Rising dramatically above the rugged terrain of Gilgit-Baltistan, the Passu Cones, also known as Tupopdan, are among the most recognizable and photogenic mountain peaks in Pakistan. Their spire-like formations pierce the sky, creating a breathtaking sight that has captivated adventurers, photographers, and nature lovers from around the globe.
Located in the quaint village of Passu, nestled in the upper reaches of Hunza Valley, the Passu Cones stand as a testament to the grandeur of the Karakoram Range. These jagged peaks, resembling cathedral spires, have earned international fame for their unique shapes, stunning backdrop, and accessibility from the Karakoram Highway (KKH).
Whether you’re visiting in the lush summer or witnessing the icy serenity of Passu Cones in winter, this destination promises a soul-stirring experience that blends adventure, culture, and natural beauty.
Where Are the Passu Cones Located?
If you’re wondering, “Where is Passu Cones located?”, the answer is simple: The Cones are situated in Passu village, which lies in the Gojal region of Upper Hunza in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. The village is approximately:
- 147 kilometers from Gilgit city
- 20 kilometers north of Gulmit
- 36 kilometers from Attabad Lake
- 56 kilometers from Sost (the last Pakistani town before the China border)
The Passu Cones location is right along the Karakoram Highway, making them highly accessible to road travelers. As you drive past Attabad Lake, the cones begin to appear in the distance — a view so mesmerizing that many travelers stop at the Passu Cones viewpoint just to absorb their grandeur.
Passu Cones Height and Significance
The tallest peak among the Passu Cones is Tupopdan, which soars to a height of 6,106 meters (20,033 feet) above sea level. Though it’s not among the tallest in the region, its pointed, vertical spires make it visually one of the most iconic peaks in Pakistan.
Tupopdan means “sun-drenched mountain” in the Wakhi language, a fitting name for a peak that often glows golden at sunrise and sunset. This dramatic height and its sheer rock faces attract not just tourists but also professional climbers and geology enthusiasts from around the world.
Weather at Passu Cones – What to Expect
When planning your visit, it’s essential to check the Passu Cones weather. This region experiences sharp seasonal contrasts, and the weather can greatly influence your trip.
Weather Overview
- Summer (May–September): Ideal for visiting. Clear skies, green meadows, and pleasant temperatures ranging between 5°C to 20°C.
- Autumn (October–November): Crisp weather and beautiful fall colors. Daytime temps drop to 0°C–10°C.
- Winter (December–February): Cold and snowy, with temperatures dipping below -10°C. Roads may be icy, but the views of Passu Cones in winter are ethereal.
- Spring (March–April): Blooming apricot trees and melting snow. The temperature starts rising and offers a mix of snowy peaks and lush valleys.
- Passu Cones temperature: Typically ranges between -10°C in winter to 20°C in summer.
- Passu Cones weather today: Always check real-time forecasts before traveling, as mountain weather is unpredictable.
- Weather Passu Cones: Best from May to September.
- 5 April and 11 April often mark the onset of spring—great for seeing the village come alive.
Best Time to Visit Passu Cones
While the Cones are stunning all year round, the best time to visit Passu Cones is from May to October. During this window, the roads are open, hotels are operating at full capacity, and the weather is pleasant.
If you’re a photography enthusiast or enjoy landscape painting, early mornings in June or golden sunsets in October offer unbeatable lighting for capturing the spires in all their glory.
Passu Cones Distance from Islamabad & Lahore
Planning a road trip? Here’s how far Passu is:
- Islamabad to Passu Cones Distance: Approximately 741 kilometers via the Karakoram Highway.
- Travel Time: About 14 hours (depending on road and weather conditions)
- Lahore to Passu Cones Distance: Around 977 kilometers, requiring 16–18 hours by road.
Pro tip: Break your journey by staying overnight in Chilas, Gilgit, or Nagar to make the trip more comfortable.
How to Get to Passu Cones
You have multiple options for reaching Passu:
- By Air:
- Fly from Islamabad to Gilgit (1 hour)
- Then drive to Passu (3–4 hours)
- By Road:
- Private car, rental, or tour groups
- Buses and vans also operate from Gilgit, Hunza, and even Islamabad
For the best experience, book your adventure with Explore Pakistan Tours, which offers fully guided trips from Islamabad to Hunza including visits to Attabad Lake, Passu Glacier, Passu Cones, and more.
Passu Cones Viewpoint – The Best Spots for Photography
You can enjoy views of the cones from several key vantage points:
- Passu Suspension Bridge
- Passu Glacier viewpoint
- Hussaini Village Ridge
- Janabad
The best panoramic shots are often captured during sunrise or just after a rain when the air is crystal clear.
Nearby Attractions – Make It a Full Hunza Experience
1. Attabad Lake Passu Cones Combo
Just 36 kilometers from Passu, the turquoise blue Attabad Lake makes for an incredible backdrop with the Passu Cones behind. Boating on the lake with the towering Cones in view is a surreal experience.
2. Borith Lake & Passu Glacier
- Borith Lake is a short hike from Passu and perfect for a picnic or birdwatching.
- The Passu Glacier trek takes you into icy valleys and offers jaw-dropping views of Tupopdan and surrounding peaks.
3. Khunjerab Pass
At 4,733 meters, Khunjerab Pass is the highest border crossing in the world, located at a 3 hour and a half drive north of Passu.
Local Culture & People
The people of Passu are predominantly Wakhi, a culturally rich and warm ethnic group who speak the Wakhi language and practice Ismaili Islam. Their villages are clean, their food is hearty (try chapshuro and yak milk tea), and their stories about the mountains will leave you awestruck.
The Passu Cones of Hunza are more than just a mountain range — they’re a symbol of Pakistan’s rugged beauty, cultural diversity, and hidden wonders. Whether you’re coming for the views, the hikes, the food, or the warmth of the people, Passu promises a truly transformative experience.
With their sharp summits rising against the sky and their deep-rooted connection to Hunza’s culture and geography, the Passu Cones are a dream destination waiting to be explored.
Plan your tour to Passu Cones with Explore Pakistan – the experts in Hunza travel.