This is the highest mountain road in the world, however, it is also one of the most dangerous and dangerous. It is not surprising, since landslides and landslides often occur there, and the maximum altitude at which the 1,300-kilometer highway crosses the Karakoram is 4,693 meters above sea level.

The history of the creation of a unique highway began in the middle of the twentieth century. At that time, the Chinese authorities sought to strengthen their influence in Central Asia, and Pakistan needed a strategically strong ally. The two states, despite ideological differences, found such cooperation beneficial. There was only one problem left to solve: the border between them passed through the Karakoram Mountains.

In fact, crossing the pass was real, because it was there that in ancient times a significant part of the Great Silk Road lay. In the Middle Ages, caravans walked along it, but the Chinese and Pakistani rulers had plans to transport heavy military equipment. That is why in 1966 it was decided to build a highway that would withstand a heavy load and connect the two states.

The process of creating the highway took place in harsh climatic and geological conditions, accompanied by frequent avalanches, landslides, and also periodic Indo-Pakistani wars. Drilling tunnels and building bridges required special equipment, which had to be disassembled and transported in parts. During the construction of the route, about 900 workers on both sides died. At the cost of so many sacrifices and efforts, construction was completed in 1978, and already in 1986 the “friendship highway” was opened for regular traffic.

By 2010, the highway had practically fallen into disrepair, but since the friendship of the two above-mentioned states continued and continues, China allocated funds for the reconstruction of the road. Now traffic there is open to everyone, only in winter it is limited: the route becomes especially dangerous. Despite the danger, tourists from all over the world cross this famous highway: some are attracted by the risk, some by the historical value, and others by the incredible mountain scenery.