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Hunza is a stunning valley in the Karakoram range, renowned for its picturesque landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and welcoming locals. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks like Ultar Sar, Rakaposhi, Diran Peak, Golden Peak, and many others, the valley boasts lush greenery, terraced fields, and vibrant orchards. The Burusho community adds to the cultural richness with its unique language and traditions. Visitors can explore ancient Forts and traditional houses and join local festivals. Hunza also offers a delightful culinary experience featuring traditional bread, apricot-based treats, and local teas. The valley provides excellent trekking opportunities for adventure seekers, making it a top tourist destination in Pakistan.
This charming valley is located approximately 100 km from Gilgit city, and the journey takes around 2 hours via the famous Karakoram Highway, which remains open throughout the year. The drive itself on the Karakoram Highway is a fascinating experience for travelers. Each season in this valley brings distinctive features, showcasing a unique blend of scenic beauty and cultural events.
Upon arrival at Islamabad International Airport, our guide will greet you and transfer you to the hotel for check-in. Participants can use free time to relax and recover from the journey. Following lunch at the hotel, a tour briefing will be conducted. Later in the day, there will be a visit to the market for essential shopping and currency exchange. The itinerary also includes visits to the Lok Virsa Museum and the Shah Faisal Mosque.
Take a 1-hour scenic flight from Islamabad Airport to Gilgit and enjoy breathtaking mountain views, particularly the majestic Nanga Parbat. Upon arrival in Gilgit, transfer to a local vehicle and drive to Karga Valley (30 minutes), where we will explore the ancient Rock Buddha dating back to the 7th century AD. Following this, we will drive to Hunza via the renowned Karakoram Highway.
En route to Hunza, make a brief stop to visit the historic Berano suspension bridge (30 minutes), recognized as one of the oldest in the region, and the Danyor tunnel. Additionally, take quick pauses for photography at notable sites, including the collision point of two tectonic plates, the ancient Silk Route viewpoint, and the Rakaposhi viewpoint, capturing the essence of the scenic surroundings.
Hunza is divided into three distinct parts: Lower Hunza, Central Hunza, and Upper Hunza. On our journey to Karimabad, we will explore the oldest settlement (Nasirabad) in Lower Hunza (2-3 hours). Walking along the village water channel, known as Bari Yap, which winds through traditional houses, we’ll have the chance to meet local storytellers and village elders. Additionally, we can pick organic fruits from farmers’ orchards and witness the authentic way of traditional village life. After engaging with a host family and gaining insights into their daily life, we will proceed to the Rakaposhi/Diran Peak viewpoint to relish the breathtaking views. Following these explorations, we’ll drive to Karimabad for an overnight stay in a hotel.
OR
In case of flight cancellation due to weather, drive from Islamabad to Naran/Besham (6 hours) with short stops at various tourist spots.
We will spend a full day in Central Hunza, and our morning begins with a delightful walk along Samarqand Kohl, a scenic water channel that passes through local houses and fields (1 hour). We then visit the historic 800-year-old Baltit Fort; it will take around 2 hours with a 30-minute walk.
Our exploration continues with a visit to Ganish village, the oldest settlement in Hunza (40 minutes). A drive to Altit follows, where a delicious lunch at Kha Basi Café, owned by Serena Hotels and run by local women, awaits us. Post-lunch activities include visiting the music school in Altit (if it is open), which provides an opportunity to observe local children learning and playing traditional music. Guests are also welcome to try playing regional musical instruments.
Altit Fort, with a history spanning 900 years, is our next destination, offering a unique chance to explore this iconic structure (1 hour). Subsequently, we drive to Duikar at 2800 m for an unparalleled sunset view. A beautiful 15-minute hike brings us to one of the world’s best sunset viewpoints, providing a panoramic view of the Hunza and Nagar valleys and splendid views of seven mountain peaks above 7000m. We then returned to our hotel in Karimabad for leisure time till dinner. Following this, a visit to Karimabad Bazar for dinner in a local restaurant and shopping featuring handicrafts, gemstones, and dry fruits.
OR
In the event of a flight cancellation, proceed with a 7-8 hour drive from Naran/Besham to Hunza, making several brief stops along the way.
Today’s itinerary involves driving to Passu through various small villages in upper Hunza. After a stop at the Haldikish rock carvings for a briefing on their historical significance, we will proceed to Atabad Lake for a boating experience. Upon reaching Gulmit village, we’ll explore an old house, visit a local carpet center (meeting local women entrepreneurs), and visit a music school (Bulbulik Music School – if it is open). Following this, we will do a hike featuring Pakistan’s one of the highest and longest stairs, leading to Ondra Fort (a community-based tourism initiative in Gulmit village of Gojal Valley) – 1-hour hike. You’ll have free time to relish the beautiful views of Passu cones and upper Hunza.
