Pakistan to China Bus Service 2026: Complete Guide
Traveling from Pakistan to China by bus is a unique experience combining adventure, breathtaking scenery, and cross-border travel. Whether you are a tourist, student, or business traveler, the overland bus service between Pakistan and China offers a cost-effective and scenic alternative to air travel. Here’s everything you need to know.
🚌 Pakistan to China Bus Service Overview
The Pakistan to China bus service is an overland transportation link connecting Gilgit, Pakistan to Kashgar, China, via the Karakoram Highway (KKH) and the Khunjerab Pass, the highest border crossing between the two countries.The service was resumed in 2024–2025 after 14 years of suspension due to road damages and operational challenges. It is now operated jointly by:
- Northern Areas Transport Corporation (NATCO), Pakistan
- Kashgar Xinlu Passenger Transport Co., Ltd., China
- Faisal Movers – Islamabad/Lahore ↔ Tashkurgan (China)
This bus service is not only a mode of transport but also an opportunity to witness the breathtaking beauty of the Karakoram range and experience cross-border travel safely and comfortably.
🗺️ Bus Routes, Start & End Points
1. NATCO Bus Service (Official Gilgit ↔ Kashgar Route)
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Start Point | Gilgit, Pakistan |
| End Point | Kashgar, China |
| Route Highlights | Gilgit → Hunza → Sost → Khunjerab Pass → Kashgar |
| Distance | ~698 km |
| Travel Time | 18–20 hours |
| Operators / Bus Names | NATCO (Pakistan), Kashgar Xinlu Passenger Transport Co., Ltd (China) |
| Bus Type | Luxury coaches with reclining seats, AC, and onboard facilities |
Schedule & Fare:
- Gilgit → Kashgar: Monday, Tuesday, Friday at 6:00 AM (Pakistan Time)
- Kashgar → Gilgit: Sunday, Wednesday, Thursday at 3:00 PM (Beijing Time)
- Fare: RMB 455 per passenger
- Booking: Tickets available at Kashgar Passenger Station or via WeChat mini-program “Kashgar Passenger Travel”
2. Faisal Movers Bus Service (Islamabad / Lahore → Tashkurgan / China)
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Start Point | Islamabad or Lahore, Pakistan |
| End Point | Tashkurgan, China (via Khunjerab Pass) |
| Route Highlights | Islamabad/Lahore → Mansehra → Naran → Babusar Top → Chilas → Gilgit → Hunza → Sost → Khunjerab Pass → Tashkurgan |
| Distance | ~1,200 km |
| Travel Time | 32–38 hours (includes overnight stay and border crossing) |
| Operator / Bus Name | Faisal Movers – Mini Yutong coaches, 28 seats, reclining, AC |
| Bus Type | Luxury and semi-luxury coaches with onboard facilities |
Schedule & Fare:
- Departure Days: Sundays and Wednesdays at 1:00 AM from Islamabad/Lahore
- Fare: Approx. PKR 30,000–32,000 one-way
- Booking: Official Faisal Movers booking platform or contact UAN 111‑22‑44‑88
- Travel Requirements: Passport, Chinese visa, Pakistani CNIC, and other immigration documents
🎫 Tickets & Booking
NATCO
- Purchase in Kashgar or via WeChat mini-program
- Advance booking recommended due to limited seats
Faisal Movers
- Book via official website, Faisal Movers offices, or phone
- Return tickets often required; one-way only may not be allowed
What to Do If You Want to Travel Now (2025)
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Plan to start from Gilgit if you want a confirmed cross‑border bus connection to Kashgar, China.
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Ensure you have valid passport, CNIC, and a valid Chinese visa. Confirmation of invitation letter may be required depending on visa type.
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For ticket booking: If traveling from China → Pakistan, buy at Kashgar Passenger Station or book via the “Kashgar Passenger Travel” app/program. For the Pakistan → China leg, check with NATCO or Chinese partner about booking options.
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Be prepared for mountain‑route travel: border‑crossing procedures (immigration + customs), possible delays, and weather/road‑condition variability (especially near Khunjerab Pass).
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If you are elsewhere in Pakistan (e.g. Islamabad, Lahore), check whether the old services via private operators (if still active) are running — but don’t assume they operate regularly now.
Note: Bus operators provide transport only; immigration, customs, and visa requirements are the traveler’s responsibility.
🌄 Why Take the Bus from Pakistan to China?
- Scenic Route: Travel along the Karakoram Highway with views of glaciers, mountains, and valleys.
- Cost-Effective: Cheaper than flights, especially from northern Pakistan.
- Direct Connection: Gilgit ↔ Kashgar or Islamabad/Lahore ↔ Tashkurgan.
- Adventure & Cultural Experience: Cross a high-altitude border, witness local culture, and enjoy a unique overland journey.
⚠️ Things to Keep in Mind
- Check weather conditions and road status before travel (Khunjerab Pass can be snowbound in winter).
- Prepare for long travel times (especially Faisal Movers route with overnight stays).
- Ensure valid visas and documents; border officers strictly enforce requirements.
- Carry warm clothing and travel essentials for the mountainous terrain.
- ✅ Conclusion
- The Pakistan to China bus service offers an unforgettable travel experience combining adventure, culture, and scenic beauty. With NATCO providing a direct route from northern Pakistan and Faisal Movers connecting major cities like Islamabad and Lahore, travelers now have multiple options to explore China by road.
- Book your ticket, prepare your travel documents, and enjoy the breathtaking journey from Pakistan to China!
