Khunjerab Pass: How to Get There (World's Highest Border Crossing + Permit)

Khunjerab Pass: How to Get There (World's Highest Border Crossing + Permit)

Khunjerab Pass lies on the Pamir Plateau, one of the world's highest border crossings (about 4,700 m), at the end of the China-Pakistan Friendship Highway (Karakoram Highway). The majestic border gate amid snow mountains is a meaningful stop on any Tashkurgan itinerary.

This guide covers how to get there and the permit.

🏔️ About Khunjerab

• Location: Tashkurgan County, Kashgar Prefecture, on the China-Pakistan border
• Elevation: ~4,700 m, one of the world's highest border crossings
• Status: an important China-Pakistan land port, end of the Friendship Highway
• Sights: border gate, boundary marker, snow mountains, friendship monument

🛂 Border Permit (Required)

A border permit is required to visit Khunjerab:

• Where to apply: at your home police station or locally in Tashkurgan
• Note: Khunjerab is a strictly managed border zone; permit requirements are strict — apply well in advance
• Restrictions: some periods may limit visits (trade, transport peaks, or special times); confirm with border/area notices

Tip: always confirm whether visits are open that day to avoid a wasted trip.

🚗 How to Get There

• Route: from Tashkurgan county town south along the Karakoram Highway (G314), about 1–2 hours
• Transport: charter/self-drive (subject to border access) or ask local agencies/carpools
• En route: link with Muztagh Ata, Baisha Lake, and other sights

🧐 What to See

• Border gate / marker: at 4,700 m, feel the vastness of the "roof of the world"
• China-Pakistan friendship: learn the history of the Friendship Highway
• Snow scenery: snow mountains surround the pass, dramatic highland views

⚠️ Highland Notes

• Very high altitude (~4,700 m), high altitude sickness risk; move slowly, bring oxygen
• Cold: cold even in summer; bring a thick jacket
• Follow border rules; don't enter restricted or sensitive areas

📌 Practical Tips

1. Border permit + ID must be complete; cooperate with checks
2. At high altitude, avoid strenuous activity; rest if dizzy
3. Confirm opening before departing; follow border announcements
4. Be careful with photography; don't shoot sensitive zones
5. Tashkurgan offers lodging and meals as a transit hub

Khunjerab is the border gate "closest to the sky." Standing at the China-Pakistan boundary at 4,700 m is an indescribable thrill. With permits and highland prep, you can complete this meaningful border journey.