GET A GUIDED TOUR OF BALTIT FORT
This elegant fort in the mountains is a must stop, it will set the stage for your whole trip as the guide helps you catch up to the history and importance of this whole town. Beginning your Karimabad trip here is very good idea.
STOP AT THE KARIMABAD BAZAR
As you walk down from the fort stop at the bazar. The Karimabad Bazar is small yet enchantingly beautiful. The bazar has gems, antique, carpet shops, cafes, local handicraft shops and workshops. The road goes up to the Balitt Fort but you can spend hours visiting shops or sit in a cafe and watch as the people go by their day to day life. It is also a good place to meet people (local or travellers).
CHECK OUT THE LOCAL CAPS, JEWELLERY AND GEMS
While at the bazar check out women stitching these local design caps, local silver jewellery, dresses and gem stones. Dress up and take pictures, these local caps are hand-made by women in the village and can be added to you souvenir collections.
COFFEE SHOPS
Small coffee shops are not very common in the region but Karimabad has these small coffee shops that you will love. The coffee is actually not bad and served with some kind of speciality sweet or cake. Just sit back relax and enjoy your coffee as you take in the breath-taking views of the mountains. On a cool morning or evening it is the best thing!
ULTAR GLACIER TREK
Ultar glacier is 4-5 hour hike from Baltit. The hike is simple yet amazing, this glacier is the fresh water source of the surrounding areas. The incredible mountains surrounding it are equally amazing.
LOCAL FOOD BY THE LADIES
If you feel hungry or want to grab a quick bite then stop at these small food pavilions run by women. They will prepare your whole food right in front of you. The best thing is that all items on the menu are local food/dishes that you get you taste and also might get all the secret recipes passed on by generations.
HEAD TO DUIKAR
Duikar is less than one hour drive from Karimabad on a very steep road. Once you reach at Duikar it is an amazing place to relax for the evening and watch as the sun goes under the mountains. The view of the towns of Hunza below is also amazing.
ENJOY SOME LOCAL MUSIC
If you are lucky enough and see local music playing, do stop to see as people dance around in circle on the beat of the drum. The music is an important heritage of Gilgit Baltistan. The energy of the musician and dancers is an amazing experience to witness.
Other things around Karimbad are to explore the Duikar region, head to Ganish (Old Settlement), visit Altit Fort or take a trip to the Attabad Lake. Many people like to stay at Karimabad while they explore Hunza before they leave towards Gojal and the Khunjerab (Pak-China) Border.
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