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Attabad Lake in Hunza Valley

Hunza Valley tour packages

Hunza tour packages covering Karimabad, Baltit & Altit forts, Attabad Lake, Passu Cones and the Khunjerab Pass.

Best time to visit: April – October

2 Hunza Valley packages

About Hunza Valley

Hunza Valley in Gilgit-Baltistan is one of the most beautiful places in Pakistan and a favourite destination for families, couples, photographers and adventure lovers. Surrounded by giants of the Karakoram range — Rakaposhi, Ultar Sar, Ladyfinger and the Passu Cones — the valley is famous for its turquoise lakes, terraced fields, apricot and cherry orchards, centuries-old forts and the warm hospitality of its people. Our Hunza tour packages are designed to help you experience all of this comfortably, with good hotels, safe transport and experienced drivers.

Where is Hunza and how to get there?

Hunza lies along the Karakoram Highway (KKH) north of Gilgit, on the historic Silk Route to China. It is usually divided into three areas: Lower Hunza (around Nagar and Rakaposhi viewpoint), Central Hunza (Karimabad, Altit, Aliabad and Duikar) and Upper Hunza or Gojal (Gulmit, Passu, Hussaini, Sost and the Khunjerab Pass).

By road from Islamabad, the journey takes most of two days with an overnight stop in Chilas or Besham, or roughly a long day via Babusar Top when it is open in summer. Flights from Islamabad to Gilgit save time but are weather-dependent. From Gilgit, Karimabad is around two hours by road.

Top places to visit in Hunza

Karimabad, Baltit Fort and Altit Fort

Karimabad is the cultural heart of Hunza. Above the town stands Baltit Fort, the former palace of the Mirs of Hunza, now a museum with views across the valley. A short drive away, Altit Fort is even older and is surrounded by a beautiful royal garden. Walking through the old village lanes, with their stone houses and water channels, is a highlight in itself.

Eagle's Nest (Duikar)

High above Karimabad, the village of Duikar offers one of the best panoramas in Pakistan. Sunrise and sunset here light up Rakaposhi, Diran, Ladyfinger and the whole valley.

Attabad Lake

Created by a huge landslide in 2010, Attabad Lake has become Hunza's most famous attraction. Its bright turquoise water is surrounded by mountains, and boat rides, jet skis and lakeside cafés make it a must-visit stop.

Passu Cones, Hussaini Bridge and Borith Lake

In Upper Hunza, the jagged Passu Cones rise dramatically above the road. The Hussaini suspension bridge is a thrilling walk for brave visitors, and nearby Borith Lake is a quiet spot popular with birdwatchers.

Khunjerab Pass

At around 4,700 metres, the Khunjerab Pass on the Pakistan–China border is one of the highest paved border crossings in the world. The drive passes through Khunjerab National Park, where you may see yaks and marmots. The pass is seasonal and usually open from late spring to autumn.

Rakaposhi viewpoint and Nagar

On the way to Hunza, the Rakaposhi viewpoint in Ghulmet offers a close view of the 7,788-metre peak. Across the river, Nagar valley leads to the Hopper Glacier for those with extra time.

Best time to visit Hunza

  • Spring (April–May): blossom season, with pink and white cherry and apricot trees.
  • Summer (June–August): peak season; lakes are vivid and Khunjerab is open.
  • Autumn (September–October): golden poplars and clear skies — a photographer's favourite.
  • Winter (November–March): cold and quiet, with snow and partly frozen lakes; some hotels close.

How many days do you need in Hunza?

We recommend at least five days from Islamabad by road, which gives you two full days in Hunza. With seven days you can combine Hunza with Skardu, and with nine to ten days you can add Fairy Meadows or Naran. Travellers who fly to Gilgit can see the main highlights in three to four days.

Where to stay in Hunza

Most visitors stay in Karimabad or Aliabad, which have the widest choice of hotels and restaurants. Upper Hunza (Gulmit and Passu) is quieter, with lake and mountain views. Hotels range from simple guesthouses to boutique hotels and resorts. Our packages include carefully chosen hotels in each budget category.

Food and culture

Hunza's people are known for their friendliness and high literacy. Local dishes worth trying include chapshuro (meat-filled bread), diram fitti, walnut cake, apricot soup and the famous Hunza tea. Respect local customs by dressing modestly and asking before photographing people.

Travel tips for Hunza

  • Carry your original CNIC or passport — there are several checkpoints on the KKH.
  • Pack warm layers even in summer; evenings and Khunjerab can be cold.
  • Keep some cash; ATMs exist in Aliabad and Karimabad but may run out in peak season.
  • Mobile data works in main towns; coverage is limited in remote areas.
  • Do not litter — help keep Hunza beautiful for future visitors.

Ready to explore? Browse our Hunza tour packages above or contact us for a customised itinerary.

Frequently asked questions

How far is Hunza from Islamabad?
Hunza is roughly 600 kilometres from Islamabad by road along the Karakoram Highway. Most travellers take two days with an overnight stop in Chilas or Besham. In summer, the route via Naran and Babusar Top is faster. Flying to Gilgit and driving about two hours to Karimabad is the quickest option when the weather allows.
Is Hunza safe for families and solo travellers?
Hunza is considered one of the most welcoming and peaceful regions in Pakistan, and it is visited by thousands of families and solo travellers every year. As anywhere in the mountains, the main risks are weather and road conditions, so travel with an experienced driver and keep some flexibility in your plans.
Which is better, Karimabad or Aliabad, for staying?
Karimabad is walking distance from Baltit Fort, the bazaar and many restaurants, and has more character. Aliabad is slightly lower, with newer hotels and easy access to the main road. Both are central for day trips to Attabad Lake, Passu and Eagle's Nest, so choose based on budget and preferred hotel.
Can I visit Hunza in winter?
Yes. Winter in Hunza is cold but beautiful, with snow on the mountains and sometimes in the valley. Khunjerab Pass is closed and some hotels shut, but Karimabad, Altit and Attabad Lake can still be visited. Choose a hotel with proper heating and travel with a driver experienced in winter conditions.
Do I need a permit to visit Hunza?
Pakistani citizens do not need a special permit to visit Hunza; carrying your original CNIC is enough for checkpoints. Foreign visitors should carry their passport and visa. Permits are only needed for certain restricted areas or mountaineering expeditions, which are not part of standard tours.
What should I buy in Hunza?
Popular souvenirs include dried apricots, cherries and mulberries, apricot oil, walnuts, gemstones such as rubies and garnets, handmade Hunza caps, woollen shawls and embroidered items. Buying from local shops and cooperatives in Karimabad and Altit supports the community directly.

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