Hunza, Pakistan has one of the most beautiful landscapes in the entire world – breathtaking views I can only describe as ‘heavenly.’

If possible, your trip to Pakistan needs to include a day (or many) in the Hunza Valley.

In this article I will give you details on things to do and food to eat in one ultimate day in the Hunza Valley.

Watch the full video:

You can watch this entire day of attractions and authentic food in Hunza Valley in this video.

(Or watch it on YouTube here)

things to do in Hunza Valley
Sweeping Mountain landscapes from nearly every window in town

9 Things To Do in Hunza Valley (in one day)

Gilgit-Baltistan (called GB) is the Northernmost province in Pakistan. It is home to Hunza, some of the most amazing scenery on the entire earth, and a day spent there is like a day from a dream.

A complete experience in Hunza would have to include scenery, culture, some history, and of course, a lot of authentic and local Hunza food (traditionally know for its long life properties).

So let’s get started!

Here are your 9 Things to Do to make the most of your day in the Hunza Valley.

Accommodation in Hunza Valley: Thank you to Hunza Serena Inn for sponsoring our hotel accommodation stay in Hunza Valley. It’s one of the best places to stay, with great hospitality, comfortable rooms, and a spectacular view. We had a fantastic stay.

Mt. Rakaposhi in Baltistan
Dirt road up to Rakaposhi Base Camp

1. Rakaposhi Mountain View at Sunrise (6AM)

If I told you a story about hiking on a 6,000 meter peak, would you be impressed?

Anywhere else, I’m sure you would – but not in Hunza!

In Hunza, the mountains are so incredibly massive, most peaks under 20,000 feet aren’t even tall enough to have a name.

From the town of Karimabad, you can see three of the world’s highest mountain peaks – Bublimotin or Ladyfinger Peak (7,400m), Ultar Sar (7,500m), and the stunning Rakaposhi (7,788m).

On a clear day, look South from Karimabad town (the sun’s rays will be coming from your left), and see the towering white form of Rakaposhi looking down on the entire Hunza valley.

If the mountain peak is not visible, it is still worth waking up early, because that means more time to get excited about breakfast.

Serena Gilgit Hotel Breakfast
Breakfast in Hunza including Gyal and Local Muesli

2. Eat ‘Gyal’ – A Local Hunza Breakfast (7AM)

Gyal

Gyal is a traditional local breakfast food, wheat pan-fried cakes with honey or fruit jam and the local favorite ingredient, apricot oil.

The apricot oil creates such a sweet aroma to go with the smoky flavors from the charcoal or wood used in cooking.

There are several different types of gyal, and the thing I love about this dish is how it is so simple and hearty, the perfect combination for a morning cup of buttery hot milk tea.

Local Oats (Muesli)

Honestly this is one of the tastiest breakfast foods ever, and I am not entirely sure I can name all the parts.

Almonds, Walnuts, Brown Flaxseed, and Apricot Seeds, all roasted perfectly and then ground, sprinkled over a combination of barley and a local species of wheat germ.

It is heavenly when topped off with a scoop of fresh locally made cream or yogurt and a spoonful of honey.*

Other Options

We stayed at the Serena Hotel, where the breakfast options included all of these dishes and more. If you aren’t staying at a hotel, then the Karimabad market is the most likely place to find the dishes mentioned above. If you do visit this market, also worth trying are Mantu/Mantou (a Chinese-style meat-filled wheat dumpling).

*We ate this great breakfast at Hunza Serena Inn, where they responsibly source their own organic honey, assisting local farmers in production and fair sales.

Baltit Fort in Gilgit-Baltistan
Baltit Fort overlooks the town of Karimabad in Hunza Valley

3. Climb to Baltit Fort (9AM)

Baltit Fort is a beautiful landmark of the town of Karimabad (the largest town in the Hunza Valley). Once the ruling seat of the Hunza Kingdom, it has been standing overlooking the valley for over 700 years.

It also means that this is one of the best places for an entire view of both Karimabad and the Hunza Valley.

The climb up may be strenuous for some, remember to take time to allow your body to acclimatize to the Hunza Valley’s high elevation.

The short but steep ascent is worth it though – the views here are stunning. You are also in the perfect place to enjoy a few snacks on the way down, an immediate reward for your morning exercise.

Address: Google Maps
Open hours: 9 AM – 5 PM
Price: Free to climb, 400PKR for entrance to the museum (includes Guide)

Hunza Water from Mt. Rakaposhi
Delicious glacial melt from the mighty Mt. Rakaposhi

4. Increase your Lifespan with “Hunza Water”

Expensive bottles of mineral water can’t compare to the life-giving benefits in the water that Hunza residents drink for free.

