Sost is the last town in Pakistan before China. Genuinely every truck, bus, and traveler crossing the Khunjerab Pass passes through its customs post first. Understanding how this actually works matters more than at almost any other border crossing in the country.

Sost Dry Port travel guide: the basics

What the Dry Port actually is

Sost Dry Port is the first formal customs facility on the Pakistan-China border. It was established in 1985 to handle trade between the two countries. Today it’s a genuine link in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, processing both cargo and passenger traffic. Every vehicle, whether carrying goods or tourists, clears Pakistani immigration and customs here before continuing toward the pass.

How the crossing actually works

• Border operating days: Monday through Friday only. It’s closed on weekends and during Chinese and Pakistani holidays.
• Operating hours: the Pakistani side runs roughly 9 AM to 5 PM Islamabad time, three hours behind Beijing time on the Chinese side.
• Vehicle convoys: motorbikers and private vehicles typically cross alongside scheduled NATCO buses as part of a convoy, not independently.
• Khunjerab National Park fee: payable on the Pakistani side even though you’re simply driving through, roughly $8 to $10 per person for foreigners.

Sost Dry Port travel guide: practical tips

• Exchange currency in Sost, not after. This is genuinely the last reliable place to change Pakistani rupees to Chinese yuan; options on the Chinese side are limited.
• Bring snacks and water regardless of season. The pass itself sits above 4,600 meters, and the crossing process takes hours.
• Carry your police registration card. Pakistani immigration requests this on departure from the country.
• Don’t rush your paperwork. Health check forms and immigration stamps both happen at the Sost office, and the process genuinely takes patience.

Pair this with our Khunjerab National Park guide and Gojal Valley guide, since Sost sits within this wider region.

Frequently asked questions

What is Sost Dry Port?

Pakistan’s first formal customs facility on the China border. Established in 1985, it’s now a key link in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor.

What days is the Khunjerab border open?

Monday through Friday only, closed on weekends and during Chinese and Pakistani holidays.

Where should I exchange currency before crossing into China?

In Sost. It’s genuinely the last reliable place to convert Pakistani rupees to Chinese yuan before the border.

How far is Sost from the actual Khunjerab Pass?

Roughly 75 to 85 km, depending on the source, a drive of a few hours through Khunjerab National Park.

Do I need to pay a fee even if I’m just passing through Khunjerab National Park?

Yes, a park entrance fee applies on the Pakistani side regardless of whether you stop. It runs roughly $8 to $10 per person for foreigners.