Nagar Valley – Formerly Princely State of Gilgit Baltistan

Cherry blossom in Nagar khas 2

Few things in Nagar Valley are marvellous in their simplicity; others in their intricacy.

 

In Northern Pakistan lies an absolutely stunning district; Hunza Nagar, earlier known as Brushal, this place is a lakeside paradise. Hunza and Nagar used to be independent princely states parted by the River Hunza which marked the border between the two states.

 

 

The small states of Hunza and Nagar had been notorious for looting trader caravans that would come from the route of China. The British Government wanted to expand their trade to Russia from here, but the states did not allow them. Thus in 1891, Nagar was invaded by the British Army in command of Colonel Durand. British surrounded the Nagar’s Natl Fort and eventually seized it six months later.

 

Nagar Valley – A Magical Land: 

Hooper is the most sublime beauty in Nagar, a land of snow-clad mountains, but the sheer power of glaciers to carve out new landscapes makes them magnificent too. In Gulmit valley lies Rakaposhi Mountain whereas the Diran Peak stands high in Minapin. While I was going Hunza Valley from Karakoram Highway, I noticed a long line of vehicles standing in queues due to a big landslide blocking the road near Minapin.

My driver took an alternate route through the Minapin village, as I witnessed the stunning scenery racing past. From the dangerously narrow and bumpy route, my driver takes, I searched for the Karakoram Highway.

After a couple of hours, we finally managed to get back on the Karakoram Highway. While the engine was in full swing our way to Hunza, for the first time ever, I see Nagar Valley. Delectable green grassland with Golden Peak in the backdrop, I witnessed smiling faces peering out, local children playing, women working hard in the sunshine, and animals grazing fields — Nagar is famously known for its serene village life.

Sooner once you leave Hunza and crosses the river bridge after Ganesh village, a road turning right takes you to Hooper. Before Hooper is Nagar Khas(original), which was once the centre of Nagar. The area is blessed with fruit trees comprising cherries, apples, and apricots.

Nagar Khas is full of hard-working, soft-spoken people with narrow homes and outlets. A road from the Nagar Khas Bazar leads to the last village of north, Hispar, and another towards Hooper, which hosts glaciers and the Rush lake. There is no human infrastructure after Hooper. A short after the settlement is a waterfall with water as pure and sweet as honey. The people here are heart-warming and like to presents walnuts, apricots and other delights to tourists.

I reached Hispar at sunset. The village did not seem to belongs here. It appeared as if it’s cut off from the rest of the world. A strange silence and coolness surround the air. I decide to stay here for the night. As I stood in the valley shaking with cold, I see a shooting star.

 

Scared, I shut my eyes as I sense it approaching towards me as if it’s going to drop any second but the next moment, it disappeared. It was frightening, but I longed to see it once again.

 

In the wilderness, narrow escapes are thrilling.  These remote lands are not only filled with beauty and serenity, but also with terror and fear.

 

 

 

Ejaz Hussain
Ejaz Hussain

The Writer, CEO & Founder of Pakistantourntravel.com is a passionate traveler with a deep love for exploring the breathtaking landscapes and hidden gems of Northern Pakistan. From the majestic mountains to the vibrant cultures, he takes great delight in immersing himself in the rich experiences and sharing captivating tales from his journeys. You can catch him as he unravels the wonders of this enchanting Pakistan and inspires fellow adventurers to embark on their own unforgettable expeditions. Connect with him @ [email protected]

"Excellent services and fantastic experience" March 20, 2024 - A Tripadvisor Traveler Read 30 reviews of Pakistan Tour and Travel
 
Discuss Tour Now!