Karakoram Highway: A Wonder of the World
The Karakoram Highway (KKH), also called National Highway 35 or the Silk Road, connects Pakistan to China. It is a unique and amazing road because it passes through the world's highest mountain ranges, Karakoram and Himalayas, and reaches an altitude of 4,693 meters at the Khunjerab Pass, making it the highest international highway in the world.
1. How It Was Built
- The highway was built by Pakistan and China together and took 20 years to complete (from 1966 to 1986).
- It is 1,300 kilometers long, with 887 kilometers in Pakistan and 413 kilometers in China.
- Over 810 Pakistani workers and 82 Chinese workers lost their lives during its construction.
- Engineers used 8,000 tons of dynamite to cut through the tough mountains.
2. Where Does It Start and End?
- In Pakistan, it starts at Hasan Abdal near Islamabad and passes through cities like Abbottabad, Mansehra, Bisham, Chilas, Gilgit, Hunza, and Sust.
- It ends at the Khunjerab Pass, where it connects to China’s Xinjiang Province, reaching Kashgar City.
3. Why Is It Called the Silk Road?
In ancient times, this route was part of the Silk Road, which traders used to transport silk, spices, and other goods between China and the rest of the world.
4. Scenery Along the Way
Traveling on the Karakoram Highway is like an adventure! You can see:
- Mighty rivers: The Indus River, Gilgit River, and Hunza River flow along the road.
- Snowy peaks: Famous mountains like Nanga Parbat, Rakaposhi, and Passu Cones surround the road.
- Glaciers and lakes: The Attabad Lake, formed after a landslide, is a must-see.
- Villages: The highway passes through green valleys and ancient villages like Hunza and Nagar.
5. Wildlife
The area near Khunjerab Pass is home to unique animals like:
- Snow leopards
- Markhor (wild goats)
- Marco Polo sheep
- Yaks
- Brown bears
6. Challenges of Construction
- The road was built in a very difficult area with extreme weather, landslides, and steep mountains.
- Many believed it was impossible to build, but with teamwork between Pakistan and China, it became a reality.
7. A Modern-Day Wonder
Because of its engineering and beauty, the Karakoram Highway is often called the Eighth Wonder of the World.
8. Importance Today
- It connects Pakistan and China for trade.
- It attracts tourists from all over the world because of its breathtaking views.
- It supports local communities by bringing more opportunities for business and travel.
Why Is It Special?
The Karakoram Highway is not just a road; it is a symbol of friendship between Pakistan and China, a marvel of human engineering, and a journey through some of the most stunning landscapes on Earth.
1: Woodpecker Amazing bird of the world with 50,000 holes in the tree
2: Turkey's Strange Underground City: Derenkoyiv
3: Carnival Season Germany: Top Celebrations & Events
4: Discover the Majestic Daulatabad Fort in India
%20(1).png)
0 Comments