Shimshal: A Small Town of District Hunza

Shimshal is a town situated in Gojal Tehsil of Hunza District, in the Gilgit–Baltistan area of Pakistan previously known as Northern Areas of Pakistan. It lies at a height of 3,100 m above sea level and is the most noteworthy settlement in the area.

Shimshal Valley is a remote valley around three hours east of Passu in Gilgit Baltistan, Pakistan. The valley is the passage to the Shimshal Pass, a generally well-known trek with enthusiastic trekkers and mountain dwellers. In case you're just an easygoing mountain lover, don't let that deflect you. Regardless of whether you would prefer not to do the Shimshal Pass trek, Shimshal Valley is a pleasant retreat, and an extraordinary spot to stay for a couple of days.

One can reach Shimshal Valley by means of a great jeep ride from the Hunza Valley. There are no set timings for jeeps, and flexibly relies upon request. It's strongly recommended to save a seat a day or two in advance. The dive into the valley is flawless, as you follow the narrow valley on a steep road leading to the sprawled crossroads of Shimshal.

 

Shimshal Valley has a few guesthouses. All are basic and charge around 1,000 – 2,000 Rs for an individual per night. Food will cost another 200 – 300 Rs for every meal. As, Shimshal is a remote valley, facilities are basic, and food is difficult to make accessible in the valley.

There are a few multi-day treks that one can do in Shimshal. But these require earlier planning, arrangement and permission. Further down the valley are a few glaciers. Yazghil Glacier (the first glacier) is around three hours walk from Shimshal. Mountain climber or not, Shimshal offers an extraordinary track experience.

There are no vehicles, hardly any motorbikes, and so, the only noises are of cattle and the Shimshal river. Infact, it’s a great place to read a book with a cup of local green tea.