Khunjerab Pass 红其拉甫口岸

About Khunjerab Pass

The snow-and-rock landscape and border gate are its principal visual features, but sightseeing at the Chinese gate and crossing the international border are separate journeys. The port also serves working passenger and freight traffic. Treat it as a specifically arranged high-altitude border visit, not an automatic extension of every Tashkurgan itinerary.

China and Pakistan agreed in principle to open the pass in September 1981, followed by a formal protocol in August 1982. The road across the pass was completed in 1982. The crossing opened to citizens of both countries in May 1983 and to people from third countries on May 1, 1986. The border gate itself stands at 4,733 metres. In 1993, inspection offices moved from Pilali (皮拉力) to Tashkurgan county town (塔什库尔干县城) because of the altitude and severe climate. The Wakhi name combines words for a house and a spring-fed creek or waterfall.

What to look for

• The high pass frames the international gate in a stark mountain landscape.
• The highway crossing links China’s Pamir route with northern Pakistan.

The surrounding area

A southwestern urban and cultural chapter with craft streets, food and residential life.

Location & getting there

Getting to Khunjerab Pass

Confirm your eligibility, documents, transport and permitted destination with the port or immigration service before leaving Tashkurgan. An international crossing requires arrangements for both countries; a domestic sightseeing booking does not grant border-crossing permission.