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The Karakoram Highway, often referred to as the “Eighth Wonder of the World,” is a breathtaking high-altitude road that winds through some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes on Earth.
This iconic road stretches from Pakistan to China, connecting the cities of Abbottabad and Kashgar, and offers travelers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the incredible mountain vistas and explore remote villages along the way.
In this blog, we embark on a virtual road trip through the Karakoram Highway, immersing ourselves in its remarkable beauty and uncovering the hidden gems of this extraordinary journey.
The Karakoram Highway: A Marvel of Engineering
Before we hit the road, it’s essential to understand the significance of the Karakoram Highway. This incredible road, which traverses through some of the world’s highest mountains, was completed in the 1980s, and it stands as a testament to human engineering prowess and cooperation between Pakistan and China.
The Karakoram Highway serves as a vital trade and transportation route, linking the two nations, and its natural beauty attracts adventure seekers, road trippers, and nature enthusiasts from around the globe.
The Karakoram Highway is more than just a road; it’s an odyssey through some of the world’s most mesmerizing landscapes and remote villages. This journey takes you through a geological wonderland, past the towering peaks, and along the ancient trade routes that connected empires and cultures for centuries.
Starting Point: Abbottabad, Pakistan
Our journey begins in Abbottabad, a charming city located in the Hazara region of Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. This city, known for its pleasant climate and lush surroundings, serves as the perfect gateway to the Karakoram Highway.
Day 1: Abbottabad to Mansehra on a Road Trip on the Karakoram Highway
As we hit the road, the lush green hills of Abbottabad provide a picturesque backdrop. The drive from Abbottabad to Mansehra, a relatively short distance, offers a taste of the winding roads and natural beauty that we’ll encounter on our journey. Mansehra is a welcoming town that serves as a pit stop before we delve into the mountains.