The eighth wonder of the world and the most challenging terrain with high elevation, Karakorum Highway(KKH) is now open to the general public. It begins from Islamabad, the next financial hub of Pakistan, and goes up till Tashkurgan from Islamabad via road.
In New York Times’ December issue, the magazine wrote: “It took twenty years and the life of one worker every mile, to carve through towering mountains, glaciers, and isolated valleys to build 500 miles long Karakoram Highway through Pakistan to China.”
Firstly, it was known as the Indus Valley Road as a link between the Northern Pakistani cities of Swat and Gilgit. The road was decided to be extended in 1966 to deal with the rising security concerns. It was also planned to link with the Chinese border.
Karakorum Highway | from Islamabad to China
The Karakoram Highway is a true engineering marvel, winding through some of the most breathtaking scenery on earth. From towering snow-capped peaks to deep river valleys and lush green forests, the landscape along this legendary highway is genuinely awe-inspiring.
Whether you’re driving, biking, or simply taking a leisurely stroll, there is no shortage of natural beauty to be found along the Karakoram Highway.
The road is extended almost 500 miles through the most inaccessible and difficult rugged terrain passing through the Pamir, Hindukush, Kunlun Mountains, and the Karakorum range. This highway is a fantastic idea for connecting the countries.
It was proposed by General Geng Biao, Ambassador of China to Pakistan, in 1956-58. He strived a lot for the plan to be executed. Finally, it was approved by Beijing.
A total number of 24,000 workers have completed this massive project. While completing the construction, they constantly faced the dangers of mudslides, avalanches, and rock falls. This project has positively impacted the economy of Uygur, Tajik, and Kyrgyz, inhabited by people in mountainous regions.
This road is a lifeline for the people of Gilgit-Baltistan, especially for their economic activities. It is an economic corridor between China and Pakistan, and its impact will soon affect Central Asia, the Middle East, and Eurasia through the Arabian Sea at Gwadar.
The option for traveling by air is available. Still, people prefer to travel by road to enjoy the natural scenic beauty and the magnificent highway, so tourists prefer to travel on wheels.
Karakoram Highway and Islamabad
The Karakoram Highway (KKH) is an important infrastructure project for Pakistan’s economic and social development. The highway connects Pakistan’s northern areas to the rest of the country and beyond, opening up new opportunities for trade, tourism, and investment.
Here are some ways the KKH is expected to help with Pakistan’s development:
- Trade: The highway provides a direct road link between Pakistan and China, which is one of the world’s largest economies. The improved connectivity is expected to boost bilateral trade between the two countries, creating new jobs and economic opportunities for Pakistanis.
- Tourism: The KKH is a scenic road that passes through some of the world’s highest mountains, glaciers, and valleys. The improved infrastructure and accessibility are expected to attract more tourists to the region, creating new jobs and businesses.
- Regional integration: The highway is a part of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a flagship project of China’s Belt and Road Initiative. The corridor aims to promote regional connectivity and integration, enhancing Pakistan’s strategic importance in the region
- Educational Exchange: The KKH could facilitate educational exchange between Pakistan and China. With improved connectivity, it could be easier for Pakistani students to study in Chinese universities and vice versa.
- Cultural Exchange: The KKH passes through diverse cultural and linguistic communities in Pakistan. Improved connectivity and infrastructure could promote cultural exchange and understanding among these communities, leading to more inclusive and diverse experiences.
Karakoram Highway & Real Estate
The Karakoram Highway is a major infrastructure project that connects Islamabad, the capital of Pakistan, with the Chinese border via the Karakoram mountain range. The highway has the potential to impact the real estate sector in Islamabad in several ways.
Firstly, the Karakoram Highway will improve the connectivity of Islamabad with China, which is expected to boost trade and economic activity between the two countries. This could lead to an increase in demand for industrial and other commercial properties in Islamabad, particularly in areas that are well-connected to the highway.
Secondly, the highway could also increase the flow of tourists from China to Pakistan, which could lead to an increase in demand for short-term accommodation options such as hotels, guest houses, and vacation rentals. This could be an opportunity for investors to invest in the hospitality sector in Islamabad.
Thirdly, the Karakoram Highway could also have a positive impact on the overall real estate market in Islamabad by increasing the overall demand for properties. The improved connectivity of Islamabad with China could make the city more attractive to foreign investors, leading to an increase in demand for properties in Islamabad.
Keeping this view in mind, Chakor Ventures is building a tallest corporate in the Blue Area, Islamabad, which is one of the next best commercial hubs of the capital. Citadel 7 will be the epitome of luxury and contemporary design, offering corporate offices, retail outlets and dining options.
However, it is also worth noting that the impact of the Karakoram Highway on the real estate sector in Islamabad will depend on several factors, including the pace of development of the highway, the level of investment in the surrounding areas, and the government’s policies and regulations related to real estate development in the region.
Enroute to Karakoram Highway
The Karakoram Highway is a true feast for the senses, with stunning vistas and rugged terrain that will leave a lasting impression. The highway passes through some of the most remote and spectacular regions of Pakistan and China, showcasing the region’s hidden treasures.
Whether you’re drawn to the majestic mountain peaks, the crystal-clear lakes, or the deep gorges and valleys, there is no shortage of natural wonders to explore along the Karakoram Highway.
The Karakoram Highway is a true testament to the beauty and grandeur of the natural world. As it winds through the towering mountains and rugged terrain of Pakistan and China, visitors are treated to some of the most breathtaking scenery on earth.
Traveling Tips via Karakoram Highway
Before planning a trip to this marvelous snowcapped mountainous track, equip yourself with some essentials;
- Your return ticket will remain valid for 30 days.
- Original CNIC & Photo Copy
- Original Passport & Photo Copy
- Valid Visa
- Invitation Letter from China (VISA CATEGORY F&M)
Other travelling tips are;
- Arrive at the departure point at least 3 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Present your ticket to the staff and board the bus.
- No one will be allowed to board the bus 1 hour before departure.
- Only one hand carry is allowed for each passenger.
Note: You cannot get a refund or transfer your ticket, but you can modify it up to 3 days before you leave.
Want to Visit China… Take the Bus Route!
The Karakoram Highway has positively impacted the trade, communication, cultures, and economies of Pakistan and China, serving as a catalyst for regional development.
As a practical manifestation of the growing bilateral ties between the two nations, the KKH has enabled greater economic integration and cooperation across the Central Asia.
It has emerged as a vital conduit for regional connectivity, contributing to the region’s prosperity.
The KKH has played a crucial role in fostering cultural exchange, facilitating the movement of people and goods, and promoting regional stability and security. Its significance as a critical strategic asset cannot be overstated for Pakistan, China, and the broader region.
