From Lahore to Hunza: A Road‑Trip Guide with Scenic Stops

A road trip from Lahore to Hunza is not just a journey—it’s a breathtaking adventure through the heart of Pakistan’s natural and cultural splendor. Covering over 800 kilometers, this route takes you from the plains of Punjab through the majestic hills of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and into the snow-capped peaks of Gilgit-Baltistan. With proper planning, this trip becomes more than a destination; it becomes a mosaic of scenic stops, historic sites, local cuisine, and unforgettable memories.

Here’s your ultimate 1000-word guide for a road trip from Lahore to Hunza, highlighting must-see spots, practical tips, and travel-friendly routes.

Day 1: Lahore to Islamabad (380 km / 4–5 hours)

Start early from Lahore to avoid city traffic. The drive on the M-2 Motorway is smooth and scenic, lined with mustard fields, rolling hills, and local life glimpsed from the highway.

Scenic Stop: Khewra Salt Mines (near Lilla Interchange) If you have a couple of extra hours, make a quick detour to the Khewra Salt Mines, the second-largest in the world. Explore the salt caverns, miniature mosque, and colorful salt formations.

Lunch Stop: Bhera Service Area A popular rest stop on the M-2 with clean washrooms and a good selection of food.

Evening in Islamabad Check into a guesthouse or hotel. Spend the evening at Daman-e-Koh or Monal Restaurant, enjoying a view of the city lights from the Margalla Hills.

Day 2: Islamabad to Naran (270 km / 6–7 hours)

Leave early to beat the traffic and begin your ascent into the mountains.

Route: Take the Hazara Motorway (M-15) via Abbottabad, then drive through Balakot and into the Kaghan Valley.

Scenic Stop: Balakot This town, located on the banks of the Kunhar River, marks the gateway to the northern mountains. Take a short break here for fresh fruit or tea.

Lunch Stop: Kiwai Waterfall Stop at Kiwai for a riverside lunch near the waterfall. Many local eateries serve hot pakoras and trout fish fresh from the river.

Detour Option: Shogran & Siri Paye If you have time, take a detour to Shogran and hire a jeep to Siri Paye Meadows, where panoramic views of Makra Peak await.

Evening in Naran Arrive in Naran and check into your hotel. Enjoy a warm dinner and a walk along the Kunhar River.

Day 3: Naran to Hunza (350 km / 10–12 hours)

This is the longest and most thrilling day of the road trip, taking you through some of the most stunning landscapes Pakistan has to offer.

Early Morning Stop: Lulusar Lake About 50 km from Naran, this high-altitude lake is a serene and photo-worthy spot surrounded by snow-covered peaks.

Crossing Babusar Top At 4,173 meters (13,691 feet), Babusar Pass offers panoramic views and crisp mountain air. Stop for photos and enjoy the silence of the mountains.

Descent into Chilas As you cross into Gilgit-Baltistan, the landscape shifts dramatically from green hills to rocky, arid mountains.

Lunch Stop: Chilas or Jaglot Refuel in Chilas or Jaglot. From here, you join the legendary Karakoram Highway (KKH).

Scenic Stop: Junction Point of Three Mountain Ranges Just before Gilgit, stop at the famous viewpoint where the Himalayas, Karakoram, and Hindu Kush ranges meet. It’s a geographer’s dream and a must-see.

Drive Through Gilgit If time allows, explore Gilgit city—a cultural hub with a mix of modern and traditional influences. Don’t miss the Kargah Buddha carved into a cliffside.

Arrival in Hunza Finally, reach Hunza Valley, the crown jewel of northern Pakistan. Check in at a local guesthouse or hotel in Karimabad or Altit.

Top Scenic Stops in Hunza

1. Baltit Fort: A 700-year-old fort offering sweeping views of the Hunza Valley.
2. Altit Fort & Village: A UNESCO-recognized site with traditional architecture and apricot orchards.
3. Eagle’s Nest Viewpoint: Catch sunrise or sunset with a 360-degree view of Hunza’s iconic peaks.
4. Attabad Lake: Formed by a landslide in 2010, this turquoise lake is ideal for boating and photography.
5. Passu Cones: Iconic jagged peaks that are a photographer’s paradise.

Road Trip Essentials

• Vehicle: A well-maintained car or 4×4 is essential, especially for Babusar Top.
• Documents: Carry your CNIC; foreigners must bring passports and NOC.
• Fuel Up Often: Fuel stations are limited in upper valleys.
• Offline Maps: Internet coverage is spotty; download Google Maps offline.
• Snacks & Water: Pack plenty, especially for the Naran to Chilas stretch.

Best Time for a Road Trip

• May to September: Ideal months when Babusar Top is open and roads are in better condition.
• Avoid Monsoon Season: July and August can bring landslides in some areas.
• Winter Trips: Babusar closes after mid-October. The KKH via Besham and Dassu is your only route but takes longer.

Tips for an Enjoyable Road Trip

• Start Early: Mountain roads are safer and less crowded in the morning.
• Drive Carefully: Respect speed limits, especially on winding roads.
• Engage with Locals: Stop for chai, buy fruit, and learn about regional customs.
• Respect Nature: Don’t litter and avoid honking in quiet villages.

Conclusion

A road trip from Lahore to Hunza is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that traverses Pakistan’s diverse geography and cultures. From the historic salt mines to the mighty Karakorams, every kilometer holds a story. With thoughtful planning and a spirit of exploration, this journey offers more than scenic beauty—it offers insight, inspiration, and a profound connection to the land. So fill your tank, pack your camera, and hit the road for an unforgettable northern odyssey.