Hunza Valley

Hunza is the best-known valley of the Karakoram: a ribbon of terraced fields and orchards along the Hunza River, with peaks above 7,000 metres on every side. Karimabad, its main town, sits at about 2,500 metres and looks straight across to Rakaposhi.

The valley was a small mountain state until 1974, and its forts, water channels and old villages are still part of daily life. Hunza is known for its hospitality, its apricots and the schooling of its villages. For most yatris it is the heart of the Gilgit-Hunza route, with two or three nights in Karimabad.

Places to visit

• KarimabadThe main town, with its bazaar, cafés and terraces facing Rakaposhi.
• Baltit and Altit fortsThe two restored seats of the rulers of Hunza.
• Eagle’s Nest, DuikarA viewpoint high above the valley, visited at sunrise or sunset.
• GanishOne of the oldest settlements on the old Silk Road, with carved wooden mosques around a pool.
• Upper HunzaAttabad Lake, the Passu Cones and the road to the Khunjerab Pass.

Things to do

• Visit the forts
• Sunrise or sunset at Duikar
• Walk along the old water channels
• Taste apricot, walnut and buckwheat dishes
• Day trips to Attabad Lake and upper Hunza

Good to know

Karimabad is built on a slope, so expect short, steep walks; we choose hotels with easy access for elders. Evenings are cool even in summer.