Later, we’ll drive to Borith Lake, a beautiful lake in upper Hunza renowned for migrating birds, and embark on a scenic hike to Passu Glacier, an easy one-hour hike. We’ll continue our journey to Passu to enjoy a leisurely afternoon. Passu, one of the picturesque villages in the area, invites us for a village walk, allowing us to visit a local host family and engage with local elders.
As the day unfolds, we’ll relish the sunset from Glacier Breeze Restaurant, accompanied by a cup of tea or coffee and the famous apricot cake. If time matches/permits, we might have the opportunity to participate in a cultural event in upper Hunza. Yalk Grill, a renowned local restaurant specializing in Yalk dishes, offers unique culinary experiences that we may enjoy. Finally, we’ll drive back to our hotel in Karimabad for an overnight stay.
Nagar is a renowned tourist destination in the region, and Minapin is the gateway to the magnificent Rakaposhi and Diran Peaks. Today, we will drive from Karimabad to Minapin to immerse ourselves in the cultural insights of the valley and savor one of the best views of the mountain peaks and surrounding valleys. Enjoy leisure time in Minapin, engage with a local storyteller, and drive on an adventurous journey to the KHO meadows in a local jeep (2 hours). The jeep road itself is an exciting experience, and upon reaching the viewpoint, the area’s stunning beauty is sure to leave anyone amazed. Spend leisurely time there, enjoying a nature walk and watching the panoramic valley views.
After a beautiful time, we’ll return to Minapin and relish the delicious local food at Osho Thang, renowned for its Gurkun Karahi. Following this, we’ll drive back to Karimabad via the same route. If time permits, we will visit Haiderabad Khun and KADO Hunar Khun, a unique multipurpose project by a local NGO. Conclude the day with an overnight stay at the hotel.
Following an early breakfast, drive to Hoper Valley (1.5 hours and 2800 m). Along the way, stop at the confluence point of the Hunza and Nagar rivers, offering picturesque views. Further, explore Nagar Khas, a village in the Nagar Valley, and engage with locals to experience their unique culture. Continuing the journey, proceed to Hoper village, where a beautiful 2-hour hike to Hoper Glacier awaits. Immerse yourself in the experience of walking on the glacier, surrounded by the region’s natural beauty.
Nagar is renowned for its gemstones, and in Hoper, numerous shops offer gemstones and local handicrafts. You can explore and shop from these local stores, discovering unique and authentic items. Additionally, we will meet locals from Nagar Valley, who will provide insights into the rich cultural narratives of the region.
Following this, we will drive to Khanabad village in Lower Hunza and immerse ourselves in the local way of life. Spending most of the day here, we will witness village life with a host family and actively participate in the routine activities of the village people. Explore fruit orchards, stroll through the streets, meet locals, including artisans and storytellers, and relish a traditional lunch with a host family.
In the afternoon, we will drive to Gilgit via the same Karakoram Highway, concluding with an overnight stay at a hotel.
Take a scenic 1-hour flight from Gilgit to Islamabad. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel and enjoy some leisure time. Explore notable attractions such as the Pakistan Monument and Saipur village after lunch. Conclude the day with a delightful dinner at Monal. Drive back to the hotel for an overnight stay.
OR
Drive from Gilgit via Karakoram Highway with short stops (in case of flight cancellation)
If flying is impossible due to weather conditions, we will take a road journey from Gilgit to Islamabad. However, if we proceed with the flight, we plan to visit Taxila. We will explore the renowned Taxila Museum and various archaeological sites there, including Dharmarajika and Sirkab. With its rich historical significance, Taxila provides a captivating experience as we delve into these archaeological sites, making the most of our time there.
After breakfast, transfer from Hotel to the airport for international flights.
Trekking to high altitude (generally this means above 2500 meters) involves additional risk not normally associated with lower-level treks. This is not something that should prevent you from undertaking a trek. However, before embarking on such a holiday, it makes sense to learn about the dangers inherent in trekking at high altitudes and also the ‘golden rules' to prevent Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).
For each of our holidays, the maximum altitudes attained are listed on the website and in the heading of the individual Trip Notes. In addition, the altitudes of each camp and each pass are listed in the daily itinerary. You should read the Trip Notes carefully and use your judgment to gauge whether your chosen holiday is suitable for your level of experience. If you have any doubts at all you should contact our office. Our experienced staff is more than happy to talk about altitude-related issues during our holidays.
The human body is capable of adapting to a very wide range of barometric pressures. This adaptation process is known as acclimatization and it does take time. The most important rule is to gain height slowly and it is generally accepted that the maximum safe altitude gain in any one day is 500 meters once above 2500 meters. Where this is not possible, then it is important to have a rest or acclimatization day at the new altitude before gaining further height. In general the maxim ‘climb high and sleep low' applies. It is perfectly acceptable (and even beneficial to your acclimatization) to climb higher than 500 meters above your last camp (for example when crossing a high pass) as long as the increase in sleeping altitude remains within the above rule.
