Lahore to Tashkurgan Distance, Routes & Travel Duration

Lahore to Tashkurgan Distance and Travel Guide

Tashkurgan, located in China’s Xinjiang region, is a high-altitude town on the ancient Silk Road near the borders of Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Tajikistan. Known for its Tajik culture, stone fort ruins, and stunning Pamir landscapes, Tashkurgan is a dream destination for adventurous travelers. The journey from Lahore to Tashkurgan is an epic overland adventure, taking you through the breathtaking Karakoram Highway and the Khunjerab Pass. This article outlines the distance, route, and travel durations by road, train, and plane.

Distance from Lahore to Tashkurgan

The distance from Lahore to Tashkurgan by road is approximately 1,060 kilometers (659 miles). There is no direct train or flight to Tashkurgan, so road travel, sometimes combined with air travel, is required.

Traveling from Lahore to Tashkurgan by Road

Traveling by road is the most scenic and immersive way to reach Tashkurgan. The route follows the Karakoram Highway through the Hunza Valley and over the Khunjerab Pass into China.

Route Details

• Lahore to Islamabad: Around 380 km (236 miles) via the M-2 Motorway.
• Islamabad to Gilgit: Approximately 520 km (323 miles) via the Karakoram Highway.
• Gilgit to Sost: About 200 km (124 miles), passing through Hunza Valley.
• Sost to Tashkurgan: Around 80 km (50 miles) across the Khunjerab Pass into China.

Travelers must complete immigration procedures at Sost before crossing into China. The journey from Sost to Tashkurgan offers some of the most stunning high-altitude views in the world.

Duration by Road

The entire journey by road typically takes 25 to 30 hours of driving time, usually spread over several days with overnight stops in Islamabad, Gilgit, and Sost.

Traveling from Lahore to Tashkurgan by Train

While there is no train directly to Tashkurgan, a partial journey by train is possible to shorten the initial road segment. Travelers can take a train to Rawalpindi and then continue by road to the Chinese border.

Route Details

• Lahore to Rawalpindi by Train: About 290 km (180 miles) – 4 to 5 hours.
• Rawalpindi to Gilgit by Road: Approximately 520 km (323 miles) – 14 to 16 hours.
• Gilgit to Sost: Around 200 km (124 miles) – 5 to 6 hours.
• Sost to Tashkurgan: About 80 km (50 miles) – 2 to 3 hours, including border formalities.

Duration by Train + Road

The total travel time for a combined train and road trip is approximately 26 to 32 hours, excluding overnight stays and time spent at border control.

Traveling from Lahore to Tashkurgan by Plane

Flying can significantly reduce travel time for the first part of the journey. The common approach is to fly from Lahore to Gilgit or Skardu, then continue by road to Tashkurgan.

Route Details

• Lahore to Gilgit by Air: About 1 hour and 15 minutes flight time.
• Gilgit to Sost by Road: Around 200 km (124 miles) – 5 to 6 hours.
• Sost to Tashkurgan: About 80 km (50 miles) – 2 to 3 hours, depending on border procedures.

Duration by Air + Road

By combining air and road travel, the journey can be completed in around 10 to 12 hours, though the timing depends heavily on border crossing times at Khunjerab Pass.

Scenic Highlights Along the Journey

• The fertile plains and farmland of Punjab en route to Islamabad.
• The towering peaks of Nanga Parbat and Rakaposhi along the Karakoram Highway.
• The turquoise waters of Attabad Lake and the tunnels along its edge.
• Hunza Valley’s terraced fields, apricot orchards, and ancient forts.
• The high-altitude Khunjerab Pass with its snow-capped mountains and unique wildlife.

Important Travel Tips

• A valid visa for China and travel permits for the Khunjerab Pass region are required.
• Weather in high-altitude areas can be unpredictable; pack layers and warm clothing.
• Altitude sickness can affect some travelers; acclimatization is recommended.
• Chinese border procedures can take time—plan accordingly.
• Flights to Gilgit are weather-dependent, so keep flexibility in your schedule.

Conclusion

Traveling from Lahore to Tashkurgan is a remarkable adventure that combines history, culture, and awe-inspiring landscapes. Whether you choose the full overland route, mix train and road travel, or take advantage of a flight to Gilgit before heading by road, the journey offers unforgettable views and cultural experiences. Tashkurgan’s unique blend of Central Asian charm and mountain majesty makes it an incredible reward for those who take on the journey.