Hunza Valley Travel Guide: Karakoram Highway, Passu Cones & China Border
Published by Royal Route Travel & Tours | Complete Sightseeing Guide
Hunza Valley, situated in the breathtaking Gilgit-Baltistan region of Pakistan, is world-famous for its majestic snow-capped peaks, vibrant apricot orchards, turquoise lakes, and historic Silk Route heritage. Nestled along the iconic Karakoram Highway (KKH), Hunza offers an unmatched road trip adventure through the world's highest mountain ranges.
From navigating through the high-speed Hazara Expressway and crossing high-altitude mountain passes like Babusar Top to standing at the world's highest paved border crossing at Khunjerab Pass (Pakistan-China Border), this comprehensive travel roadmap curated by Royal Route Travel & Tours covers every iconic stop along the way.
Journey Highlights & Scenic Highway Route
Road Route Highlights from Islamabad/Lahore
The road trip to Hunza is an epic journey through changing landscapes:
- Hazara Expressway & Tunnels: Smooth transit through Abbottabad and Mansehra.
- Kaghan Valley Drive: Balakot, Kaghan, Naran, Lulusar Lake & Babusar Top (13,690 ft).
- Chilas & Indus River Flow: Joining the mighty River Indus along the Karakoram Highway.
- 3 Mountain Ranges Junction: Meeting point of the Himalayas, Karakoram, and Hindu Kush.
- Tectonic Plate Junction: Collision point of Indian and Eurasian continental plates.
- Old Silk Route Viewpoint: Historical trade route carved into sheer rock faces.
- Nanga Parbat Viewpoint: Dramatic distant view of the "Killer Mountain" (8,126 m).
1. The Mighty River Indus & Karakoram Highway
As you cross Chilas and head towards Gilgit, the road runs alongside the roaring River Indus. Built along the ancient trade paths, the Majestic Karakoram Highway (KKH) is celebrated as the "8th Wonder of the World," carving through towering granite canyons and offer unforgettable road trips.
Key Stops: Rakaposhi View Point at Ghulmet (Minapin) for fresh cherry juice and ice-cold mountain stream views.
Top Places & Attractions in Central & Upper Hunza
2. Karimabad, Baltit Fort & Local Bazaar
Karimabad is the cultural heart of Central Hunza. Cobblestone streets lead up to the historic 700-year-old Baltit Fort and 900-year-old Altit Fort. The lively Karimabad Bazaar is famous for hand-carved gemstones, local walnut cakes, traditional Kashmiri/Hunza shawls, and dried organic fruits.
Must-Visit Spot: Eagle's Nest viewpoint at sunset for 360-degree views of Rakaposhi, Diran Peak, and Ladyfinger Peak.
3. Attabad Lake & Attabad Tunnels
Created in 2010, Attabad Lake is famous for its striking turquoise-blue glacial water. Nestled between massive mountain cliffs, travelers can enjoy jet skiing, motor boating, and kayaking. Passing through the 5-kilometer-long Pak-China Friendship (Attabad) Tunnels adds a modern touch to this wilderness adventure.
Activity Highlight: Speedboat rides across the crystal waters with dramatic cliff backdrops.
4. Hussaini Suspension Bridge
Cross the Hunza River on the world-famous Hussaini Suspension Bridge in Gojal Valley. Known as one of the most adventurous pedestrian bridges in the world, its widely spaced wooden planks over gushing river currents draw thrill-seekers from all across the globe.
Pro Tip: Enjoy fresh apricot soup or yak burgers at local cafes right beside the bridge entrance.
5. Passu Cones & Passu Glacier
The jagged, needle-like mountain peaks known as Passu Cones (Passu Cathedral) rise dramatically to over 6,106 meters along the highway. Whether viewed during summer green pastures or frozen under winter snow, Passu offers some of the most photographed mountain landscapes in Asia.
Passu Cones along KKH
Passu Valley in Winter Snow
6. Sust Dry Port & Khunjerab Pass (China Border)
Passing through Sust Bazaar (Pakistan's border customs town), the highway winds up through Khunjerab National Park to Khunjerab Pass at an altitude of 15,397 feet (4,693 meters). Here stands the iconic Pak-China Border monument and the world's highest ATM.
Travel Tip: Keep warm jackets ready even during peak summer, as temperatures at the border monument often drop below freezing.
Recommended 5-Day Hunza & Khunjerab Itinerary
Day 1: Departure via Naran / Babusar to Chilas
Early morning departure from Islamabad via Hazara Motorway, Naran Valley, Lulusar Lake, and Babusar Top. Overnight stay at Chilas or Gilgit.
Day 2: 3-Mountain Junction, Rakaposhi & Karimabad
Stop at 3 Mountain Ranges Junction and Rakaposhi View Point. Arrive in Karimabad, visit Baltit Fort, explore local bazaar, and watch sunset from Eagle's Nest.
Day 3: Attabad Lake, Hussaini Bridge & Passu Cones
Drive through Attabad Tunnels for boating at Attabad Lake. Walk on Hussaini Suspension Bridge and take photos at Passu Cones. Overnight stay at Passu or Gulmit.
Day 4: Sust Dry Port & Khunjerab Pass (China Border)
Day excursion to Sust Bazaar and up to Khunjerab Pass (Pak-China Border). Return to Hunza/Gilgit for overnight stay.
Day 5: Return Journey to Islamabad / Lahore
Begin return journey along Karakoram Highway back to Islamabad or Lahore by late night.
Book Your Hunza Tour Package with Royal Route
Hassle-free family, honeymoon, and corporate group tours to Hunza from Lahore & Islamabad. Includes coaster/hiace transport, luxury hotel stays, and expert local guides.