General
Samarqand Water Channel Trek (Karimabad to Hyderabad Nala) – Day Trip (2026-27)
The Samarqand Water Channel Trek (Karimabad to Hyderabad Nala) provides a tranquil trip through Central Hunza’s traditional scenery. The route follows Samarqand Kohl, an ancient irrigation channel that passes through village homes, orchards, and farmed fields. Furthermore, visitors enjoy stunning valley views and direct interaction with locals. This day walk is ideal for travelers looking for light adventure, cultural discovery, and authentic countryside beauty near Karimabad.
In addition to this trek, we also offer the following Hunza Valley Tours & Treks, as shown in the table below.
Itinerary – Samarqand Water Channel Trek – Day Trip
The itinerary for the trek is given below.
Day 01: Excursion to the Samarqand Water Channel (Karimabad to Hyderabad Nala)
Begin the Samarqand Water Channel Trek in Karimabad, walking toward the channel near the polo grounds. Follow the traditional irrigation route as it gradually curves around the slope above Hunza Valley. The walk winds through orchards, cultivated terraces, traditional dwellings, and peaceful village settings, all while providing panoramic views of the surrounding Karakoram ranges. Continue beside the main canal, taking caution at narrow areas and smaller side channels. The trail eventually leads to Hyderabad Nala, where the channel walk terminates. Descend carefully toward the connecting road, then drive back to Karimabad or walk through surrounding settlements to complete this scenic cultural excursion.
Dates & Cost – Samarqand Water Channel Trek
All seasons are considered good for the trek. Considering the inflow of tourists all year round, our dates are open throughout the year, and your bookings will be 100% guaranteed even if you are a single traveler. Our prices and dates for this trek (all seasons) are given below.
| Season | Months | Tour Start Date | Price Per Person (USD) | Minimum Travellers Required | Register |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Winter | Mid-November to February, 2026 | Daily | 130 | 1 pax | BOOK NOW |
| Spring | March to May, 2026 | Daily | 130 | 1 pax | BOOK NOW |
| Summer | June to Mid- September, 2026 | Daily | 150 | 1 pax | BOOK NOW |
| Autumn | Mid-September to Mid November, 2026 | Daily | 130 | 1 pax | BOOK NOW |
| Season | Months | Tour Start Date | Price Per Person (USD) | Minimum Travellers Required | Register |
Holiday Information
- Pickup from hotel or vacation rental before sightseeing
- Drop at hotel or vacation rental after sightseeing
- Guided sightseeing tour according to itinerary above
- Map (hard copy)
- Licensed professional guide (english speaking)
- SUV/mini-van/car (depending on number of people)
- Driver
- All entry/admission tickets
- Bottled water in car (fair usage policy)
- Toll & parking fees
- Drop after 10 pm (Drivers & Guide's working hours end at 10pm)
- Gratuities/tips for guides/drivers, etc
- Meals, snacks and drinks (our guide will make recommendations after consultation with guests)
- Accommodation (can be arranged at additional cost according to your budget)
- Personal travel insurance (Recommendation/Rescue Partners: Global Rescue)
- Visa to Pakistan (supporting documents can be offered if requested for multiday tours)
- Refunds in case of early tour windup/closure due to any reason
- Anything not mentioned in inclusions
Highlights
The trek has a lot to offer. The main highlights are given below.
- Follow the Samarqand Water Channel through Karimabad.
- Walk beside traditional irrigation channels above Hunza.
- Pass scenic apricot orchards and cultivated terraces.
- Enjoy broad Hunza Valley views along the route.
- Experience peaceful village life beside local homes.
- Admire surrounding Karakoram peaks from open sections.
- Follow gentle hillside trails toward Hyderabad Nala.
- Photograph terraced farmland across central Hunza landscapes.
- Reach scenic Hyderabad Nala after a channel walk.
- Return to Karimabad through nearby settlements safely.
As Featured In:
Photo Gallery
Overview – Samarqand Water Channel Trek (Karimabad to Hyderabad Nala)
The Samarqand Water Channel Trek (Karimabad to Hyderabad Nala) – Day Trip provides a picturesque hike through central Hunza. The path begins in Karimabad and follows an irrigation channel fed by water from Ultar Nala. Along the trip, guests will see terraced fields, orchards, village cottages, and cultivated slopes. Furthermore, the easy trail offers varying views of the Hunza Valley and the adjacent Karakoram region. The water channel also mimics the region’s traditional irrigation system, which benefits the local farming community. As a result, this journey mixes natural scenery with a realistic peek into daily hamlet life.
As the hike progresses, the canal gradually curves into Hyderabad Nala amid tranquil agricultural settings. Meanwhile, open sections provide ideal conditions for scenic photography and leisurely sightseeing. Although the trail is more accessible than many higher-altitude Hunza climbs, there are still tight places that demand careful footing. Eventually, trekkers reach Hyderabad Nala and descend toward the road to return to Karimabad. Overall, the hike is ideal for travelers seeking culture, landscape, and light adventure. Furthermore, the village environment makes the experience very gratifying for those exploring Karimabad beyond the prominent landmarks.
Website Last Updated: January 15, 2026