There is a correlation between daily fluid intake and successful acclimatization and you must pay particular attention to hydration during trekking at high altitudes. On treks to 3000 meters and above most people will need to drink between 4 and 6 liters each day to achieve suitable hydration levels and you must adopt a responsible approach to achieving this target.
Before embarking on a trek to high altitude it is important that you familiarize yourself with the signs and symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) and that you report any illness to your tip leader straight away. See the links at the bottom of this page for further reading on AMS.
There are a number of untested herbal remedies which claim to prevent mountain sickness. However, only one drug is currently known to have a useful role in preventing AMS and to be safe for this purpose: acetazolamide (Diamox). We recommend that you carry Diamox in your first aid kit for treks where you spend an extended period above 4000m. Diamox can only be obtained from a medical professional on prescription and it is important that you first consult your own doctor so that you know there are no contra indications with other medicines you may be taking and that you do not have an allergy to acetazolamide. Diamox commonly causes some minor side effects, such as tingling fingers and toes, or a metallic taste in the mouth, but more severe reactions are rare. On trek, the decision whether or not and when, you should take Diamox as with any drug, will rest solely with you. If you intend to take Diamox, you must familiarize yourself with the appropriate dosage and regime prior to coming on the trip. The links at the bottom of this page will provide further information on the use of Diamox as an aid to acclimatization.
Travelling to high altitudes is not something you need to be scared of. Every year thousands of people enjoy the most amazing experiences in the world's greatest mountain ranges. Altitude sickness is entirely preventable if you follow very simple rules and procedures. Please make sure you are aware of these before you travel.
SUMMARY OF DIFFICULTY
The hike up to our campsite is a moderate 6 miles and 1400ft of elevation gain. The scramble up to Pyramid Ridge can be steep and difficult, but very adventurous and with just light day packs.Hiking
Please Note: Terrain, Elevation Gain and Heights Exposure ratings reflect the section or day of the trip with the maximum difficulty of each. Much of the trip is at easier levels. See the trip itinerary for more detailed information. Backpack Weight ratings are estimates that account for Wildland-provided gear, guest clothing, personal items and a share of group food. By packing light it’s often possible to stay on the lower end of the weight range. Pack weights also decrease during the trip.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
To show the relative difficulty of our adventure holidays, each trip is graded on a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 being the most challenging. Our simple, colour-coded grade symbol provides an indication of the difficulty of each trip.
Clearly, there are many different factors that contribute to the difficulty of a particular holiday, including, length of day, terrain, type of accommodation, altitude and weather conditions. Since some of these factors are necessarily changeable, any system of grades can only provide a general indication. If you have any questions about the nature of a particular trip or its suitability for you, please read the detailed Trip Notes and if you are still unsure, please do not hesitate to contact us
GREEN 1 - 4 LEISURELY
Suitable for most people in good health, holidays at this grade include only limited amounts of activity.
YELLOW 5 - 7 MODERATE
Suitable for reasonably fit individuals, such as weekend walkers and cyclists. There can be the occasional more difficult day.
RED 08 - 10 TOUGH
Our toughest holidays, involve many long days, often in isolated areas. A high level of fitness and previous wilderness experience is essential.
SUMMARY OF DIFFICULTY
The hike up to our campsite is a moderate 6 miles and 1400ft of elevation gain. The scramble up to Pyramid Ridge can be steep and difficult, but very adventurous and with just light day packs.Hiking
Please Note: Terrain, Elevation Gain and Heights Exposure ratings reflect the section or day of the trip with the maximum difficulty of each. Much of the trip is at easier levels. See the trip itinerary for more detailed information. Backpack Weight ratings are estimates that account for Wildland-provided gear, guest clothing, personal items and a share of group food. By packing light it’s often possible to stay on the lower end of the weight range. Pack weights also decrease during the trip.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
To show the relative difficulty of our adventure holidays, each trip is graded on a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 being the most challenging. Our simple, colour-coded grade symbol provides an indication of the difficulty of each trip.
Clearly, there are many different factors that contribute to the difficulty of a particular holiday, including, length of day, terrain, type of accommodation, altitude and weather conditions. Since some of these factors are necessarily changeable, any system of grades can only provide a general indication. If you have any questions about the nature of a particular trip or its suitability for you, please read the detailed Trip Notes and if you are still unsure, please do not hesitate to contact us
Suitable for most people in good health, holidays at this grade include only limited amounts of activity.
Suitable for reasonably fit individuals, such as weekend walkers and cyclists. There can be the occasional more difficult day.
Our toughest holidays, involve many long days, often in isolated areas. A high level of fitness and previous wilderness experience is essential.
