Showing posts with label Gilgit. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Gilgit. Show all posts

The American Woman Transformed Her Life in Pakistan

Finding Peace in the Hunza Valley

How This American Woman Transformed Her Life in Pakistan

Samantha Shea, a young woman hailing from Miami, Florida, USA, has made an unconventional choice to move to Pakistan's northern region, specifically the stunning Hunza valley.
American Girl Shifts To Hunza pakistantravelerspk
American Girl Shifts To Hunza
She has become a digital nomad, choosing to work remotely while embracing a simpler, more fulfilling way of life in this breathtaking region.

Samantha's decision to move to Pakistan has surprised many, but her story highlights the incredible beauty and culture of this hidden gem of a region.

In this article, we'll delve deeper into Samantha's journey, her reasons for moving to Pakistan, and what she has discovered since making this life-changing decision.

Pakistan's northern regions have long been known as popular tourist destinations, especially for foreign travelers seeking adventure and breathtaking scenery. 

Recently, a young woman from Miami, Samantha Shea, has decided to make Hunza her permanent home, stating that the quality of life in this region is better than that in America.

Samantha describes the initial shock people feel when she tells them about her decision.

However, she says that showing them photos of the stunning snow-capped mountains and beautiful landscape quickly changes their minds.
USA Girl Shifts To Hunza Valley Pakistan pakistantravelerspk
USA Girl Shifts To Hunza Valley Pakistan
According to Samantha's, she first visited Pakistan in 2019 as a recent university graduate and never imagined living outside of the US.

While she was earning more money back home, she found the culture to be "toxic" and yearned for a simpler life.

Since moving to Hunza, Samantha has found a newfound sense of peace and contentment. 

Living at an altitude of 8,500 feet above sea level, she enjoys breathing fresh air and eating organic home-cooked meals.

The people in the area are extremely polite, and she has even learned Urdu to better communicate with the locals.

Whenever she needs something, Samantha goes to the local market, which she enjoys as a part of her daily routine.

Despite the challenges of living in the mountains, such as a lack of electricity and no guarantee of running hot water, Samantha remains positive and apprec-iates the beauty of her surroundings.

She is now living as a digital nomad, enjoying a simpler way of life and the freedom to explore the world on her own terms.

In conclusion, Samantha's decision to move to Hunza, Pakistan, may come as a surprise to many, but it is a testament to the incredible beauty and unique culture of this region.

Her story serves as an inspiration to those seeking a simpler, more fulfilling way of life.

Northern Pakistan is a region that boasts stunning landscapes, majestic mountains, and a unique culture that has drawn visitors from all over the world.

The northern areas of Pakistan are a hidden gem, and travelers who have had the opportunity to explore this region often describe it as a life-changing experience.

Foreigners have been drawn to the northern regions of Pakistan for a variety of reasons. 

The breathtaking natural beauty of the area is a major attraction, with snow-capped peaks, sparkling lakes, and lush valleys that are truly awe-inspiring.

The region is home to some of the world's highest mountain ranges, including the Himalayas and the Karakoram, which offer some of the most challenging and rewarding trekking and mountaineering opportunities on the planet.

Beyond the natural beauty, the northern regions of Pakistan offer a unique cultural experience that is unlike anything else in the world.

Visitors are often struck by the warmth and hospitality of the local people, who are known for their friendliness and kindness towards foreigners.

The region is home to a diverse mix of ethnic groups, including the Hunza people, who are famous for their longevity and healthy lifestyle.

In recent years, some foreigners have even made the decision to relocate to the northern regions of Pakistan permanently.

They have been drawn to the region's slower pace of life, close-knit communities, and breathtaking scenery.

Some have even started businesses in the region, contributing to the local economy and helping to promote tourism.

Overall, the northern regions of Pakistan offer a unique and unforgettable travel experience that is unlike anything else in the world.

With its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and friendly local people, it's no wonder that visitors are drawn to this region time and time again.

