Cao Ky Nhan

Nestled in the north of the Gilgit-Baltistan region of Pakistan, the Hunza Valley is divided into three areas: Upper Hunza, Central Hunza, and Lower Hunza. From Islamabad, it took us two days by car to reach Ghulkin village in Upper Hunza. Our fatigue from the long trip vanished, leaving us excited to explore a destination known for having one of the most stunning golden autumns in the world.

Due to the surrounding towering snowy mountains, the sun rose late here. Even though it was only autumn, the freezing cold in the early morning made us shrink into our thick layers of clothing. The scenery was vibrant as a brook’s murmuring mingled with birdsong, creating a mellow harmony to welcome the new day. The whole place sprang to life as the sun revealed herself, gilding everything with brilliant light. Even the wild tufts of grass by the road donned dreamy golden coats.

The residents of the Hunza Valley are friendly and hospitable. Many families even invited us into their homes for tea and biscuits, or to pick and enjoy fresh fruit in their gardens. Their mostly self-sufficient lifestyle allows them to live long and healthy lives, with some people reaching 120 years old. For this reason, the Hunza Valley is also called the “Valley of Longevity”.