Some of the longest-living people on planet earth, scientists have named this glacial drinking water as the number one life-prolonging secret to people living in Hunza.

Hunza Water is not a joke, it comes from Himalayan-glacial melt, has an unnaturally alkaline pH-level (meaning a high pH), and “extraordinary levels of active hydrogen.” The Hunza Valley region makes this ultra-pure possible due to the remoteness of these mountains (ever remaining free of pollution).

Some other countries have now learned to ionize their water to resemble Hunza Water, perfecting things like tea ceremonies, or hospital-grade sanitation.

We enjoyed drinking directly from a glacial-stream flowing off of Mt. Rakaposhi, during the drive from Gilgit Town to Hunza Valley the day before. The water glitters like crystal, is of course icy cold, and very refreshing.

Apple Juice in the Hunza Valley
Apple juice is freshest than when standing under the Apple Tree

5. Snacks of Apples or Dried Fruit (10AM)

Apples and Apple Juice

Apples are probably the most famous produce from Hunza Valley, and you can see orchards reaching up the mountain sides in all directions.

They have many different varieties, sweet, crispy, tart and juicy – if you see an apply tree, try eating one while its still attached to the stem.

Not only are the apples very inexpensive here, a local friend even jokingly cautioned me on how ‘they are so good, that you might even be in danger of not wanting an apple anywhere else again.’

Dried Fruits from Hunza

This valley is sitting at a perfect altitude to grow many fruits that may often be extremely expensive in other parts of the world.

Make sure to try the locally grown almonds, walnuts, apricots, and grapes. If you want a taste adventure, look out for the very sour but delicious-smelling local species of quince (also called a ‘Queen Apple’).

Dried fruits are sold everywhere in local shops, and are a big part of the sales at the local Karimabad Market. These are also exported to larger shops elsewhere in Pakistan, so buying them here usually lowers prices. Spend 300-500PKR for large bags of dried mulberries, grapes, persimmons, walnuts, and almonds, and then anywhere from 150-350 for dried apricots, depending on quality.

Attabad Lake in Northern Pakistan
Attabad Lake has some of the bluest water you can imagine

6. Boat Ride on Attabad Lake (11 AM)

After lunch, you have a decision to make. If you have your own transportation, or have access to a rental vehicle, I would recommend the short trip to Attabad Lake, one of the truly majestic attractions near Hunza Valley.

If not, then simply finding a nice spot to soak up more of the valley’s stunning scenery is never a bad way to prepare yourself for lunch. Also, think about a warm beverage at Cafe de Hunza (more details below)

The Most Vibrant of All Things Blue

The stunning beauty of Attabad Lake (sometimes ‘Atta Abad’) is the result of a massive landslide in 2010. Surrounding the lake on all sides are towering steely gray rock faces, examples of the starkness of the Karakoram Mountain Range.

The lake surface reflects a color of the most vibrant blue I can imagine, a color so powerful you have to see it to believe. There is a wonderful restaurant next to a roadside viewpoint above the lake, stop here for a cup of steaming dud pathi milk tea and enjoy the panoramic lake view.

Finally, if you walk down to the lakeside itself, there are boats waiting to take you for a 15-30 minute trip around the lake.

Location: Google Maps
Open hours: All Daylight Hours
Price: Expect to pay around 2000PKR for the entire boat (can hold 15 people)

Hunza Food Pavilion in Karimabad
Try the Hunza Food Pavilion for wonderful home-cooked food

7. Have a Hearty Hunza Lunch (2 PM)

Walking outside in the brisk Hunza air is a wonderful change from the hot and humid Indus River Valley, and right about now you should find yourself quite hungry for a warming and hearty local lunch.

I recommend eating at Hunza Food Pavilion, where the amazing Aunty makes completely authentic local Hunza Valley dishes, all the cooking done in-house and done fresh. It is (usually) run by two ladies who don’t start cooking until you order, so you know that every dish is fresh.

The Aunties are quick to tell you their food is all organic, and most of the ingredients they use are actually home-grown. The cooking here is full of authentic local Hunza flavor, scroll down to learn about a few examples of local Hunza food you can try when you visit.

Dowdo in Hunza Valley
Dowdo is made with Hand-cut noodles using local wheat flour

Dowdo (Noodle Soup)

Hand-cut noodles made from local wheat, dowdo is usually made with minced chicken meat. Adding a few slices of onion and cilantro, seasoning with cardamom and cumin, the soup itself a golden, buttery broth.

