Hunza The Hidden Gem of Pakistan
Many times, we come across situations where it's hard to describe things in words. Hunza’s beauty is one of those things. The aura that this place holds cannot be put into words; it is felt and truly understood by being present in the moment. Words can't do justice to the sight it holds. Hunza would make you feel like you have traveled back in time, where the air is as clean and pure as the sky is, where you could never get tired of looking at those mountains, where nature is just free from pollution, and you can relax in peace, forgetting about everything else for a while.
Hunza is a majestic place to visit, and that is why Hunza had over 1 million visitors in 2024. It can be reached both by air and by road. You can book a flight to Gilgit and then drive to Hunza, which is about 100 km away from Gilgit. People from Pakistan who enjoy a road trip can go directly to Hunza via road. From Gilgit to Hunza, tourists get to enjoy beautiful views all along the way, and the journey feels so soothing. Hunza is full of different historical and cinematic spots and is an ideal place to keep tourists entertained throughout their stay in Hunza.
Main attractions
- Attabad Lake: This lake was formed as a result of a landslide in 2010, and since then it has been a tourist site. People visit and enjoy activities like boating, jet skiing, camping, and picnicking. The water is clear and blue, which makes it even more eye-catching.
- Passu Cones: What a piece of art this place is. As the name indicates, cone-shaped mountains can be seen here, which are aligned so beautifully together that it seems like they have been placed purposely when it is just the way they exist naturally. There is a restaurant for which you have to climb stairs, and the stunning views can be enjoyed from the top while having a meal.
The best time is around May to October because mostly the weather is pleasant, which means not too cold or hot. Roads are also clear in these months because usually they are blocked when it's wintertime due to snowfall.
- Altit Fort: For anyone who has an interest in history, this place is a must-visit. It is a 900-year-old fort in Hunza, the oldest fort. This place holds so much history, and the architecture says it all. There are people present at the fort who will explain every detail to you and take you through the journey of how past rulers used to live here. The stories of the past that they tell sound unbelievable, especially those of the prisoners and soldiers. This place will take you back to ancient times.
- Baltit Fort: This one is also similar to Altit Fort, almost 700 years old. It holds so much ancient beauty and reflects how rulers lived in the past because it served as a royal palace. A very good view of Hunza Valley can be seen from this point.
- Hussaini suspension bridge: A beautiful sight yet one of the most dangerous bridges in the world to cross, this bridge is hung over a fast-flowing water stream and is a good spot for taking a picnic break.
- Khunjerab Pass: This is located on the Karakoram Highway, which is a trade route to China, and to its left and right is just a dreamy view. It is usually covered in snow throughout the year, and wild animals can be spotted on the way. This pathway leads to the Pakistan-China border, where Chinese and Pakistanis often greet each other. Mountains without snow and with snow together create a cinematic view throughout the highway, and one can't take one's eyes off it.
- Eagle’s nest A magical sunrise and sunset can be experienced from here among mountain peaks. Mountains combined with the sun create an unforgettable sight.
- Hunza Bazaar: This one is a local market in Karimabad, and antique things are sold here. stones, shawls, handcrafted items, and a lot more to shop for.
Accommodation and food
A lot of hotels are available throughout Hunza according to your budget. Every hotel has its food menu, which includes most of the things. Both vegetarians and non-vegetarians can easily access their desired meals. Traditional dishes like 'chabshoro' and 'mamtus' are also enjoyed by tourists on a large scale. However, if you want to have a luxury experience with your stay, then “Luxus Hunza Resort” is highly recommended because it is built on Attabad Lake. The thing that makes it so special is the view of the lake from within the rooms. Other popular hotels that ensure a good view are Hilltop Hotel, Roomy Dastan Hotel, Eagle Nest Hotel, Apple Garden Hotel, Hunza Heaven Hotel, and others.
Visiting Hunza creates a lifetime memory because what is felt at this place is hard to forget. It's not just nature that people enjoy, but the people too are extremely kind, humble, and friendly. The way they treat tourists is like their own family members, and you never feel like an outsider, and this is the essence of this place. A place where you can immerse yourself in tranquility.
