The Road to Khunjerab
N-35 Karakoram Highway to the Pakistan-China Border
Mahad rode to Khunjerab Pass, one of the world’s highest paved international border crossings, on his motorcycle. An expedition through the high-altitude Karakoram mountains.
Field Notes from the Road
Mahad rode to Khunjerab Pass, one of the world’s highest paved international border crossings, on his motorcycle. The journey winds along the historic Karakoram Highway (N-35), carved through the jagged granites of the northern mountains.
As altitude climbs beyond 3,500 meters, ambient oxygen drops sharply, the motorcycle engine operates under altered fuel-air mixtures, and temperatures drop dramatically. Riding in these environments demands total presence, physical endurance, and mechanical mindfulness.
Reaching the border terminal at 4,693 meters (15,397 feet) is a testament to perseverance: long hours on the pegs, remote stretches with zero cellular network, and absolute reliance on situational awareness.
- ↳Thin air and extreme altitude above 4,600 meters
- ↳Cold engine starts and rapid temperature drops
- ↳Zero cellular network coverage across mountain passes
- ↳Unforgiving road conditions and unpredictable mountain weather
