Top of the World
Gojal, known as Upper Hunza, stands as a stunning testament to the rugged beauty and vast wilderness of the Gilgit-Baltistan region in Pakistan. It is the largest district in the area, bordering both China and Afghanistan, and serves as a critical junction connecting through the Khunjerab Pass to China and the Chapursan Valley to Afghanistan. With an average elevation reaching about 4,000 meters, Gojal is not only the highest region in the Karakoram and Pamir mountain ranges but also a breathtaking canvas of some of the world’s most awe-inspiring landscapes.
The district is renowned for its high mountain valleys and peaks, with Shimshal Valley, the highest and largest valley in the region, soaring to 10,170 feet. Shimshal is particularly beloved by tourists for its pristine natural beauty and the challenging peaks like Distaghil Sar, the seventh highest in Pakistan. Other notable mountains in Shimshal Valley include Kunjut Sar, Trivor, Pumari Chhish, and Yukshin Gardan Sar, earning it the nickname "Valley of Mountaineers."
Gulmit, another gem in Upper Hunza, sits at an elevation of 7,900 feet and is well-equipped to welcome visitors, featuring numerous hotels and shops. The valley is also home to several stunning lakes, adding to its allure as a tourist destination.
Passu, situated along the Karakoram Highway in the Karakoram Range, is known for its ancient heritage and dramatic landscapes, marked by the towering Passu Cones and surrounded by the vast Batura and Passu Glaciers. Despite its beauty, Passu faces natural challenges such as landslides and floods, yet it remains a significant draw for those seeking the thrill of its extreme and ancient environment.
Shishkat, another notable area in Gojal, attracts tourists with its scenic beauty and the famous Attabad Lake, created by a massive landslide in 2010. This unexpected natural disaster has since turned into a popular attraction, demonstrating the transformative power of nature.
Sost, a pivotal village on the Pakistan-China border, is vital due to its dry port which serves as a major hub for trade between the two countries. The importance of Sost is magnified by its proximity to the Khunjerab Pass, the highest paved international border crossing in the world and a critical trade gateway.
Traveling along the Karakoram Highway towards the Khunjerab Pass offers an adventure like no other, with endless vistas of towering peaks and scenic valleys, along with views of the Hunza River, which is fed by numerous tributaries before merging with the Gilgit River in Gilgit. This route not only provides a journey through some of the highest peaks of the Karakoram Range but also a profound connection with the natural world, making Gojal a must-visit for anyone seeking the essence of the sublime in Pakistan’s vast landscapes.
