Welcome to Hunza
(Capital: Aliabad, Area: 15,034Km2 Population: 148,000)
Welcome to Hunza! An enchanting, enigmatic valley draws you to the most northern part of Pakistan. It takes about one and a half hours from Gilgit to reach Hunza by road. This valley attracts visitors like a magnet with its incomparable views of its marvelous mountains. The mountains surrounding the valley are all greater than 6,000ft. in elevation. It is famed for its historical heritage, which is most in evidence at the Altit and Baltit Forts.
Altit and Baltit Forts
Balti Fort (UNESCO world Heritage, 2004) is an ancient fort in the Hunza valley in Gilgit-Baltistan, founded in the 1st CE. The fort dates back to 700 years ago, with rebuilds and alterations over the centuries. In the 16th century the local prince married a princess from Baltistan who brought master Balti craftsmen to renovate the building as part of her dowry. Altit Fort is almost 1,100 years old, while Baltit Fort is approximately 700 years old. Both of these monuments are World Heritage Sites and worth exploring. Baltit Fort is now a museum run by the Baltit Heritage Trust. The road runs alongside the Hunza River, which flows through the valley that borders China and Pakistan.
Karim Abad Village
Karim Abad (Baltit Village) possesses its own unique charm in the world due to its isolation. The culture of the local people in Karim Abad is a major reason behind its international reputation that draws tourists from around the world. Hunza has traditionally been renowned for the long-life span of its people.
Atta Abad Lake (Newly formed)
Travelling further upward from the Hunza Valley, the jewel of Atta Abad Lake elevation (78,398ft, 2,559m) which is another splendor in its own right. Formed by natural causes, the lake resulted from a landslide occurring on January 4th, 2010. Adam was created when two mountains blocked the Hunza River, and Lake Atta Abad was formed. This lake is extends out from the small village of Ganish and 29 km long.
Passu Mountains
The picturesque village of Passu will enchant you. It is situated on KKH and offers breathtaking vistas of the Passu Sar Mountain (24,534.12ft, 7,478m), Passu Glacier, and Passue Cones. The hamlet is enveloped in peace, and the silence of the place is only enhanced by birdsong!
Sust
Sust is the last inhabited area inside Hunza, Pakistan on the KKH before reaching the Chinese border. As is true for other parts of the Hunza Valley, the location also abounds with captivating scenic landscapes. Sust is the initial trade point on the China-Pak border.
Khunjerab National Park/Pass
This is a frontier tourist destination on KKH. But more magnetic are the mesmerizing views of Baltoro Glacier, snow-covered mountains and the passage through Khunjerab National Park, which attract tourists from around the world. Khujerab National Park has unequalled importance as the third biggest national park in Pakistan and was established to protect the Marco Polo Sheep, snow leopard, and markhor. While passing through, you might catch a glimpse of one or more of these animals. That possibility will add intrigue to your adventure in this captivating destination.
Rush Lake
Rush Lake is a charming gem and one of the highest alpine lakes in the world. In order to reach this destination, trekkers face a difficult challenge. This trek is 26 km. long and at an elevation of (16,726ft, 5,098m) and is recommended only for experienced hikers in excellent physical condition. But travelers who seek adventure will experience the rewards of viewing the unsurpassed beauty of Miar Lake, Phuparash, and Har Sar Peaks.
