An Islamabad to Hunza road trip is one of the most unforgettable travel experiences in Pakistan. From high-altitude mountain passes to turquoise rivers and cultural villages, the journey offers breathtaking scenery at every turn. Hunza Valley is known for its snow-capped peaks, warm hospitality, historical forts, and lush green landscapes that transform beautifully with the seasons.
If you love adventure, nature, or photography, planning a road trip from Islamabad to Hunza Valley should be on your travel bucket list. This complete guide will help you plan your experience perfectly with route choices, day-by-day itinerary, best attractions, travel tips, budgeting, and hotel recommendations.
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Supporting Keywords: Hunza Valley travel guide, Karakoram Highway trip, Islamabad to Hunza itinerary, Northern Pakistan tourism
Why Take an Islamabad to Hunza Road Trip
Travelers choose a road trip to Hunza for several reasons:
• The Karakoram Highway (KKH) is one of the world’s highest paved international roads
• Beautiful viewpoints like Naran, Babusar Top, Gilgit, and Rakaposhi View Point
• Evergreen adventure attractions such as Attabad Lake and Passu Cones
• Weather that offers different scenic experiences throughout the year
• Chance to explore real mountain culture and taste traditional Hunza cuisine
Driving through rugged mountains gives you complete freedom to stop at villages, waterfalls, viewpoints, and roadside cafes that you cannot enjoy if traveling by bus or flight.
How Long is the Distance from Islamabad to Hunza
The distance between Islamabad and Hunza Valley is approximately 600 to 700 km depending on the route you choose.
Average travel time: 12 to 16 hours
However, it is recommended to split your trip into multiple days to explore major attractions along the way.
Best Time for Islamabad to Hunza Road Trip
Hunza can be visited all year, but each season offers something unique:
| Season | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| April to June | Spring blossoms and pleasant weather |
| July to September | Peak tourism season with lush greenery |
| October to November | Golden autumn views and ideal photography season |
| December to March | Snowfall but Babusar Top remains closed |
If you are traveling via Naran and Babusar Top, plan your trip between June and September.
Islamabad to Hunza Road Trip Route Options
There are two main routes used by travelers:
Route 1: Islamabad → Naran → Babusar Top → Chilas → Hunza
• Best for summer months
• Most scenic but seasonal
• Approx. 630 km
Main Highlights:
• Mansehra, Balakot, Naran
• Lulusar Lake
• Babusar Top
• Junction Point of Three Mountain Ranges (Karakoram, Himalayas, Hindukush)
Route 2: Islamabad → Hazara Motorway → Besham → Dassu → Chilas → Hunza
• Open throughout the year
• Longer and slower due to road conditions
• Approx. 680 km
Recommendation: Choose Route 1 during open season for a more enjoyable adventure.
5 Days Islamabad to Hunza Road Trip Itinerary
This itinerary is perfect for families, couples, and friends planning their first Hunza Valley trip. You can extend or shorten based on your time.
Day 1: Islamabad to Naran (Approx. 6–7 hours)
Start your islamabad to hunza road trip early in the morning to enjoy the beauty of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s mountains.
Major Stops:
• Balakot for breakfast
• Kiwai Waterfall
• Kaghan Valley viewpoints
Optional Activity:
• Jeep to Siri Paye Meadows (if weather allows)
Overnight stay in Naran. You may explore the local bazaar and riverside hotels in the evening.
Day 2: Naran to Hunza via Babusar Top (Approx. 8–10 hours)
This is the most scenic part of your journey.
Attractions on the way:
• Lulusar Lake
• Babusar Top (13,700 ft high viewpoint)
• Nanga Parbat Viewpoint at Rakhiot Bridge
• Chilas valley landscapes
• The famous Karakoram Highway route
Arrival in Karimabad, Hunza by evening. Check in, relax, and enjoy dinner with mountain views.
Day 3: Explore Hunza – Karimabad, Baltit Fort & Eagle’s Nest
Start with local breakfast of chapshuro or girgir bread.
Top Things to Explore:
• Baltit Fort
• Karimabad Bazaar
• Altit Fort and Royal Garden
• Café hopping with traditional dishes
Evening Plan:
• Drive to Eagle’s Nest Viewpoint for a spectacular sunset overlooking Ultar Peak, Rakaposhi, Ladyfinger Peak, and Golden Peak.
