Gojal on Foot: Exploring Upper Hunza Gojal’s 10 Best Treks & Hikes

Ever caught yourself daydreaming about alpine meadows, turquoise-blue lakes, or walking across a bridge that sways beneath your feet? You’re romanticizing Gojal Upper Hunza's hidden gem nestled at the foot of legendary Karakoram peaks. Less crowded, insanely photogenic, and dripping with Wakhi culture, Gojal is where trekking dreams come alive.

Whether you’re keeping it mellow or chasing altitude-induced endorphins, here’s a casual scoop on the Top 10 hiking & trekking trails in Gojal plus some local insight for that perfect blog-worthy experience.

1. Wondergar Sar Trek (Moderate)

Tucked near the Ghalapan Valley, this lesser-known trek climbs up to nearly 4,900 meters. Expect alpine silence, snowfields, and a wild sense of elevation. It’s a 2-night mission for seasoned trekkers, but you’ll return home with a heart full of sky and no regrets.

2. Patundas Meadow Trek (Moderate)

Ready for a little sweat and a whole lotta view? The Patundas trek starts from Borith and winds up to one of the most photogenic, lush green meadows you’ll ever see 4-5 hours Trek. Towering above the Hunza Valley at around 4,000m, Patundas offers unbeatable views of Passu Cones, White Glacier, and Shispar Peak. You'll want to stay forever bring a tent if you’re serious.

3. Ondra Poyga “Stairway to Sunrise” (Easy)

Imagine 1,600+ steps carved into the hillside above Gulmit, ascending to a viewing deck perched over Attabad Lake and the White Glacier. An easy 1–2 hour climb that's super accessible but still seriously rewarding.. Sunrise shots? Pure gold..

4. Borith Lake + Passu White Glacier Loop (Easy)

Combine nature, photography, and duck-spotting at this saline high-altitude lake, then stroll over to the Passu White Glacier’s edge, taking 1-2 hour hike. A half-day adventure with a heavy dose of scenery and light cardio. Great for families, birdwatchers, and glacier-curious folks.

5. Batura Glacier Hike (Tough but Worth It)

Batura isn’t just a glacier, it’s one of the longest in the world outside the polar regions, stretching over 50 kilometers through the heart of the Karakoram. Starting from Passu village, this trail takes you into raw, icy wilderness, with dramatic mountain backdrops and wild yak pastures. Expect long walking days, camping under a blanket of stars, and views that make the effort totally worth it. This one’s for trekkers who like their adventures remote, rugged, and unforgettable

6. Boibar-Avgarch Pasture Trek (Mod)

Want to walk where locals take their livestock every summer? This 3–4 hour trek starts from Jamalabad and takes you through Boibar to Avgarch pastures. The trail offers valley views, village life, and a chance to chill out in Wakhi summer grazing land. Calm, cultural, and cool.

7. Baskochi Trek (Easy)

   Starting from Shishkat, the Baskochi trail is a hidden gem for those who love nature without the burn. It’s a 3–4 hour round trip that takes you through light forest, traditional Gojal farmlands, and up to panoramic views of Attabad Lake and surrounding villages. Great for a late start, sunset trek, or a mellow walking day with local guides.

8. Chukh Hill (Khyber) (Moderate)

Starting from the charming Khyber village, this 5–6 hour hike takes you uphill to Chukh Hill, an ideal spot for camping and wide-open views of the Hunza river valley. With a blend of pine trees, crisp air, and enough cardio to feel proud, this trek is perfect for those looking to escape the noise and stare at stars from their tent.

6. Baskochi Trek (Easy)

Starting from Shishkat, the Baskochi trail is a hidden gem for those who love nature without the burn. It’s a 3–4 hour round trip that takes you through light forest, traditional Gojal farmlands, and up to panoramic views of Attabad Lake and surrounding villages. Great for a late start, sunset trek, or a mellow walking day with local guides.

10. Khunjerab Pass Walkabouts (Easy but Epic Vibes)

At 4,693 meters, Khunjerab Pass is where Pakistan meets China and where you feel like you’ve stepped onto the roof of the world. While it’s mostly known as a high-altitude road trip stop, there’s a lot more to do than just snap a quick selfie at the border gate. Walk around, breathe in the thin, crisp air, and take in views of snow-dusted peaks, grassy plains, and grazing Marco Polo sheep if you’re lucky. Even a short stroll here feels surreal. It’s not a hike in the traditional sense, but it’s definitely a moment you’ll remember.

Quick Tips for Trekking Gojal Hunza

• When to Go: Best from May to October. Spring wildflowers, summer greenery, and golden fall leaves, each season has its own vibe.

• Where to Stay: Gulmit, Passu, Shimshal, Khyber and Sost offer homestays, Guest houses, and cozy guesthouses (PKR 4,000–10,000/night).

• What to Pack: Trekking boots, rain jacket, warm layer, power bank, first aid, water bottle, sunscreen.

• Local Guides? Highly recommended for remote treks like Wondergar Sar or Shimshal.

• Permits? No permits for day hikes. Longer expeditions (especially in border areas) may require local registration.