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Thursday, March 18, 2010

HUNZA VALLEY



Situated in the heart of the Karakorams, the legendary mountain kingdom of Hunza lies on the ancient trade route to Sinkiang; today the Karakoramregion, which was a semi autonomous state but is now fully unified with Pakistan. Hunza is an earthly paradise whose inhabitants are renowned for their longevity, their simplicity Highway runs along this route. Very few places in the world compare with this small mountainous and natural diet. The scenic beauty of this area, with its greenery and snowbound mountains, makes it a true paradise. During the summer there is an abundance of apricots, peaches, pears and grapes. There are several glaciers and high peaks around Hunza, the most magnificent being Rakaposhi (7,788m). Hunza is also known for its unpolluted mountain air, which caused this area to be known as �Shangri-La�. Karimabad is the main town of Hunza. The blossoming and autumn at Hunza are really worth seeing and attract thousands of tourists, especially from Japan.
A) NAGAR AND HOPER - Half Day
High snowcapped mountains surround the village of Hoper, a mere 14 Km from Karimabad, Hunza. Hoper offers a fine view of Ultar Peak (7,388m) and Barpu glacier. A leisurely stroll through the tiny picturesque village will give you an opportunity to observe the everyday life of the countryside. Hoper is another popular trekking spot, offering a natural blend of ruggedness and scenic beauty. The valley of Nagar lies opposite the town.
B) GULMIT, GHULKIN AND BATURA GLACIER - Full Day
The Wakhi people who centuries ago took refuge in the territories of the Mir of Hunza populates the villages of Gulmit and Ghulkin. The ruggedness of the Upper Hunza Valley is emphasized by the majestic peaks of Batura and Passu, which tower over the towns below and Batura glacier, which encircle the valley to the northeast.
C) KARIMABAD, BALTIT & ALTIT - Half Day
In the shadow of the Ultar Peak lie Baltit and Karimabad. A walk past the terraced fields and numerous apricot trees of the valley will give you an experience of the peace and serenity of this Shangri-La. A slightly more arduous path leads to Baltit Fort. Home of the former Mirs, it resembles a Ladak monastery on the outside, while the inside is a wonderland of haphazard rooms. This fort has been recently renovated and converted into museum. This excursion also visits the village of Altit on the other side of the valley along with the old fort, which overlooks the Karakoram Highway, a camel route of bygone days.
D) KHUNJERAB PASS - Full Day
In the old days there were few high passes leading into China that were suitable for the overland travel. Today the Khunjerab Pass, which at an altitude of 4733m is the highest point on the Karakoram Highway, makes an easy all-weather entry into the famous Sinkiang province of the China. This route is a beautiful drive with views of the high mountains of the Karakorams and the distant Pamir Mountain Ranges. At Khunjerab, now declared a national park, one can see Marco Polo Sheep (avis ammon poli)
E) DUIKER (EAGLE�S NEST) - Half Day
Duiker is a prospect point located at a height of 2900m in the footsteps of Ultar Peak. It is a 45-minutes jeep drive from Karimabad and also approachable by a walk of about 03 hours. Duiker offers a superb views back over Hunza and Nagar to Rakaposhi peak and other famous peaks like Golden, Lady Finger, Ultar I & II, Diran, Rush, Spantik etc. The best time to visit Duiker is just before sunrise and sunset.

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