Altit Fort, nestled in Altit village near Karimabad, is an 1100-year-old fortress built around 900 AD, making it one of the oldest monuments in Gilgit-Baltistan. Once the ancestral home of Hunza’s ruling Mirs, this Tibetan-influenced structure features mud-and-stone walls, wooden beams, and a commanding watchtower overlooking the Hunza River. Restored by the Aga Khan Trust for Culture in 2007, it now houses a museum and the Kha Basi Royal Gardens, showcasing Hunza’s Silk Road heritage and Ismaili culture. Despite challenges like over-tourism and urban growth, the fort’s intricate architecture, vibrant gardens, and stunning views of Rakaposhi (7,788m) make it a cultural treasure and a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

• Exploring the fort’s museum with 1100-year-old artifacts, including royal relics
• Guided tours of the royal chambers, watchtower, and ancient prison
• Strolling through the Kha Basi Royal Gardens with fruit orchards and water channels
• Photography from the fort’s ramparts with views of Hunza Valley and Rakaposhi
• Attending cultural workshops or music events at the fort’s community center
• Visiting the restored Altit Old Village for a glimpse of traditional Hunza life
• Shopping for handicrafts, shawls, and dried apricots in nearby Karimabad Bazaar
• Hiking to nearby Eagle’s Nest or Ultar Meadow for panoramic vistas
• Engaging with local Ismaili community traditions and oral histories
• Picnicking in the fort’s gardens under apricot and walnut trees

The nearby Altit village and local markets offer a variety of unique items for tourists to purchase. Here are a few points on what to buy near Altit Fort:

• Handmade Hunza Carpets and Rugs: The region is famous for its intricately woven carpets and rugs, featuring traditional Burushaski patterns and vibrant colors, perfect as authentic keepsakes or home decor.
• Local Handicrafts: Visitors can find handcrafted items like wooden carvings, pottery, and embroidered textiles, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the Hunza Valley.
• Traditional Jewelry: Look for locally crafted silver or beaded jewelry, often inspired by the region’s history and natural beauty, ideal for unique souvenirs.
• Dried Fruits and Nuts: Hunza is known for its organic dried apricots, walnuts, and almonds, available in local stalls, offering a taste of the region’s healthy produce.
• Traditional Clothing and Accessories: Purchase traditional Hunza caps (pakol), shawls, or embroidered vests, which showcase local craftsmanship and are practical for the cooler mountain climate.

Note: Bargaining is common in the local markets, so negotiate politely. The National Tourism Portal Store offers visitors the opportunity to explore and purchase a wide range of Pakistani handicrafts, artifacts, souvenirs, traditional apparel, and more. For product details, please visit: https://shop.nationaltourism.pk