Dowdo is one of the foods you have to try during your day in the Hunza Valley. I think Hunza Food Pavilion served the best single bowl of it out of all the versions we had.

The bowl of dowdo they serve here is incredibly warming, the gently spiced minced meat smells wonderful, and I love how the broth is so buttery and creamy without being heavy.

Chicken Chap Shurro in Hunza
This Hunza Valley version of Chicken Chap Shurro is incredible

Chapshurro (Meat Pies)

You might see advertising for this ‘Hunza Pizza,’ but I think that chapshurro is an amazing dish on its own.

Common to find it full of minced beef, actually the traditional chapshurro recipe uses spiced yak meat. The seasoning is simple, with a few additions of chopped onions, red chilies, small local tomatoes, and coriander leaves.

This dish is a wonderful example of the blending of local ingredients with cooking styles common to Central Pakistan. The piping hot, very filling chapshurro meat pies are one of the most widely-available (but wonderful) dishes you’ll find in the Hunza Valley.

Hunza Food Pavilion in Hunza Valley
Rolling wheat flour to use in several local Hunza Valley recipes

Berekutz (Cheese-Filled Flour Cakes)

This cheese-filled flour cake is another hearty dish, perfect for those living and working in cooler mountain conditions.

The cheese in this recipe is from goat’s milk, and is traditionally a staple food in both Hunza and Balti cuisine.

Flour is rolled out, and apricot oil is spread liberally on each side before the cake fries lightly on a hot iron skillet. Cheese filling is added, and then another thin cake of flour is set on top, the whole cake cut cross-wise into triangles before serving.

Sometimes the ladies serving here work together, and other days they take turns cooking individually.

Location: At the entrance parking lot of Baltit Fort (approximate Google Map location)
Open hours: We went there in the afternoon, and she had already been cooking for several hours
Price: Our total bill came to 630 PKR (US$5)

Altit Fort

If you did not visit the Attabad Lake, then you might have some free time to visit the Altit Fort before your climb to the Eagle’s nest. Don’t wait too long though, because you don’t want to miss the incredible view of the sun going down over the valley.

Altit Fort lies part way up the climb to the area called ‘Eagle’s Nest.’ This was the original fort structure of the Hunza Valley, built in 1100 AD, the seat of the kingdom which moved to the Baltit Fort a few hundred years later.

If you have to choose, then I would recommend the Baltit, simply because its larger, and has a better view, but both are full of history of the Hunza Valley and its ancient kingdoms.

Location: Opposite the Pizza Pamir shop (Google Maps)
Open hours: 9:30AM-5:30PM
Price: 400 PKR per person (includes Guide)

Café de Hunza

If you’re like me, then in these chilly temperatures, you will always be looking for the next ‘something warm to drink.’

Coffee is only recently popular in Pakistan, but due to the amount of foreign tourists (usually on their way to a trek in the Karakoram mountains), coffee is available at many places in the Hunza Valley.

Serving both local and European style snacks to have with coffee, the walnut cake at Cafe de Hunza is great. Also try the local herbal tea, with ingredients native to the nearby Pamir Plateau.

Location: Near the Hunza Serena Hotel (Google Maps)
Open hours: 7 AM-10 PM Daily
Price: 80 PKR for Coffee, 240 PKR for Walnut Cake

Cold Beauty in the Hunza Valley
Views so beautiful they make you forget the sub-zero temperatures

8. Eagle’s Nest for Sunset (5PM)

This is one of those views that you will probably remember for the rest of your life, and one of the top things to do in Hunza Valley.

Climbing up to the Eagle’s Nest really takes some effort, but the view is breath-taking. Even in the sub-zero temperatures, I was in awe – a view of seemingly endless rows of razor sharp 7,000-8,000 metre high  snowy peaks, I almost forgot about the chilly air.

For me it was one of the highlights of the entire trip, this is something you should not miss on your day in the Hunza Valley.

Note: It can get dark very rapidly up here, there are security guards walking around with torches, but still be sure to watch where you are going as there are several winding and unmarked paths on which to get lost.

Local Food in the Hunza Valley
Home-cooked Traditional dishes of the Hunza Valley

9. Authentic Food in Hunza Valley (8PM)

There is no better way to experience the authentic local culture in the Hunza Valley than sharing a meal with a local family. I have to thank our good friend Ali, at Pakistan Travel Mart for making the arrangements, and this incredible meal possible.

