The Karakoram Highway is considered the 8th wonder of the world in Pakistan.
The Karakoram Highway: Pakistan's Eighth Wonder
The Karakoram Highway is often called the eighth wonder of the world due to its impressive elevation and the incredibly challenging conditions under which it was built. This highway is not only a vital transportation route but also a testament to human engineering and resilience.
Key Features of the Karakoram Highway:
- High Elevation: The highway reaches an altitude of 16,200 feet (4,938 meters) at the Khunjerab Pass, making it one of the highest paved international roads in the world.
- Difficult Construction: Building the highway involved navigating through some of the most rugged and mountainous terrain on earth.
- International Route: It connects Pakistan with China, starting from Abbottabad Mor near Hassanabdal (Islamabad) and extending into the Xinjiang Uyghur Region of China via the Khunjerab Pass in Gilgit-Baltistan.
Significance of the Karakoram Highway
The Karakoram Highway isn't just a road; it's a vital artery for trade, tourism, and cultural exchange.
- Economic Impact: It facilitates trade between Pakistan and China, enhancing economic ties.
- Tourism: It attracts adventure seekers and tourists eager to experience breathtaking views and unique landscapes.
- Historical Importance: The highway stands as a significant achievement in engineering history, showcasing human ability to overcome geographical challenges.
Why it's considered the 8th Wonder:
The highway’s construction in such extreme conditions is what earns it the title of the eighth wonder of the world. The dedication and precision involved highlight the remarkable human effort behind its creation.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Name | Karakoram Highway |
| Location | Pakistan, starting from Abbottabad Mor near Hassanabdal to Khunjerab Pass (Gilgit-Baltistan), connecting to China |
| Highest Point | Khunjerab Pass (16,200 feet / 4,938 meters) |
| Significance | Vital transport, trade route, tourism attraction, engineering marvel |
| "8th Wonder" Status | Achieved due to high elevation and difficult construction |
The Karakoram Highway is a magnificent achievement that rightly holds the title of the 8th wonder of the world in Pakistan. Its route not only offers breathtaking landscapes but also stands as a symbol of human engineering capabilities.
