Although the actual pass isn't that long, it is the highest part of the Karakorum Highway and encompasses some of the most impressive mountain scenery in the world, including the Pamirs, Karakorum, Hindu Kush and Himalaya. Connecting China and Pakistan, the pass is sometimes closed for political reasons, so we urge travelers to check with their embassy before attempting to travel through the pass.
Although it takes about two days to travel from China's Kashgar to Pakistan's Gilgit on an escorted tour (often much longer if done independently), there are so many appealing places to explore en route (Karakoe lakes, Hunza, etc.) that most travelers will want to spend more time in this stunning region. Be aware that, because of mudslides, the pass is closed to all vehicles except trucks during the rainy season (November-April).
In far western China, about 300 mi/500 km north of Islamabad, Pakistan.