In the 13th century, Italian traveler Marco Polo traversed this area on his return to Europe, describing its wonders in his travelogue.
3. The Legend of Hunza Kingdom: The Hunza Valley was once the seat of the independent Hunza Kingdom, known for its "Land of Longevity" legend and considered a prototype of Shangri-La.
4. Silk Road Heritage: The highway is dotted with ancient Silk Road relics, such as old驿站 and beacon towers, telling the story of millennia of trade and cultural exchange.
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5. Lifeline of the Anti-Japanese War: During World War II, this route was a crucial channel for the Allies to transport strategic supplies to China, symbolizing the deep friendship between the Chinese and Pakistani people.
Recommended Tour Itinerary
As a company specializing in small-group tours, we have carefully designed the following Karakoram Highway adventure itineraries to ensure you fully experience the grandeur and legend of this "Sky Road":
8-Day Xinjiang Small Group Tour
Our [8-Day Xinjiang Small Group Tour]takes you deep into the most spectacular sections of the Karakoram Highway, showcasing the unique charm of Xinjiang. Here are the highlights:
- Day 1: Arrive in Kashgar, visit the Id Kah Mosque and Kashgar Old Town to experience Uygur culture.
- Day 2: Depart from Kashgar to Tashkurgan, enjoying the stunning landscapes of the Pamir Plateau along the way.
- Day 3: Visit the Khunjerab Pass and stand at the top of the world, feeling the awe of the "Gateway in the Clouds."
- Day 4: Explore the Hunza Valley, experience the tranquility and beauty of Shangri-La, and visit local villages to learn about Tajik culture.
- Day 5: Visit Attabad Lake, enjoy the serene lake and mountain views, and capture breathtaking photos.
- Day 6: Explore the Baltoro Glacier and experience the thrill of glacier trekking.
- Day 7: Return to Kashgar, stopping at more historical sites and natural landscapes along the way.
- Day 8: Conclude the journey and depart from Kashgar with unforgettable memories.
Why Choose Us?
1. Exclusive Small-Group Experience: We specialize in small-group tours, ensuring personalized service and an in-depth travel experience for every guest.
2. Professional Guide Team: Our guides are not only knowledgeable about local history and culture but also experienced in high-altitude travel, ensuring your safety and comfort.
3. Customized Services: We tailor itineraries and activities to your interests and needs.
4. Commitment to Sustainability: We are dedicated to protecting the natural environment along the Karakoram Highway, adhering to eco-tourism principles in all our activities.
The Karakoram Highway is not just a road connecting China and Pakistan but also a cultural corridor carrying natural wonders and human history. Every landscape tells a story of Earth's evolution, and every historical event reflects the progress of human civilization. Join us on this extraordinary adventure to explore the mysteries of the Roof of the World and experience the charm of the China-Pakistan Friendship Highway.
Contact us now to book your [8-Day Xinjiang Small Group Tour] and become one of the fortunate few to witness this world wonder!
All our guide, drivers, hotels are carefully selected to ensure tourists to have a memorable journey. We serve more than 5000 western tourists and 6000+ tourists from southeast Asia annually. We have been dignified as "The Most Creative Itinerary Designer" by Sichuan Tourism Bureau, also have been recognized as one of the most favored travel agencies by overseas tourists.
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