Tucked between snow-capped peaks and emerald rivers, Hunza Valley is a land of surreal beauty, ancient history, and unmatched hospitality. Located in the northern part of Gilgit-Baltistan, Hunza lies along the Karakoram Highway (KKH) and has become one of Pakistan’s most iconic and peaceful tourist destinations.
With roots stretching back over 1,000 years, Hunza has a legacy of independence, resilience, and culture. Here’s a detailed look into its rich past:
Early inhabitants practiced Bon and Buddhist traditions, traces of which remain in rock carvings and petroglyphs along the Hunza River and KKH.
Due to its location, Hunza was a significant stop on the ancient Silk Route, linking China, Central Asia, and South Asia.
The region was ruled by local monarchs known as the Mirs of Hunza, whose capital was Baltit Fort.
The kingdom maintained quasi-independence and was known for its strong defense and clever diplomacy with neighboring states like China, Wakhan (Afghanistan), and British India.
Hunza was feared and respected for its control of high mountain passes and reputation for raiding Kashmiri and Chinese caravans.
After the Anglo-Brusho War of 1891, Hunza became a princely state under British protection, though the local rulers (Mirs) retained internal autonomy.
Baltit and Altit Forts were expanded and strengthened during this period.
After the creation of Pakistan in 1947, Hunza remained a princely state until 1974, when it was fully integrated into Pakistan by Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto.
With the opening of the Karakoram Highway in the 1970s, Hunza became more accessible, leading to a tourism boom.
Today, it is recognized for its high literacy rates, progressive community, and position as a top international travel destination.
Hunza is divided into three main regions: Lower Hunza (Aliabad & Nasirabad), Central Hunza (Karimabad), and Upper Hunza (Gojal). Each offers a unique blend of culture, scenery, and adventure.
Baltit Fort: A 700-year-old fort with Tibetan-influenced architecture and royal heritage.
Altit Fort: Older than Baltit, this restored fort is now a museum with royal gardens and community space.
Eagle’s Nest Viewpoint: Offers panoramic sunrise and sunset views of Ultar Sar, Ladyfinger Peak, and Golden Peak.
Queen Victoria Monument: A stone watchtower on a hilltop with royal and colonial significance.
Aliabad & Nasirabad: Commercial hubs with local markets and views of Rakaposhi.
Rakaposhi View Point (Minapin): Famous stop on KKH offering front-row views of Rakaposhi (7,788m).
Attabad Lake: A stunning turquoise lake formed after a landslide in 2010. Ideal for boating and photography.
Passu Cones & Passu Glacier: Iconic pointed peaks that define Hunza’s skyline.
Hussaini Suspension Bridge: Known as one of the world’s most dangerous hanging bridges.
Gulmit Village: Rich in Wakhi culture, handicrafts, and historical mosques.
Khunjerab Pass: The highest paved international border crossing (4,733m), linking Pakistan and China.
Serena Altit Inn (Altit)
Baltit Heritage Inn (Karimabad)
Luxus Hunza (Attabad Lake)
Hard Rock Hunza Resort (Upper Hunza)
Hunza View Hotel (Karimabad)
Darbar Hotel (Aliabad)
Gulmit Continental Hotel (Upper Hunza)
Mulberry Hotel (Gulmit)
World Roof Hotel (Passu)
Homestays in Misgar, Shimshal, Ghulkin, and Gulmit
Hunza cuisine is healthy, organic, and rooted in centuries-old traditions.
Chapshuro: Hunza’s signature meat-filled bread, baked like a pie.
Diram Pitti: Made from sprouted wheat flour, a nutritious breakfast dish.
Mamtu: Steamed meat dumplings, also popular in Baltistan.
Hoilo Garma: Handmade noodles with vegetables and herbs.
Apricot Soup & Dried Fruits: Hunza is famous for its organic apricots, dried under the sun.
Butter Tea (Gur Gur Chai): A salty tea made with butter and milk, served warm during cold weather.
By Air:
Fly to Gilgit Airport (daily flights from Islamabad).
Fly to Skardu International Airport (daily flights from Islamabad/Karachi/Lahore/Dubai).
Hunza is a 2.5 to 3-hour drive from Gilgit, and a 5 to 6-hour journey from Skardu via the Karakoram Highway.
By Road:
From Islamabad: 16–18 hours via KKH or Babusar Top (in summer).
Buses, coasters, and private cars are easily available from major northern cities.
✅ Surreal landscapes and snow-capped peaks
✅ Deep-rooted history and restored royal forts
✅ High literacy, safety, and hospitality
✅ Adventure gateways to China and Central Asia
✅ Unique cultural blend of Burusho, Wakhi, and Ismaili traditions
Whether you’re hiking across glaciers, exploring ancient forts, boating on Attabad Lake, or sipping apricot tea with a mountain view—Hunza offers a journey unlike any other. A destination where nature, culture, and community come together to create lasting memories.
“Hunza is not just a place. It’s a feeling of timeless peace and discovery.”
