General
Hunza Winter Festival (2024-25)
The Hunza Winter Festival is a thrilling seven-day festival held on the gorgeous Attabad Lake in Hunza Valley. This first event will feature exhilarating winter sports like ice hockey and skating, as well as spectacular cultural performances and traditional games. With its distinct blend of adventure and tradition, the festival provides guests with an amazing experience in the heart of Gilgit-Baltistan, celebrating both the natural beauty and rich culture of this breathtaking region.
Itinerary – Hunza Winter Festival
The itinerary for the Hunza Winter Festival is given below.
Day 02: Fly to Gilgit
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Arrive in Gilgit by air or road. If you're traveling by automobile, take in the scenery along the Karakoram Highway. After arriving in Gilgit, drive to Hunza Valley, which takes approximately 2-3 hours. When you arrive, check into your accommodation in Karimabad or Altit. In the evening, unwind and admire the stunning views of Rakaposhi and Ultar Sar peaks. Have dinner at a neighborhood restaurant and retire for the night.
Day 03: Festival Opening and Ice Sports
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Begin your day with a journey to Attabad Lake, the event venue. Attend the Hunza Winter Festival's Opening Ceremony, which will feature spectacular cultural exhibitions and welcoming activities. Witness spectacular Ice Hockey and Ice Skating tournaments with teams from across Gilgit-Baltistan, including female competitors. Explore local traditions by watching or playing games like Basra, Pindok, and Baalbut, which highlight the region's rich cultural past. In the evening, take in fascinating cultural performances, such as Risme Tao and Risme Shop, set against the magnificent backdrop of the frozen lake. Return to your hotel for a comfortable night.
Day 04: Festival and Cultural Exploration
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Spend the morning at the festival location, where you may participate in more winter sports and cheer on the winners of several competitions. Explore the scenic splendor of Attabad Lake, which offers opportunities for ice walking, photography, and socializing with the locals. In the afternoon, taste authentic Hunza cuisine at a nearby restaurant. The evening involves a Grand Cultural Show, which brings the region's traditions to life through Mayfung rites, folk music, and dance performances. The festive atmosphere provides an ideal combination of entertainment and cultural enrichment.
Day 05: Sightseeing in Hunza
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Visit the old Baltit Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site with breathtaking valley vistas, as well as Altit Fort, which is noted for its unique architectural and historical significance. Both forts provide insight into the region's history and culture. Later, visit Eagle's Nest, a popular viewpoint that provides panoramic views of snow-covered peaks such as Ultar Sar, Ladyfinger Peak, and Rakaposhi. Take some time to browse the local bazaar for handcrafted handicrafts, Hunza caps, and organic items like dried apricots and nuts.
Day 06: Festival and Gulmit Excursion
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Spend the morning at Attabad Lake participating in the festival's concluding activities, which include friendly competitions and cultural exhibits. In the afternoon, take a short trip to Gulmit Village, which is recognized for its rich Wakhi culture and breathtaking scenery. Visit the Hussaini Suspension Bridge, an iconic and exhilarating bridge over the Hunza River, and tour the Gulmit Museum, which houses relics from the region's past. Relax with tea and nibbles at a nearby guesthouse before returning to Karimabad.
Day 07: Passu Glacier and Khunjerab Pass (optional)
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Take a day excursion to Passu, where you will be met with the dramatic Passu Cones and the breathtaking Passu Glacier. If the weather and road conditions permit, continue your journey to the Khunjerab Pass, the world's highest paved international border crossing at 4,693 meters. Admire the snow-covered peaks and expansive scenery along the journey. Return to Karimabad in the evening for a goodbye meal with live folk music and a cozy atmosphere.
Day 08: Fly to Islamabad
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After breakfast, drive back to Gilgit and board your aircraft back to Islamabad. Depending on your flight time, you can spend some time exploring Gilgit before heading to the airport. Arrive in Islamabad, filled with memorable recollections of the Hunza Winter Festival and the region's magnificent splendor.
Day 09: Fly to home country
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Dates & Cost – Hunza Winter Festival
All seasons are considered good for the Hunza Winter Festival. Considering the inflow of tourists all year round, our dates are open throughout the year and your bookings will be 100% guaranteed even if you are a single traveler. Our prices and dates for this tour (all seasons) are given below.
| Season | Months | Tour Start Date | Price Per Person (USD) | Minimum Travellers Required | Register |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Winter | Mid-November to February, 2025 | Daily | 1200 | 1 pax | BOOK NOW |
| Spring | March to May, 2025 | Daily | 1200 | 1 pax | BOOK NOW |
| Summer | June to Mid- September, 2025 | Daily | 1200 | 1 pax | BOOK NOW |
| Autumn | Mid-September to Mid November, 2025 | Daily | 1200 | 1 pax | BOOK NOW |
| Season | Months | Tour Start Date | Price Per Person (USD) | Minimum Travellers Required | Register |
Holiday Information
- Pickup from hotel or vacation rental before sightseeing
- Drop at hotel or vacation rental after sightseeing
- Guided sightseeing tour according to itinerary above
- Map (hard copy)
- Licensed professional guide (english speaking)
- SUV/mini-van/car (depending on number of people)
- Driver
- All entry/admission tickets
- Bottled water in car (fair usage policy)
- Toll & parking fees
- Drop after 10 pm (Drivers & Guide's working hours end at 10pm)
- Gratuities/tips for guides/drivers, etc
- Meals, snacks and drinks (our guide will make recommendations after consultation with guests)
- Accommodation (can be arranged at additional cost according to your budget)
- Personal travel insurance (Recommendation/Rescue Partners: Global Rescue)
- Visa to Pakistan (supporting documents can be offered if requested for multiday tours)
- Refunds in case of early tour windup/closure due to any reason
- Anything not mentioned in inclusions
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Overview – Hunza Winter Festival
The Hunza Winter Fest is a one-of-a-kind celebration that showcases the beauty of the Hunza Valley’s winter landscape as well as its rich cultural legacy. The festival is held in the picturesque Attabad Lake, surrounded by snow-capped peaks and frozen waters, and features a dynamic mix of winter sports and traditional traditions. Ice hockey, ice skating competitions, and local sports such as Basra, Pindok, and Baalbut highlight the region’s athletic talent and cultural diversity. This inaugural event intends to attract both national and international tourists, providing an exceptional experience in the heart of Gilgit-Baltistan.
Beyond athletics, the event immerses guests in Hunza’s traditions and legacy. Grand cultural performances, such as the presentation of Risme Tao, Risme Shop, and Mayfung rites, offer insight into centuries-old traditions. These performances are complemented by music and dance that captures the lively energy of the Hunza community. The festival also includes local cuisine and homemade handicrafts, allowing visitors to connect with the culture on a deeper level while supporting the local economy.
The festival, set against the backdrop of a frozen lake and sub-zero temperatures, is a monument to the people’s tenacity and ingenuity. It not only promotes tourism during the off-peak winter season, but it also protects and celebrates the region’s distinct cultural and ecological heritage. This festival is an ideal blend of adventure, tradition, and scenic beauty, making it a must-see event for travelers and culture fans.
