It
offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and is a popular tourist
destination for both locals and foreigners.
The pass was named after the nearby Khunjerab River, which flows
through the area. The word "Khunjerab" is derived from the Wakhi
language, spoken by the local Wakhi people, and means "Valley of
Blood." The name is thought to have originated from the red color of the
stones found in the riverbed.
The Khunjerab Pass is a part of the Karakoram Highway, which is
also known as the "Eighth Wonder of the World." The Karakoram Highway
is a 1,300 km (800 mile) long road that connects Pakistan with China, and is
considered to be one of the most challenging and dangerous roads in the world.
The construction of the highway began in 1959 and was completed in 1979, after
20 years of hard work and dedication by the engineers and workers.
The Khunjerab Pass is closed during the winter months due to
heavy snowfall and extreme weather conditions. It is usually open from May to
November and is accessible by road. Visitors need to obtain a permit from the
Pakistani authorities to visit the pass.
The journey to the Khunjerab Pass is an adventure in itself. The
road winds through the rugged and remote Karakoram Mountains, passing through
deep valleys and high mountain passes. Along the way, visitors can see
snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and alpine meadows, as well as the traditional
villages and nomadic settlements of the local people.
As visitors reach the Khunjerab Pass, they are greeted by a
stunning panorama of towering mountains and vast glaciers. The pass marks the
border between Pakistan and China, and visitors can see the famous Karakoram
Highway snaking its way through the mountains towards China. On the Pakistani
side, there is a small monument and a border outpost, where visitors can get
their passports stamped.
Apart from the stunning natural beauty, the Khunjerab Pass is also an important historical and cultural site. The pass has been a trade route between Pakistan and China for centuries, and has played a vital role in the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultures between the two countries. The pass is also home to the traditional Wakhi people, who have lived in the region for centuries and have a rich and unique culture.
The Khunjerab Pass is a must-visit destination for anyone
traveling to Pakistan. It offers a unique blend of natural beauty, adventure,
and history, and is a testament to the engineering and human spirit that built
the Karakoram Highway. Visitors to the Khunjerab Pass are sure to be awed by
the grandeur of the mountains and the warmth of the local people, making it an
unforgettable experience.
A journey to
Khunjerab Top is an experience of a lifetime and one that should not be missed
by any traveler.
Raheel Rustam
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