Expect rounds of tea and after-dinner snacks to stretch well into the night, and this actually too turned out to be one of my favorite memories from this entire incredible Pakistan trip. I encourage you to check out the video of our experience here, or read the entire article written on this meal here.

I won’t go into all the dishes, but an amazing meal with a heartwarming welcome is how I can put it most briefly. The details though, of some of my favorite dishes from this night, are just down below.

Mantu Dumplings in Hunza
Shaped like Roses, these Chinese-influenced Dumplings are called ‘Mantu’

Rose Mantu (Dumplings)

You may already have come across signs for these at small shops in the Karimabad market, these artful dumplings have a rose shape but do not contain actual rose flowers.

This is a special dish, if not store bought then people usually only eat them for special occasions, due to the time it requires to make each rose dumpling by hand.

Harissa

Pre-boiling meat, and peeling local brown wheat before mixing, chefs will tear meat (often goat meat) into strips. These strips go into a bowl with the wheat, along with healthy servings of apricot oil, and continue to cook to make a delicious and extremely thick stew.

A dish of few ingredients, this is another recipe that Baltistan eats on a day of special occasion.

Having the chance to eat local Hunza food with an amazing community of people is such a privilege, and it turns out to be – possibly even greater than the beauty of the mountains themselves – the highlight to all of us here visiting Hunza Valley.

Friendly Hosts in Hunza Valley
The Hospitality in Baltistan is incredible.

Extra Rounds – Night Life in the Hunza Valley

If going out and sampling the local nightlife interests you, there are actually a few places in the central streets of Karimabad staying open until midnight or later.

For myself, while these aren’t personal highlights, I do highly recommend taking a few minutes to walk outside in the crisp mountain air. The air is so clean, and so thin, you can enjoy some of the most wonderful star-gazing you’ll ever see anywhere.

The high altitude, low humidity, and distance from any major city, mean that the light pollution here is extremely low. Find a dark place, give your eyes time to adjust, and let the amount of stars visible in the Hunza Valley night sky add a whole new dimension to this magical place.

Pakistan Airlines flight to Skardu
Fly from Islamabad to either Skardu or Gilgit with Pakistan Airlines

Details For Travel

To finish this local food and top things to do in Hunza Valley guide, I want to share a few final details about how to travel In The Hunza Valley, and in Gilgit-Baltistan.

Safety

Part of the fun of traveling in areas like this, no matter how remote and other-worldly they may seem, is how it is still very possible to visit, and visit safely.

This area is has only recently become accessible to outsiders, even Pakistan’s own people are just starting to visit.

People are just starting to appreciate how wrongly the media portrays these areas, and many other areas like this all over the world – the people here could not be more lovely.

Road Travel

The first roads ever built to GB from the capital of Islamabad are still not even 40 years old, so by land travel there is only one route to take.

Many bus companies operate between Gilgit and the Hunza Valley, or another option is renting a car, or your own van (with driver). For a visit to the incredible glaciers throughout this region, there are also options to rent more adventure-capable vehicles.

Air Travel

We took a flight from Islamabad to Skardu, and after driving to Gilgit, went for an incredible visit to the Deosai National Park.

Alternatively, depending on the day, there are 1 or 2 direct flights daily between Islamabad and Gilgit (link here), and also flights from Islamabad to Skardu if your day in the Hunza Valley is part of a longer trip.

Note: Depending on which passport you are holding, you will likely need to sign into a local Immigration at any of the regional airport. Be sure to keep track of the arrival card (police will ask for it at road checkpoints during your stay in the GB region), and you will need it again for your departure.

Hunza valley, Pakistan
Stunning beauty of Hunza Valley, Pakistan

Adventure Travel and Trekking in The Hunza Valley

I cannot comment personally on the trekking or adventure travel in this region, but we did see several adventurers on their way to climb the giant Nanga Parbat. Karimabad is the last stop before the week-long hike to base camp.

To get a visa, you will likely need to be the guest of a local organization (like we did with Pakistan Travel Mart), or a tour company.

Photography in the Hunza Valley

We saw many people visiting with the purpose of photographing the amazing and rare local Hunza valley wildlife. There are Markhor and Ibex, massive mountain goats, and even snow leopards for the patient and fortunate photographer.

For Drone and aerial photography, be sure to check for the latest information. In the GB Northern Province, drones and drone photography has very strict regulations.

Humanitarian Efforts in the Hunza Valley

There are many organizations, but also many single visitors and volunteers working in the Hunza Valley. We met a team of doctors visiting to promote health and healthy living awareness concerning things like water and hygiene. Here is a link to another organization working in the area.

