Pakistan’s Hunza Valley is a dream for adventurers

I still remember the moment I drove past the “Welcome to Hunza” sign and officially entered the valley. Mountains larger than anything I’d ever seen in my life flanked the paved highway as my van trundled along, passing by a sea of trees in various stages of pastel-colored bloom. 

After a 12-hour drive up the Karakoram Highway (KKH) from Islamabad, I’d arrived just in time to see apricot, apple, and cherry trees at their flowery peak. It was a sight that neither the Himalayas, the Hindu Kush range nor thousands of images could have prepared me for.

Each year, more and more travelers are flocking to Pakistan to discover a land termed by early travelers as “Shangri La.” Home to some of the most under-rated hiking trails in the world and the highest density of 7,000-meter peaks, the landscapes of Hunza Valley are some of the most incredible in the world. Icy-blue rivers and alpine lakes dot the landscape, and half a dozen glaciers cut between the mountains. 

But the northern region, part of the Gilgit Baltistan territory that borders China and Tajikistan, is not just notable for its surreal views and high-altitude treks. Known for its warm, community-based culture and hospitality, Hunza is home to rare indigenous languages such Burushaski, Wakhi and Shina, as well as apricots in forms you didn’t know existed.

If you’re looking to explore lesser-known spectacles, these stops within Hunza Valley are well worth the trek. 

Soak up glorious views at Karimabad 

A visit to Karimabad, formerly known as Baltit, in Central Hunza is all about the views. The very best vista in the village can be found at Malikamu Shikari, a monument commemorating Queen Victoria, which overlooks the entire valley. The top is just about 3km from the starting point, and a proper dirt trail makes it relatively easy walking. Meanwhile, the 700-year-old Baltit Fort is another highlight of Karimabad. The fort was previously inhabited by the royals of Hunza back when it was a princely state. Karimabad is also the best place in all of Hunza to try out local cuisine. Not too hot and very reliant on local ingredients such as apricots and wheat, Hunza Food Pavillion, which was started by local female entrepreneur Laal Shehzadi, is a must-visit.

Cruise the waters at Attabad Lake

As you drive towards Upper Hunza (Gojal), the azure blue waters of Attabad Lake are worth pulling over for. The lake was born out of destruction in January 2010 when a landslide crushed the village of Attabad. The disaster blocked the flow of the Hunza River, thus, creating Attabad Lake. Today, it’s the most famous tourist attraction in the valley, and one of those popular places that is actually worth the hype. While you can join the crowds and spend some time boating or even jet skiing on the lake, another way to enjoy Attabad is from above. A nearby trail easy enough for beginners leads to a meadow that will reward you with a panoramic view of the lake and mountains further up the valley.

Gape at glaciers at Passu

Passu is arguably the most picturesque village in Hunza. As the Karakoram Highway straightens out, the view that brings thousands to Passu reveals itself – the “cathedral” of cone-shaped mountains is unlike any other peaks you’ll see in Hunza. Another highlight of the village is the icy Passu Glacier, pristine white and accessible even to beginner trekkers. As for food, you can’t skip the Yak Grill. Locally owned by two brothers, they serve up the best burgers you’ll ever taste – made with yak meat, a specialty of the region.

Discover an ancient settlement at Avgarch Village

Approximately 10km from the Gojali village of Jamalabad – just a few kilometers north of Passu – is the ancient settlement of Avgarch. To reach it, you’ll get to enjoy an easy, mildly sloped trail that snakes alongside a river. This will bring you to a historical village, the first of Hunza to be exact. Some locals reside in their homes here in summer, but I even found a grandfather who offered doudo (local soup) and chai in mid-November. A heavily forested hamlet known as Boiber is located beyond Avgarch Valley and is possible to visit from May-October. 

Seek spirituality at Chapursan

Filled with red and purple-tinted mountains, Chapursan is one of the most remote settlements of Hunza – it even borders the Wakhan Corridor, separating Pakistan from Tajikistan. Though it has always remained peaceful, what’s become my favorite part of the valley is left off of most Hunza itineraries. The real highlight of Chapursan, besides the magnificent landscapes and swimming opportunities, is the Baba Ghundi Shrine at the valley’s end. Dedicated to Sufi saint Pir Ghund, the white shrine sits against a wall of dry mountains that appear almost purple around dusk. Many visitors report a distinctly spiritual energy inside. July is said to be the best time to visit when you might be able to catch the annual Baba Ghundi Festival.

Ready for an adventure in Hunza Valley? Fly directly to Islamabad with Thai Airways.