provides the pathway to expeditions for almost all peaks in Gilgit–Baltistan, Kashmir and several peaks in Xinjiang China. The region includes some of the world's largest glaciers like the Baltoro and Siachen Glaciers. Two of the Eight-thousanders (mountains taller than ) of the world that are in Pakistan are accessible by the highway. The notable mountains that can be directly seen while travelling on the highway are: Nanga Parbat, Gilgit–Baltistan, 9th highest of the world at Rakaposhi, Gilgit–Baltistan, 27th highest of the world at Diran, Gilgit–Baltistan, most dangerous mountain in Pakistan Shishpar, Gilgit–Baltistan Ultar Peak, Gilgit–Baltistan Tupopdan, Gilgit–Baltistan, also known as Cathedral Peaks near Passu Many glaciers can be seen while travelling on the highway: Minapin Glacier Passu Glacier Ghulkin Glacier Khunjerab Glacier Rivers and lakes Several rivers and lakes are made accessible by the highway. These include: Indus River Hunza River Attabad Lake Gilgit River Khunjerab River Karakul Lake in Xinjiang (China) Rock art and petroglyphs There are more than 50,000 pieces of rock art and petroglyphs all along the highway that are concentrated at ten major sites between Hunza and Shatial. The carvings were left by invaders, traders, and pilgrims who passed along the trade route, as well as by locals. The earliest date back to between 5000 and 1000 BC, showing single animals, triangular men, and hunting scenes in which the animals are larger than the hunters. These carvings were pecked into the rock with stone tools and are covered with a thick patina that yields their age. Travel There are several transport companies in Pakistan that offer bus service between major towns of the highway and from Rawalpindi and Lahore. The largest company is Northern Areas Transport Corporation (NATCO). Other companies are Masherbrum Travel, Silk Route Travel, K-2 movers, Anchan Travel, and Saeed Travel. Bus service between Gilgit and Kashghar On 1 June 2006, daily bus service began between Gilgit, Gilgit–Baltistan, and Kashghar, Xinjiang, through the Sust and Tashkorgan border area. Climate The KKH is best travelled in the spring or early autumn. Heavy snow during harsh winters can shut the highway down for extended periods. Heavy monsoon rains around July and August cause occasional landslides that can block the road for hours or more. The border crossing between China and Pakistan at Khunjerab Pass is open only between 1 May and 31 December. Alternate road (Xinjiang-GB-Azad Kashmir road) The proposed Xinjiang-GB-Azad Kashmir road would be