Hunza is a beautiful mountainous valley located in the Gilgit-Baltistan region of Pakistan. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, hospitable people, and rich cultural heritage. Here are some of the top tourist destinations in Hunza:
- Altit Fort
- Baltit Fort
- Attabad Lake
- Rakaposhi
- Hussaini Bridge
- Eagle’s Nest
- Gojal Valley
- Duikar Village
- Karimabad Bazaar
- Borith Lake
Altit Fort
Altit Fort is a centuries-old fort located in the Altit village of Hunza valley, in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. The fort dates back to the 11th century and is believed to be one of the oldest surviving forts in the region. It was the residence of the hereditary rulers of the Hunza state until the 16th century, after which the ruling family moved to the nearby Baltit Fort.
Altit Fort is built on a hill overlooking the Hunza River, offering panoramic views of the valley. It is a fine example of traditional Hunza architecture, with thick walls made of stone and mud bricks. The fort has several rooms, courtyards, and terraces, each with a unique function and design.
In recent years, the fort has been restored and converted into a museum showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Hunza. The museum displays a variety of artifacts, including traditional costumes, weapons, jewelry, household items, and photographs, providing visitors with a glimpse into the region’s history and traditions.
Visitors can also enjoy traditional Hunza music and dance performances at the fort’s amphitheater, shop for souvenirs at the on-site gift shop, or enjoy a meal at the fort’s restaurant, which serves local and international cuisine. A visit to Altit Fort is a must-do activity for anyone visiting Hunza, offering a unique opportunity to experience the rich history and culture of the region.
Baltit Fort
Baltit Fort is a historic fort located in the town of Karimabad, Hunza valley, in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. The fort dates back to the 8th century but was later renovated and expanded by the Mirs of Hunza in the 16th century. The fort was the residence of the hereditary rulers of the Hunza state until the 19th century when the ruling family moved to a nearby palace.
Baltit Fort is a fine example of traditional Hunza architecture, with thick walls made of stone and mud bricks. The fort has several rooms, courtyards, and terraces, each with a unique function and design. Visitors can explore the fort’s various rooms and see displays of traditional costumes, weapons, household items, and photographs, providing a glimpse into the region’s history and traditions.
Baltit Fort was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2004 and has undergone extensive restoration in recent years, preserving the fort’s unique cultural heritage. The fort also offers stunning views of the surrounding valley and the nearby Rakaposhi mountain range.
Visitors can also enjoy traditional Hunza music and dance performances at the fort’s amphitheater, shop for souvenirs at the on-site gift shop, or enjoy a meal at the fort’s restaurant, which serves local and international cuisine. A visit to Baltit Fort is a must-do activity for anyone visiting Hunza, offering a unique opportunity to experience the rich history and culture of the region.
Attabad Lake
Attabad Lake is a stunningly beautiful lake located in the Gojal Valley of Hunza, in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. The lake was formed in January 2010, following a massive landslide that blocked the Hunza River. The landslide created a natural dam, which resulted in the formation of a lake with crystal-clear turquoise water.
Attabad Lake is approximately 23 kilometers long and over 100 meters deep, and it is surrounded by the towering peaks of the Karakoram mountain range. The lake’s striking color contrasts beautifully with the snow-capped peaks and greenery of the surrounding hills, creating a spectacular sight.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities at Attabad Lake, including boating, fishing, and jet skiing. The lake is also a popular spot for photography, with many opportunities to capture stunning shots of the lake and the surrounding mountains.
There are several restaurants and food stalls located along the lake’s shore, offering local and international cuisine. Visitors can also shop for souvenirs and handicrafts at the nearby market, which sells locally produced gemstones, jewelry, and other traditional items.
A visit to Attabad Lake is a must-do activity for anyone visiting Hunza, offering a unique opportunity to witness the beauty of nature and experience the warmth and hospitality of the local people.
