Introduction: Where Giants Touch the Sky
Imagin being in the midst of a landscape dramatic enough to appear otherworldly. Jagged mountains, snow-crusted, thrust at a sky as impossibly blue as a gemstone, ancient glaciers tumble down ravines, and jewel-like lakes of turquoise gleam. And this is not a fantasy, but a jewel in the crown of the north of Pakistan, the breathtaking Gilgit-Baltistan. And over this pictorial mishmash? The iconic Passu Cones.
This guide opens the door to all that you need in order to see this magic – not only how to go there and where to find the best stay (even a luxus resort) but also how to conquer the lake of Attabad and get to know what kind of unique rhythm of life is in northern Pakistan.
1. The Allure of Passu Cones: Hunza's Iconic Skyline
The Passu Cones (also known as Passu Cathedral) are a row of tough jagged mountains carved by years of wind and ice that have sharp edges rising up to an altitude of more than 6,000 m (20,000 ft) elevation just past the village of Passu. They comprise one of the most photographed and recognisable skylines of the whole of Gilgit-Baltistan. Their naked beauty, more particularly when illumined by the golden rays of sunset or dawn, is a soul-thrilling spectacle. And seen along the Karakoram Highway (KKH), they are a constant and grand accompaniment as one travels in upper Hunza.
2. Journey to Paradise: Reaching Valley & Passu Cones
Getting to this remote wonder requires adventure, but the rewards are immeasurable. Here’s your roadmap:
By Air (The Quickest Leap):
Fly into Islamabad International Airport (ISB).
Catch a connecting flight to Gilgit Airport (GIL) with Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) or Serene Air. Crucial Tip: Flights are highly weather-dependent and book up fast, especially in peak season (May-Oct). Book months ahead!
From Gilgit to Hunza/Passu: Hire a pre-arranged car/jeep (approx. 2.5-3.5 hours drive) via the KKH. Shared vans are cheaper but less comfortable.
Cost Estimate: Islamabad-Gilgit flight: PKR 12,000 – PKR 18,000 (one-way). Gilgit-Hunza private car: PKR 6,000 – PKR 10,000.
By Road (The Epic Adventure):
From Islamabad/Rawalpindi: Embark on the legendary Karakoram Highway (KKH). The journey takes 14-20+ hours, often broken into 2 days. Stopovers in Besham or Chilas are common.
Route: Islamabad -> Mansehra -> Thakot -> Besham -> Dasu -> Chilas -> Gilgit -> Hunza Valley -> Passu.
Options:
Self-Drive: Requires experience with mountain roads. A 4×4 is recommended.
Private Car/Jeep with Driver: Most comfortable and flexible. Cost: PKR 35,000 – PKR 60,000+ (Islamabad-Hunza round trip, depending on vehicle/duration).
NATCO/Siachin Buses: Cheaper public buses (PKR 2,500 – PKR 4,000 one-way) but long, less comfortable journeys. Book seats early.
The Drive Itself: The KKH through northern Pakistan is an attraction! Expect dramatic gorges (like the Indus Gorge), suspension bridges, and ever-changing landscapes.
3. Sleeping Under the Peaks: Valley Accommodation for Every Wallet
Valley offers stays ranging from basic homestays to breathtaking luxus resort experiences. Prices fluctuate significantly with seasons (highest May-Oct). Here’s a snapshot:
| Accommodation Type | Price Range (Per Night) | Examples (Area) | Experience |
|---|---|---|---|
| Budget (Homestays/Guesthouses) | PKR 1,500 – PKR 4,000 | Passu Inn (Passu), Old Hunza Inn (Karimabad) | Basic rooms, shared baths, authentic local feel, stunning views often included! |
| Mid-Range (Hotels/Lodges) | PKR 4,000 – PKR 12,000 | Hilltop Hotel (Duikar), Glacier Breeze (Passu), Karimabad View Hotel | Private baths, hot water, good food, balconies with mountain/lake views. |
| Luxury (Resorts) | PKR 12,000 – PKR 30,000+ | Hunza Serena Inn (Karimabad), Eagle’s Nest Hotel (Duikar) | Premium amenities, exceptional service, fine dining, spa facilities, panoramic vistas. |
| Luxus Resort (Premium) | PKR 30,000 – PKR 70,000+ | Hunza Darbar Hotel (Altit Fort), Luxus Hunza (Ganish) | Ultimate indulgence, unique locations (e.g., near forts), designer decor, exclusive experiences, impeccable service. |
Pro Tip: Book WELL in advance, especially for luxury/luxus options and peak season. Karimabad (central Hunza) and Passu (closest to Passu Cones) are popular hubs. Duikar offers the highest village views.
4. Dancing with the Seasons: Valley Weather Decoded
Gilgit-Baltistan weather makes your experience:
Spring (April – Mid-June): “good days” (10degC – 20degC), cold nights. Blossoming of the apricot/almond trees paint the valleys with pink and white. Ideal photography and moderate trekking. Occasional showers.