New Private Bus Service Will Be Launched Between Islamabad and Tashkurgan, China

Reopen The Khanjarab Pass For Travel From April 1st, 2023

New Private Bus Service Will Be Launched Between Islamabad and Tashkurgan, China

The bus service is expected to cost approximately Rs. 60,000

Pakistan to china total cost 60000 pkr via khanjarab Pass Pakistantravelerspk
Khanjarab Pass China-Pakistan

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought about numerous restrictions and closures all around the world, including in the travel industry.

One of the regions that was affected by these closures was the Khunjerab Pass, which is located on the border between Pakistan and China.

However, as the pandemic situation begins to improve, both countries have decided to reopen the pass for travel and other purposes, starting from April 1, 2023.

Pakistan to china total expenditure 60000 Pakistantravelerspk
Pakistan to china total expenditure 60000
To promote tourism, a new private bus service will be launched between Islamabad, the capital of Pakistan, and Tashkurgan, a city in Xinjiang, China.

This article will provide details on the bus service, including travel precautions, stopover instructions,

And regional information for tourists who wish to take advantage of this opportunity to explore the region.

The private bus service will start operating on May 13, 2023, and will provide a practical and affordable option for anyone wishing to visit China.

The bus will have a capacity of 28 seats, and the entire trip, including immigration, is expected to take about 38 hours.

The trip will also include a stopover at the Sost border, where passengers will spend one night before continuing on their journey.

The bus will depart from Islamabad, and the route will take passengers through the Karakoram Highway, which is known for its breathtaking scenery.

The Karakoram Highway is the highest paved international road in the world and is considered one of the most challenging roads to navigate.

However, the bus service will provide a comfortable and safe way to travel through the region, allowing tourists to appreciate the beauty of the landscape without any worries.

The bus service is expected to cost approximately Rs. 60,000, making it an affordable option for those who wish to travel on a low budget.

This price will include transportation, accommodation, and meals for the duration of the trip.

Documents Required

To travel to China, passengers will need the following documents:

  • Original passport with its copy

  • A valid original visa with its copy

  • An invitation to China
These documents are necessary to cross the China border and gain entry into the country. 

Passengers should ensure that they have all the necessary documents before embarking on the journey.

The region around the Khunjerab Pass is known for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.

Tourists can explore the region's numerous attractions, such as the Karakoram Mountains, the Hunza Valley, and the Attabad Lake.

The region is also home to numerous ethnic communities, each with its unique traditions and customs.

However, tourists should be aware of certain regional information to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.

The region around the Khunjerab Pass is located at a high altitude, and visitors may experience altitude sickness.

It is recommended that tourists take their time to acclimate to the altitude and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

Furthermore, the region is prone to earthquakes and landslides, particularly during the monsoon season.

Tourists should be aware of the weather conditions and avoid traveling during periods of heavy rainfall.

Travel Precautions

Tourists should take certain travel precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.

The bus service will be equipped with first aid kits and emergency supplies, and the drivers will be trained to handle any emergencies.

Passengers should also carry their own first aid kits, including any necessary medications.

Passengers should also ensure that they have appropriate travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and other unforeseen events.

It is recommended that tourists purchase travel insurance before embarking on the journey.

During the stopover at the Sost border, tourists can explore the town's numerous attractions, such as the Sost Museum, which houses artifacts from the region's rich history.

Pakistan is on the verge of destroying an extraordinary heritage

Pakistan is on the verge of destroying an extraordinary heritage

Pakistan's energy crisis is an urgent need

Basha Dam would help bridge the gap between the demand and supply of power

Gilgit Baltistan Diamer Bhasha Dam pakistantravelerspk
Gilgit Baltistan Diamer Bhasha Dam
The proposed site of the Diamer-Basha Dam in Pakistan is on the verge of destroying an extraordinary heritage of some 50,000 rock carvings and 5,000 inscriptions from different civilizations ranging from the eighth millennium BC to the coming of Islam in the region.