I hope this Hunza Valley travel guide gives you some ideas, tips, and practical information for your trip to Hunza Valley and Gilgit-Baltistan.

What I can tell you with certainty about Hunza Vally, Pakistani is the scenery is otherworldly, the food is unique and refreshing, and the people will show you hospitality that will warm your heart.

108 comments. I'd love to hear from you!

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  • azka

    3 weeks ago

    keep writing

  • Nusa Penida

    2 months ago

    Hunza Valley, is one of the places I really want to visit!

  • Srisailam Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga

    7 months ago

    Exploring the Hunza Valley through your guide was like stepping into a piece of paradise on Earth. Your insights into the breathtaking attractions and activities truly made me feel connected to this heavenly destination.

  • Rishi

    1 year ago

    This looks like an interesting place to visit! The mountains are stunning!

  • boardman-wellness.com

    1 year ago

    Hunza Valley seems to have great places to travel.

  • J C

    1 year ago

    Nice place beautiful people and good food. You are lucky.

  • Tony

    2 years ago

    I would definitely follow your suggestion while visiting to Pakistan

  • Pakistani Fashion

    2 years ago

    Pakistan is such a weonderful country specially the food the Pakistani Fashion and also people are very respectable. Love your content.

  • airlinestime

    3 years ago

    Very beautiful information about hunza valley

  • Haryanvi status

    3 years ago

    Nice content enjoyed reading…

  • vishal kaushik

    3 years ago

    Rock on Guys. Keep sharing!!!

  • Soumya

    3 years ago

    So beautiful! Love this place! Good share.

  • Manoj Mohapatra

    3 years ago

    Beautiful description and quiet informative
    Good job done

  • MomShop18

    3 years ago

    Detailed and elaborative article.
    Very helpful for travelers.

  • sankar singh

    3 years ago

    amazing write up…..!
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  • kashif

    3 years ago

    oh man! This place is so amazing and beautiful. Love your content

  • Nischay

    3 years ago

    Awesome post! bio for Facebook

  • Shalini

    3 years ago

    Awesome Post!!

  • Anita

    3 years ago

    Nice Post. Thank you for sharing!! Ayurvedic Health Care Products

  • VapeSpring

    3 years ago

    Nicely Shared Content.

  • Triund Trek

    3 years ago

    Really ! good article and beautiful images with detailed information about it.

  • Anisha Tripathi

    3 years ago

    Great Article !!
    Thank you for this informative article.
    get to know more on Sar Pass Trek

  • Anjali

    3 years ago

    Really awesome blog. Thank you for share.

  • Damo

    3 years ago

    good post.
    Thank you for sharing with us.

  • Swati

    3 years ago

    Really grateful blog. appreciated. keep it up!!

  • Rajesh laxkar

    4 years ago

    I like this blog, thank you very much about it.
    Thanks for sharing!

  • George

    4 years ago

    I always love discovering content that I haven’t read on your blog, Joel. This is such an incredible post.

  • Marie Leon

    4 years ago

    Great post. Hunza Valley looks like a great place to visit. The food looks delicious. And the Rose Mantu (Dumplings) are lovely. I definitely want some of that Hunza Water. 🙂

  • Vipemo

    4 years ago

    Wooooow this village is just like my village in Iran called Sisakht… thanks for updating and sharing such an amazing article … Keep up the good work

    • Joel Bruner

      4 years ago

      Vipemo, then we would love to visit your hometown as well Im sure! Thanks for reading, thanks for writing, have a great day!

  • Julia Mia

    4 years ago

    Hunza Valley an awesome place would love to visit this place

    • Joel Bruner

      4 years ago

      Hi Julia, thanks for your great support on so many of our articles – Hunza Valley is special, even among magical mountain places of the world – it is just a must for any lovers of the mountain mystical valleys and peaks type scenery. Amazing place.

  • Keiran Potter

    4 years ago

    This looks stunning quite honestly!

  • fitnesshealthfy

    4 years ago

    really love the article and the food looks so healthy and delicious. My bucket list of places to

    • Joel Bruner

      4 years ago

      I want one more trip right now! To be honest, you have made a great choice to put this on your ‘bucket list’ of places to go – it is purely magical. Ok, good luck, cheers!

  • Rubina

    4 years ago

    I love the way you break down your travel itinerary this way. I’m one of those people that love to know every detail of a place and someone’s travel experiences before traveling there myself. Another place to add to the list, thanks to you guys! Beautiful photography as always.

