Top Things To Do In Khunjerab Pass (Gilgit) In 2026 - 2027

Mountain Pass

Top 10 things to do in Khunjerab Pass

1. Khunjerab National Park Visit
Khunjerab National Park is a must-visit for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. This high-altitude park is home to many indigenous species, including the elusive snow leopard, Marco Polo sheep, and Himalayan ibex. Spanning over 2,270 square kilometers, it offers breathtaking views of some of the highest peaks in the Karakoram Range and vast landscapes dotted with unique flora. Established to protect the endangered Marco Polo sheep, the park now offers guided tours where visitors can observe the region's rich biodiversity. Educational signage throughout the park provides insights into conservation efforts and local ecosystems. Dress warmly, as temperatures can drop significantly, even during summer months.
Duration: 3-4 hours · Price: Approximately PKR 1,000 for entrance fee
2. Drive Through Karakoram Highway
A journey along the Karakoram Highway (KKH) is more than just a drive; it's an adventure that traverses some of the most majestic landscapes on Earth. The highway, which is the highest paved international road in the world, connects Pakistan to China across the Karakoram mountain range. It offers stunning views of towering peaks, glaciers, and deep valleys. Starting from Khunjerab Pass, which is the highest point of the KKH, the drive presents numerous opportunities for photography, especially at the various viewpoints along the way. Visitors will marvel at the engineering prowess that went into creating this magnificent route. Local tour guides can enhance the experience by sharing stories and the history of this incredible roadway.
Duration: Full day · Price: Varies by tour provider
3. Hiking to Ondra Poygah Glacier
The trek to Ondra Poygah Glacier is an adventurous and captivating experience for those looking to explore the natural beauty around Khunjerab Pass. The hike begins at the pass and takes you across rugged terrain offering panoramic vistas of the valley below and the surrounding peaks. The glacier itself is a stunning frozen river of ice, serving as a dramatic reminder of the region's glacial history. The trek is challenging and is best undertaken with a local guide who can navigate the terrain and ensure safety. Along the way, trekkers can enjoy the serenity of the high-altitude environment and spot a variety of wildlife that inhabits the area.
Duration: 5-6 hours · Price: Free, but hiring a guide will cost approximately PKR 2,500
4. Wildlife Photography Expedition
Snapping the perfect shot of rare wildlife in its natural habitat is an exhilarating experience that awaits photography enthusiasts at Khunjerab Pass. With its rich biodiversity, the area around the pass remains a haven for photo safaris aimed at capturing images of animals such as snow leopards, Marco Polo sheep, and Himalayan ibexes in the wild. Local guides, well-versed in tracking and locating wildlife, lead these expeditions. While sightings cannot be guaranteed due to the elusive nature of these animals, the breathtaking scenery and the sheer possibility of capturing a unique moment make this an unmissable activity for photographers.
Duration: Varies, typically half to full day · Price: Approximately PKR 5,000 to PKR 10,000 depending on tour length and group size
5. Camping Overnight Near Khunjerab Pass
Spending a night camping in the area surrounding Khunjerab Pass offers a magical experience under the stars. This remote region's high altitude and clear skies make for perfect stargazing, with the Milky Way often visible to the naked eye. Campers will enjoy the tranquility and the crisp mountain air overnight. Camping also allows for early morning wildlife spotting as many animals are most active at dawn. It's crucial to come prepared with quality camping gear, as temperatures plummet once the sun sets. Additionally, it's important to camp responsibly by following Leave No Trace principles to preserve the delicate ecosystem.
Duration: Overnight · Price: Free, with rentals for camping gear varying
6. Yak Safari
A yak safari presents a unique way to travel through the mountainous landscape near Khunjerab Pass. Yaks are native to the region and are known for their ability to navigate the tough terrain effortlessly. Journeying atop these gentle giants offers a different perspective of the sweeping valleys and towering mountains. It's an unforgettable experience, plus you get the opportunity to interact with local herders and learn about their traditional way of life. No prior riding experience is needed to join a yak safari, as the yaks are well-trained and accustomed to carrying people. This slow mode of transport is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in their surroundings fully.
Duration: 2-3 hours · Price: Approximately PKR 3,000 to PKR 4,000
7. Bird Watching
Bird watching in the Khunjerab region is particularly fascinating due to the variety of migratory and local bird species that can be spotted. Enthusiasts can expect to see species such as the Golden Eagle, Himalayan Griffon, and the beautiful Snow Pigeon among others. The high-altitude environment and the diverse landscapes from wetlands to rocky cliffs provide ideal conditions for bird habitats. Beginners and seasoned ornithologists alike will appreciate the guided tours that provide insight into the birds' behaviors and the best times and locations for sightings. Don't forget your binoculars and a bird field guide to make the most of your birding adventure.
Duration: 3-4 hours · Price: Guided tours start from PKR 1,500
8. Mountain Biking
For a thrilling adventure, mountain biking along the rugged trails and paths near Khunjerab Pass is an excellent activity. The region offers a challenging terrain that will test the skills of even experienced bikers. With the wind in your hair and the panoramic views all around, mountain biking here provides an exhilarating means to explore the dramatic landscape. Bike rentals are available, and a guide can accompany you to show you the best trails and ensure you stay safe. This activity is not for the faint-hearted and requires physical fitness, but the rush and the scenery are incomparable.
Duration: Half-day or full-day options · Price: Bike rentals and tours start from PKR 2,500
9. Cultural Village Tour
Exploring a local village near Khunjerab Pass is an enriching way to experience the culture and traditions of the indigenous people. Visitors can learn about the lifestyles, culinary traditions, and crafts of the local communities. A village tour might include a trip to a traditional home, a demonstration of local cooking techniques, and the opportunity to purchase handmade souvenirs directly from the artisans. Engaging with residents and hearing their stories adds a valuable human dimension to the natural beauty of the region and provides support to the local economy.
Duration: 2-3 hours · Price: Approximately PKR 1,000 to PKR 2,000
10. Glacier Exploration
The Khunjerab region is dotted with glaciers that offer an awe-inspiring glimpse into the natural ice-forming processes of the high mountains. An exploration of a glacier typically involves a guided hike with equipment such as crampons and ice axes provided. Expert guides lead the way, explaining the geological significance of the glaciers and pointing out interesting features such as crevasses and seracs. Safety is a top priority, and all activities are conducted with the utmost care. This is a chance to marvel at the power and beauty of nature while treading carefully on millennia-old ice.
Duration: 3-5 hours · Price: Starting from PKR 3,500, including equipment rental

