Hunza Valley, located in the breathtaking region of Gilgit-Baltistan, is one of Northern Pakistan's most famous travel destinations. Known for its snow-capped mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and friendly locals, Hunza sits at an altitude of about 2,500 meters (8,200 feet). Popular spots like Baltit Fort, Attabad Lake, and the Passu Cones attract tourists year-round. This guide will help you plan your journey from Islamabad to Hunza, covering travel routes, stopovers, and useful tips. Whether you choose the Naran-Babusar route or the Karakoram Highway (KKH), we’ll help you reach Hunza easily and safely.
Distance & Travel Time
The distance from Islamabad to Hunza is about 650 km via the Naran route and 750 km via the Karakoram Highway. It usually takes around 17 to 18 hours to reach Hunza by road, depending on weather and road conditions.
Islamabad to Hunza By Road
There are two main road routes to reach Hunza from Islamabad or Rawalpindi: one is the scenic Naran route, and the other is the famous Karakoram Highway (KKH). If you don’t want to manage all the travel details yourself, book Hunza tour packages covering both these routes with transport, accommodation, and sightseeing options.
Here is the detail guide about Islamabad to Hunza by road via both routes.
Islamabad to Hunza Via Naran and Babusar Top Route(Seasonal)
The Naran route is one of the most breathtaking and scenic roads in Northern Pakistan. Traveling this way, you can easily reach stunning destinations like Hunza and Skardu. The total distance from Islamabad to Hunza via this route is approximately 560 kilometers. The journey typically takes 18 to 20 hours by road, depending on traffic, weather, and road conditions.
Route:
Islamabad → M1 Motorway → Hazara Motorway → Mansehra → Balakot → Kiwai → Naran → Babusar Top → Chilas → Jaglot → Gilgit → Hunza
The best time to visit Hunza via the Naran route is from May to October, as Babusar Top closes during winter due to heavy snowfall. During winter, travelers use the Karakoram Highway route to reach Hunza.
Sightseeing Along the Naran Route:
- Makra Peak Viewpoint
- Kiwai Waterfall
- Mahandri
- Suki Kinari Tunnels & Dams
- Kaghan Glaciers
- Naran Town
- Sohani Waterfall
- Batakundi
- Pyala Lake (Ashyana Lake) at Jalkhad
- Lulusar Lake
- Babusar Top
- Nanga Parbat Viewpoint
- 3M Junction
- Gilgit City
- Hunza Valley
Activities to Enjoy on the Naran Route:
- Photography of stunning landscapes
- Water activities and refreshments at Kiwai Waterfall
- Visit Shogran (accessible via Kiwai Waterfall)
- Boating and photography at Saif-ul-Malook Lake, Naran
- Ziplining and river rafting in the Kunhar River (5 km from Naran)
- Relax and capture the peaceful scenery of Batakundi
- Visit Lulusar Lake
- Enjoy valley views from Babusar Top, including ziplining, cycling, and refreshments
- Stop at Nanga Parbat Viewpoint for incredible mountain views
Traveling from Islamabad to Hunza in one day can be very tiring, especially for families. Most travelers prefer a comfortable and relaxed journey. It’s recommended to complete this trip in two days. On the first day, travel from Islamabad to either Naran or Batakundi. Both places offer a variety of accommodations, from budget-friendly to luxury hotels. Naran is usually crowded during peak season, and finding a hotel can sometimes be difficult. Batakundi, however, now has many new, affordable, and comfortable hotel options. Stay overnight in Naran or Batakundi, and continue your journey to Hunza early the next morning.
You can also book Naran and Hunza Tour Package, in which you can explore both Naran and Hunza with reliable and comfortable transport option.
Islamabad to Hunza Via Karakoram Highway (KKH)
You can also reach Hunza easily via the Karakoram Highway, one of Pakistan’s most popular and scenic road journeys. This iconic highway remains open throughout the year, so you can plan your trip in any season. However, it’s best to avoid traveling during the monsoon or rainy season due to the risk of landslides in some areas.
The total distance via KKH is about 620 kilometers, and it usually takes around 18 to 20 hours by road, depending on traffic, weather, and road conditions.
The road condition on KKH is generally very good, with smooth, well-maintained stretches. However, some sections may be rough or under maintenance, so exercise caution in those areas.
Your road trip via KKH will be mostly smooth, comfortable, and filled with breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains, valleys, rivers, and beautiful landscapes.