  • Ryo Saeba

    4 years ago

    Wow, very wonderful paradise, im jealous of your in this moment 🙂

    • Joel Bruner

      4 years ago

      Hi Ryo, thank you, and I wish you the chance to visit someday for yourself! Cheers

  • samia

    5 years ago

    i travel this valley can not tell in my words how mjch i enjoy very well and the environment as well as food the great thing about hunza is food tridation so great

    • Joel Bruner

      4 years ago

      Totally right Samia! Thanks again for your wonderful support – very much appreciated! Cheers!

  • AT

    5 years ago

    Hi Mark, what time of the year did you visit Hunza? Your trip there has inspired me to visit Hunza, hopefully next year!

    • Joel Bruner

      4 years ago

      AT, thanks for the question – we visited in October, I think it was around 2C in the morning, and maybe got up to 12C by the mid-day hours. Weather was clear, amazing views, October is a great time to visit the North. Good luck, have fun!

  • ATD Money

    5 years ago

    Thanks for the post. Its really love the article and the food looks so healthy and delicious.

    • Joel Bruner

      4 years ago

      Thank you for the comment, yes the food was quite healthy as WELL as being so tasty, for sure its a great combo to have anywhere 😉

  • Tarun

    5 years ago

    Really enjoyed the article and food pics are awesome. Keep posting awsome content

    • Joel Bruner

      4 years ago

      Hello Tarun, you’re most welcome. Have a good day!

  • Elle Bent

    5 years ago

    Thank you for sharing this.

    • Joel Bruner

      4 years ago

      Hi again Elle, have a great day!

  • Karen

    5 years ago

    Hi Mark/Joel,
    Can’t believe that after years travel when I was wondering where else make me “ waw ” I saw your Hunza Valley vlog in YouTube . That’s was such amazing and the first time I felt that I can’t wait to visit a place. Within two weeks, I booked flight ticket and hotel. I’m going to Hunza Valley at the coming autumn. Thanks for letting me heartbeat to a place again. That is wonderful !
    Can I know do you bring a drone to Pakistan? I just doubt that could a drone go through customs as there is many versions said in forum. Your vlog spectacular view from Hunza make me ( as a photographer ) want to buy a drone
    All the best !
    Thanks.

  • Rohit Hebbar

    5 years ago

    I’m from India and I would love to visit Pakistan once. Right now it is very strict for Indians to visit Pakistan. Hope it becomes a bit easier in the future. 🙂

    • Joel Bruner

      4 years ago

      Hello Rohit, yes its unfortunate the current restrictions… but Im sure things will change if we have faith – I hope you can visit soon! Until then, take care, good luck, thanks for your support 🙂

  • Chermi

    5 years ago

    really love the article and the food looks so healthy and delicious. My bucket list of places to visit… Hunza!

    • Joel Bruner

      5 years ago

      Thank you Chermi, I’m glad you enjoyed the article, good luck on your own chance to visit Hunza! All the best

  • Farhan

    5 years ago

    Hunza Valley an awesome place would love to visit this place

    • Joel Bruner

      5 years ago

      Hello Farhan, Thanks for reading, glad you enjoyed it

  • Emma

    5 years ago

    From the videos , I can conclude that this is one of the cleanest,authentic ,peaceful places on Earth. Man,you’re so lucky to travel to such places. By the way, how did you start travelling? what inspired you ?

    • Joel Bruner

      5 years ago

      Hi Emma, Thanks for reaching out.This is not only travel fun though, this is also for work, Which is how it’s possible in the first place. Good luck on your own journey,Thanks again for the message

  • Haroon Ali

    5 years ago

    Mark/Joel watched the Pakistan series and was amazing. Albeit I have seen all of Punjab but never visited Northern Areas. Actually going from Southern Punjab to Islamabad and then drive all the way to Hunza/Gilgit/Sost/Passu etc etc.
    While using a tour company this guide is amazing, Watched your video of Gilgit/Hunza/Pamir Cuisine 4-5 times if you guys can do it I am sure I can do it. Well done guys loved your videos and this guide is of great help going from Scotland which has rugged landscapes but this does look like another world.
    Thanks

    • Joel Bruner

      5 years ago

      Hello Haroon, Yes This was a wonderful trip, but we were not using tour company By the way. Hey, we would love to visit all of the islands around it and of course Scotland itself looks absolutely incredible! Maybe we would have the best,Inks for the message, have a great day

  • Tarun vats

    5 years ago

    I really like this article thanks

    • Joel Bruner

      5 years ago

      You are most welcome Tarun, thanks for reading!