The mountainous region of Gilgit Baltistan lies between the western Himalayas,The Korakoram in the east and the Hindukush in the west, and it was a cradle and crossroads 
of different civilizations due to the junction of the ancient routes made the upper Indus.
Invaders, merchants, pilgrims, travelers, researchers and artisans from different origins, religions, times, eras, and cultures left their cultural and religious signs on the rocks, boulders, and cliffs. Gradually, a rock art archive accumulated in the area and became one of the most important rendezvous of petroglyphs in the world. The region holds thousands of very important rock carvings, representing hundreds of inscriptions in Brahmi, Sogdian, middle Persian, Chinese, Tibetan, and even ancient Hebrew langu-ages.
Although addressing Pakistan's energy crisis is an urgent need, and the Basha Dam would help bridge the gap between the demand and supply of power, the conservation and mitigation of these carvings is also very important. The Basha Dam will drown 32 villages and displace more than 25,000 people. It will also submerge some 3,000 very important stupas and a similar number of drawings after construction. This loss is tragic for archaeologists who consider this area as one of the most rich and diverse rock art provinces of the world.

Despite the need to build the dam, it is essential to establish a cultural center in Gilgit to preserve the original and replicas of the carvings along with scientific documents about the geography, history, languages, music, wildlife, and other aspects of the northern areas.

This center could be a rendezvous for scholars, writers, visitors, and for future generations to discover the exciting history of the region. 

Those planning a Pakistan travel and interested in Gilgit tour destinations should consider the importance of preserving the region's rock carvings and inscriptions, which provide insight into the religious and political situation and show the name of the rulers and a rough date of the time.

Biggest and exquisite mountains of the world in hunza valley

Hunza Valley is one in every of the biggest and exquisite mountains of the world.

Hunza Valley is positioned in Hunza district, Gilgit Baltistan, Pakistan. Its place is set 11660 km square feet.
Hunza valley landscape
Hunza valley landscape
The overall distance among Hunza and Gilgit is  fifty three km.

Hunza Valley is one in every of the biggest and exquisite mountains of the world. 

People of Hunza Valley
People dwelling in Hunza Valley stay a totally rich existence. Hunza Valley is populated with Pakistani and Chineses human beings.

An location like Hunza Valley isn't withinside the entire world.

Life of Hunza Valley
Let us tell you the average life of the people living in Hunza Valley.

It is astonishing that the average life of the people living in Hunza Valley is almost 100 years.

On the one hand, the average life of the world's total population is close to seventy years.

In this case, the average life of the people living in Hunza Valley is almost 100 years is amazing.

It is also surprising that so many people lived here for 120 years.

Language of Hunza Valley
The Burushaski language is spoken withinside the Hunza Valley and the encompassing areas.

Weather of Hunza Valley
The Hunza Valley weather is normally moderate. The Hunza Valley weather is harsh from November to March.

However, the time from April to October may be very beneficial to go to right here.

In those months, many humans from Pakistan and China come right here to go to.

It can be hard with the intention to visit Hunza Valley in July and August due to the fact there is lots of humans in July and August.

Religion of Hunza Valley
This area belongs to Pakistan. That is why there are so many Muslims here.

People of Hunza Valley mostly follow Islam. Almost 90% of Shia Muslims live here.

Who can go to Hunza Valley?
Hunza Valley is in Pakistan. And Israel is the only country in the world that Pakistan does not recognize.

In addition, Pakistan and India find it difficult to issue tourist visas to each other.

That is why the people of India rarely go to Hunza Valley. Residents of other countries can easily go to Hunza Valley.

Hunza Valley tour expenses
If you live in Pakistan or Bangladesh. So for just a few thousand rupees you can enjoy a good trip.

