Khuda Abad Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit in Khuda Abad, Hunza Valley, Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. Plan your trip with our comprehensive travel guide, including must-visit attractions, hiking/biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, local culture and customs, safety and health, and transportation options.


Introduction to Khuda Abad

Khuda Abad is a small village located in the stunning Hunza Valley of Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. This beautiful village has become more popular in recent years because of its natural beauty and historic importance. The village itself is situated at an altitude of 2,438 meters, offering visitors breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, including the famous Mount Rakaposhi. The culture and traditions of the people of Khuda Abad have remained unchanged for centuries, adding an authentic and unforgettable experience to any visit to this village.

List of Places to Visit in Khuda Abad

There are a number of must-see attractions in Khuda Abad ranging from cultural to natural, and adventurous to relaxing. Here are the top places to visit in Khuda Abad.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Khuda Abad Museum The Khuda Abad Museum is one of the most important cultural attractions in Khuda Abad that houses artifacts, traditional costumes, weapons, and household items representing the local Wakhi culture.

  2. Khuda Abad Wall The Khuda Abad wall is a historic site that dates back to the 10th century. The wall was used for fortification and has stood the test of time, with parts of it still intact today.

Natural Attractions of Khuda Abad: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Borith Lake Located about 3 km from Khuda Abad, Borith Lake is a beautiful and serene lake surrounded by the mountains. Visitors can go fishing, hiking, or simply relax and enjoy the beautiful views of the lake.

  2. Hoper Glacier The Hoper Glacier is a stunning natural wonder that can be reached by Jeep. Visitors can enjoy hiking, exploring ice caves, and the magnificent views of the snow-capped mountains.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Khuda Abad

Khuda Abad is situated in one of the most picturesque regions with a variety of hiking and biking routes to explore. Some popular trails include:

  1. Khuda Abad Pass The Khuda Abad Pass crosses the mountains and glaciers from Khuda Abad into the neighboring Wakhan valley in Afghanistan. It provides the borders with a trade route for goods, allowing travelers to appreciate the interdependent relationship between Pakistan and Afghanistan.

  2. Ghulkin Glacier The Ghulkin Glacier is a popular hiking trail located about 4 km from Khuda Abad. It provides stunning views of the surrounding mountains, and the hike takes about 3 hours to complete.

Best Things to Do in Khuda Abad: Activities and Tours

Khuda Abad offers a wide variety of activities and tours that visitors can enjoy, catered to the preferences of every traveler. Some of the best things to do in Khuda Abad include:

  1. Cultural Tour A cultural tour led by a local guide will provide visitors with the opportunity to experience the traditional Wakhi culture and lifestyle that has remained unchanged for centuries.

  2. Wildlife Watching With KNP (Khunjerab National Park) being right next door, visitors can take advantage of exploring the wildlife and spotting the mountain goats grazing vast grasslands.

Week-Long Itinerary for Khuda Abad

Here is a suggested week-long itinerary to help plan a visit to Khuda Abad.

Day 1: Arrival and exploring the local area of Khuda Abad Day 2: A tour of the Khuda Abad Museum and the Khuda Abad Wall Day 3: Hiking the Khuda Abad Pass Day 4: Borith Lake for fishing and water activities Day 5: Hiking the Ghulkin Glacier Day 6: Cultural tour to experience the Wakhi culture and lifestyle Day 7: Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Khuda Abad

A trip to Khuda Abad would not be complete without sampling some of the local cuisine and trying some of the local beverages. Here are some must-try dishes and drinks.

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Chapshoro A savory pastry filled with meat, potatoes, or vegetables, Chapshoro is a popular street food in Khuda Abad.

  2. Shilicho/Momo Shilicho, also known as momo, are dumplings filled with meat or vegetables that are steamed and served with a spicy dipping sauce.

Local Beverages

  1. Yak Milk Yak milk is a popular local beverage that is said to have medicinal properties and is refreshing on a hot day.

  2. Butter Tea Butter tea or gur gur cha is a traditional Wakhi tea that is made with butter and salt, providing a unique and rich flavor.

Where to Stay in Khuda Abad: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are a limited number of places to stay in Khuda Abad, but they offer a variety of options to choose from to suit different budgets and preferences. Some popular accommodation options include:

  1. Mulberry guest house
  2. Ghulkin Glacier View Cottage Both are run by local families and offer authentic Wakhi hospitality.

What to Buy in Khuda Abad: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

There are a number of souvenirs and local products that make great gifts to bring home from Khuda Abad, including:

  1. Handmade wool and silk carpets These carpets are made using traditional methods and patterns.

  2. Gemstones and Minerals Khuda Abad is home to a variety of precious and semi-precious gemstones, including the famous Hunza ruby.

Local Culture and Customs of Khuda Abad

The people of Khuda Abad are predominantly Wakhi, adhering to their unique traditions and customs. Visitors to the village should respect their culture and customs by following these guidelines:

  1. Dress modestly, covering arms and legs while in public places, particularly religious sites.
  2. Ask for permission before taking photographs of the local people.
  3. Respect the local traditions and customs, particularly when visiting religious or cultural sites.

Best Time to Visit Khuda Abad

The best time to visit Khuda Abad is between May and October, when the weather is warm and dry, offering ideal conditions for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Khuda Abad

Do:

  1. Respect the local culture and traditions.
  2. Hire a local guide to show you the best sights and help you better understand the area.
  3. Try the local cuisine and beverages.

Don’t:

  1. Disrespect or disregard the local customs and traditions.
  2. Litter or pollute the environment.
  3. Disrespect religious or cultural sites.

Safety and Health

Safety in Khuda Abad

Khuda Abad is a safe and welcoming village for travelers. Visitors are encouraged to take the usual precautions while traveling.

Health in Khuda Abad

Visitors to Khuda Abad should ensure they are up-to-date on any vaccinations before traveling. It is also recommended that visitors bring any necessary medications with them.

Getting to Khuda Abad: Transportation Options and Logistics

Khuda Abad is located about 110 km from Gilgit, the capital of Gilgit-Baltistan, and there are several transportation options available.

Airports Near Khuda Abad

The nearest airport to Khuda Abad is around 150 km away in Gilgit. The airport is serviced by Pakistan International Airlines.

Bus Stations Near Khuda Abad

The main bus station in Gilgit offers daily services to many other cities in the region. Visitors can also take a shared taxi from Gilgit to Khuda Abad.

Other Options

Private cars can be hired from Gilgit for those who prefer a more comfortable and personalized transport option.

How to Get Around in Khuda Abad

The best way to get around in Khuda Abad is on foot, as the village is small and easy to navigate.

Where to Go Next from Khuda Abad: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Khuda Abad is only a small part of the numerous destinations, attracting visitors from all around the world in the Gilgit-Baltistan region. Some of the popular nearby destinations include:

  1. Hunza Valley offers stunning scenery and adventure opportunities to the north.
  2. Passu Cones offers a unique landscape that will undoubtedly capture the imagination of any traveler.
  3. Karimabad is the largest town in the Hunza Valley with numerous cultural and historical sites.

Conclusion

Visitors to Khuda Abad can expect an unforgettable experience steeped in culture, natural beauty, and adventure. The best time to visit is from May to October, and there are many attractions and activities to explore. With our comprehensive travel guide, visitors can plan their trip with ease, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable stay in Khuda Abad.