Nestled in the heart of Gilgit-Baltistan, Hunza Valley is one of the most breathtaking travel destinations in Pakistan. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks, turquoise lakes, ancient forts, and charming mountain villages, Hunza has become a dream destination for both domestic and international travelers.
Whether you're planning a honeymoon, family vacation, road trip, photography expedition, or adventure tour, this complete Hunza Valley travel guide for 2026 covers everything you need to know — including the best time to visit, top attractions, itinerary ideas, travel costs, routes, hotels, food, safety tips, and more.
Why Visit Hunza Valley?
Hunza Valley offers a rare combination of:
Massive Karakoram mountain views
Crystal-clear lakes
Rich Wakhi and Burusho culture
Ancient forts and Silk Route history
Safe and welcoming local communities
Epic road trips on the Karakoram Highway
Adventure tourism and trekking
Luxury and budget travel experiences
Hunza is often called:
“Pakistan’s heaven on earth.”
Where is Hunza Valley Located?
Hunza Valley is located in the northernmost region of Pakistan in Gilgit-Baltistan, near the Chinese border.
Distance from Major Cities
City Approx Distance
Islamabad 600 km
Lahore 900+ km
Karachi 1,400+ km
Gilgit 100 km
Best Time to Visit Hunza Valley
Spring (March–April)
Best for:
Cherry blossoms
Blooming apricot trees
Pleasant weather
Photography
Summer (May–August)
Best for:
Family tours
Road trips
Sightseeing
Camping
Temperature ranges from 15°C to 30°C.
Autumn (September–October)
Best for:
Golden autumn landscapes
Fewer crowds
Cinematic mountain scenery
This is considered the most beautiful season in Hunza.
Winter (November–February)
Best for:
Snowfall lovers
Winter photography
Quiet luxury travel
Road closures may occur during heavy snowfall.
How to Reach Hunza Valley
By Road
The most popular route is:
Islamabad → Abbottabad → Besham → Chilas → Gilgit → Hunza
Travel time:
16–20 hours depending on traffic and weather
The journey follows the legendary:
Karakoram Highway
which is considered one of the world’s most scenic highways.
By Air
You can fly from:
Karachi
Lahore
Islamabad
to:
Gilgit Airport
Then travel by road to Hunza (2–3 hours).
Another premium option is:
Direct Skardu flights + private road transfer
Top Places to Visit in Hunza Valley
1. Attabad Lake
Attabad Lake is famous for its unreal turquoise water formed after the 2010 landslide.
Things to do:
Boating
Jet skiing
Kayaking
Photography
2. Baltit Fort
Baltit Fort is a 700-year-old fort overlooking Karimabad.
Highlights:
Tibetan-inspired architecture
Hunza royal history
Panoramic valley views
3. Passu Cones
Passu Cones are among the most photographed mountain peaks in Pakistan.
Perfect for:
Drone shots
Landscape photography
Camping
4. Hussaini Suspension Bridge
Hussaini Suspension Bridge is one of the most thrilling bridges in the world.
Ideal for adventure lovers and vloggers.
5. Eagle’s Nest Viewpoint
The best sunset point in Hunza.
Located above Duikar village, this viewpoint offers:
Golden mountain views
Rakaposhi panorama
Milky Way photography
6. Khunjerab Pass
Khunjerab Pass is the highest paved international border crossing in the world at 4,693 meters.
Suggested 5-Day Hunza Itinerary
Day 1
Islamabad → Chilas
Day 2
Chilas → Hunza
Visit:
Rakaposhi Viewpoint
Karimabad Bazaar
Day 3
Explore Hunza
Baltit Fort
Altit Fort
Eagle’s Nest
Local cafés
Day 4
Upper Hunza Excursion
Attabad Lake
Passu Cones
Hussaini Bridge
Khunjerab Pass
Day 5
Return to Islamabad
Average Hunza Trip Cost in 2026
Budget Trip
PKR 20,000–35,000 per person
Standard Group Tour
PKR 35,000–60,000 per person
Luxury Tour
PKR 100,000+ per person
Costs vary depending on:
Transport
Hotel category
Duration
Air vs road travel
Best Hotels in Hunza Valley
Luxury Hotels
Serena Hunza
Luxus Hunza
Hard Rock Hunza
Mid-Range Hotels
Mulberry Hotel
Hunza Elites
Darbar Hotel
Budget Options
Local guest houses
Backpacker hostels
Campsites
Local Food You Must Try
Hunza cuisine is organic and healthy.
Popular dishes:
Chapshuro
Hunza bread
Yak meat dishes
Walnut cake
Apricot desserts
Don’t miss traditional mountain tea.
Is Hunza Safe for Tourists?
Yes. Hunza is considered one of the safest tourist destinations in Pakistan.
Locals are known for:
Hospitality
Cleanliness
Respectful culture
Both families and solo travelers frequently visit the valley.
International tourists also travel comfortably in Hunza.
Travel Tips for Hunza Valley
Carry warm clothes even in summer
Keep cash for remote areas
Download offline maps
Avoid night driving in mountains
Book hotels in advance during peak season
Bring sunscreen and sunglasses
Internet & Mobile Network
Networks available:
SCOM
Zong (limited)
Telenor (limited)
WiFi is available in most hotels but speeds may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days are enough for Hunza?
5–7 days are ideal.
Can families travel to Hunza?
Yes, Hunza is family-friendly and safe.
Is Hunza expensive?
Hunza can fit both budget and luxury travelers.
Which is better: Hunza or Skardu?
Hunza is better for culture and road trips, while Skardu is better for lakes and wilderness landscapes.
Final Thoughts
Hunza Valley is more than just a tourist destination — it’s an experience filled with mountains, culture, adventure, peace, and unforgettable scenery.
Whether you're traveling solo, with family, friends, or your partner, Hunza Valley should be on your 2026 bucket list.
If you're planning a trip to Northern Pakistan, Hunza is the perfect place to begin your journey.