Route:
Islamabad → M1 Motorway → Hazara Motorway → Besham → Dasu → Chilas → Jaglot → Gilgit → Hunza
Best Time to Travel via KKH
The Karakoram Highway remains open all year round, making it a reliable route to Hunza Valley. However, avoid traveling at night or during heavy rains (monsoon season) due to the risk of landslides.
Popular Sightseeing Spots Along KKH:
- Thakot Bridge
- Besham City
- Chilas Zero Point
- Nanga Parbat Viewpoint (near Raikot Bridge)
- Junction of Three Great Mountain Ranges (Himalayas, Karakoram, Hindu Kush)
- Gilgit City
- Rakaposhi Viewpoint
- Hunza Valley
Activities to Enjoy on the KKH Route
- Photography at scenic mountain viewpoints
- Stop for snacks and local food at Besham and Dasu
- Witness the mighty Indus River flowing alongside the highway
- Visit Nanga Parbat Viewpoint for spectacular mountain views
- Explore and shop at Gilgit City Bazaar
- Capture sunset and mountain views at Rakaposhi Viewpoint
Islamabad to Hunza By Air
You can also easily reach Hunza from Islamabad by air. Gilgit city has a well-developed airport that offers flights connecting Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi. Daily flights operate between Islamabad and Gilgit, while flights from Lahore and Karachi run on specific days.
A flight from Islamabad to Gilgit takes about 1 hour. From Gilgit Airport, you can hire a car or taxi to reach Hunza’s most famous town, Karimabad, within 1 to 2 hours.
Vaadi travles offer you best Hunza Honeymoon package by air, and Hunza Family tour package by air, with comfortable stay in best hotles of Hunza.
HunzaTravel Tips
Planning a trip to Hunza and want a safe, smooth, and memorable journey? Here are some helpful travel tips to keep your trip comfortable, enjoyable, and worry-free.
- If you want to visit Hunza but have limited time, traveling by air is highly recommended. Flying saves you a lot of time and helps you avoid the fatigue of a long road trip.
- However, if you have enough time, taking the scenic Naran route by road offers an unforgettable journey filled with beautiful memories of Northern Pakistan’s stunning landscapes.
- Avoid traveling in rainy season in at night. Although roads are safe, but avoid travelling at night, especially in hilly areas.
- Choose a reliable transport service or book a well-planned Hunza tour package to make your trip smooth, safe, and truly unforgettable.
- Pack the comfortable shoes and Shawls with you.
Best Places to Stay in Hunza
You’ll easily find accommodation options in Hunza at places like Aliabad, Karimabad, Duiker, Hunza Nagar, Upper Hunza, and Attabad. But while traveling, the most important decision is choosing the right place to stay. A good stay not only gives you comfort but also makes your trip peaceful, relaxing, and truly memorable.
In Hunza, you can stay at Karimabad or Attabad, where you’ll find a variety of hotels ranging from budget-friendly to luxury options. From both locations, you can easily visit nearby tourist spots and return to your hotel by evening. If you don’t find a hotel during the peak season due to heavy rush, you can also stay in Aliabad, where plenty of good hotels are available at reasonable prices. Your stay can make your trip comfortable and add peace to your journey, so choose it wisely.
FAQs
Is the road to Huzna safe?
Yes, the road from Islamabad to Hunza is completely safe for tourism. However, for a safer journey, it’s better to avoid traveling at night or during the rainy season.
Is Hunza Open for tourism?
Yes, Hunza is open for tourism throughout the year. During the summer season, you can travel via the Naran route. However, in winter, the Naran route is closed due to heavy snowfall, so you’ll need to travel through the Karakoram Highway to reach Hunza.
Is Hunza Valley safe for tourism?
Hunza Valley is completely safe for tourism. However, it’s important to follow some basic precautions while traveling, because even the safest places can become risky if you’re careless.
Is hunza worth visiting?
Hunza has a peaceful valleys, lakes, forts, meadows, glaciers, and much more for travellers and nature lovers. So it is with visit as you have to spend on travel, hotel stays, food, sightseeing, and local activities. But every rupee you spend here feels worth it because of the beauty and unforgettable memories you’ll take back.
What is the best route from Islamabad to Hunza Valley?
In summer, it’s best to travel via the Naran-Babusar Top route. It’s a scenic journey filled with beautiful places to explore, breathtaking views, and activities you can enjoy on the way.
