Nestled at over 2,438 meters above sea level in the heart of the Karakoram Mountains, Hunza Valley is often celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes, snow-capped peaks, and the pristine Hunza River that winds through its rugged terrain. But beyond the postcard-perfect views lies a powerful, untold story—the story of the women of Hunza whose resilience, strength, and determination are the true heartbeat of this beautiful yet unforgiving land.
In Hunza Valley, women don’t just share the workload with men—they often outwork them, playing a pivotal role in ensuring their families survive the region’s harsh winters and challenging terrain. Their contributions go beyond traditional gender roles, highlighting a unique culture of gender equality where women are not just caretakers, but builders, farmers, and foragers.
The Daily Grind: A Testament to Resilience
Each day in Hunza begins long before sunrise. Women strap on their Giran and Chura Giran—traditional wicker baskets crafted from weeping willow and peach-leaf willow—and embark on miles-long treks to collect grass and hay for their cows, ensuring a steady supply of milk throughout the year. These treks are not leisurely walks; they are grueling journeys through mountainous terrain, often with heavy bundles weighing them down.
In the summer, young girls can be seen meticulously splitting ripened apricots and laying them out on Hunza Traditional Flat Wicker Trays (locally known as Shakk in the Burushaski language) for drying. These sun-dried apricots are not just a source of nutrition but also an essential economic commodity, sustaining families through the long, bitter winters.
Battling the Elements: Women as Guardians of Survival
As the temperatures drop, the work intensifies. Elderly women, their faces etched with the wisdom of a hundred winters, wield axes and hatchets to chop dry sea buckthorn plants—a crucial fuel source for the frigid months ahead. With firewood stacked high and hay stored in special winter storages, the women prepare their families for the months when the valley is blanketed in snow, and the outside world feels impossibly distant.
But their work doesn’t end there. Even during the harshest winter days, when the Hunza River freezes and the mountains stand silent and imposing, women continue to collect firewood, tend to livestock, and maintain the household economy. Their unwavering spirit ensures that life continues to flourish in this remote valley, far from the conveniences of modern technology.
A Culture of Equality and Strength
Unlike many other parts of the world, gender roles in Hunza Valley are not rigidly defined. Women often carry out tasks traditionally reserved for men, and their contributions are recognized and celebrated within their communities. Whether it’s in the fields, on the mountain trails, or within the household, Hunza women are leaders, laborers, and nurturers all rolled into one.
Their colorful garments, a striking contrast against the earthy tones of the valley, symbolize more than just tradition—they represent the vitality and strength these women bring to their families and communities. In a region known for its natural beauty, it’s the women of Hunza who truly make the valley thrive.
Preserving Tradition in a Modernizing World
While Hunza Valley remains largely untouched by the rapid modernization seen in other parts of the world, the women’s traditional roles are evolving. Education and increased exposure to the outside world are opening new opportunities, but the core values of resilience, hard work, and community remain deeply ingrained.
The Giran baskets, the Shakk trays, and the ancient farming practices serve as reminders of a rich cultural heritage that continues to define the valley’s identity. As modernization creeps in, it is essential to preserve and celebrate the extraordinary contributions of Hunza’s women—both for their historical significance and their ongoing role in shaping the valley’s future.
The Backbone of Hunza
In the grand narrative of Hunza Valley’s natural beauty and cultural richness, the story of its women stands out as a testament to human resilience and strength. They are the unsung heroines who keep the valley alive, ensuring that life thrives in one of the world’s most challenging environments.
Their daily struggles and triumphs are not just about survival—they are about community, tradition, and an unbreakable bond with nature. As we admire the majestic peaks and the glacial rivers, let’s not forget the real mountains of Hunza: the women who carry the weight of their families, their culture, and their future on their strong, unyielding shoulders.