They expelled Kashmir garrisons, threatened Gilgit and formed an alliance with the rulers of Kashgar where the Russians were gaining influence. This troubled the British who took direct political control of the Gilgit in 1889, and in 1891 fought a decisive battle against the Mirs of Hunza. They remained garrisoned at Aliabad till 1897 when Hunza became a princely state protected by the Government of British India. Hunza became a part of Pakistan after independence in 1947. The weather remains pleasant from April to September, requiring light woolen clothes.
Winters are extremely cold and heavy woolen clothes are recommended.
Best time to visit Hunza is from 1st May to 15th October. People People of Hunza are Muslims. Most are followers of His Highness the Aga Khan. The women of Hunza wear colorful, knee-length shirts and 'shalwars', and cover their heads with embroidered caps. The men wear 'shalwar qamiz' and caps made out of hand-woven woolen material called 'pattu'.