Although Hunza is quiet a famous place for its natural beauty with remarkable landscapes, enormous snowy mountain, clear and fresh rivers, and number of lakes. Because of all these Hunza is a well-known tourist destination but this is not all that makes Hunza an apple of visitor’s eye. Hunza is also known for its strangely invaluable culture and historical places like Baltit fort, Altit fort and most apparently the Hussaini Suspension Bridge.
The bridge and its historical background
Hussaini Suspension bridge also known as Hussaini Hanging Bridge is located in Hussani valley on Hunza River.It was constructed under the supervision of british in the early 1950s in Sishkat village of the Gojal vellay, however by the order of Mir of Hunza, Muhammad Jamal Khan the bridge was moved from Sishkat to Hussaini village in 1968 (during the construction of Karakoram Highway). It was moved to Hussaini in order to connect Hussani to a very remote village called Zar Abad.
Its construction and strategical importance
This bridge was made only of ropes and equally destined wooden planks by the local people in the past just in order to fulfill their requirements of transportation later it was reconstructed by engineers as a governmental help to the local people, not much of a labor and machinery is used to build it as it is still standing tall with the help of strong ropes with few iron bars along its edges. The planks are placed at a distance of double the length of the plank and nothing is in-between them. It has 472 wooden planks but only 399 steps are counted, rest are broken and the planks at the edges are not counted.The bridge is hanging 50 feet above the river bed of Hunza river and its maximum height is about 100 feet’s from sea-level.
Touristic and economic importance of the bridge
Its simple construction, height, length and location makes it one of the most dangerous and interesting bridges of the world. It is counted to be the only suspension bridge in northern areas of Pakistan. At the beginning it was just used to cross the hunza river but it is an infamous touristic point nowadays. Hundreds and thousands of people from all over the world visit this bridge each year. Because of its fame among tourists it is a very good earning source to the local people. The local people sell their local food staff and handicrafts to foreigners which brings them an appreciable amount of money.
Suitable visiting time
though a considerable amount of people visit the bridge each summer but only few dare to cross it. Many of the people visiting the bridge prefers just to have a look from far side and watch others crossing it. Indeed it is the best place for adventure lovers to feed their thrust. The best time to visit the bridge starts from the month of May till late October. At this time the weather is very welcoming with fresh gale of summer. By this time the water level rises to a great deal. Well for those who fear water and height are worn not to visit the bridge, for them the time often the month of October is good to go, but at this time the weather starts getting harsh so only a few people are to be seen.
Conclusion
The Hussaini Bridge is more than just a way to cross a river; it’s a test of courage and a window into Hunza’s unique culture. Whether you dare to cross it or simply admire it from afar, the bridge is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Are you ready for an adrenaline rush? Add the Hussaini Bridge to your Hunza itinerary and experience the thrill for yourself! Just remember, comfortable shoes and a sense of adventure are a must!
