Polish cyclist sets off for Khunjerab Pass
Cyclists from across the capital join Polish cyclist Sławomir Jan Strzelczyk near Faisal Masjid to send him off on his 1,390km journey along the legendary Karakoram Highway and all the way to Khunjerab Pass. PHOTO: EXPRESS
The PakistanPoland Friendship Cycle Expedition 2026 kicked off from the parking area of Faisal Mosque, Islamabad, today.
The expedition features a distinguished Polish adventure cyclist S?awomir Jan Strzelczyk, who has embarked on a remarkable 1,390km cycling journey from Islamabad to Khunjerab Pass. The expedition symbolises the enduring friendship between Pakistan and Poland while promoting adventure tourism, sustainable travel, environmental awareness and cultural exchange.
The flag-off ceremony was attended by Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC) Managing Director Aftab-ur-Rehman Rana, representatives of the Pakistan Cycling Federation, Islamabad Cycling Association, tourism stakeholders, media representatives and cycling enthusiasts.
The expedition was ceremonially flagged off from the parking area of Faisal Mosque, Islamabad, where members of the Pakistan Cycling Federation and Islamabad Cycling Association accompanied Strzelczyk on the opening stretch of the ride as a gesture of friendship, unity, and support. Following the symbolic escort, the federation cyclists concluded their participation, while Strzelczyk, accompanied by tour operator and expedition coordinator Mohammad Saleh, continued independently towards Abbottabad, marking the first stage of the historic 1,390km journey along the legendary Karakoram Highway.
Over the coming days, the expedition will pass through Abbottabad, Besham, Chilas, Gilgit, Hunza, Gulmit, Passu, and Sost before reaching Khunjerab Pass, one of the world's highest international border crossings. Through this remarkable journey, the expedition is expected to highlight Pakistan's unparalleled mountain scenery, vibrant culture and warm hospitality while encouraging international cyclists and adventure travellers to visit the country.
Addressing the flag-off ceremony, Aftab-ur-Rehman Rana stated that Pakistan possesses immense potential for adventure and cycling tourism. He highlighted PTDC's continued efforts to promote the country's diverse tourism attractions through international collaborations and initiatives that project Pakistan as a safe, welcoming, and world-class destination for adventure enthusiasts.