Other Places to Visit in Gilgit

View all places to visit in Gilgit

Naltar Valley

Rakaposhi View Point

Hunza Valley

Kargah Buddha

Hushe Valley

Highway/Mountainous Area

Karakoram Highway

Lake

Phander Lake

Lake

Attabad Lake

Other Suggested Reads for Khunjerab Pass

Top 10 things to do in Khunjerab Pass

1. Khunjerab National Park Visit

Khunjerab National Park is a must-visit for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. This high-altitude park is home to many indigenous species, including the elusive snow leopard, Marco Polo sheep, and Himalayan ibex. Spanning over 2,270 square kilometers, it offers breathtaking views of some of the highest peaks in the Karakoram Range and vast landscapes dotted with unique flora. Established to protect the endangered Marco Polo sheep, the park now offers guided tours where visitors can observe the region's rich biodiversity. Educational signage throughout the park provides insights into conservation efforts and local ecosystems. Dress warmly, as temperatures can drop significantly, even during summer months.

Duration: 3-4 hours · Price: Approximately PKR 1,000 for entrance fee

2. Drive Through Karakoram Highway

A journey along the Karakoram Highway (KKH) is more than just a drive; it's an adventure that traverses some of the most majestic landscapes on Earth. The highway, which is the highest paved international road in the world, connects Pakistan to China across the Karakoram mountain range. It offers stunning views of towering peaks, glaciers, and deep valleys. Starting from Khunjerab Pass, which is the highest point of the KKH, the drive presents numerous opportunities for photography, especially at the various viewpoints along the way. Visitors will marvel at the engineering prowess that went into creating this magnificent route. Local tour guides can enhance the experience by sharing stories and the history of this incredible roadway.

Duration: Full day · Price: Varies by tour provider

3. Hiking to Ondra Poygah Glacier

The trek to Ondra Poygah Glacier is an adventurous and captivating experience for those looking to explore the natural beauty around Khunjerab Pass. The hike begins at the pass and takes you across rugged terrain offering panoramic vistas of the valley below and the surrounding peaks. The glacier itself is a stunning frozen river of ice, serving as a dramatic reminder of the region's glacial history. The trek is challenging and is best undertaken with a local guide who can navigate the terrain and ensure safety. Along the way, trekkers can enjoy the serenity of the high-altitude environment and spot a variety of wildlife that inhabits the area.

