Gulmit Hunza – Heritage Village in the Heart of Gojal Valley!
Nestled between the towering Passu Cones and the shimmering waters of Attabad Lake, Gulmit is a beautiful mountain village in Upper Hunza (Gojal Valley). Known as the “Valley of Flowers”, it offers a blend of cultural heritage, dramatic landscapes, and warm Wakhi hospitality.
With its old stone houses, ancient watchtowers, carpet weaving centers, and proximity to glaciers and lakes, Gulmit is not just a stop — it’s a place to slow down, explore, and connect with the soul of Hunza.
Why Visit Gulmit?
Gulmit is the soul of Upper Hunza — less commercial, more authentic, and deeply peaceful. It’s where you can connect with culture, nature, and community in one small valley. Whether you’re crossing a hanging bridge, watching women weave centuries-old patterns, or staring up at the mighty Passu Peaks — Gulmit gives you a sense of timeless Hunza life.
Routes to Gulmit
Location & Access
Region: Gojal (Upper Hunza), Gilgit-Baltistan
Altitude: ~2,500 meters (8,200 ft)
Distance from Gilgit: ~130 km (~3.5–4 hours)
Distance from Karimabad: ~35 km (~45 minutes)
Access Route: Via the Karakoram Highway, past Attabad Lake
Top Attractions in Gulmit
| Place | Description |
|---|---|
| Ondra Fort Ruins | Ancient ruins with 360° views of Gulmit, Passu, and Borith |
| Gulmit Women’s Handicraft Center | Traditional Wakhi weaving & embroidery |
| Gulmit Old Mosque | Built in the 18th century with Tibetan-style wooden architecture |
| Stone-Walled Streets | Walk through the narrow alleys of this historical village |
| Wakhi Culture Museum | Learn about local heritage, attire, and tools |
| Hussaini Suspension Bridge (10 mins away) | One of the world’s most thrilling bridges |
| Borith Lake (20–25 mins hike/drive) | A peaceful glacial lake above Gulmit |
Best Time to Visit
| Season | Highlights |
|---|---|
| April–May | Bloom season with green fields and apricot blossoms |
| June–August | Warm, active, and perfect for hikes |
| September–October | Autumn colors + clear skies for photography |
| Winter (Nov–Feb) | Quiet and cold; snow-capped peaks and cozy stays |
Activities to Do in Gulmit
Walk through historic streets and meet local artisans
Take panoramic shots from Ondra Poygah (stair trail to fort ruins)
Visit weaving centers and buy authentic handmade carpets
Sip tea in a traditional Wakhi home
Hike to Borith Lake or Passu Glacier viewpoint
Volunteer or attend workshops on culture or sustainability (seasonal)
Local Food
Try local dishes like:
Chapshuro (meat-filled bread)
Sharbat (dried apricot juice)
Trout Fish (fresh from local rivers)
Butter tea & organic yogurt
Must-know things!
- Sleeping Mask & Ear Plugs: Warm Shawl/Lightweight Jacket.
- Gadgets & ChargersBook & Notepad.
- Mints, Sanitizer, Wet Wipes & Tissue paper.
- Toiletries.
- Snacks.
- Hiking boots/Sturdy Joggers.
- Cargo Pants/Hiking Trouser.
- Hat, Sunglasses, Sunblock.
- Refillable Water Bottle.
- Snacking Bars/Dry Fruits.
Traveler Tips
Fuel Up in Gupis or Gilgit – no petrol stations in Golaghmuli
Mobile Network: Limited; only SCOM works in some areas
Permits: No NOC needed for Pakistani tourists. Foreigners might need NOC from Gilgit.
Weather Gear: Even in summer, nights are cold – bring layers
Altitude Sickness: Stay hydrated, ascend gradually