And even if you live in other country. You can still visit Hunza Valley in any season, summer, winter, autumn or spring, for almost 400
dollar.
Author : Khan

Lower Kachoora Lake another and famous name is Shangrila Lake(شنگریلا جھیل‎)

Lower Kachoora Lake another and famous name is Shangrila Lake(شنگریلا جھیل‎) 
Written by: pakistantravelerspk

Shangrila lake is found in Kachoora village in Skardu city at a height of two,500 meters (8,200 ft). The lake is additionally referred to as Shangrila Lake after a resort built on its bank in 1983.
Shangri-la Resort
Shangrila was established in 1983 with the opening of the primary Resort Hotel in Skardu, Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. 

Mohammad Aslam Khan Afridi was the first person who discovers this Shangrila resort. 

He has also been the Commander of the Northern Scouts of the Pakistan Army, while one of the reasons for the Shangri-La Resort's popularity is the restaurant built here on a wrecked plane.

James Hilton wrote a book lost horizon in which he called this place Shangri-la.
1920 a plane was crash near Shangrila after that some passenger was luckily survived.
Monks at a nearby temple where the plane crashed helped survivors.

They were taken to a gorgeous lamasery crammed with a spread of fruits and flowers.

The monks were very young in appearance but according to them they are very old and they have been living in this valley for a long time which people know today as Shangri-La.

It is such a charming place that it would not be wrong to say that this land But there is a piece of heaven.

کیا آپ جانتے ہیں؟ دنیا کا بلند ترین اے ٹی ایم شاہراہ قراقرم پر واقع ہے

دنیا میں سیاحوں کی خدمت کے لیے یوں تو بہت سی ایجنسیز اور کمپنیاں ہیں جو سیاحت کے شوقین افراد کو ہر ممکن خدمات فراہم کرتی ہیں جبکہ کچھ ایسی سائٹس بھی ہی جو سیاحت کے شوقین افراد کو بہت دلچسپ اور مفید معلومات فراہم کرتی ہیں ان ہی میں سے ایک نام بٹ لینڈرز کا ہے جو کہ اپنے پورٹل پر سیاحت کے شوقین افراد کے لیے بہت سی معلومات کا ذخیرہ رکھتی ہیں۔اس ہی ویب پورٹل نے اپنے ایک بلاگ میں قراقرم ہائی وے کو دنیا کا آٹھواں عجوبہ قرار دیا ہے ساتھ ہی اس شاہراہ کو بہت دلفریب انداز میں اپ ے بلاگ میں جگہ دی ہے۔
پاکستان میں موجود شاہراہ قراقرم دنیا کو سب سے اونچی پکی سڑک بھی کہا جائے تو شائد غلط نہ ہو گا۔یہ شاہراہ تیرہ سو کلو میٹر طویل ہے جبکہ اس شاہراہ کے ساتھ چلتے پہاڑی سلسلے آپ کو حیرت میں ڈال دیں گے۔تقریبا سات ہزار کی بلندی پر واقع یہ شاہراہ پاکستان کو چین سے ملاتی ہے جبکہ اس شاہراہ کا پرانا نام شاہراہ ریشم بھی تھا جو پاکستان کو چین سے ملاتی تھی اور یہ واحد شاہراہ تھی جو دونوں ممالک کے درمیان تجارت کے لئیے استعمال کی جاتی تھی۔شاہراہ قراقرم جو پاکستان کے سب سے ٹھنڈے علاقہ خنجراب پاس سے ہوتی ہوئی چین میں داخل ہوتی ہے اپنی مثال آپ ہے۔یہ شاہکار پاکستان اور چین دونوں کے تعاون سے تیار کیا گیا۔شاہراہ قراقرم کے ساتھ چلتے پہاڑی سلسلے اور اس کے قرب و جوار میں موجود آبادیاں جہاں ایک بار جانا چاہیے ہر ایک کو تب ہی اندازہ ہوگا کہ پاکستان میں موجود اس شاہراہ قراقرم کو کیوں آٹھواں عجوبہ کہنے پر عالمی دنیا مجبور ہے۔شاہراہ قراقرم ہی وہ واحد راستہ ہے جو دنیا کے بلند ترین اے ٹی ایم تک آپ کو لے جا سکتی ہے جو کے نیشنل بینک آف پاکستان نے تیار کیا ہے۔
 written by paksitantravelerspk

