Introduction

Nestled in the stunning Hunza Valley, Borith Lake and Passu Cones offer an unparalleled experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Borith Lake, a serene high-altitude lake, is a hidden gem, while the Passu Cones, with their distinct pyramid-like peaks, dominate the landscape with their majestic beauty. In this detailed guide, we will explore the best ways to visit these scenic wonders, their cultural heritage, nearby attractions, and essential travel tips to make your trip unforgettable.

History

The history of Borith Lake and Passu Cones is deeply rooted in the traditions of Hunza Valley. Passu Cones, also known as Passu Cathedral, have stood as silent guardians for centuries, attracting explorers from around the world. These peaks belong to the Karakoram Range and have played a vital role in the region’s trekking and mountaineering history. Meanwhile, Borith Lake has been a resting spot for migratory birds, including the rare Siberian ducks, making it an essential site for nature conservation.

Cultural Heritage

The region surrounding Borith Lake and Passu Cones is home to the Wakhi people, an ethnic group known for their rich cultural traditions, hospitality, and unique lifestyle. The local language, Wakhi, and the traditions of the people reflect the heritage of ancient Silk Road traders. The famous Passu Festival, celebrated annually, showcases traditional music, dance, and local crafts, making it an excellent time for cultural immersion.

Best Time to Visit

• Spring (March-May) – Perfect for witnessing blooming apricot orchards and pleasant weather.
• Summer (June-August) – Ideal for trekking and sightseeing with clear skies.
• Autumn (September-November) – The golden hues of autumn leaves make this season a photographer’s paradise.
• Winter (December-February) – Snow-covered Passu Cones and frozen Borith Lake create a magical landscape, although accessibility may be challenging.

How to Reach From Islamabad

• By Air: Take a flight from Islamabad to Gilgit (approx. 1 hour), then drive to Passu Village (5-6 hours).
• By Road: Drive from Islamabad via the Karakoram Highway (KKH) (approx. 18-20 hours). Break your journey in Chilas or Gilgit for rest.

Places to Visit in and Around Borith Lake and Passu Cones

1. Borith Lake

A serene, high-altitude lake surrounded by mountains, offering peace and stunning landscapes.

• Location: Gojal, Upper Hunza, Gilgit-Baltistan.
• Nearby Places:
  • Passu Cones – 3 km
  • Hussaini Suspension Bridge – 6 km
• Key Attractions:
  • Migratory birds (Siberian ducks in spring and autumn)
  • Stunning sunrise and sunset views
  • Crystal-clear water perfect for reflection photography
• Best Time to Visit: March-May (Spring) and September-November (Autumn).
• Activities to Do: Birdwatching, trekking, camping, photography.

2. Passu Cones (Passu Cathedral)

A famous cluster of pointed peaks in the Karakoram Range, known for their unique pyramid-like structure.

• Location: Passu Village, Hunza Valley, Gilgit-Baltistan.
• Nearby Places:
  • Borith Lake – 3 km
  • Attabad Lake – 20 km
• Key Attractions:
  • Panoramic view of Cathedral Ridge
  • Popular trekking trails leading to Passu Glacier
  • Photography spots with breathtaking landscapes
• Best Time to Visit: March-November for clear weather.
• Activities to Do: Trekking, sightseeing, photography, hiking.

3. Hussaini Suspension Bridge

One of the world’s most thrilling and dangerous hanging bridges, made of wooden planks and ropes.

• Location: Hussaini Village, Gojal Valley.
• Distance from Borith Lake: 6 km.
• Key Attractions:
  • Adventurous experience crossing the swinging bridge.
  • Scenic views of Hunza River and Passu Cones.
• Best Time to Visit: March-November.
• Activities to Do: Adventure walking, photography, sightseeing.

4. Passu Glacier

A majestic glacier nestled near the Passu Cones, offering breathtaking landscapes and thrilling trekking routes.

• Location: Passu Village, Hunza Valley.
• Distance from Borith Lake: 4 km.
• Key Attractions:
  • Close-up view of one of Pakistan’s most scenic glaciers.
  • Challenging but rewarding trek.
• Best Time to Visit: May-September (trekking season).
• Activities to Do: Glacier trekking, adventure photography.

5. Attabad Lake

A turquoise blue lake formed after a massive landslide in 2010, now a major tourist attraction.

• Location: Attabad, Hunza Valley.
• Distance from Borith Lake: 20 km.
• Key Attractions:
  • Speed boating and jet skiing.
  • Stunning blue water against rocky cliffs.
• Best Time to Visit: April-October.
• Activities to Do: Boating, kayaking, jet skiing, camping.

