Hunza Valley is a stunning mountainous region located in northern Pakistan, known for its breathtaking landscapes and rich culture. Traveling from Delhi to Hunza Valley is a popular route for adventure seekers and nature lovers looking to explore the Karakoram range.

This guide will help you understand the main travel options from Delhi to Hunza Valley, including trains, buses, cars, and flights. You will also find step-by-step plans, practical tips, and advice on the best time to travel for a safe and comfortable journey.

Getting from Delhi to Hunza Valley – Main Options

Train

Train travel from Delhi to Hunza Valley involves multiple segments and is suitable for travelers who prefer scenic routes and affordable fares. However, there is no direct train to Hunza, so you must combine train and road travel.

• Start your journey at New Delhi Railway Station, taking a train to Amritsar or Attari, which are major border points near Pakistan. Trains run frequently, with fares ranging from ₹300 to ₹1500 depending on class and train type.

• From Attari, cross the India-Pakistan border at Wagah and enter Pakistan. This border crossing is busy during peak hours, so plan accordingly to avoid long waits, especially during festivals or holidays.

• Once in Pakistan, take a train from Lahore or Islamabad to Gilgit, the nearest major railhead to Hunza. Pakistan Railways operates limited services, and the journey can take 12 to 18 hours with fares in Pakistani Rupees equivalent to ₹500 to ₹1500.

• From Gilgit, road travel is necessary to reach Hunza Valley, approximately 100 km away via the Karakoram Highway. Local buses and taxis are available, but roads can be challenging during monsoon and winter seasons.

Bus

Buses offer a budget-friendly option but require multiple changes and careful planning. This mode suits travelers comfortable with long journeys and flexible schedules.

• From Delhi, take a bus to Amritsar ISBT or the Delhi ISBT to reach the India-Pakistan border at Wagah. Buses operate daily, with fares around ₹500 to ₹1000, but expect crowded conditions during peak travel times.

• After crossing into Pakistan, use intercity buses from Lahore or Islamabad to Gilgit. Pakistan’s bus services vary in comfort; deluxe buses cost more but offer better amenities and take around 18 to 24 hours.

• From Gilgit, local buses or shared jeeps travel to Hunza Valley. These vehicles depart frequently but may be crowded, and the journey takes about 3 to 4 hours on mountainous roads.

• Bus travel can be affected by weather, especially during winter snow or monsoon rains, causing delays or cancellations. Carry warm clothing and snacks for the long trip.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Delhi to Hunza Valley is an adventurous choice for experienced drivers comfortable with international travel and mountain roads. It offers flexibility but requires careful preparation.

• The route covers approximately 1,200 km, starting from Delhi via NH44 to Amritsar, then crossing the Wagah border into Pakistan. Ensure your vehicle has valid permits for cross-border travel and insurance coverage.

• In Pakistan, follow the Karakoram Highway (N-35) from Islamabad to Gilgit, then onward to Hunza Valley. This highway is scenic but includes narrow, winding sections prone to landslides, especially during monsoon season.

• Expect toll plazas and checkpoints along the route, so carry identification and vehicle documents at all times. Fuel stations are available but can be sparse in remote areas, so plan refueling stops carefully.

• Driving time from Delhi to Hunza can take 24 to 30 hours depending on border crossing times and road conditions. Overnight stops in cities like Lahore, Islamabad, or Gilgit are recommended for safety and rest.

Flight

There are no direct flights from Delhi to Hunza Valley, but flying is the fastest way to cover most of the distance, combined with road travel for the final leg.

• Fly from Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) in Delhi to Islamabad International Airport (ISB) in Pakistan. Several airlines operate this route with flight times around 2 hours and fares ranging from ₹6,000 to ₹15,000.

• From Islamabad, take a domestic flight to Gilgit Airport (GIL). Flights are limited and weather-dependent, often operating only in good weather conditions, with fares around ₹3,000 to ₹7,000.

