The historic land link between Pakistan and China is once again vibrant. Following a 14-year suspension, the Gilgit-Kashgar bus service officially resumed operations on November 12, 2024. This revival marks a significant milestone for regional connectivity, tourism, and the overarching framework of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
Managed by the Northern Areas Transport Corporation (NATCO) in collaboration with China’s Xinjiang-Kashgar Xin Lu Transportation Co. Ltd., the service restores a route that was severed in 2010. For over a decade, travelers and traders were forced to find alternative paths after massive landslides created Attabad Lake, submerging a critical 14-kilometer portion of the Karakoram Highway (KKH).
A New Era of Year-Round Connectivity
Historically, travel through the Khunjerab Pass was restricted by the calendar. Due to extreme weather and heavy snowfall at 15,500 feet, the border traditionally closed from December to April. However, a landmark bilateral agreement has changed the travel landscape for 2025 and 2026.
Effective December 1, 2024, the Khunjerab Pass now operates as a year-round border crossing. This transition from seasonal to uninterrupted operation ensures that the Gilgit-Kashgar bus service can maintain its schedule throughout the winter months, provided road conditions remain safe. This shift is expected to provide a consistent boost to trade and a unique opportunity for winter tourism in the Karakoram range.
2025-2026 Operational Schedule and Fares
The NATCO bus service offers a reliable and affordable alternative to air travel for those moving between Gilgit-Baltistan and Xinjiang. The journey covers approximately 698 kilometers and typically takes between 18 to 20 hours, including border formalities and stops in Tashkurgan.
| Feature | Gilgit to Kashgar (NATCO) | Kashgar to Gilgit (Xin Lu) |
|---|---|---|
| Departure Days | Monday, Tuesday, Friday | Sunday, Wednesday, Thursday |
| Departure Time | 6:00 AM (Pakistan Time) | 3:00 PM (Beijing Time) |
| One-Way Fare | PKR 18,000 / RMB 455 | RMB 455 |
| Primary Stop | Tashkurgan County | Tashkurgan County |
Note: Fares and schedules are subject to adjustment based on fuel costs and bilateral transport agreements. It is advisable to verify 24 hours before departure.
Booking and Travel Requirements
Traveling across the highest paved international border in the world requires specific documentation and preparation. Travelers should ensure they meet all regulatory requirements before arriving at the terminal.
Required Documentation
You must possess a valid passport with a Chinese visa (for Pakistani nationals) or a Pakistan visa (for Chinese nationals). Standard border crossing protocols apply at the Sost Dry Port and the Khunjerab Checkpost. Ensure your visa category matches your intent of travel, whether for tourism or business.
How to Secure Your Seat
Seats can be booked through several channels to accommodate both local and international travelers:
- In-Person: Visit the NATCO head office in Gilgit or the Kashgar Passenger Station.
- Digital Booking: For travelers starting in China, bookings are available via the WeChat mini-program “Kashgar Passenger Travel.”
- Domestic Connections: For those traveling from Islamabad or Lahore, private operators like Faisal Movers provide connecting services to the border region, though the NATCO service remains the primary cross-border authorized carrier.
The Strategic Impact on Trade and Tourism
The resumption of this bus service is more than a convenience for backpackers; it is a vital economic artery. By reconnecting Gilgit-Baltistan with the Xinjiang trade hub, both nations expect a surge in small-to-medium enterprise (SME) activity.
Local artisans, fruit exporters, and traders now have a direct, cost-effective route to Chinese markets. Conversely, the arrival of Chinese tourists into the scenic valleys of Hunza and Gilgit is expected to revitalize the local hospitality industry. Under CPEC, this transport link serves as a “people-to-people” bridge, fostering cultural exchange alongside economic growth.
Travel Tips for the Khunjerab Route
Crossing the Khunjerab Pass is an extraordinary experience, but the high altitude and fluctuating weather require preparation:
- Altitude Awareness: The pass reaches an elevation of nearly 4,700 meters. Stay hydrated and carry basic altitude sickness medication if you are sensitive to thin air.
- Weather Preparation: Even in summer, temperatures at the pass can drop below freezing. Carry heavy woolens and wind-resistant clothing.
- Currency: While some shops in Tashkurgan may accept PKR at unfavorable rates, it is best to carry Chinese Yuan (RMB) for expenses on the Chinese side of the border.
- Connectivity: Be aware that mobile signals may be intermittent through the high-mountain passes. Download offline maps and keep copies of your digital tickets.
Conclusion and Next Steps
The Gilgit-Kashgar bus service is officially back, offering a historic and scenic journey through the heart of the Karakoram. Whether you are a trader looking for new markets or an adventurer seeking the “Roof of the World,” this route provides an unparalleled experience of the ancient Silk Road.
Plan your journey today. Contact the NATCO Gilgit office at their official helpline or visit the terminal to confirm seat availability for the upcoming week. For the latest updates on road conditions on the Karakoram Highway, follow the official National Highway Authority (NHA) social media channels.