Karimabad Fort

We woke to an amazing morning view of the mountains. My priority was to check on the water situation. The innkeeper advised that the water was grey as it was glacier-fed; it is true for everyone in town.

I went for a brief walk and found the Hunza Embassy nearby. They confirmed the glacial situation but they have some filters. They said I could check the rooms and water a little later when guests checked out.

We had a nice breakfast and the innkeepers’ hospitality made it difficult for us to move hotels. So what if we have a coating of glacial dust on our skin and hair for four days? One could argue that it’s the same as being blasted with dust on a bus journey. But on the other hand we could see it as some kind of glacial spa treatment, right? Not as gross as volcanic or Dead Sea mud. Also it is like applying talcum powder after a shower (not that I do).

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We went to the Hunza Fort (about 700 years old but restored in the 1990s) with a detour to the post office. Officers were busily franking stamps but I noticed they were also addressing mail. I wonder if people with limited English skills get them to address mail on their behalf? The fort is impressive and appears authentic rather than restored. It provided a stunning view of the valley and the mountains all around. The mountains tower over us and seem so close. But when I snap away, they all seem small and distant.