Previously known as “Baltit”, Karimabad is a historic town in Pakistan’s Gilgit-Baltistan region. It is named in honour of the religious leader Karim Aga Khan and served as the capital of the Hunza Valley for more than 750 years. Historically, Karimabad was an important caravan stop on the Silk Road, with the legendary Karakoram Highway passing through the town.
Things to do in Karimabad
One of Karimabad’s most famous landmarks is the Baltit Fort, which was originally established in the 8th century. Since being abandoned in 1945, it has been restored and offers a fascinating insight into life in northern Pakistan in times gone by. From the Baltit Fort, there are magnificent views across the Hunza Valley.
A picturesque walk through the surrounding irrigation channels takes you to the Queen Victoria Monument, which is located at the top of a rock face. It is believed to have been built by Nazim Khan and is known locally as “Malikamu Shikari”. Constructed from stone, the monument offers impressive views toward the 7,388-metre-high summit of Ultar Sar.
Some of the area’s most important historical buildings are preserved within the Ganish Khun Historical Village, which lies on the Karakoram Highway. It includes houses, watch towers and mosques dating back to the 15th century, making it one of the Hunza Valley’s oldest Silk Road settlements. Now recognised by UNESCO for its cultural heritage, the village is surrounded by lush agricultural terraces, orchards and meadows.
Getting around Karimabad
Karimabad is just over two hours’ drive from Gilgit and Gilgit Airport, which has regular flights to Islamabad. Long-distance buses connect to Karimabad, although renting a car and driver is the most convenient way of exploring the area. The centre of Karimabad is small enough to navigate on foot.