HUNZA BLOSSOM TOUR

HUNZA BLOSSOM TOUR

The HUNZA VALLEY is located in the northern part of Pakistan near the borders of China and Afghanistan. Hunza is well-known for its picturesque beauty, culture, and the tradition of the mountain people. For hundreds of years, it was an isolated state ruled by the king or Mir, locally called “THAM”. In the nineteenth century, the kingdom became a princely state protected by the government of British India. After the partition from India, Pakistan gained control of these areas in 1947, but Tham/Mir was allowed to rule over local matters until 1974 when Pakistan took over complete control.

During the spring season, the fruit trees erupt in white blossom, and the valley looks like a white carpet. The blossom starts first with the almond trees, then apricot trees, cherries, apples, peaches, and pears, creating a wonderful contrast of blossom against the high snow-capped mountains. These fruits are an integral part of Hunzakutz’s diet. Apricot trees are more common in Hunza and Nagar valleys and are a legendary fruit of the valley, serving as the main source of food in ancient times.

Normally, the blossom starts from the end of March to the end of April in the valley, and it’s best to start the trip in the first week of April. Hunza is a long valley starting from Gilgit to Khunjerab Pass, a 190 km border with China. So, the blossom starts from Gilgit to northwards in the valley – first almond flowers, then apricot, followed by cherry, apple, and peach. It remains until the end of May in the Valley.

Hunza is connected to the capital, Islamabad, by road through the Karakorum Highway (KKH) and by air to Gilgit, then by road to Hunza Valley, which is a 2-hour drive on KKH. All flights to Gilgit from Islamabad are subject to weather conditions.