Field guides / Gilgit-Baltistan / Passu Cones
Field guide · Nature
Passu Cones
The Passu Cones, a row of dark, sharply pointed rock spires rising behind Passu village on the Karakoram Highway, are among the most photographed and immediately striking mountain forms in Pakistan. Though only reaching around 6,106 m, their needle-like geometry and roadside accessibility make them the most recognisable skyline in the upper Hunza Valley.
The Passu Cones, a row of dark, sharply pointed rock spires rising behind Passu village on the Karakoram Highway, are among the most photographed and immediately striking mountain forms in Pakistan. Though only reaching around 6,106 m, their needle-like geometry and roadside accessibility make them the most recognisable skyline in the upper Hunza Valley.
Why go
- ✦Dark rock cathedral spires above Passu village
- ✦Hussaini Suspension Bridge foreground view
- ✦Accessible from KKH without trekking
- ✦Passu and Batura glaciers walkable from here
The Hussaini Bridge View
The classic Passu Cones photograph is taken from the old Hussaini Suspension Bridge, a swinging wooden-plank walkway above the river that puts the spires perfectly in frame. It is a 1-hour walk from the village.
Glacier Walks from Passu
The Passu Glacier snout is a 2-3 hour walk from the village, you can walk onto the ice without technical equipment. The Batura Glacier is accessible the same day. Combined with the Hussaini Bridge walk, Passu is a full day of accessible adventure without any real climbing.
Planning tip
When to go, April to October; the KKH past Passu is usually clear May to October.
Getting there, Drive the Karakoram Highway from Attabad Lake north for about 50 km to Passu village, the cones are visible on arrival. The Hussaini Suspension Bridge walk provides the classic foreground view.
Allow, Half a day to photograph; combine with Passu Glacier (half day), Batura Glacier (half day), and the Hussaini Bridge walk.
