Khunjerab Pass, a vital border crossing between Pakistan and China, has been opened to winter tourism for the first time on December 11, marking a significant milestone in the region’s tourism development.
The inaugural ceremony was held in Tashkurgan, a city near the border with Tajikistan, showcasing a blend of cultural exuberance and diplomatic camaraderie.
Grand celebration in Tashkurgan
The opening was marked with vibrant festivities, including music, fireworks, traditional dances, and national songs from both Pakistan and China. The colorful ceremony highlighted the shared heritage and strengthening ties between the two nations.
Raja Nazeemul Ameen, an aide to the president of the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI), led Pakistan’s delegation.
The Pakistani delegation engaged with Chinese government officials and travel agents to explore collaborative opportunities for enhancing trade and tourism between Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) and China’s north-western region.
Speakers from both countries hailed the decision to keep the Khunjerab Pass open year-round as a “historic achievement.”
Iqbal Hussain, head of GB’s tourism department, explained that the pass had been accessible to tourists since 1984 but only during summer due to harsh winter weather.
“Realizing the potential of winter tourism, it was felt necessary to initiate opening of the border round the year,” Hussain remarked.
Following the ceremony, a tourist bus carrying 21 delegates departed from China to Pakistan, accompanied by music and celebratory fanfare.
Khunjerab Pass to remain open all year round
Khunjerab Pass, a critical land port on the China-Pakistan border, has commenced year-round operations, which are expected to boost bilateral trade and benefit the wider region.
The Khunjerab Pass, previously open for just eight months a year, will now operate year-round starting December 1, 2024. This initiative is expected to strengthen economic ties between the two countries and further accelerate the progress of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
The deputy commissioner of Tashkurgan expressed optimism that increased travel through the pass would enhance the quality of life for local communities.
Since passenger customs clearance resumed on April 1, Khunjerab Customs has processed more than 50,000 passengers, 11,000 vehicles, and 40,900 metric tons of cargo by October, showcasing the significant potential of this vital trade route, according to Xinhua report. With trade volume increasing by 72.7% compared to last year, the shift to year-round operations is expected to boost economic activity, promote cultural exchanges, and enhance regional integration.
Turning point for Pakistan’s tourism
In a recent interview with PTV News, the Managing Director of the Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC), Aftab ur Rehman Rana, described the year-round opening of Khunjerab Pass as a “turning point” for Pakistan’s tourism industry.
“This landmark initiative is poised to pave the way for unprecedented growth and development, unlocking new avenues for tourism and cementing Pakistan’s reputation as a premier tourist destination,” he said.
He praised the move as a transformative step that would elevate Pakistan’s tourism sector to new heights and bring tangible benefits to local communities.
[…] community gathered to mark this historic occasion. The event underscored the importance of the Khunjerab Pass, situated in the Karakoram Range, which connects Pakistan’s Gilgit-Baltistan region with […]