After camping and bivouacking at Spantik Peak (7,027m), our journey led us to the inviting warmth of Attabad Lake. Now, the spotlight shifts to our next twin destinations: Hussaini Bridge and Borith Lake. Discover the perilous journey of the deadly Hussaini Bridge and the profound essence of Borith Lakes beyond sightseeing.
Bridges universally signified as symbols of human ingenuity, connecting two territories, facilitating the exchange of goods and building a smooth transition route. In certain instances, bridges even contribute to the aesthetic appeal of cities, where, in some cases, a few bridges become the reason for the city’s recognition. Hussaini Bridge proudly stands among these distinguished structures.
Journey to Hussain Bridge:
After dripping in the mesmeric Attabad Lake, within a 20-minute drive, Hussaini Hanging Bridge unfolded. This hanging bridge is a different place from surmounting high peaks or visiting pristine lakes to lush meadows. It’s not a place to leisurely spend time sitting over there; instead, it compels you just to rush forward when you step on it.
Our tour guide enlightened us about the Hussaini Bridge and positioning it among the world’s most precarious bridges. It resembled a delicate thread tied up with two colossal mountains. You have to test your nerves while passing on it. The bridge is made up of robust ropes combined with metal ropes. It is anchored deeply in the mountains to give firm support. The bridge’s pathway consisted of wooden planks, each spaced four inches apart from the other.
He further explained the Hussaini Bridge is a purposeful bridge built to connect Hussaini Village and Zar Abad Village. Both the villages have been divided as the Hunza River flows between them. So, this became a transit route for the locals of both villages to transport their goods, taking their herds and personal travel between the two sides.
My interest soared as he paused to provide these crucial details, and the prospect of experiencing this unique trail captivated me. Before that, there were safety attempts for the tourists to wear life jackets in case any mishap hit. This is a great step towards maximizing the protection of tourists. As we experienced this, my inner self was highly hesitant, but I took a leap of faith to experience this adventure.
The journey throughout was epic and surreal, tinged with shivers. I delicately balanced myself on the wooden planks while managing my camera to capture the surroundings and document the adventure. However, slowly and steadily, I crossed the bridge, transforming a daunting challenge into an unforgettable triumph.
Why is Hussaini Bridge an Attractive Tourist Spot?
Photography:
This location serves as an ideal canvas to capture timeless moments through the lens. As a camera enthusiast, I always chase to seize every moment of nature to be a relic forever.
Facing the Fear:
The danger of walking on the bridge has made it to the tourist attraction spot. Brave souls undertook the way to this life-threatening bridge, confronting their deepest fear. As the wind blows, the planks sway, and you reach a deep, heart-pounding moment.
Enjoy the Scenic View:
The rugged expanse and the heavy water flow of the Hunza River give a pleasant view. It provides scenic views to capture in the camera’s eye and serenade your senses from a close point of view.
Journey to Borith Lake:
Borith Lake is a saline natural water body perched at roughly 2,600 metres above sea level. The lake unfolds after a 2km unpaved road adjacent to Gulmit Village. After capturing the serene yet shivering sight view of Hussaini Bridge, we aligned our paths to Borith Lake. Borith Lake was revealed after a 20-minute drive, the vistas accessible through the rugged and rocky route. With a lot of jolts due to the pathway, my prayers were only to keep my photography tools safe.
Finally, we arrived at the crystalline Borith Lake. The parking area perched at a considerable height, so we parked our vehicle there, providing a distant yet spectacular view of the lake. Going downwards, we discovered multiple resorts and restaurants. These spots offer tourists to stay and relish the picturesque scenery. Thereby, a wooden structure is also set up, which offers a cosy spot near the lake. Where you can sip tea, or you can go for the famous qehwa (herbal tea) of Hunza, as I chose.
Borith Lake: Bird’s Sanctuary and Human’s Haven
Curious about the significance of this locale during our brief visit, we consulted the locals. They enlightened us, portraying Borith Lake as one of the wonders of nature. The mystic beauty of the lake captivates everyone with the aura of this heavenly water body. But this lake is much more than a sightseeing place. They explained further that this lake serves as a sanctuary for wildfowl. The bulk of bird flocks flew from Siber to the Central Asian Republics, including Pakistan, in the route of the Indus Flyway Zone. Borith Lake thus became one of the station spots of the avians.
For many, the recreational activity of birdwatching drew them to the lake’s viewpoint. Then, there were some madcaps like me traversing these terrains to capture the ideal and intricate views of nature. I also bear my gear and head to the core of the silent places of nature to capture the exquisite species of the planet with my camera lens. Moreover, ornithophiles — passionate about birds, flocked to Borith Lake to witness its array of avian species.
Upon spending some time there, mingling and absorbing the locals’ insights, we spent quality time in the majestic views of Borith Lake. We enjoyed a light supper in the refreshing air surrounding elegant vistas. While sitting there and conversing with the locals, a thunder-like sound came, arousing fear. And then, the locals told us that an avalanche occurred in the surrounding area. The intensity of the sound and the palpitations it induced made it feel dangerously close and could sweep us with it anytime.
Suddenly, the prospect of an avalanche vanished when one of our group mates expressed a keen interest in kayaking on Borith Lake. Yes, you read right! Not only kayaking but also boating facilities are available at Borith Lake, if anyone joins with their friends they cost only 500 – 1000 PKR. We chose the enthralling boat ride with my friends. The perspective sitting inside the boat has changed at 180 degrees. The once panoramic lake seen from the shore now offered an even more beautiful and scenic view from the boat’s vantage point.
After completing our adventurous ride, we then retraced our steps to conclude the journey. However, the serenity of the view still compelled me to spend more time there. People see Borith Lake as merely a sightseeing point, but it is indispensable in conserving the biodiversity of Earth.
Conclusion:
Embarking on the expedition to Hussaini Bridge and Borith Lake is not merely a soul-stirring sojourn but also an exhilarating odyssey. From braving the nerve-wracking traverse of the Hussaini Bridge to discovering the ethereal beauty of Borith Lake, this journey encapsulates the essence of adventure and the serenity of nature.