Passu Cones
Hunza, Gilgit-Baltistan
Quick Info
Attraction Type
Mountain
Location
, Pakistan
Timings
Tickets / Entry
Recommended Duration
1 to 2 Hours
Visa / NOC Info
Standard Tourist Visa
Wheelchair Support
Not Accessible
Description
Passu Cones are tall, pointed mountain peaks located in the Passu region of Hunza. They stand like sharp towers next to the Karakoram Highway (KKH). These unique mountains are made of hard rock that has been shaped by nature over time. Many people stop here to see their distinct shape and take pictures. They are a famous natural sight in the Hunza Valley.
What To Do
- View the Passu Cones from different spots along the Karakoram Highway.
- Take photos of the unique mountain shapes, especially at sunrise or sunset.
- Visit the nearby Passu Suspension Bridge, which is just a short drive away.
- Walk around the Passu village area to see local life and culture.
- Enjoy the clear views of Batura Glacier in the distance from viewpoint areas.
What To Buy
- Dried Fruits: Buy locally grown dried apricots, mulberries, and almonds from shops in Karimabad Bazaar Get Directions .
- Traditional Caps: Find embroidered woolen caps, also known as 'Pakol' or 'Shapka', in local markets like Karimabad Bazaar.
- Handicrafts: Look for handmade wooden items and small woven rugs made by local artisans.
- Gemstone Jewelry: Hunza is known for its local gemstones like peridot. You can find simple jewelry pieces.
- Pashmina Shawls: Warm shawls made from goat wool are popular, often found in main markets.
Policies & Info
- Visitors are asked to respect the local culture and traditions of the Hunza Valley.
- Keep the area clean by not littering. Take all your trash with you.
- Photography is allowed, but always ask for permission before taking pictures of local people.
- Dress modestly, especially when interacting with local communities.
Health & Safety
- Wear sturdy shoes as the ground can be uneven, especially if walking off the main road.
- The area is at a high altitude. Drink plenty of water and move slowly to avoid altitude sickness.
- Dress in layers, as weather conditions can change quickly in the mountains, even in summer.
- Stay on marked paths and avoid climbing the cones as they are steep and rocky.
- Carry a basic first-aid kit, especially if you plan to explore beyond the main viewing areas.
Best Season to Visit
Spring: Weather is mild with temperatures from 10ยฐC to 20ยฐC. Wildflowers bloom, and the green starts to return. Good for clear views beforeSummer: heat.
Summer: Warm days, 20ยฐC to 30ยฐC, and cool nights. Skies are generally clear, making it perfect for viewing and photography. This is the most popular time to visit.
Monsoon/Rainy: /Rainy: Hunza receives less heavy monsoon rain compared to other parts of Pakistan. Temperatures are similar to summer. Roads might have some issues but generally fine for visitors to Passu.
Autumn: Temperatures drop to 5ยฐC to 15ยฐC. Poplar and fruit trees turn golden, offering beautiful scenery. Clear skies are common, making it great for sightseeing.
Winter: Very cold, with temperatures from -10ยฐC to 5ยฐC. Snow covers the mountains and roads. Travel can be difficult due to road closures, but the snowy landscape is very dramatic.
How to Reach
- By Air: The nearest active airport is Gilgit Airport (GIL). It is about 150 km south of Passu, taking around 3-4 hours by road. Flights connect Gilgit to Islamabad.
- By Road: Passu Cones are right next to the Karakoram Highway (N-35). You can drive directly to the viewing points from Gilgit (south) or Sost (north).
- By Train: Pakistan's railway system does not reach Gilgit-Baltistan. The nearest major railway station is Rawalpindi Railway Station (RWP) in Rawalpindi, about 600 km south of Passu. From Rawalpindi, you would need to take a long bus or private car journey.
- By Public Transport: Shared vans, jeeps, and local buses run regularly along the Karakoram Highway. You can find transport from Hunza's main towns like Karimabad or Aliabad directly to Passu.
Where to Eat / Stay
- Where to Eat:
- Yak Grill Passu: Located near Passu Cones. Serves local and Pakistani dishes. Get Directions
- Glacier Breeze Restaurant: In Gulmit, a short drive from Passu. Offers Pakistani and continental food with glacier views. Get Directions
- Where to Stay:
- Passu Tourist Lodge: Located in Passu village, offers basic rooms with mountain views. Contact: N/A. Get Directions
- Sarai Silk Route Gulmit: A comfortable hotel in Gulmit, close to Passu. Contact: +92 346 5199616. Website: N/A. Get Directions
Emergency Contacts
- Aga Khan Health Service, Pakistan (AKHSP) Medical Centre, Aliabad: Located in Aliabad, Hunza. Phone: +92 5813 457224. Get Directions
- Ambulances:
- Rescue 1122: Official emergency number for Pakistan. Phone: 1122.
- Police Station:
- Aliabad Police Station, Hunza: Phone: +92 5813 920002. Get Directions