Rakaposhi
Rakaposhi is a majestic mountain peak located in the Karakoram mountain range, in the Gilgit-Baltistan region of Pakistan. It is one of the highest peaks in the region, with an elevation of 7,788 meters (25,551 feet), and is known for its striking beauty and dramatic snow-covered slopes.
The mountain’s name, Rakaposhi, means “shining wall” in the local language, which aptly describes its sheer, icy slopes. The peak is surrounded by several other peaks, including Diran and Ultar Sar, creating a stunning panoramic view.
b is a popular destination for mountain climbers and trekkers, offering a range of challenging routes and breathtaking scenery. There are several base camps and trekking routes that lead up to the mountain, including the classic trek to the Rakaposhi Base Camp, which takes visitors through remote villages, lush green valleys, and beautiful glaciers.
Visitors can also enjoy the stunning views of Rakaposhi from several other locations in Hunza, including the Hunza valley and nearby towns like Nagar and Gilgit. There are several viewing points and observation decks that provide visitors with panoramic views of the mountain and the surrounding landscape.
A visit to Rakaposhi is a must-do activity for anyone visiting Hunza, offering a unique opportunity to witness the beauty of nature and experience the thrill of adventure.
Hussaini Bridge
The Hussaini Suspension Bridge is a famous bridge located in the village of Hussaini, in the Hunza valley of Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. The bridge is suspended over the Hunza River and connects the villages of Hussaini and Zarabad.
The bridge is known for its unique design and breathtaking views, and it is often considered one of the most dangerous bridges in the world due to its dilapidated condition and lack of safety features. The bridge has only one lane and is made of wooden planks and steel cables, making it a thrilling experience to cross.
Despite its precarious nature, the Hussaini Bridge attracts adventure-seekers and thrill-seekers from around the world. Crossing the bridge provides a unique opportunity to experience the stunning natural beauty of the Hunza valley, with breathtaking views of the river and the surrounding mountains.
Visitors can also explore the nearby villages of Hussaini and Zarabad, which offer a glimpse into the local way of life and traditional culture of the region. The villages are home to several historic buildings, including mosques and forts, and offer opportunities to sample local food and interact with friendly locals.
A visit to the Hussaini Suspension Bridge is a must-do activity for anyone visiting Hunza, providing an unforgettable experience and a unique opportunity to witness the beauty of nature and the warmth of local hospitality. However, visitors should exercise caution when crossing the bridge, as it can be a challenging and potentially dangerous experience.
Eagle’s Nest
Eagle’s Nest, also known as Duikar, is a famous tourist destination located in the Hunza valley of Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. It is a hilltop viewpoint that offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and villages.
Eagle’s Nest is located at an elevation of 2,850 meters (9,350 feet) above sea level and can be reached by a steep, winding road. The road itself is an adventure, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscapes and hairpin turns that wind through the mountains.
At the top of the hill, visitors can enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of the surrounding area, including the Hunza valley, Nagar valley, and the Karakoram mountain range. The views from the Eagle’s Nest are especially breathtaking at sunrise and sunset, when the light plays on the mountains and valleys, creating a magical atmosphere.
There are several restaurants and tea houses located at Eagle’s Nest, offering traditional food and hot beverages. Visitors can also explore the nearby villages and interact with the friendly locals, who are known for their hospitality and warmth.
A visit to Eagle’s Nest is a must-do activity for anyone visiting Hunza, providing a unique opportunity to witness the beauty of nature and experience the culture and hospitality of the local people.
Gojal Valley
Gojal Valley is a picturesque region located in the uppermost part of the Hunza district, in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. The valley is surrounded by towering peaks of the Karakoram mountain range, including some of the highest peaks in the world, such as K2, the second-highest peak in the world.
Gojal Valley is a remote and pristine region, home to several small villages and hamlets that have retained their traditional way of life and culture. Visitors to the valley can experience the warmth and hospitality of the local people and learn about their customs and traditions.