    • Fatima khan

      5 years ago

      When ever you guys av plan to visit pakistan… do visit us… we are in tarbela dam… world largest earth filled dam in kpk pakistan

    • Joel Bruner

      5 years ago

      Fatima thank you very much for the invitation, we would love to visit. Have a great day!

  • Aryan

    5 years ago

    What an epic view! This guide is great and very well written. All the information needed is in the guide, even the time. I will probably add this on my bucket list. It’s different from what I’ve heard about Pakistan.

    • Joel Bruner

      5 years ago

      Aryan, thank you so much, those are very nice words! Thanks for the support, and I really wish you well on your upcoming visit (bucket list items are great, but try to do them as well! We only live once… 🙂 ) Take care, thanks for reading, have a great day today!

  • Chris

    5 years ago

    Awesome pictures! I can’t wait to visit Hunza – hope to be there next June. It has always been a dream of mine to visit the north of Pakistan.

    • Joel Bruner

      5 years ago

      Chris! That is so great, I know you will enjoy yourself immensely. Northern Pakistan was so different too from the other parts of Pakistan we saw, if you have time, might I suggest that you at least spend a few days in another part as well (Peshawar? Lahore?), it would give you even more grounds for comparison. Enjoy your trip man, and thanks for reading!

  • Janice

    5 years ago

    Another one of my favorites! It was very humbling watching this series, reading and learning too.🙌

  • jim corbett

    5 years ago

    This is very nice article about hunza valley. your pictures are just amazing. thanks for this amazing content.

    • Joel Bruner

      5 years ago

      Hi Jim! Thank you very much for reading, and for your support. That was an amazing trip, I felt privileged to share! Take care, all the best

  • Gayatri

    5 years ago

    I like your work.

    • Joel Bruner

      5 years ago

      Thanks very much Gayatri for your continued support!

  • salatem

    5 years ago

    wowww,,, delicious

  • Karim Salman

    5 years ago

    The Local Family Which Served Authentic Local Homemade Food In Hunza In The 400 Years Old House, Owns A Cafe By The Name Of “Cafe Culture Hunza” You Can Try All The Meals Mark Tried In That Cafe.

  • Kas

    5 years ago

    Hey Mark,
    I followed your adventures throuh Pakistan, and i’m impressed you and your family were able to travel around with no issues and enjoyed every min! thanks for sharing the experience.
    Now… what travel company did you use for your travels in the Gilgit-Hunza area? in the 4×4’s? i’m planning on going, and would like to use a reputable company to tour with so i know i’m in safe hands.
    thanks,
    Kas

    • Joel Bruner

      5 years ago

      Hi Kas, thanks for the message! We did use 4×4 vehicles, and we needed them on two different times – The drive from Skardu to Gilgit was quite long and on rocky/dirt roads for most of the way (maybe 8 hours out of 12 total), and then in the Deosai park area, the 4-wheel drive helped a lot as well. Our friend arranged the rentals, so I am not sure what company he booked through, but there were many other travelers who did the same (using large vehicles to go around themselves, not booking with a tour company). Good luck, and enjoy your trip!

    • Rana Abubakar

      5 years ago

      They travelled with this guy ALi…
      https://www.instagram.com/alinhamdani/
      you can check and contact him

    • Joel Bruner

      4 years ago

      Yes 🙂 Rana, Ali is a champion, a wonderful guy, a great tour guide, and such a fun person to hang around with. Couldnt have done it without him, that is for certain!!!

  • Satyamgupta

    5 years ago

    Nice Blog love to see valley

  • Abhinav

    5 years ago

    It is a so beautiful And nice place and food a Tradition. green and Highest mountain karakoram highway are so amazing

    • Joel Bruner

      5 years ago

      Abhinav, thanks for the commen – yes, that area was gorgeous, just mind-blowing beauty!

  • Saba

    5 years ago

    This place looks heaven !! The entire Pakistani series was one of your best .Can you tell me the name of the dish under home cooked traditional dishes .The whitish flat bread [roti] cut in small pieces garnished with some nuts and some green leaves? Do you know what it is made off? looks so good .Thank you for showing us this place .

    • Karim Salman

      5 years ago

      Greetings from Hunza Valley….We hosted mark here in Hunza Our whatsapp contact is +923135401123 Cafe Culture Hunza

  • Saba

    5 years ago

    This place looks like heaven !! The views are just mesmerizing ,the food looks super delicious too .Can you tell me the name of the dish in the pic above with home cooked traditional dishes .The whitish flat bread[Roti] cut in diamond shape garnished with some nuts and green leaves looks delicious .
    Always enjoy your videos.

