The Karakoram Highway is a marvel of modern engineering, connecting Pakistan and China through some of the world’s most challenging terrains. The construction of this grand road began in 1966 and was completed in 1978, spanning a total length of 1,300 km, with 887 km in Pakistan and 413 km in China. Starting from Hasan Abdal in Pakistan, the highway passes through a series of breathtaking landscapes and historical regions before reaching Kashgar in China. The story of the Karakoram Highway is one of perseverance, collaboration, and the triumph of the human spirit over nature’s formidable challenges.
The Miraculous Construction
Overcoming the Impossible
The construction of the Karakoram Highway astonished the world. For many years, leading global companies deemed it impossible to build such a road. A renowned European company declared its construction unfeasible after an aerial survey. Despite the severe weather, heavy snowfall, and frequent landslides, the joint efforts of Pakistan and China made this road a reality. According to reports, 810 Pakistanis and 82 Chinese lost their lives during its construction. A staggering 8,000 tons of dynamite was used to break through the rocky terrain, with 30 million cubic meters of rock cut from the mountains to complete the highway.
Engineering Feats
The highway navigates through some of the most inhospitable terrain on Earth. Engineers had to deal with challenges such as landslides, rockfalls, and avalanches. The road often clings to the sides of steep mountains, with sheer drops to the river valleys below. The construction required building numerous bridges and tunnels, using advanced techniques and equipment. Despite the technological hurdles, the highway was completed in 12 years, a testament to the determination and skill of the workers involved.
The Essence of the Karakoram Highway
A Road Full of Stories
The Karakoram Highway is more than just a road; it is a pathway filled with stories of love, hate, fear, backwardness, and progress. It inspires wonder and curiosity, inviting travelers to explore the unknown. As one author aptly put it, “Revolution comes through thought and consciousness, but the revolution of Gilgit-Baltistan came through the road.” The highway evokes a desire to discover what lies beyond the mountains and to hear the tales of the people who have lived alongside this road for centuries.
Historical Significance
This highway follows the ancient Silk Road route, which was historically a major trade route between the East and the West. Traders, pilgrims, and adventurers have traversed this path for centuries, carrying goods, ideas, and cultures between civilizations. The modern highway continues this legacy, serving as a vital trade link between Pakistan and China and fostering economic and cultural exchanges.
The Journey Begins
Hasan Abdal to Thakot
The Karakoram Highway begins in the Hazara district, where lush green vistas and barren valleys stretch until Thakot. From Thakot, the Indus River accompanies the highway up to Jaglot, where it turns towards Skardu.
After Thakot, the region of Kohistan begins. Here, streams of water cascading from distant heights add to the journey’s charm. People (or locals, or authorities) also call Chilas, an important area of Dia Mir district, the gateway to Gilgit-Baltistan. The highway then navigates around Nanga Parbat, leading to the Raikot Bridge, where travelers can hire jeeps to visit Fairy Meadows and Nanga Parbat Base Camp.
The Scenic Beauty
Raikot to Gilgit
The combination of Nanga Parbat, the Indus River, and the Karakoram Highway creates a breathtaking panorama that often leaves travelers in silent awe. The highway then enters the Gilgit Division, with Jaglot as its first major stop. Jaglot is unique as it is the meeting point of three of the world’s greatest mountain ranges: the Himalayas, the Hindu Kush, and the Karakorams.
After Jaglot, the journey continues to Gilgit city, the capital of the northern region, known for its commercial, political, and social significance. The jeep trips can be made to Naltar, Ashkoman, Ghazar, and Shendur. The region of Nagar, characterized by the majestic Rakaposhi peak, begins beyond Gilgit. Nagar and Hunza, situated on both sides of the highway, offer stunning views that astonish every traveler. The “Passu Cones” are a striking example of this natural beauty.
Hunza and Beyond
Hunza and Nagar are regions of immense beauty, with high peaks, glaciers, waterfalls, and rivers. Notable mountains in this area include Rakaposhi, Ultar Sar, Batura, Khunyang Chhish, Distaghil Sar, and Passu Sar. An artificial yet captivating 21 km long lake, Attabad, was formed by a mountain collapse. Hunza is also known for its vibrant cultural heritage and historical sites, such as the Baltit and Altit forts. The highway’s last point in Pakistan is Khunjerab Pass.
The Ascent to Khunjerab Pass
The area from Sost to Khunjerab consists of uninhabited, challenging mountains and continuous ascent. At 4,693 meters, Khunjerab Pass is the highest point on the Karakoram Highway, earning it the title of the highest paved international road in the world. This region hosts unique wildlife: Marco Polo sheep, snow leopards, marmots, bears, yaks, ibex, and blue sheep. The government (or relevant authority) designated Khunjerab as a National Park due to its biodiversity.
The Eighth Wonder of the World
A Journey Through Time and Space
Traveling on the Karakoram Highway is like journeying through time and space. The road offers views of green mountains, barren rocky ranges, and towering snow peaks. Numerous rivers, waterfalls, pastures, and glaciers make the journey both beautiful and memorable. Travelers can explore ancient rock carvings, historic trade routes, and diverse local cultures along the way.
Economic and Cultural Impact
The Karakoram Highway has had a profound impact on the region. It has opened up remote areas to tourism, bringing economic benefits and fostering cultural exchange. The highway also serves as a critical trade route between Pakistan and China, facilitating the movement of goods and contributing to the economic development of the region. The Pak-China trade along this route has strengthened the bond between the two countries, promoting mutual understanding and cooperation.
Symbol of Human Achievement
The Karakoram Highway is not just a road; it is a symbol of human achievement. It stands as a testament to the ingenuity, perseverance, and collaborative spirit of the people who built it. The highway has transformed the lives of the people in Gilgit-Baltistan, bringing development and connectivity to a once-isolated region. It is a national pride for Pakistan and China, celebrated for engineering excellence and construction bravery.
Conclusion
The Karakoram Highway, the eighth wonder, symbolizes culture, progress, and Pakistan-China friendship. The highway quenches the thirst of thousands of tourists each year and serves as a lifeline for the people of Gilgit-Baltistan. The Karakoram Highway, a masterpiece, inspires and awes travelers through the majestic Karakoram mountains.
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