Summer (Mid-June – August): high season! Hot days (15degC -25degC), cool nights. Green vegetation, blue skies, (mostly). Best of all activities, and the busiest. Afternoon thunderstorms.
Autumn (September – October): It is the arguably the greatest time. Clear air, daytime (10degC – 20degC), nights are cold. The landscape bursts in gold, red and orange. Gorgeous to walk and take pictures.
Winter (November – March): Rough and frigid. High passes (such as Khunjerab) are blocked by heavy snowfall. Temperature drops to below freezing (-5degC to -15degC). Many hotels/resorts close. Only when you are hardcore. Passu Cones appear magnificent snow-crowned, though few have entry.
Best Time of Year: best weather and scenery during September-October. May – June for spring blossoms.
5. Beyond Passu Cones: Hunza's Unmissable Treasures
While the Passu Cones dominate the view, Valley is packed with wonders:
Attabad Lake: The Turquoise Miracle (Detailed Guide Below!)
Baltit Fort & Altit Fort (Karimabad): Centuries-old UNESCO-nominated forts showcasing Hunza’s rich history and architecture. Stunning views. (Entry: PKR 500-800).
Eagle’s Nest (Duikar): Highest viewpoint in central Valley. Panoramic sunrise/sunset views over Rakaposhi, Diran, and the entire valley. (Accessible by jeep/hike).
Khunjerab Pass (Border with China): World’s highest paved border crossing (4,733m). Stunning high-altitude desert landscape. Requires passport/IDP. (Day trip from Hunza).
Hussaini Suspension Bridge & Borith Lake (Near Passu): Test your nerves on the (in)famous wobbly bridge. Serene Borith Lake nearby is great for birdwatching.
Local Villages (Ganish, Gulmit): Experience authentic Hunza culture, ancient mosques, and warm hospitality.
6. Attabad Lake: Hunza's Jewel - Your Complete Guide
Having been created as a result of a tragic event in 2010 (a colossal landslide on the Hunza River), Attabad Lake is now a stunning embodiment of the power of nature.
The Story: The landslide drowned villages and left thousands homeless, yet left behind this 21km long, surreal turquoise-blue lake.
Location: 30-45 mins drive (Karbimabad) towards Passu/Khunjerab (central Hunza) Easily accessible via KKH.
The Experience:
Boat Rides: The activity to-do! Cruise over the blue waters in the sky, past trees that are underwater and look up at the mountains that are towering. Excursions can be as short as 30 minutes (PKR 1000-1500/person) or include longer trips to the landslide area or via to Gulmit/Passu (PKR 3000-5000/person).
Sights: Pit stops en route to KKH to take iconic photographs. The China Bridge Viewpoint is a very popular one.
Cafes along the lake: have tea or local food with astonishing views (e.g., Sheesh Mahal Restaurant).
Best Time to Visit: The clearest mornings have the brightest turquoise hue. Autumn and spring are the most comfortable seasons.
Pro Tip: Pair your visit with a trip to Passu Cones which are within close proximity. The lake is spectacular due to the water – do not sightsee it at the road!
7. Essential Travel Tips for Your Adventure
King Cash: There are few ATMs, particularly beyond Karimabad. Bring enough Pakistani rupee (PKR).
Connectivity: Mobile networks (Jazz, Telenor, SCOM) operate in towns, and there will be limited/no signal in remote places. Wi-Fi is slow/unreliable. Embrace the digital detox!
Beautify the Culture: Hunza is majority Ismaili Muslim. Wear plainly (women in particular cover shoulders/knees). Ask before taking pictures of people.
Altitude Awareness: Valley is at an altitude of approximately 2,500m. Altitude sickness is generally gentle in nature but copiously fluid and slows upward. Khunjerab Pass is extremely high (4,733m) – acclimate appropriately.
Pack Smart: Layers are necessary! Sunglasses, sunscreen, hat, heavy walking shoes, reusable water bottle, simple medicine, power bank.
Be Responsible: Use less plastic. Support local businesses. Treat nature well, with no footprint.
Permits: Not normally required in Hunza/Passu. Passport/IDP (see up-to-date regulations) is needed in Khunjerab Pass.
Conclusion: Your Passu Cones Dream Awaits
The Passu Cones are not mere mountains, but the guard dogs of a land where natural grandeur and high culture mingle. The city of Hunza, located in the centre of Gilgit-Baltistan provides a refuge that restores the spirit. Be it the blue miracle of Attabad Lake, ancient forts, walks amidst apricot orchards, or just drinking tea sitting in front of those legendary jagged towers, the northern regions of Pakistan offer an adventure that leaves an imprint on your heart. Experience the excitement of the KKH adventure or the warmth of a comfortable homestay or the luxury of a luxus resort, northern Pakistan is waiting to greet you. You are ready to start planning – your memorable trip to the mountains!