  • Brana Williams

    5 years ago

    This looks like an interesting place to visit! The mountains are stunning!

  • sirisha

    5 years ago

    wow simply amazing

  • Candice K.

    5 years ago

    Good day my idol Mark & families,
    I am one of your huge fan! Love the complete and details from your website. I usually save those beautiful photos and set as my wallpaper. I hope you don’t mind.
    In your latest series, the attabad lake is so beautiful! Can you upload a few more photos of this lake? Your photos are so good in quality and resolution that only yours can fit my computer’s screen. Anyway, just some greedy request here. Once again, hope you don’t mind idol!
    Hope you are travelling well again now!
    ❤️ From Malaysia

    • Mark Wiens

      5 years ago

      Thank you very much Candice, and really appreciate your support. No problem at all, glad you like the photos, let me see if I can find some more. Hope you’re doing well.

  • ANITA

    5 years ago

    This looks awesome, wish to visit Pakistan one day.

  • Timothy Anderson

    5 years ago

    Thanks a lot Mark! I just planned a solo trip to Barcelona because I saw your video in La Boqueria (and because I found a really good deal on the flight tickets), I recently watched your video an read the history behind your blog. I just love you speak from your heart (everything is about prioritizing things, a wise advise!) and do really good shoots of the food. Just wanted to say thanks, I enjoy a lot every video you make.

  • Subham Banerjee

    5 years ago

    Truly amazing! The food of course, the majestic views, the extremely nice hospitality! I enjoyed this blog and the Youtube video a lot. Love from India!

  • Thuleewan

    5 years ago

    Love to visit in this coming Feb.

  • Janessa

    5 years ago

    My one dream is to witness the beauty of Pakistan.
    One day in God’s Will.

  • Areej

    5 years ago

    Great post. Just wanted to add some information about the Eagles Nest. Eagles Nest is a Hotel next to the rock that you had climbed. The Rock itself is called “noor a tok” and the area is called “Duikar”

  • Gabru

    5 years ago

    mark remember those are POK area belong to india not pak

  • Sheria usman

    5 years ago

    Thank u mark..for showing such a beautiful side of my country. I dont knw in what month u visited hunza coz its cherries are worth eating during june.Do come next time and enjoy those fresh cherries.

  • John arkias

    5 years ago

    We visited Pakistan this year and you would not believe how mesmerising this was. I have visited 58 countries so far and Pakistan specially northern Pakistan is no match. Spend one week in this area and still excited to visit again next year with more friend. Number 1 in my recommendation list. Cheers from Netherlands

  • Naba Basar

    5 years ago

    A perfect description to the most beautiful part of the world. The people, the spectacular landscape, gorgeous mountains and the local food make your trip worth everything. I cherish everything Hunza valley has to offer – the glacial water, apricots (In all their glory), cherries, goat cheese, Hunza herbal tea, dried fruit, the history, the culture, the hospitality and the many stories people share. A wonderful read to start my day with memories of Hunza valley.

  • Murad khan

    5 years ago

    Mark yes this trip to hunza is amazing and the artical is very informative. Living in pakistan but still to go hunza is my bad luck. Hopefuly this might happen soon inshallah. God bless you and thanks for comming to pakistan.

  • Shaharyar

    5 years ago

    People in Pakistan deserves RESPECT. In return you will have so much Respect and Love it would be hard to carry back. Simply loved your article.

  • Liz S

    5 years ago

    Your trip has inspire me to follow same itinerary as yours. Definitely can’t find those local foods in California/USA

  • russia

    5 years ago

    i would have never considered going to pakistan until i watched Mark’s series – i apologize for my ignorance … i am so much in love with the landscape, culture, food and PEOPLE now, that given the chance, i would not hesitate …

    • Amar

      5 years ago

      You are most welcome from core of our hearts

    • Saad Sharif Janjua

      5 years ago

      Welcome !!

  • Jade

    5 years ago

    I love these photos and all your exploring in Pakistan and have to say I am so very jealous. It has been on my list of places to explore myself! The boat trips look especially fun! I can’t wait to see where your next post brings you (or rather us)

  • russia

    5 years ago

    i CANNOT wait for where to next!!
    pakistani series is most definitely a sensation! awesome job, guys! the biggest thank you to those who organized this whole trip … we have been shown jewels …