The words “north is calling me” resonated in my mind while traversing through the breathtaking beauty of Hunza valley last summer. The panoramic aura enveloping the mountain ranges of the Karakoram and the Himalayas was akin to heaven on earth. I found myself agape, gazing at the mesmerizing colors of flowers in the meadows. The crisp misty air caressed my face when I freed it from the car’s window, unraveling the enigma of the mountainous maze. The snow-capped peaks concealed in the clouds presented epic landscapes which is why Hunza valley is the most popular tourist attraction in Pakistan.

History at a glance

Hunza was a princely state for more than 900 years until when British took over the neighboring valley of Nagar, incorporating Hunza into their fraternity. The British appointed Mir Muhammad Nazim Khan the ruler of Hunza valley when his brother fled to China.

Hunza valley reverberates with the rich culture which is thriving there. After mass migration and conflicts of different ethnicities, the Dradic Shina race succeeded to make themselves prominent in the area. The literacy rate of 95% is revealed through the etiquette of random people. The hospitality and eagerness to help a stranger are in the blood of the inhabitants of Hunza. No wonder why Hunza valley is at the pinnacle of peace.

Reminiscing the trip

The picturesque scenery of Hunza always makes its way through my memories and the urge to settle down in a small cottage there gets stronger. It is said that once you go to the mountains you never return as the same person. That is true in my case as I think I have lost a piece of my heart and soul in those mountains. The pollution-free ambiance and the stargazing of the countless stars in the sky make your worry go away.No doubt, words cannot justify the magnificence of Hunza valley. Someday I want to again dive into the mountainous terrain and explore every concealed beauty of the masterpiece of God.