Karakorum Highway Travel Guide

The Karakorum Highway is one of the world’s great roads as well as being regarded as the highest paved road weaving its way amongst soaring snow capped peaks in China’s very far south west corner. It makes for a spectacular drive at the very edge of Chinese influence yet is overlooked as a destination by many – a great shame for those who don’t go there we think! Road trips usually start and finish in Kashgar with overnight stops at Karakul Lake and China’s ‘last town’ of Tashkurgan.

The astonishing scenery – some of the best China has to offer – as well as that feeling of being so remote.

Kashgar is the start point for this road trip and this ancient trading town is well worth a few days exploring it’s old markets and winding alleys. Karakul Lake is the usual mid-way overnight stop along the Chinese section of the Highway. It is a spectacular location with 7,000 meter plus peaks reflecting in the lake’s dark waters. Accommodation here is in basic yurts. Tashkurgan is China’s last non-border town in this region and has a fantastic and strategic location in a wide valley. It is very much a Tajik town and it can be quite hard to believe you are still in China. Majestic scenery abounds along the highway and there is plenty of opportunity to stop and enjoy it.

An ideal add on to any Silk Road trip you won’t be disappointed if scenic splendour is what you are looking for from your trip.

There are three major stops along the way, Kashgar, Karakul Lake and Tashkurgan and most people will overnight in each one of these as they drive along the Karakorum Highway.

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By Phil Stanley & Headseast – TCTC Destination Expert.