Hunza Valley: Pakistan’s Paradise Valley
Hunza Valley is a picturesque and historical region of Gilgit-Baltistan, famous worldwide for its stunning natural scenery, cultural heritage and friendly locals. The valley is located at an altitude of 2,500 meters above sea level and is also known as the “Paradise of Pakistan”. Hunza is an attractive place for tourists, researchers and historians due to its fruits, clear water springs, snow-capped mountains and ancient forts.
Ziarat, Chupursan valley, Upper Hunza
Hunza is not only famous for its beauty but also the longevity of its people makes it unique. The people of Hunza live to be over 100 years old due to their healthy diet and active lifestyle. The culture, language (Brushki) and traditions here are also very interesting.
Famous places in Hunza Valley
1. Baltit Fort
Baltit Fort is an important part of Hunza’s history which is 700 years old. This fort was the residence of the rulers of Hunza and is now used as a museum. It is also included in the UNESCO World Heritage Site.Baltat Fort, with its magnificent splendor, overlooks the Hunza Valley and the villages below. Situated on the high slopes of the rocky Hunza Hills, the fort was built in various periods over the centuries. Its oldest structure consisted of a 13th century single-storey room that formed the central part of the fort. Later, when the second floor was built, the first floor was converted into corridors and prisons. The second floor houses the rooms of the Mir (ruler) family, which are connected to each other through narrow corridors, small and low doors, steep stairs and secret passages in the floor. The wooden structure of the fort is adorned with beautiful Balti and Kashmiri carvings. According to conservationists, the western outer wall of the fort was built in the mid-19th century, while the eastern wall was added later. The upper floor housed the rooms of the queen, Mir and guests, living rooms, a special area for musicians and waiting rooms.
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| Baltit Fort Hunza |
During the British era, the rooms on the first floor were modernized according to the tastes and needs of the Mir of that time. Experts say that a mosque and a watchtower were removed from the upper floor during the same period. This seven-hundred-year-old fort is still a living masterpiece of Hunza's history and culture.
2. Altit Fort
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Altit Fort Hunza |
The fourth phase saw the addition of a mosque, and the fifth phase saw the addition of a grain storage building. The final phase saw the removal of the eastern storehouse and the construction of guest rooms. Narrow corridors are used to reach the lower parts of the fort. The main gate of the fort opens onto the Wadi Altit and leads into a narrow, dark corridor that leads to two small storehouses. From here, a staircase made of rubble stone on the western side leads to the first floor, where the royal kitchen is located. To the east of the royal kitchen is a bright lobby, with a central door opening onto a corridor running north to south. At the northern end of this corridor is the king’s chamber, while at the southern end is the queen’s chamber and a traditional “ha” (Balti-style house), which contains sleeping, sitting, cooking, storage and bathing areas. The north wall of this room has a hearth built into it and its roof is in a traditional curved square design. An east-west corridor leads to stairs that lead up to the watchtower. The tower is built of mud bricks with a wooden frame, cutter and cribbage technique, and its windows offer views in all directions. On the eastern side of the tower, the royal throne is placed in front of the mosque, from which a picturesque and extensive view of the Altit settlement is visible. The nine hundred year old fort is still a living testament to the history and architecture of Baltistan.
3. Attabad Lake
Formed after a landslide in 2010, this lake offers a stunning view between blue water and mountains. Activities like boating and fishing can also be done here.
4. Passu Cones
This snow-capped mountain range is the hallmark of Hunza that attracts tourists. The view of Passu Glaciers and the Hunza River can be best seen from here.
5. Kunjerab Pass
This is the highest international border crossing in the world that connects China with Pakistan. From here, one can see the view of the Himalayas and Karakoram mountain ranges.
Culture and traditions of Hunza
The people of Hunza are famous for their hospitality and good manners. Local festivals like "Nowruz" and "Ganani" are celebrated with great enthusiasm. The traditional dance and music of Hunza also impresses tourists.
Useful information for tourists
Best time to travel: The season from May to October is the best to visit Hunza.Accommodation: All kinds of facilities are available in Hunza, from luxury hotels to local guesthouses. Food: Must try the famous fruits of Hunza (apricots, apples, cherries) and local dishes like "Hunza soup" and "Chapati".Transport: Hunza can be reached from Islamabad or Gilgit by flights or road trips.
Must visit landscape
Valley is one of the most beautiful places not only in Pakistan but also in the world. If you are interested in natural scenery, history and culture, Hunza is the perfect choice for you. Find out more on our website www.whatgilgitbaltistan.com