Hunza Peak lies in the westernmost subrange of the Karakoram range in Pakistan

Hunza Peak-Pakistan
Hunza Peak lies in the westernmost subrange of the Karakoram range in Pakistan, along with the Ladyfinger Peak. It lies on the southwest ridge of the Ultar Sar massif, the most southeasterly of the major groups of the Batura Muztagh.The whole massif rises precipitously above the Hunza Valley to the southeast.Hunza is an (in a surprising and interesting way) peaceful and beautiful place located at an elevation of 2,438 metes, it is located 112 km of north of Gil git on the west bank of the Huzza river. Weather remains pleasant from April to September, however winters are very cold in huzza. People of huzza are Ismail's and speak Burushaski and are really friendly. Hunza is famous for its (things made by hand) and (very valuable/very dearly loved) stones. Hunza Valley's tourist season is from March to October, however to me anytime spent in Hunza would be a lifetime experience. View of Rakaposhi (7,788 metres) from Karimabad is amazing, 800 years old Baltit fort is another attraction.Tourists in Karimabad also visit duiker, altit to see sunset in evening from there one can see eight different peaks and view from Duiker is just amazing and beautiful.
Elevation: 6,270 m
Prominence: 140 m
Location: Hunza, Northern Areas
Pakistan Mountain range: Karakoram, Batura Muztagh
Parent ranges: Batura Muztagh, Karakoram

Lady Finger Peak-pakistan is a distinctive rock spire in the Batura Muztagh, the westernmost subrange of the Karakoram range in Pakistan

Lady finger peak-Pakistan
(By pakistantravelerspk)The Bublimotin, Bubli Motin, Bublimating or Ladyfinger Peak,pakistan is a distinctive rock spire in the Batura Muztagh, the westernmost subrange of the Karakoram range in Pakistan. It lies on the southwest ridge of the Ultar Sar massif, the most southeasterly of the major groups of the Batura Muztagh.
Lady finger peak
Elevation: 6,000 m
First ascent: 1982
Location: Gilgit
Northern Areas, Pakistan
Easiest route: East Ridge
Mountain range: Karakoram, Batura Muztagh
Parent ranges: Batura Muztagh, Karakoram

It has the highest ATM in the world on the Pakistani side from the National Bank of Pakistan-Khanjarab Pass

Breaking New Heights: Khunjerab Pass Sets Records with the Highest ATM and the Highest Point on the Karakoram Highway

Khunjerab Pass is a high-altitude mountain pass located on the border between Pakistan's Gilgit-Baltistan region and China's Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region. It's a strategic and historic passage that connects the two countries, facilitating trade, tourism, and cultural exchange.

Interesting facts about Khunjerab Pass:

  • Highest Paved Border Crossing: Khunjerab Pass holds the record for the highest paved international border crossing in the world, standing at an elevation of 4,693 meters (15,397 feet) above sea level.
  • Engineering Marvel: The pass was constructed in the 1970s and 1980s, with Pakistan and China collaborating on the project. It's an impressive feat of engineering, considering the harsh terrain and extreme weather conditions.
  • Scenic Beauty: Khunjerab Pass offers breathtaking views of the surrounding Karakoram mountain range, with snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and picturesque valleys.
  • Wildlife: The pass is home to a variety of wildlife, including the rare and endangered Marco Polo sheep, snow leopards, and ibex.
  • Trade and Tourism: Khunjerab Pass is an important trade route between Pakistan and China, with goods like textiles, carpets, and gemstones being exchanged. It's also a popular destination for tourists, offering trekking, hiking, and adventure opportunities.
  • Climate: The pass experiences extreme weather conditions, with temperatures dropping to -50°C (-58°F) in winter and rising to 20°C (68°F) in summer.
  • Accessibility: The pass is open from April to November, depending on weather conditions. Visitors can travel by car, bus, or bike, but must obtain a permit and follow strict regulations.
Khunjerab Pass is an extraordinary destination that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural significance, and adventure opportunities.

