Pakistan: Hunza Valley – Baltit Fort

Standing at the highest point in Karimabad and with commanding views of the entire Hunza Valley and the glacier-glad peaks – it’s almost surreal. The forest was founded in the 8th century, it’s literally Perched on the moraines of the Ultar Glacier at 2,700 meters elevation. Historically, Hunza was an independent princely state until 1974, blending Persian, Central Asian, and Tibetan influences. Its strategic location along the ancient Silk Route made it a hub for trade and cultural exchange. The fort was established by the Mirs, the sovereign Hunza rulers, and was the heart of the state. By the 16th century, Hunza had embraced Ismaili Islam branch and the fort became the heart of the religious activities. In the 19th century, Baltit Fort’s strategic importance grew during the “Great Game,” the geopolitical rivalry between the British and Russian empires for control of Central Asia. The Mirs skillfully played both sides, until the Brits figured it out and conquered and subdued Hunza in 1891. They then reinforced the fort and installed a puppet Mirs. The fort was abandoned in 1947 when Hunza became part of Pakistan. The fort has been meticulously restored to its original glory – three-story wood-and-stone structure, built with mud plaster, with granaries, royal kitchen, meeting rooms, and panoramic rooftop views.