Located in the beautiful Hunza Valley of northern Pakistan is the gorgeous Passu Cones, also called Passu Cathedral.
Passu Cones height is 6,106 metres (20,033 ft). These Conversation-peak-like formations, which fiercely stand proudly skywards, have fascinated many travellers and adventurers over centuries.
Sitting majestically on the edge of the Karakoram Range, the Passu Cones striking geological feature offers an eye-pleasing reminder of the struggle and perseverance of the Pakistani landscape.
Passu is a small and beautiful village on the banks of the Karakoram Highway near the famous cones. The village has the Passu Glacier, another natural sightseeing spot that attracts people for adventurous purposes.
Passu is unique in this regard: the small, inaccessible glacier and the Passu Cones’ steep walls offer just the right combination of impressive panorama. Apart from the cascades, those who enjoy trekking will have an opportunity to have trails to stunning overlooks of the cones and the glacier.
Passu is approximately 150 km from Gilgit, the main city in northern Pakistan, and is best approached by the Karakoram Highway.
It takes between 3 to 4 hours to drive from Gilgit to Passu. Anyone coming from Islamabad, the capital city of Pakistan, can take a direct flight to Gilgit and then convey to Passu. The process involves interesting sights of mountains, rivers, and valleys, and it does not rim at all with a simple expectation of an interesting sight.
The most accessible way is by Karakoram Highway; the Passu Cones can be seen from this road, one of the highest paved roads in the world.
This tarred road is easily traversed throughout the year, with the best time to visit during the summer when the weather is good and the road is conducive. You can get excellent vistas along the track through the Karakoram Range and have additional opportunities to see Nanga Parbat and Rakaposhi.
Wakhi people inhabit Passu Village, which is famous for their friendliness and rich cultural heritage.
Upon arrival, cultural troupes that include traditional singers in Wakhi music and dance make the visitors understand the cultural background of the place.
Regarding food, local dishes exhibit the region’s lifestyle in as much as meals are simple and nutritious.
When it comes to food, Chaps Horo, which is a meat-filled pastry and Yak meat stew are delicacies you can eat.Other local seafood recommendations include fresh apricots, almonds, and walnuts.
Delicious Wakhi bread and tea, cooked from natural mountain herbs, will let people taste the solidity and simplicity of the local culture.
Altitude Sickness:
Do not forget that it is mostly at a high altitude; therefore, do not rush when hiking or trekking to avoid altitude sickness. Staying hydrated is key.
Thus, Passu Cones represents the best of the northern areas of Pakistan in terms of geographical features. The resultant shape of these mountains is irregular; their sharp edges, combined with the glaciers and valleys, form a breathtaking sight. Whether you want to hike, discover the local people, or just get some plain old vertical scenery, Passu Cones has to be on your list of places to visit. The beautiful people of the region add to this beauty, making the experience one to remember. Due to its different activities, wonderful climate, and cultural significance of Passu Cones, Passu may undoubtedly be considered a heaven for travellers.
The Travel North is focused on capturing and presenting the magnificent scenery of the Northern Areas of Pakistan.