Facts & Beauty Secrets of Hunza Valley Women

Summary

The Hunza Valley in Karimabad, Pakistan, known for its natural beauty and friendly inhabitants, is flanked by the Himalayas, Koram, and Palir mountains. This idyllic destination, popular among American and European backpackers since the 1990s, features fertile land, fresh air, and clear water. The Hunza people, renowned for their longevity, literacy, and lack of crime, live healthy lives primarily through a plant-based diet and regular exercise. Tourism thrives, supported by skilled local artisans and the growing role of women. The valley's residents, open-minded and liberal, are often regarded as the happiest people in the world.

Takeaways

• 🌄 The Hunza Valley, located in Karimabad, Pakistan, is known for its natural beauty and is often referred to as 'Heaven on Earth'.
• 🏔️ It is flanked by three great mountains: the Himalayas, the Karakoram, and the Hindu Kush.
• 💧 The valley is known for its fertile land, fresh air, and clear water, making it a comfortable place to live.
• 🌍 Since the 1990s, the Hunza Valley has been a popular destination for American and European backpackers.
• 🏞️ The Hunza Valley is famous for its snow-covered mountains and scenic landscapes, including Rakaposhi, Ladyfinger Peak, and Ultar Peak.
• 📚 The majority of Hunza's population is literate, with 77% literacy overall and 90% literacy among women.
• 👫 The Hunza people are known for their hospitality, cooperation, and friendliness, speaking languages like Urdu, Shina, and Burushaski.
• 🛍️ The local Karimabad market is famous for handmade crafts, traditional hats, embroidered scarves, and gemstones.
• 🥗 The Hunza diet is mainly plant-based, contributing to their health and longevity, with many residents living over 80 years.
• 🏡 The community is close-knit, with most residents marrying within their village and earning a living through farming, animal husbandry, and tourism.

Q & A

Where is the Hunza Valley located?

The Hunza Valley is located in the Gilgit-Baltistan region of Pakistan, at the northernmost tip, connecting China with Pakistan.

What are the three great mountains flanking the Hunza Valley?

The three great mountains flanking the Hunza Valley are the Himalayas, the Karakoram, and the Pamir.

Why is the Hunza Valley often referred to as 'Heaven on Earth'?

The Hunza Valley is often referred to as 'Heaven on Earth' due to its natural beauty, fertile land, fresh air free from pollution, and clear water, making it a popular destination for tourists.

What is the significance of the BFO glacier area in Gilgit-Baltistan?

The BFO glacier area in Gilgit-Baltistan is a paradise for world adventurers, including the K2 base camp, Route Concordia, and Gandora Route, surrounded by several high peaks.

What was the historical status of Hunza before 1974?

Hunza was once a sovereign state until 1974, before being dissolved by Zulfikar Ali Bhutto.

What is the climate like in Hunza during the summer and winter?

In summer, the climate in Hunza only reaches about 14°C, but in July and August, it can reach a maximum of 31°C. In winter, temperatures in Hunza can reach -10°C or even lower.

What languages do the people of Hunza speak?

The people of Hunza generally speak Urdu, but they also speak several other languages such as Shina, Wakhi, and Burushaski.

What is the literacy rate among the Hunza people and how does it compare to the national literacy rate in Pakistan?

On average, 77% of the Hunza ethnic group are literate, and 90% of women can read. This is significantly higher than the national literacy rate in Pakistan, which is only 58%.

What is the daily diet of the Hunza people and how does it contribute to their health?

The daily diet of the Hunza people consists of 1,900 calories, including 50 grams of protein, 36 grams of fat, and 365 carbohydrates. Their food is usually vegetables, fresh fruits, and cereals, which contributes to their health and longevity.

What is the average life expectancy of people in the Hunza Valley compared to modern cities?

While people in modern cities have an average life expectancy of 65 years, people in the Hunza Valley can live healthy lives for 80 years or more.

How does the role of women in the Hunza Valley contribute to the local economy?

Women in the Hunza Valley are skilled in handicrafts, making a significant contribution to the local economy. They are also increasingly involved in the tourism industry, which is the main source of livelihood.