Altit Fort is an ancient fort located in the Hunza valley of Pakistan. The fort is believed to have been built in the 11th century and is one of the oldest structures in the region. It is situated on a rocky outcropping that overlooks the Hunza River, providing a strategic vantage point for the people living in the valley.
Altit fort fort is built of local stone and is an excellent example of the region’s architectural style. This has been rebuilt and renovated several times over the centuries, and today it serves as one of the popular tourist attractions of Pakistan.
It was the residence of the Mirs of Hunza, who were the rulers of the Hunza state. Altit fort consists of rooms, including a throne room, a mosque, and a prison. It also possesses several defensive features, such as walls, towers, and a gate. The fort has been well preserved over the centuries and is considered to be one of the best examples of fort architecture in the region.
Altit fort Hunza is also known for its beautiful gardens, which have been maintained over the centuries. The gardens are home to various plants and flowers, providing a peaceful and serene setting for visitors to the fort.
Altit Fort is a historical place and offers a great view of the Hunza valley. Visitors can take a walk along the walls of the fort and enjoy the panoramic views of the valley and the surrounding mountains. Overall, Altit Fort is a must-see destination for anyone visiting the Hunza valley and is an excellent example of the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Where is Altit Fort Located?
Altit Fort is located in the Hunza valley of Pakistan. The Hunza valley is a mountainous region in the northern areas of Pakistan and is situated in the Gilgit-Baltistan region of the country.
Altit fort is located about 2 kilometers from the town of Altit and can be reached by road from the nearby city of Gilgit. Moreover, it is 604 km away from Islamabad which takes 14 hours to reach. The fort is a popular tourist destination and is a must-see for anyone visiting the Hunza valley.
How to Reach Altit Fort?
There are several ways to reach Altit Fort depending on your location and mode of transportation.
The nearest airport to Altit Fort is in Gilgit, which is located about 80 kilometers from the fort. From Gilgit, you can take a taxi or a bus to Altit and then walk or take local transport to reach the fort.
If you are planning to drive to Altit Fort, you can take the Karakoram Highway (KKH) from Islamabad to Gilgit and then continue on to Altit. The fort is located about 2 kilometers from the town of Altit. Public transport is also available between Gilgit and Altit.
The fort is also accessible by trekking from the town of Altit. The trek is relatively easy and takes around 30 minutes to reach the fort.
History of Altit Fort
Altit Fort is an ancient fort that is believed to have been built in the 11th century, making it one of the oldest structures in the region. The fort was the residence of the Mirs of Hunza, who were the rulers of the Hunza state.
The Mirs were the descendants of the princely state of Hunza, which was an independent principality in the region for several centuries. The fort has a history of being rebuilt and renovated several times over the centuries.
Altit fort played an important role in the history of the Hunza state as it served as a defensive structure and a symbol of the power and prestige of the Mirs. The fort was also an important center of trade and commerce, as it controlled the trade routes that connected the Hunza valley to other parts of Central Asia.
During the British era, the British attempted to invade the Hunza state, but they were repelled by the Mirs and their soldiers who were well-trained and equipped. The British later signed a treaty with the Mirs, recognizing the independence of the Hunza state.
After the partition of India and Pakistan in 1947, the state of Hunza was merged into Pakistan and the fort lost its strategic importance. However, the fort still remains an important historical and cultural site and is open to visitors today.
The fort is well preserved and gives a glimpse of the history, culture and way of living of the people of Hunza, who are known for their hospitality and rich cultural heritage.
Hospitality and Culture of Altit Town
The people of Altit and the surrounding Hunza valley are known for their hospitality and rich cultural heritage. The Hunza people are an ethnic group who have their own unique language, customs, and traditions.
They are primarily farmers and have a strong connection to the land, with a deep understanding of the natural environment. They are also skilled in traditional crafts such as weaving, pottery, and wood carving.
Hospitality is an important part of the culture in Altit and the Hunza valley. Visitors are always made to feel welcome and are treated with warmth and respect. The locals are known to be friendly and are always eager to share their culture and traditions with visitors.
The Hunza people have a rich history of music and dance, which is an important part of their cultural heritage. Traditional music and dance performances are often held in the fort and other venues in the area, providing visitors with an opportunity to experience the local culture firsthand.
Visitors can also experience the local cuisine which is heavily influenced by Central Asian, Chinese and Tibetan cuisine and is known for its use of fresh, locally-grown ingredients.
Altit Fort Ticket Price
The ticket price for Altit Fort varies depending on the time of year and the type of ticket. Generally, the cost of a ticket for adults is around 1000 Pakistani Rupees for students is around 500 Pakistani Rupees and for foreigners is about 2000 Rs.
In general, the ticket cost is relatively a small price for experiencing the architectural beauty of Altit Fort. For more information and tour guides, visit E-Lands Pakistan – Explore Pakistan