• From Gilgit Airport, hire a taxi or take a local bus to Hunza Valley, approximately 2 to 3 hours by road. Roads are mountainous, so travel times may vary.

• Flight schedules can be affected by fog or rain, especially in winter and monsoon seasons, so book tickets with flexible options and check weather forecasts before travel.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This plan is designed for first-time travelers from Delhi to Hunza Valley, helping you navigate the complex journey smoothly.

• Book your India to Pakistan visa well in advance, as it is mandatory for crossing the Wagah border and can take several weeks to process.

• Reserve train or flight tickets early through IRCTC for Indian trains and airline websites for flights to avoid last-minute unavailability, especially during holidays.

• Plan your border crossing time to avoid peak hours, typically early morning or late evening, to reduce waiting times at Wagah.

• Arrange local transport from Gilgit to Hunza in advance by contacting taxi services or bus operators, as options may be limited and crowded.

• Pack warm clothes and essentials for mountain travel, including snacks and water, since facilities along the Karakoram Highway can be sparse.

• Keep digital and physical copies of all travel documents, including passports, visas, tickets, and permits, to present at checkpoints and border controls.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs like Careem in Pakistani cities to avoid overcharging and ensure safety during local travel.

• Drink only bottled or boiled water and avoid street food unless you are sure of its hygiene to prevent stomach issues during the journey.

• Book tickets for trains and flights well in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons or festivals like Eid, when demand spikes sharply.

• Carry minimal luggage to ease transfers between different transport modes and avoid hassles at border crossings and checkpoints.

• Be cautious of weather conditions; monsoon rains can cause landslides on the Karakoram Highway, while winter snow may block roads, so check local forecasts regularly.

• Use local SIM cards in Pakistan for better connectivity and navigation, as Indian SIMs may have limited coverage and high roaming charges.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Delhi to Hunza Valley is during the late spring to early autumn months when weather conditions are favorable. Winters bring heavy snow, making roads difficult to navigate.

Monsoon season from July to September can cause landslides and roadblocks on the Karakoram Highway, so plan your trip outside this period for safer travel.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Diwali in India and Eid in Pakistan, as border crossings and transport services become crowded and delayed.

• Early morning departures from Delhi help you avoid city traffic and reach border points during less busy hours.

• Summer months from May to September offer pleasant weather in Hunza but be prepared for occasional rain and check road conditions.

• Winter months from December to February are not recommended due to heavy snowfall and limited transport services in northern Pakistan.

Arrival at Hunza Valley & What to Expect

Upon arriving in Hunza Valley, you will find a peaceful mountainous environment with limited but reliable local transport options. The main town of Karimabad is the hub for accommodation and sightseeing.

Local transport includes shared jeeps, taxis, and minibusses that connect different villages and tourist spots. Prepaid taxis and app-based services are rare, so agree on fares before starting your journey.

Accommodation ranges from guesthouses to mid-range hotels, mostly located near Karimabad. Basic amenities are available, but power outages and limited internet connectivity can occur, so plan accordingly.

Food options include local Hunza cuisine and simple restaurants serving Pakistani staples. Carry some snacks and water during excursions, as remote areas have few shops.

Most visitors explore Hunza Valley by hiring local guides or self-driving on well-marked roads. The valley offers stunning views of Rakaposhi and Ultar Sar peaks, making it a rewarding destination after the long journey.

Conclusion

Traveling from Delhi to Hunza Valley requires careful planning due to the international border crossing and mountainous terrain. The most efficient option combines flying from Delhi to Islamabad, then to Gilgit, followed by a road trip to Hunza. This saves time and reduces fatigue compared to long train or bus journeys.

Remember to secure your visa early, book transport tickets in advance, and prepare for variable weather conditions. With these tips, you can confidently plan your trip and enjoy the breathtaking beauty of Hunza Valley, making your journey a memorable adventure.