Duration: 5-6 hours · Price: Free, but hiring a guide will cost approximately PKR 2,500

4. Wildlife Photography Expedition

Snapping the perfect shot of rare wildlife in its natural habitat is an exhilarating experience that awaits photography enthusiasts at Khunjerab Pass. With its rich biodiversity, the area around the pass remains a haven for photo safaris aimed at capturing images of animals such as snow leopards, Marco Polo sheep, and Himalayan ibexes in the wild. Local guides, well-versed in tracking and locating wildlife, lead these expeditions. While sightings cannot be guaranteed due to the elusive nature of these animals, the breathtaking scenery and the sheer possibility of capturing a unique moment make this an unmissable activity for photographers.

Duration: Varies, typically half to full day · Price: Approximately PKR 5,000 to PKR 10,000 depending on tour length and group size

5. Camping Overnight Near Khunjerab Pass

Spending a night camping in the area surrounding Khunjerab Pass offers a magical experience under the stars. This remote region's high altitude and clear skies make for perfect stargazing, with the Milky Way often visible to the naked eye. Campers will enjoy the tranquility and the crisp mountain air overnight. Camping also allows for early morning wildlife spotting as many animals are most active at dawn. It's crucial to come prepared with quality camping gear, as temperatures plummet once the sun sets. Additionally, it's important to camp responsibly by following Leave No Trace principles to preserve the delicate ecosystem.

Duration: Overnight · Price: Free, with rentals for camping gear varying

6. Yak Safari

A yak safari presents a unique way to travel through the mountainous landscape near Khunjerab Pass. Yaks are native to the region and are known for their ability to navigate the tough terrain effortlessly. Journeying atop these gentle giants offers a different perspective of the sweeping valleys and towering mountains. It's an unforgettable experience, plus you get the opportunity to interact with local herders and learn about their traditional way of life. No prior riding experience is needed to join a yak safari, as the yaks are well-trained and accustomed to carrying people. This slow mode of transport is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in their surroundings fully.

Duration: 2-3 hours · Price: Approximately PKR 3,000 to PKR 4,000

7. Bird Watching

Bird watching in the Khunjerab region is particularly fascinating due to the variety of migratory and local bird species that can be spotted. Enthusiasts can expect to see species such as the Golden Eagle, Himalayan Griffon, and the beautiful Snow Pigeon among others. The high-altitude environment and the diverse landscapes from wetlands to rocky cliffs provide ideal conditions for bird habitats. Beginners and seasoned ornithologists alike will appreciate the guided tours that provide insight into the birds' behaviors and the best times and locations for sightings. Don't forget your binoculars and a bird field guide to make the most of your birding adventure.

Duration: 3-4 hours · Price: Guided tours start from PKR 1,500

8. Mountain Biking

For a thrilling adventure, mountain biking along the rugged trails and paths near Khunjerab Pass is an excellent activity. The region offers a challenging terrain that will test the skills of even experienced bikers. With the wind in your hair and the panoramic views all around, mountain biking here provides an exhilarating means to explore the dramatic landscape. Bike rentals are available, and a guide can accompany you to show you the best trails and ensure you stay safe. This activity is not for the faint-hearted and requires physical fitness, but the rush and the scenery are incomparable.

Duration: Half-day or full-day options · Price: Bike rentals and tours start from PKR 2,500

9. Cultural Village Tour

Exploring a local village near Khunjerab Pass is an enriching way to experience the culture and traditions of the indigenous people. Visitors can learn about the lifestyles, culinary traditions, and crafts of the local communities. A village tour might include a trip to a traditional home, a demonstration of local cooking techniques, and the opportunity to purchase handmade souvenirs directly from the artisans. Engaging with residents and hearing their stories adds a valuable human dimension to the natural beauty of the region and provides support to the local economy.

Duration: 2-3 hours · Price: Approximately PKR 1,000 to PKR 2,000

10. Glacier Exploration

The Khunjerab region is dotted with glaciers that offer an awe-inspiring glimpse into the natural ice-forming processes of the high mountains. An exploration of a glacier typically involves a guided hike with equipment such as crampons and ice axes provided. Expert guides lead the way, explaining the geological significance of the glaciers and pointing out interesting features such as crevasses and seracs. Safety is a top priority, and all activities are conducted with the utmost care. This is a chance to marvel at the power and beauty of nature while treading carefully on millennia-old ice.

Duration: 3-5 hours · Price: Starting from PKR 3,500, including equipment rental