6. Gulmit Village

A historical and cultural hub of Upper Hunza, known for its traditional Wakhi culture.

• Location: Gojal Valley, Gilgit-Baltistan.
• Distance from Borith Lake: 10 km.
• Key Attractions:
  • Gulmit Museum – Showcasing the Wakhi people’s heritage.
  • Old Silk Route ruins.
• Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn for cultural festivals.
• Activities to Do: Cultural exploration, visiting historical sites.

Activities to Do

• Trekking to Passu Glacier
• Camping near Borith Lake
• Exploring Hussaini Suspension Bridge
• Boat rides on Attabad Lake

Where to Stay

• Passu Ambassador Lodge – Scenic views of Passu Cones.
• Borith Lake Resort – Best for lake lovers and campers.

What to Eat

• Chapshuro – Local meat-filled bread.
• Apricot Juice – A Hunza Valley specialty.
• Yak Meat Dishes – Traditional in the region.

Estimated Costs in PKR

• Accommodation: PKR 5,000 – PKR 15,000 per night
• Food: PKR 500 – PKR 2,000 per meal
• Transport: PKR 3,000 – PKR 10,000 (depending on mode)

Suggested Itinerary for Borith Lake & Passu Cones

Arrival & Hunza Exploration – Day 1

• Arrive in Gilgit via flight or road from Islamabad.
• Drive to Hunza Valley (Approx. 2.5 hours).
• Visit Rakaposhi Viewpoint for breathtaking mountain views.
• Explore Karimabad, visit Baltit & Altit Forts.
• Stroll through Hunza Bazaar, shop for handicrafts and dry fruits.
• Overnight stay in Karimabad.

Attabad Lake & Gulmit Village – Day 2

• Breakfast with a view of Hunza Valley.
• Drive to Attabad Lake (45 minutes), enjoy boating & jet skiing.
• Visit Gulmit Village, explore the Gulmit Museum and old Silk Route ruins.
• Cross the Hussaini Suspension Bridge for an adventure.
• Head to Passu Village, take photos of the Passu Cones.
• Overnight stay in Passu or Gulmit.

Borith Lake & Passu Glacier Trek – Day 3

• Early morning drive to Borith Lake (4×4 recommended).
• Relax by the lake, enjoy birdwatching & photography.
• Trek to Passu Glacier (2-3 hours trek, moderate difficulty).
• Return to Borith Lake, enjoy local food at a lakeside restaurant.
• Visit Passu Village in the evening for sunset views.
• Overnight stay in Passu or Borith Lake Guesthouse.

Sost & Khunjerab Pass Adventure – Day 4

• Drive to Sost, the last town before the Pakistan-China border.
• Explore the local bazaar and try Wakhi cuisine.
• Continue towards Khunjerab Pass (85 km, ~3-hour drive).
• Enjoy panoramic views at the highest paved border crossing.
• Return to Passu or Gulmit for overnight stay.

Return to Hunza & Relaxation – Day 5

• Leisurely breakfast with views of Passu Cones.
• Drive back to Hunza Valley (~2 hours).
• Visit Eagle’s Nest for the best panoramic view of Hunza.
• Relax at a local café with organic Hunza tea.
• Optional visit to Hopper Glacier (Nagar Valley).
• Overnight stay in Hunza/Karimabad.

Departure via Gilgit – Day 6

• Early morning drive to Gilgit (~2.5 hours).
• Explore Gilgit Bazaar, buy souvenirs.
• Catch a flight back to Islamabad or continue your road journey.

FAQs

1. Where is Borith Lake located?

Borith Lake is nestled in Upper Hunza, near Gulmit Village, at an altitude of approximately 2,600 meters. It lies close to the famous Passu Cones and is accessible via a short 4×4 track.

2. How do I reach Borith Lake from Islamabad?

To get there, you can either:

• Take a flight from Islamabad to Gilgit, followed by a 4-5 hour drive via the Karakoram Highway.
• Travel by road via the Karakoram Highway, which takes around 18-20 hours but offers breathtaking scenery along the way.

3. What is the best time to visit Borith Lake and Passu Cones?

Without a doubt, the best time is from April to October. During spring and summer, the weather is pleasant, and the landscapes are lush. However, autumn (September-October) offers stunning golden hues, while winters are extremely cold and snowy.