Khunjerab Pass (elevation 4,693 metres or 15,397 feet) is a high mountain pass in the Karakoram Mountains in a strategic position on the northern border of Pakistan (Region of Gilgit–Baltistan’s Hunza and Nagar Districts) and on the southwest border of China (the Xinjiang region)
Coordinates : 36°51′00″N 75°25′40″E

Wildlife Wonderland: Khunjerab National Park, a Sanctuary for the Elusive Snow Leopard

Snow leopard, an endangered species, is found in the Khunjerab National Park.
Its name is derived from two words of the local Wakhi language : 'Khun' means Blood and 'Jerav' means a creek coming from spring water falling.

A Roadmap to Cooperation: Khunjerab Pass Emerges as a Symbol of Sino-Pakistani Collaboration

The Khunjerab Pass is the highest-paved international border crossing in the world and the highest point on the Karakoram Highway.

The roadway across the pass was completed in 1982, and has superseded the unpaved Mintaka and Kilik Passes as the primary passage across the Karakoram Range.

The choice of Khunjerab Pass for Karakoram Highway was decided in 1966: China citing the fact that Mintaka would be more susceptible to air strikes recommended the steeper Khunjerab Pass instead.

On the Pakistani - administered side, the pass is 42 km (26 mi) from the National Park station and checkpoint in Dih, 75 km (47 mi) from the customs and immigration post in Sost, 270 km (170 mi) from Gilgit, and 870 km (540 mi) from Islamabad.

On the Chinese side, the pass is the southwest terminus of China National Highway 314 (G314) and is 130 km (81 mi) from Tashkurgan, 420 km (260 mi) from Kashgar and some 1,890 km (1,170 mi) from Urumqi.

The Chinese port of entry is located 3.5 km (2.2 mi) along the road from the pass in Tashkurgan County.

The long, relatively flat pass is often snow-covered during the winter season and as a consequence is generally closed for heavy vehicles from November 30 to May 1 and for all vehicles from December 30 to April 1.

The Reconstructed Karakoram Highway passes thru Khunjerab Pass

Since June 1, 2006, there has been a daily bus service across the boundary from Gilgit to Kashgar, Xinjiang.

Border Crossing Made Easy: Signpost Helps Motorists Adapt to New Traffic Rules

A helpful road-sign giving motorists a perspective about the distances of the area from several cities in Pakistan.

This is one of the international borders where left-hand traffic (Pakistan - administered Gilgit-Baltistan) changes to right-hand traffic (China) and vice versa.

A Railway to the Roof of the World: Khunjerab Pass Considered for China-Pakistan Transport Link

It has the highest ATM in the world on the Pakistani side from the National Bank of Pakistan.

In 2007, consultants were engaged to investigate the construction of a railway through this pass to connect China with transport in Pakistani-administered Gilgit-Baltistan.

A feasibility study started in November 2009 for a line connecting Havelian 750 km (466 mi) away in Pakistan and Kashgar 350 km (217 mi) in Xinjiang.

However no progress has been made thereafter and this project is also not part of the current CPEC plan.

The Burzil Pass is the oldest route connecting Gilgit with Srinagar and Skardu through Deosai Plateau.

