Hunza

Hunza, a mountainous valley in Gilgit Baltistan, is situated at a distance of 98 km from Gilgit city. There are several high peaks above 20,000 feet in Hunza Valley and provides a splendid view of many high mountains such Rakaposhi (25,551 ft), Bojahagur Duanasir II (24,045 ft), Ghenta Sar (19, 980 ft), and Hunza Peak (20, 571 ft).

Fruit Orchards in Lower Hunza

As you enter the Hunza Valley, the first stunning view of wide agricultural plains and orchards, in front of dark brownish snow-dapped mountains, lined with trees of apricot, apple, and cherry. It is Aliabad, the first main town of Hunza Valley, where you can find motor mechanics, medical facilities, and highly affordable accommodations. In the month of Julys, you can also enjoy the fresh cherries and apricots there.

Karimabad under the Shades of Ultar Sar

Karimabad is the main town of the Hunza Valley under the shades of Ultar Sar at an elevation of 7,388 meters. The stone-terraced fields slopping up toward the high-altitude mountains shows the really charming beauty of the Hunza Valley. Karimabad is famous for historical and cultural masterpiece of Baltit and Altit Forts. There several best quality hotels are avialable in Karimabad and it is the best place to spend night in the Hunza Valley. Before going to bed, one must walk in the Karimabad main bazaar to explore the local artisan products.

Baltit Fort in Karimabad

After spending night in the cozy rooms in Karimabad, enjoy the fresh and cool morning breeze coming from Ultar Sar. Then, you must plan to visit the 700 years old Baltit fort to explore the royal lifestyle of Mir families and defense mechanism used by the Mir of the Hunza Valley.

Altit Fort in Karimabad

Hunza itinerary is never completed without visiting downhill, the oldest settlement of the valley, in Altit village. One must visit the splendid architectural landmark of Altit Fort located on the sheer cliff tower with an adjacent royal apricot garden. One can also visit the local museum where one can learn the historical evidence by observing various artifacts belonging to ancient Hunza valley and family of Mirs.

Sunset Viewpoint in Eagle's Nest

One of the another famous viewpoint in Karimabad is the sunset viewpoint at Eagle's Nest in high alpine village of Duiker. Here visitors can observe the magnificent and panoramic 360-degree view of the sunset touching the peaks of Rakaposhi, Diran, and Golden Peak at the same time. The reddish lights behind the peaks gives a real unforgettable view in the height of Karakoram Ranges.

The climate of Hunza is cold in winter due to heavy snow and valley becomes inaccessible. Whereas summer is cool and pleasant and attracts thousands of tourists in this area.

Still struggling to find out the best route to explore the Gilgit-Baltistan, get the best checkpoints by visiting our Gilgit City Travel Guide.

About Gojal Upper Hunza

Gojal is the largest city in Baltistan next to Hunza, having a border with China and Afghanistan. It connects with China through the Khunjerab Pass and with Afghanistan through the Chapursan Valley. Gojal, also known as Upper Hunza, is the highest mountains area in the Karakoram and Pamir mountain ranges, at an average elevation of 4,000 meters.