karimabad
Hunza, Gilgit-Baltistan
Quick Info
Attraction Type
City Landmark
Location
, Pakistan
Timings
Tickets / Entry
Recommended Duration
Half Day to Full Day
Visa / NOC Info
Standard Tourist Visa
Wheelchair Support
Not Accessible
Description
Karimabad is the main town in the Hunza Valley. It was once the capital of the old Hunza princely state. The town sits high up and offers wide views of the mountains around it. Many people visit to see its history and beautiful scenery. It is a central place for local life and tourism in Hunza.
What To Do
- Visit Baltit Fort, a very old fort that shows Hunza's history.
- See Altit Fort, another historic fort with great views.
- Walk around Karimabad Bazaar for local goods and to see everyday life.
- Enjoy the wide views of famous peaks like Rakaposhi and Ultar Sar from viewpoints around the town.
- Try local Hunza food and fresh fruit at various restaurants and shops.
What To Buy
- Handicrafts: Hand-made items like rugs, wood carvings, and traditional clothes at Karimabad Bazaar. Get Directions
- Gemstones: Local rubies, aquamarine, and other precious stones from shops in Karimabad Bazaar. Get Directions
- Dried Fruits: Apricots, mulberries, almonds, and walnuts from local shops in Karimabad Bazaar. Get Directions
- Woolen Shawls/Caps: Warm clothing made from local wool, often hand-woven, available at shops in Karimabad. Get Directions
- Hunza Tea: Special herbal teas and green tea, often grown locally, from grocery stores in Karimabad Bazaar. Get Directions
Policies & Info
- Respect local customs and traditions. Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.
- Always ask for permission before taking pictures of local people.
- Keep the area clean by not littering.
Health & Safety
- Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially due to the high altitude.
- Walk carefully on uneven paths and steps, especially at the forts.
- Be aware of signs of altitude sickness like headache or dizziness and rest if you feel unwell.
- Carry warm clothing even in summer, as mountain weather can change quickly.
Best Season to Visit
Spring: (March to May) The weather is mild and pleasant. Flowers bloom, making the valley colorful. Good for sightseeing.
Summer: (June to August) Warm and sunny days are common. This is the best time for outdoor activities and mountain views.
Monsoon/Rainy: /Rainy: (July to September) Hunza gets less heavy rain than other parts of Pakistan. Days are generally mild with occasional light showers, keeping the landscape green.
Autumn: (September to November) The weather is cool and clear. Trees turn golden and red, offering beautiful scenery.
Winter: (December to February) It gets very cold and snows a lot. Many roads might be closed. It is quiet but very beautiful for those who like snow.
How to Reach
- By Air: Gilgit Airport (GIT) is the nearest active airport. It is about 100 kilometers (62 miles) from Karimabad.
- By Road: You can reach Karimabad by car, jeep, or bus via the Karakoram Highway. The road journey offers views of the mountains.
- By Train: The nearest active railway station is Rawalpindi Railway Station. It is about 600 kilometers (370 miles) from Karimabad.
- By Public Transport: From Gilgit, you can find shared vans, jeeps, or local buses that go directly to Karimabad.
Where to Eat / Stay
- Where to Eat:
- Cafe de Hunza: Karimabad, Hunza. Phone: +92 346 9513361. Get Directions
- Hunza Food Pavilion: Karimabad, Hunza. Phone: +92 345 5966668. Get Directions
- Where to Stay:
- Serena Hotel Hunza: Karimabad, Hunza. Phone: +92 5813 457910. Website: hunza.serenahotels.com. Get Directions
- Eagle's Nest Hotel: Duikar, Hunza. Phone: +92 5813 457921. Website: eaglesnest.pk. Get Directions
Emergency Contacts
- Aga Khan Health Service, Pakistan Medical Center. Karimabad, Hunza. Phone: +92 5813 457947. Get Directions
- Ambulances: 1122 (Official emergency number for Pakistan)
- Police Station: Police Station Karimabad. Karimabad, Hunza. Phone: +92 5813 457902. Get Directions
