Modern HUNZA

Modern Hunza, Pakistan.

The dangerously rugged trail from Gilgit, Pakistan, into the Hunza River Valley was improved in the mid-1950s to accommodate Mir Jamal Khan's newly acquired used Jeep. John Clark traveled on foot and horseback during his visit in 1950 and 1951. Dr. Allen E. Banik travel via Jeep during his visit in 1958 as did others thereafter.

The dangerous road was improved over the years to become the Karakorum Highway. This picture is overlooking the village of Ganesh near the capitol of Baltit. The road winds down the side of the valley as it traverses the terraced fields. Rock slides in other areas continue to require constant attention in order to keep the road open.

Hunza is a common destination for tourists traveling to Pakistan because of all of the past hype about the longevity and exceeding good health of the residents. The contrast between the spectacular Himalayan mountain peaks and the lush terraced gardens makes Hunza the photographers' paradise.

A fruit tree in the foreground can be seen in full bloom with a glimpse of the Hunza river in the top left. The tall and narrow Lombard poplar trees have been grown here for centuries because they are fast growing, provide good firewood, and don't shade the vegetable gardens.

Hunza exports people. The valley will not support the growing population. Many young adults leave Hunza for other areas of Pakistan for employment. They send money and goods back to their families in Hunza. The farm can be passed to a son but is too small to divide between more than one son.

Tourism provides another source of income. Exports and natural resources are severely limited. Without an export, a country or area does not have the money to purchase imports. This economic truth has kept Hunza from progressing