Call one of our experts to discuss your next holiday with Vertical Explorers +92 (0)31 555 444 34
Sost or Sust, the only dry port town in Northern Pakistan, is situated in Gojal region of Gilgit Baltistan of Pakistan. The dry port at Sost makes it a major trade market of the area as well as an attraction for tourists. It is the last major town inside Pakistan on the Karakoram Highway before the Chinese border .
The town is an important place on the Karakoram Highway for all passenger and Cargo transport because all traffic crossing the Pakistan-China border passes through this town and the Pakistani immigration and customs departments are based here.
The Main languages spoken here is Wakhi and Brushki. The Silk Route Dry Port started its business operations at the port Sost (Upper Hunza) near Khunjarab pass Gilgit-Baltistan. Annual trade between China and Pakistan has increased from less than $2 billion in 2002 to $6.9 billion, with a goal of $15 billion by 2014. Sost dry port is the first formal port at the China-Pakistan border, facilitating customs clearance and other formalities for goods moving from the city of Kashgar and the surrounding Xinjiang autonomous region in China to the commercial centers of Pakistan.
Nestled in the majestic Karakoram Range, Sust Town is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Serving as the last town in Pakistan on the Karakoram Highway before the Chinese border, Sust is a gateway to the scenic beauty and cultural richness of the Gilgit-Baltistan region. This quaint town offers a blend of natural wonders, vibrant traditions, and adventure activities, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking an unforgettable experience.
Sust Town is strategically located in the Hunza District of Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. Positioned at the crossroads of the ancient Silk Road, it lies approximately 200 kilometers from Gilgit, the capital of the region. The town serves as an important customs and immigration point for travelers entering or exiting Pakistan through the Khunjerab Pass, which connects to China’s Xinjiang region.
Perched at an elevation of 2,800 meters (9,186 feet) above sea level, Sust Town offers breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks and lush valleys. The high altitude contributes to its unique climate and biodiversity, making it a fascinating destination for nature enthusiasts.
Sust Town and its surrounding areas boast a diverse array of flora and fauna. The region is home to alpine meadows, dense forests of juniper and birch, and a variety of wildflowers that paint the landscape in vibrant colors during the spring and summer months. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot ibex, Marco Polo sheep, snow leopards, and a variety of bird species, including golden eagles and Himalayan snowcocks.
The culture of Sust Town is a rich tapestry of traditions and customs passed down through generations. The local population, primarily of Wakhi and Burusho ethnicities, is known for its warm hospitality and unique heritage. Visitors can experience traditional music, dance, and festivals, as well as sample local delicacies such as apricot-based dishes and the famous Hunza bread.
The best time to visit Sust Town is from May to October, when the weather is mild and the roads are accessible. During these months, the temperatures are pleasant, and the natural beauty of the region is at its peak, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
| Month | Min Temperature (°C) | Max Temperature (°C) |
|---|---|---|
| January | -10 | 5 |
| February | -8 | 7 |
| March | -2 | 12 |
| April | 2 | 17 |
| May | 7 | 22 |
| June | 10 | 27 |
| July | 12 | 30 |
| August | 12 | 29 |
| September | 8 | 24 |
| October | 2 | 18 |
| November | -4 | 10 |
| December | -8 | 6 |
The average temperature in Sust Town varies significantly with the seasons. During the summer months, the average temperature ranges from 15°C to 30°C, while in winter, it can drop to as low as -10°C.
Sust Town offers a plethora of activities for adventurers and leisure travelers alike:
Reaching Sust Town is an adventure in itself. Here’s how you can get there:
Sust Town is a treasure trove of natural beauty, cultural richness, and adventure. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a nature lover, or a cultural enthusiast, Sust offers something for everyone. Plan your visit today and uncover the wonders of this enchanting town on the roof of the world.
Click on Map to open
We’ll plan your trip around your specific interests, tastes and preferences, providing helpful tips and honest advice based on first-hand knowledge of the destination.
Our expert locally based guides are hand-picked to provide a genuine experience, bringing your destination to life with care and passion.
Our trips are designed with responsible travel principles that prioritise travel experiences that are both good for you and good for the planet.
We are 100% locals & created our tours by building meaningful relationships with local communities, directly benefiting the people and places we visit.
Join a small group of like-minded travellers that, like you, are eager to safely and confidently experience all the things that make our world worth exploring.
Pack those bags and don't break a sweat because we guarantee every single one of our departures. As long as it's safe, you're going!
No matter the Travel types, our tours balance well-planned itineraries with the flexibility to do your own thing and make the experience your own.
We ensure a hassle-free and safe experience with reliable local support. We provide you with a travel concierge dedicated to helping you 24/7 during your trip.