The valley is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains, glaciers, and rivers. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, such as trekking, mountaineering, fishing, and skiing. The valley is also home to several wildlife species, including the snow leopard, Asiatic ibex, and Himalayan musk deer.
One of the most famous attractions in the Gojal Valley is the Khunjerab Pass, which is the highest paved international border crossing in the world, connecting Pakistan with China. The pass offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks and valleys and is a popular destination for tourists.
A visit to the Gojal Valley is a must-do activity for anyone visiting Hunza, offering a unique opportunity to witness the beauty of nature and experience the culture and hospitality of the local people.
Duikar Village
Duikar Village, also known as Duiker or Doqar, is a scenic village located in the Hunza valley of Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. It is situated at an altitude of 2,700 meters (8,858 feet) above sea level and is famous for its panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Duikar Village is located on a hilltop and offers stunning views of the Karakoram mountain range, including several famous peaks such as Rakaposhi, Ultar, and Ladyfinger Peak. The village is also known for its picturesque terraced fields and traditional architecture, with many homes made of stone and wood.
Visitors to Duikar Village can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, trekking, and mountain biking. The village is also a popular destination for paragliding, offering an unforgettable experience of soaring over the stunning landscapes and mountains.
The village has several guesthouses and hotels that offer comfortable accommodations and traditional food. Visitors can also explore the nearby villages and interact with the friendly locals, who are known for their hospitality and warmth.
A visit to Duikar Village is a must-do activity for anyone visiting Hunza, providing a unique opportunity to witness the beauty of nature and experience the culture and hospitality of the local people. The village’s breathtaking views, traditional architecture, and outdoor activities make it a popular destination for tourists and adventure seekers alike.
Karimabad Bazaar
Karimabad Bazaar is a vibrant marketplace located in the heart of Karimabad, the capital of Hunza valley in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. It is a popular destination for tourists who want to experience the local culture, cuisine, and shopping.
The bazaar is known for its colorful shops and stalls selling a variety of handicrafts, textiles, jewelry, and souvenirs. Visitors can find traditional items such as embroidered shawls, caps, and dresses, as well as modern items such as t-shirts and keychains.
Karimabad Bazaar is also a great place to taste the local cuisine, with several restaurants and food stalls offering traditional dishes such as chapshoro, a meat-filled pastry, and dal chawal, lentils, and rice. Visitors can also sample local fruits such as apricots, cherries, and apples, which are grown in the surrounding orchards.
The bazaar is located in the center of Karimabad, surrounded by the famous Baltit Fort and the Altit Fort, both of which are popular tourist destinations. Visitors can explore the forts and learn about the rich history and culture of the region.
A visit to Karimabad Bazaar is a must-do activity for anyone visiting Hunza, offering a unique opportunity to experience the local culture, cuisine, and shopping. The bazaar’s vibrant atmosphere and traditional items make it a popular destination for tourists looking to immerse themselves in the local culture.
Borith Lake
Borith Lake is a beautiful high-altitude lake located in the Gojal Valley of Hunza, Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. It is situated at an altitude of 2,600 meters (8,500 feet) above sea level and is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and glaciers.
The lake is fed by the melting glaciers of the surrounding mountains, making it crystal clear and blue. It is also home to several species of freshwater fish, including trout, which makes it a popular destination for fishing.
Borith Lake is also a popular spot for bird watching, with several species of migratory birds, such as ducks and geese, visiting the lake during the winter months. The lake is also surrounded by lush vegetation and provides a picturesque setting for hiking and trekking.
The lake is located in a remote and pristine area, with only a few guesthouses and camping sites available for visitors. This makes it an ideal destination for those looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
A visit to Borith Lake is a must-do activity for anyone visiting Hunza, offering a unique opportunity to witness the beauty of nature and experience the tranquility of a high-altitude lake. The lake’s stunning views, peaceful surroundings, and outdoor activities make it a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.