Top Attractions in Hunza - Pakistan

Tracking across northern most part of Gilgit – Hunza – has variety of diverse culture and picturesque locations that almost attract every tourist. However, the question that punches the mind of millions, usually during vacations, is the choice of places to visit. In this blog, I will help you recommend places for visit in Hunza.

        Hunza, undoubtedly, is the most famous district of Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) among tourists. The place is serving hospitality and scenic views to visitors. Hunza, for instance, is one of the most literate districts of Pakistan. Surprisingly, Hunzians are the most agile and physically fit among GB’s people; as well as, these people has inherited all traditions of their ancestors. The secrecy behind their fitness is their traditional natural food and healthy weather. Hunza has dozens of visiting places; the places are ranging from forts and infrastructure to beautiful valleys, which entertain visitors due to its natural and mesmerizing beauty. Therefore, best time to visit Hunza is from April to October, a time where Hunza is mostly covered with blossom colors and in its full blown beauty. 

Karim abad

        Karim abad – formally known as Baltit – is the district capital of Hunza. Guardian, for instance, ranked it as one of the five best tourist sites in Pakistan. After independence in 1947, Mir of Hunza state voluntarily joined Pakistan. Presently, main bazaar is situated at the hilly area; mainly, all facilities are available here i.e., restaurants, hotels, shopping centers, dry fruit shops, and most importantly traditional clothing. Adding more to it, the beautiful people of this place are extremely welcoming, friendly, and humble. Keeping in view the weather, it is moderate at day time in summer season, and at night it is a bit chilly. Further, night view from far behind road side is glittery and scenic.

Altit Fort

        Altit fort, 900 years old, was the residence of hereditary ruler of Hunza state – who carried the title of Mir.  Fort is constructed at the bank of river, which seems like the river is bowing in front of this gigantic fort. Moreover, fort is consisting of the Shikari Tower, which is almost 1100 years old. One can imagine the hard-working and skilled people of that era, keeping in view the stones and wood works done in these massive infrastructures. Moreover, this fort has a splendid beauty and magnificent view over the Hunza valley. But, after the construction, nearly three century later, Mir family moved to somewhat younger Baltit Fort.

Baltit Fort

        Almost 800 years old, Baltit Fort, is like a crown on the mountains of Hunza valley. Foundation of the fort is rock and stones, and it is a wonderfully wooden designed building. Its design and historic value will force you to imagine people of that era. After starting decaying, the fort was abandoned by Mir in the year 1945, and he has started living in a palace down the hill. Moreover, the fort restoration programme was initiated and supported by Agha Khan Trust, which was completed in 1996.

Attabad Lake

        Leaving Hunza for further exploration, Attabad Lake – located in Gojal region – was created in January 2010 during an accident, a land slide thundered down the side of remote valley. The debris has obstructed the water flow for almost five months, which cut-off Hunza from rest of the North. As brutal the history of this lake, it is now the major adventurous and scenic place in Hunza for visitors. Nestled with gigantic mountains, the clear blue water lake has produced opportunities for the locals. Therefore, people enjoy meals and stay in the lavishly designed hotels, which are constructed above water; additionally, water sports activities such as normal boating, speed boating, water ski and many more are offered to the visitors.

Hussaini Bridge

        Hussaini Bridge – second largest man-made suspension bridge in the world – is basically a few miles away from Attabad Lake. Serving the locals, the bridge is mainly constructed from six cable wires, three on either side, with wooden flanks for walking at a considerable distance from each other. Adventurous visitors, mostly, go for fun and enjoy walking on it, while locals when crossing can pass without any support. Therefore, the bridge is attracting visitors for its history and uniqueness.

Passu Cones

        Moving further towards Khunjrab pass, mind blowing mountain ranges – Passu Cones – are the main spectacular view. Almost every visitor, take a rest for a while and enjoy the strange cone shaped mountain range. Interestingly, a few professional climbers also tried to have the honor of climbing these cones. But, it seems impossible due to technical climb, as a few were succeeded to climb these 6,106 meters heighted cones. Therefore, the cone shape mountain ranges will add more to your curiosity.

Khunjrab Pass

        Khunjrab pass boarders between Pakistan and neighboring China. It is, basically, the starting point of China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). It is a must visiting place while visiting to Hunza. There are amazing views on the way and around the pass. On the way from Passu to Khunjrab, you will also come across the ‘Glacier Breeze Restaurant’, where Apricot Cake is yummiest in the world. Moreover, it is necessary to take warm clothes and jackets, as temperature is harshly cold.

Concluding, there are lots of places to visit for the visitors in Hunza. Greenery and mountainous places are also available in other parts of the country, but the serenity and calmness one can get here has no match at all. As a nature lover, this, hilly place full of love, must be visited. Most probably, the mesmerizing mountains will enchanted you and whisper calmly in your ears. It is, highly, recommended to pay a must visit once in life time. And I, therefore, assure you that it will be a memorable visit of your life.

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