Passu Village & Passu Cones – The Crown Jewels of Upper Hunza!
Tucked beneath a surreal skyline of jagged, snow-capped peaks, Passu Village is a peaceful hamlet in Gojal Valley, Upper Hunza, famous worldwide for its towering Passu Cones, also known as the “Cathedral Peaks”.
This quiet, charming settlement lies along the Karakoram Highway, surrounded by glaciers, rivers, hanging bridges, and some of the most spectacular mountain landscapes you’ll ever see.
Why Visit Passu?
Passu is more than a postcard view — it’s a place that makes you stop, breathe, and feel small beneath the giants of the earth. The stunning spires of the Passu Cones, the roar of the nearby glacier, and the warmth of Wakhi people make it one of the most unforgettable places in the Karakoram.
Whether you come for photos, peace, or adventure — Passu will leave a mark on your soul.
Routes to Passu Village & Passu Cones
Location & Access
Region: Gojal, Upper Hunza, Gilgit-Baltistan
Altitude: ~2,500 meters (8,200 ft)
Distance from Gilgit: ~145 km (~4 hours)
Distance from Karimabad: ~50 km (~1 hour)
Nearby Villages: Gulmit (15 min), Sost (30 min), Hussaini (10 min)
Passu Village Highlights
| Attraction | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Passu Mosque | Small mosque with Passu Cones in the backdrop |
| Passu Glacier Trek | Moderate hike to glacier viewpoint |
| Passu Suspension Bridge | A thrilling, lesser-known hanging bridge |
| Passu Viewpoint | Ideal photo stop on KKH with direct view of cones |
| Passu River & Glacier | Icy streams and dramatic terrain |
| Wakhi Culture | Friendly locals, unique language & customs |
| Tea Houses & Shops | Small cafés serving apricot juice & yak burgers |
What Are the Passu Cones?
Locally known as: Tupopdan (Sun-Drenched Peaks)
Altitude: ~6,106 meters (20,033 ft)
Famous for: Their needle-like spires forming a natural “cathedral” shape
Part of: Batura Muztagh sub-range of the Karakoram Mountains
Best Views: From Passu Viewpoint, Karakoram Highway, Passu Suspension Bridge, and Borith Lake Trail
These peaks are not climbable due to unstable rock but are photographer’s favorites, especially at sunrise and golden hour.
Best Time to Visit
| Season | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| April – June | Wildflowers, melting glaciers, good hiking |
| July – August | Peak season, lush landscapes, more tourists |
| Sept – Oct | Clear skies, autumn colors, less crowd |
| Nov – Feb | Quiet, snowy, dramatic — but cold |
Things to Do in Passu
Photograph the Cones from multiple angles at different times of day
Trek to Passu Glacier Viewpoint (~2 hours roundtrip)
Visit the Suspension Bridge (shorter & quieter than Hussaini)
Taste local dishes at roadside cafés and guesthouses
Walk along the riverbanks, especially at sunrise
Experience Wakhi culture through homestays & local guides
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