This day provides rich historical and cultural insight into the Hunza lifestyle.
Day 4: Upper Hunza Day Trip – Attabad Lake to Passu Cones
Upper Hunza is the most adventurous area for travelers.
Must-Visit Attractions:
• Attabad Lake – boating and jet ski
• Passu Cones – iconic sharp mountain peaks
• Hussaini Suspension Bridge – thrilling rope footbridge
• Gulmit Village – peaceful heritage village
• Sost – last town before Chinese border
• Khunjerab Pass (if weather is clear)
This day is ideal for photography and thrill-seekers.
Day 5: Hunza to Islamabad Return Trip
Return via your chosen route. You may stay overnight in Naran or Besham depending on weather and road conditions.
Optional stop:
• Gilgit city tour (if you want to explore more)
Your islamabad to hunza road trip ends with unforgettable memories.
Best Places to Stay in Hunza
Hunza offers a wide range of accommodations including luxury hotels and budget guest houses.
Popular Stays:
• Hard Rock Hunza
• Luxus Hunza
• Serena Hunza Inn
• Baltic Hotel
• Mountain Story Resort
• Local family guest houses
Booking during peak season is recommended.
Food You Must Try in Hunza Valley
Hunza cuisine is simple, nutritious, and full of traditional flavors.
Recommended Local Dishes:
• Chapshuro (meat stuffed bread)
• Hunza Naan
• Butter tea (gur gur chai)
• Diram fitti (apricot flour bread)
• Yak meat dishes (available in Upper Hunza)
Local food enhances cultural experience during your Islamabad to Hunza adventure.
Road Safety Tips for Islamabad to Hunza Road Trip
• Start traveling early to avoid late night driving
• Keep fuel tank full (fewer stations after Naran)
• Drive carefully on sharp turns and narrow roads
• Check vehicle brakes and tires before trip
• Carry warm clothes even in summer
• Download offline maps as signals drop in mountains
• Follow speed limits strictly
• Keep snacks, medicines, and power banks
Safety ensures a more enjoyable journey.
Budget Estimate for This Road Trip
Costs may vary depending on your car, hotel category, and activities.
Approximate Breakdown (per person):
• Fuel: 8,000 – 15,000 PKR
• Accommodation: 3,000 – 10,000 PKR per night
• Food: 2,000 – 4,000 PKR per day
• Attractions & Activities: 3,000 – 7,000 PKR
Total Estimated Cost: 20,000 – 50,000 PKR per person for a 5-day trip
Photography Spots in Hunza
Top locations for incredible pictures:
• Attabad Lake
• Eagle’s Nest Sunset Point
• Passu Cones Valley
• Baltit Fort
• Hussaini Bridge
• Gojal Valley
• Autumn trees in Karimabad
• Cherry blossom streets in spring
Bring a wide-angle lens for best results.
Why Hunza Valley is a Favorite Among Travelers
Hunza is known for:
• One of the world’s highest literacy rates
• Rare cultural hospitality and peaceful lifestyle
• Long life expectancy of residents
• Sustainable community practices
• Stunning landscapes changing every season
Hunza Valley is a place that stays in your heart long after you leave.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long does it take to travel from Islamabad to Hunza by road
It normally takes 12–16 hours depending on the route and stopovers.
Is the Islamabad to Hunza road trip safe for families
Yes. With good planning, it is safe for families, children, and seniors.
Can I travel to Hunza in winter
Yes, but Babusar Top remains closed, so you must take the Besham route.
Is a car suitable for this trip or do I need a jeep
A car works fine on KKH, but certain local attractions may require jeeps.
What is the best month to travel from Islamabad to Hunza
May to October is ideal for scenic views and full accessibility.
Final Thoughts
An Islamabad to Hunza road trip is more than just a vacation. It is a once-in-a-lifetime experience full of diverse landscapes, culture, history, and adventure. Whether you are visiting for the first time or returning again, Hunza always has something new to offer. The freedom to explore at your own pace makes a road trip the best way to discover the beauty of Northern Pakistan.
Plan properly, follow this itinerary, respect local culture, and cherish every moment. Your Hunza Valley journey will reward you with memories, photographs, and stories worth sharing forever.