4. Is a 4×4 vehicle required to reach Borith Lake?

Yes, while a normal car can reach Gulmit or Passu, the final ascent to Borith Lake is best navigated with a 4×4 vehicle, especially during rainy or snowy conditions.

5. What are the top activities to do at Borith Lake?

Visitors can enjoy:

• Boating or relaxing by the lake
• Birdwatching, especially in spring when migratory birds arrive
• Trekking to Passu Glacier, which offers incredible views
• Photography, capturing the surreal Passu Cones in the background

6. Can I swim in Borith Lake?

Technically, yes, but the water is extremely cold, even in summer. If you’re up for an icy adventure, a quick dip is possible!

7. What are the accommodation options near Borith Lake?

You can stay at:

• Borith Lake Hotel & Resort, located right next to the lake
• Hotels & guesthouses in Passu or Gulmit, which offer more facilities and budget options

8. How far is Passu from Borith Lake?

Passu is only 6 km away from Borith Lake, making it a short 15-minute drive.

9. What makes Passu Cones so famous?

Passu Cones, also known as the Cathedral Ridge, are jagged, pyramid-like peaks that rise sharply from the Hunza Valley. Their unique shape and golden hues at sunrise and sunset make them a favorite among photographers.

10. Is it safe to travel to Borith Lake and Passu Cones?

Absolutely! Upper Hunza is one of the safest regions in Pakistan, with friendly locals and low crime rates. However, it’s always wise to check weather conditions and road updates before traveling.

11. What kind of food is available in the area?

You can enjoy traditional Hunza cuisine, including:

• Chapshuro (meat-filled pastry)
• Diram Pitti (sweet wheat bread)
• Apricot soup and juices
• Yak meat dishes (in some restaurants)

12. Are there any cultural or religious considerations?

Yes, since Hunza is home to Ismaili Muslims, visitors should dress modestly and respect local customs and traditions.

13. Is internet and mobile network available at Borith Lake?

While internet and mobile signals are available in Passu and Gulmit, connectivity at Borith Lake may be weak or non-existent.

14. Can I visit Khunjerab Pass along with Borith Lake?

Yes! Khunjerab Pass (Pak-China Border) is 85 km away from Passu and can be visited as a day trip.

15. What is the estimated cost for a trip to Borith Lake and Passu Cones?

• Transportation: PKR 15,000 – 25,000 (from Islamabad)
• Accommodation: PKR 3,000 – 10,000 per night
• Food: PKR 1,000 – 3,000 per meal
• Total Budget: PKR 35,000 – 70,000 per person (for a 5-6 day trip)

16. What should I pack for my trip?

• Warm clothes, even in summer
• Comfortable trekking shoes
• Sunscreen & sunglasses
• Power bank & extra batteries
• Emergency snacks & water bottle

17. Can beginners do the Passu Glacier trek?

Yes, but it’s a moderate-level trek. If you have basic fitness, you can do it in 2-3 hours. However, proper hiking gear is recommended.

18. Are there any nearby places worth visiting?

Yes! You can explore:

• Hussaini Suspension Bridge (~10 km)
• Gulmit Village (~5 km)
• Attabad Lake (~20 km)
• Khunjerab Pass (~85 km)

19. Do I need a permit to visit these areas?

No permit is required for Pakistani travelers. However, foreign tourists need to register at police checkpoints when traveling towards Khunjerab Pass.

20. Why should I visit Borith Lake and Passu Cones?

If you’re looking for serene landscapes, thrilling adventures, cultural experiences, and breathtaking photography spots, this region is a must-visit!

Would you like any additional details?

Conclusion

In summary, Borith Lake and Passu Cones offer an extraordinary blend of natural beauty, adventure, and cultural richness. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat by the pristine lake, an exciting trek to Passu Glacier, or a mesmerizing view of the iconic Passu Cones, this region has something for everyone. Moreover, its warm hospitality, delicious local cuisine, and breathtaking landscapes make it a must-visit destination in Hunza Valley.

Furthermore, planning your trip during the best seasons and being well-prepared will ensure a smooth and unforgettable journey. From boating on Borith Lake to exploring nearby gems like Attabad Lake and Khunjerab Pass, every moment spent here is truly worthwhile.

To conclude, if you’re a nature lover, adventure seeker, or photography enthusiast, a trip to Borith Lake and Passu Cones should definitely be on your travel bucket list. So, pack your bags, get ready for a memorable experience, and let the majestic beauty of Hunza leave you in awe! 🌄✨