If you’re searching for an opportunity to take some time off and recharge your batteries, now is as good a time as any to pack up for a trip to the North. With grand mountain ranges, tranquil and turbulent rivers, mesmerizing meadows, and massive glaciers, the northern areas have an enthralling landscape. One of the most popular destinations in Northern Pakistan is the Hunza Valley, often referred to as ‘heaven on earth’. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains, Hunza has something for everyone. Here are a few reasons why you should consider visiting it.
Attabad Lake
Formed due to a massive landslide in Attabad village in 2010, the lake’s stunning turquoise waters are now a popular tourist attraction. The contrasting browns and greys of the surrounding mountains provide a great backdrop to the blue and green hues of the lake. Several of the submerged houses are still visible beneath the blue waters, and the lake is well-known for its boating facility.
A tourist with a jeep crosses Attabad lake on a boat. Image from Wikimedia Commons
Altit Fort
Along with its famed natural beauty, Hunza has a rich history. The Altit Fort is nearly 1100 years old and is the oldest monument in Gilgit-Baltistan. Originally, it was home to the rulers or the Mirs of Hunza who later moved to the newer Baltit Fort. The Altit Fort was gifted to the Aga Khan Foundation in 1990, and with the help of the government of Norway, it has been restored to its former glory.
A view of Altit Fort in Karimabad, Hunza. Image from Wikimedia Commons
Baltit Fort
The newer Baltit Fort was constructed nearly 700 years ago and its construction was influenced by a Tibetan design. The Fort was inhabited by the ruling family until 1945, after which it fell into disrepair. It was restored and inaugurated in 1996. It is now open to the public.
Fruits
One cannot describe Hunza without mentioning its abundance of fruits. While several fruits are grown in Hunza, apricots and cherries are among the most popular ones. A glass of apricot juice after an exhausting day of exploration is heavenly.
Fresh apricots laid out on the ground soon after being picked from trees. Image from Wikimedia Commons
These are just a few of the reasons you should seriously consider going to Hunza. A pleasant climate, hospitable people, a vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty are waiting for you should you plan to visit Hunza. The city and its surroundings have a lot to offer and this post barely touched the tip of the iceberg.