Zood Khun Village in Chapursan Valley, Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan, is one of the most beautiful and remote travel destinations in the world.
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Girls play a game of cricket during school beak at dj high school zoodkhun - Photograph by Matthieu Paley, National Geographic |
Zood Khun Village in Chapursan Valley, Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan, is one of the most beautiful and remote travel destinations in the world. Nestled in the mighty Karakoram Mountains, Zood Khun offers unforgettable views, unique culture, and an authentic adventure for nature lovers and cultural explorers.
The reasons why to visit Zood Khun (Zoodkhun, Zuwud khoon, zodkhun)
1. Untouched Natural Beauty: Located at 3,300 meters above sea level, Zood Khun is surrounded by snow-covered peaks, wild rivers, and green fields. The air is fresh, skies are clear, and every direction gives you a postcard view.
2. Peaceful and Crowd-Free: Unlike crowded tourist places, Zood Khun is still undiscovered by mainstream tourism. Perfect for solo travelers, nature photographers, and couples looking for a calm escape.
3. Wakhi Culture and Hospitality: Meet the Wakhi people—kind, humble, and known for their warm hospitality. Enjoy traditional food, local music, and storytelling around a fireplace.
4. Adventure and Trekking: Trek to Baba Ghundi Shrine, hike towards the Irshad Pass, or simply walk in the village fields with panoramic mountain views.
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| Zood Khun: a drystone wall and another one in preparation — In the background is the rocky chaos used as a quarry. At its beginning, it possible to see the long wall of the polo field. Picture by Bernard Gura |
Must-See Places in and Around Zood Khun
Zood Khun Village: Local homes, Yak herders, Wakhi lifestyle
Baba Ghundi Shrine: Sacred site with amazing views
Irshad Pass: Trekking route to Wakhan Corridor, Afghanistan
Chapursan Valley: Rivers, pastures, and glacier landscapes
How to Reach Zood Khun Village
Start from Gilgit City: Take a private car or bus to Sost, a border town on the Karakoram Highway (KKH). From Sost to Zood Khun: Hire a 4x4 Jeep for a bumpy but scenic ride through Chapursan Valley (3–4 hours)
Where to Stay in Zood Khun
Roof of the World Guest House: Friendly hosts, traditional rooms, home-cooked meals run by Haider Ali
Pamir Serai Homestay: In Zood Khun, Pamir Serai offers traditional accommodation in the house of Alam Jan Dario. This means you eat and sleep with the family in the traditional house on floor mattresses. Pamir Serai also has a hut with a basic kitchen and mattresses and blankets at Baba Ghundi which can be used by guests. (lonely Planet)
Sky Bridge Model: Authentic Wakhi lifestyle experience run by Jawed
Best Time to Visit
May to October is perfect for trekking, clear skies, and warmer days.
Avoid winter (Nov–Mar) as the village becomes snow-covered and roads may close.
Important Travel Tips
Bring cash – no ATMs or card machines in the valley.
Wear warm clothes – even in summer, nights are cold.
Carry a power bank – electricity can be limited.
Respect local customs – ask before taking photos of people.
Relate to Zood KhunVisit Zood Khun Pakistan | Zoodkhun travel guide | Places to visit in Gilgit Baltistan | Hidden gems in Pakistan tourism | Best villages to visit in Pakistan | Wakhi culture tourism | Hunza offbeat travel destination | Zood Khun guest houses | Baba Ghundi shrine trek | Irshad Pass hiking
Why Zood Khun Should Be on Your Travel Bucket List
If you’re tired of crowded cities and touristy mountain spots, Zood Khun gives you the chance to:
- Discover authentic Pakistani mountain culture
- Witness raw natural beauty
- Support community-based tourism
- And go home with a story few others can tell
References and Credits
- Pamir Times – Zood Khun
- Viris Travels – Chapursan Travel Guide
- Bernard Grua – Zoodkhun Culture and Environment
- YouTube Video on Zood Khun