The Burzil Pass
It is the oldest route connecting Gilgit with Srinagar and Skardu through Deosai Plateau. The travellers used horses and ponies to cross the pass.
(pakistantravelerspk)The Burzil Pass (el. 4,100 m (13,500 ft)) is an ancient pass in northern India, and is part of the historic caravan route between Srinagar and Gilgit. The pass lies close to the Line of Control demarcating India and Pakistan, which has since closed the Burzil. The crest of the pass is wide and covered in summer with alpine grass vegetation.The Astor river originates from western slopes of the pass. Burzil Pass

Burzil Pass
Elevation : 4,100 m (13,451 ft)
Location : Jammu and Kashmir, India
Range : Himalaya Range
Coordinates : 34°54′00″N 75°06′00″E
It is the oldest route connecting Gilgit with Srinagar and Skardu through Deosai Plateau. The travellers used horses and ponies to cross the pass. At the beginning of the 20th century a hut of post couriers was situated on the crest of the pass. They brought mail from India to China.
Gilgit is some 367 km (228 mi)from Srinagar by road over the Burzil Pass above the northern banks of Wular Lake and Gurez.
From Astore to Burzil Pass Road the following main places are in the route: Gorikot , Astore River Bridge , Maikaal , Dad Khitran , and Chilam Chowki .

Gilgit Hunza beauty

Its All About Gilgit & Hunza Valley.
(Written By Pakistantravelerspk-pktraveler)

What does Gilgit mean?Gilgit is the capital city of Gilgit-Baltistan, a (land area owned or controlled by someone) in the Kashmir area given/gave by Pakistan, but claimed by India.Gilgit is a major tourist destination in Pakistan, and serves as a hub for traveling and mountaineering big, important trips in the Karakoram Range.

Hunza famous for?In Hunza, the shop-related of Karimabad is well known for its local (things made by hand), (made by human hands, with no power tools or machines) carpets, traditional and (decorated with patterns of thread) caps, different shawls, handwoven cloth and its gemstone including Ruby. The Ruby mines are famous tourist attractions. The Hunza valley is popular for its snow-capped and rough mountains.

Shikari tower is oldest monument in the Gilgit Baltistan

Altit Fort is located in Altit town,Hunza valley in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan.
(Written By pakistantravelerspk-pktraveler)
Altit Fort,Hunza,Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan
Altit Fort is located in Altit town,Hunza valley in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. It was originally home to the hereditary rulers of the Hunza state who carried the title Mir,Altit Fort and in particular the Shikari tower is around 1000 years old,which makes it the oldest monument in the Gilgit–Baltistan. The fort has received the UNESCO Asia Pacific Heritage Award for Cultural Heritage Conservation in 2011.
Altit word means this side down and the area around the fort is inhabited by Borosho people. The people of Altit are said to belong to the white Huns,The present language Bruchiski was brought here by the white Huns in 47 A.D but there is no link between boroshaski and any other language of today.Altit village meaning the village of Huns.The Huns came from the Huang-Ho valley in China. The name later changed to Broshal, translated as a village of Bruchiski speakers. They were spirit worshipers as Shamanism was in practice and also followed Buddhism and Hinduism. In the 15th century Islam was introduced. In 1830 many People converted to Ismailism.
The Altit Fort was restored by the Aga Khan Trust for Culture Historic Cities Support Programme and the Government of Norway. It is characterized by small rooms and low portals with exquisite wood carvings. Altit Fort is a tourist site which has been completely open to the public since 2008.


According to Altit Village elders white Huns from the soldier of Alexander started human settlement in Altit when they were on way back from China. It is said that these were the ancestors of the Khanu Kuts tribe of Altit. Presently, majority of households of this tribe are living within the old cluster settlement known as Burum Khan. The Khunu kuts still has the status of Saath Guy, the privilege of starting any activity/event/work/festival within the village. On the other hand, people from Hussain kuts also claim to be the earlier settler in Altit. They claim that Hussain is modified from Hun. It is said that for centuries Hussain kuts remained as a ruling and strong tribe in the village. It is narrated that this tribe was strong and thus creating troubles for the Raja of Gilgit. Therefore, the Raja with the help of other tribes ordered mass killing of the people of this tribe.
The origin of different tribes and sub-tribes reveals that people from different regions migrated to Altit and permanently settled down. Presently, the people of Altit belong to one of these four major tribes.
Husain Kuts
Khano Kuts
Hukalo Kuts
Shoshorating