All about Hunza:
Hunza Gilgit Baltistan is a magnificent alpine valley in Pakistan's Gilgit-Baltistan region renowned as "Heaven on Earth." Rakaposhi, Hunza Peak, Bojahagur Duanasir II, Darmyani Peak, Ghenta Sar, Ultar Sar, and Ladyfinger Peak are among the high peaks that surround it to the north/west of the Hunza River.
Tourists flock to the valley because of its numerous magnificent natural views. Hunza Baltit and Hunza Altit forts are two of the most well-known of these attractions. The Hunza Baltit fort was recently converted into a heritage museum following renovations.
The market of Karimbad in Hunza is famed for its local handicrafts, handmade rugs, traditional embroidered caps, shawls, hand woven fabric (paffu), and gemstones, particularly Ruby, which are famous all over the world. The Ruby Mines are well-known tourist destinations.
Hunza History
Tourists come to this valley for a look of Hunza's two most famous forts, Hunza Altit and Hunza Baltit. The Hunza Altit Fort, which is located in the Hunza Altit settlement, is the oldest fort in the northern territories. It is situated on a rocky outcropping of a mountain with the Hunza River flowing through it.
The Hunza Baltit Fort, located at the summit of Karimabad, is another stunning fort in the Hunza Gilgit Baltistan. It has received multiple prizes, including the Tourism of Tomorrow Award and the Asia-Pacific Heritage Award of Excellence for Cultural Conservation (UNESCO). In 2005, the Best of Asia Award was given by the Asian edition of Time Magazine.
People and Language The majority of Hunza's residents are Ismaili Shia Muslims who follow Prince Karim Aga Khan IV, with Shia Muslims accounting for more than 90% of the population of Ganish Village.
People of three ethnic groups primarily inhabit the Hunza region:
The Shinaki people, whose local language is Shina, live in the Lower Hunza region, which stretches from Khizerabad to Nasirabad.
Burushaski speakers primarily inhabit the Central Hunza region, which stretches from Murtazaabad to Attabad. From Shiskat to Khunjerab, the Upper Hunza region known as Gojal is home to Wakhi speakers.
The people of Hunza Gilgit Baltistan are warm-hearted and well-known for their hospitality, much as the valley is for its scenic splendour. Although Burushaski is the most widely accepted language, the majority of people also speak Urdu and English.
This valley is home to a variety of cultural activities, which Hunza residents enjoy celebrating. Traditional dance is quite popular among all age groups, and there is even a particular traditional band for it, making it even more fun and exciting.
Education in Hunza Gilgit Baltistan
The literacy rate in the Hunza valley is thought to be above 90%, according to a recent survey. In terms of high literacy rates and school enrollment, the valley serves as a "role model" for Pakistan, with every child enrolled in at least secondary school. Many of them pursue higher education in prestigious Pakistani and international schools and universities.
Hunza Lifestyle
Hunza Gilgit Baltistan has the world's healthiest people and the world's longest life expectancy. Even in old age, they are strong and resilient. This is due to their natural food and the pristine water they consume. Every day, the residents travel a great deal on the rocky terrain, which provides them with physical activity. The apricot, which is considered Hunza's Gold, is the most prevalent organically grown fruit.
People there consume fresh apricots in season, dry them, and purée the dried apricots for later use in jam and ice cream. Other fruits cultivated there, such as apples, pears, black and red cherries, and peaches, provide nutritional value to these individuals as well.
In Hunza Gilgit baltistan, the number of orchards and trees under cultivation is used to determine the local population's economic stability.
Hunza chapatti bread, prepared from nutritious grains, is a significant part of their diet. These people benefit from the Glacial Milk as well.
Festivals with a History
Various religious, cultural, and everyday life events are celebrated in the Hunza Valley. Religious and cultural festivals make up the majority of these events (daily life or agricultural). Among the religious events are:
Eid-Ul-Azha
Eid-ul-Fitr
Eid-Ul-Meladul Nabi
·Nowroz festival
Shab-e Barat,
Shab-e-Miraj,
Eid Ghadeer,
· Salgira-e- Imam Zman Mubar (Birthday of Agha khan)
Locals assemble in Hunza Altit, Hunza Baltit, and Aliabad to celebrate the annual Ginani festival. This celebration is held to bring joy and gladness to the beginning of the harvest season. The holiday, known as Dirum Pitti, is commemorated with dance, music, and the preparation of a traditional food.
The Spring Blossom Festival is another well-known festival that brings people together to celebrate life. This festival draws a large crowd to commemorate the region's cultural legacy with exhibitions, sporting events, and cultural presentations.
Baba Ghundi and Shimshal Kuch are two other festivities worth attending.
Dresses Hunza's weather is nice from April to September, necessitating the wearing of light woollen garments. Winter, on the other hand, necessitates thick woollen clothing.
Colorful knee-length blouses and shalwars are worn by the ladies, who also wear traditional embroidered hats to protect their heads. Shalwar Qamiz and Pattu (hand-woven woollen cloth) hats are the most frequent outfits for guys. Overcoats of flowy embroidered gowns are used in the winter.
Hunza Kitchen
Hunza's speciality dish is fittis, which is really tasty and deserving of your attention. Wheat flour, milk, butter, and salt are used to make these cakes, which are cooked on a hot stone. Fresh fruits cultivated in this region include apricots, apples, plums, peaches, cherries, and grapes. The Hunza bread, as previously said, is a healthy grain-based diet. When it comes to international visitors, grape extract known as "Hunza Water" is quite popular.
Tips to Hunza Valley
Here you can find some helpful tips to Hunza Valley in complete detail.
Conclusion
Hunza is one of Pakistan's most beautiful places. It is still well-known among residents and visitors alike for the Hunza beauty and distinctive culture. As Pakistanis, we must safeguard our homeland and serve as ambassadors for such lovely areas. Choose your Hunza Tour package from Karachi and get a chance to travel to Pakistan’s best tour places.
