Vacanza Holidays Travels & Tours

Best Places To Visit In Pakistan Northern Areas | Complete Guide

The northern regions of Pakistan are celebrated for their excellent landscapes, towering mountains, lush valleys, and sparkling rivers, making them a great vacation spot for nature fanatics, adventure seekers, and tradition enthusiasts alike. Here’s a detailed guide to a few top places to explore, which provide exciting sports and awe-inspiring views.

Hunza Valley

Highlights: Karimabad, Attabad Lake, Passu Cones, Rakaposhi View Point

Hunza Valley, often called “Heaven on Earth,” is a captivating valley that draws visitors from all over the globe. It is famous for its stunning mountain vistas, especially from Karimabad, its main town. In this area, you can visit the ancient Baltit and Altit forts, delving into Hunza’s rich history and taking panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.

Interesting Activities:

  • Attabad Lake: Formed after a landslide in 2010, this Lake’s water is perfect for boating, jet skiing, and fishing.
  • Hiking in Karimabad: Take scenic hikes to Eagle’s Nest viewpoint for awe-inspiring views of Rakaposhi, Diran, and other peaks.
  • Visit Passu Cones: The unique rock formations known as Passu Cones are a photographer’s delight and can be admired while traveling along the Karakoram Highway.

Skardu

Highlights: Deosai Plains, Shangrila Resort, Upper Kachura Lake, Sheosar Lake

Skardu has a rich history, stunning scenery, and a unique culture. Skardu’s highlights include Deosai National Park, also known as the Land of Giants, a breathtaking and wild high plateau home to a rare wild species known as the Himalayan brown bear.

Fun Activities:

  • Boating at Shangrila Resort: Often called “Heaven on Earth,” this resort surrounds a crystal-clear lake where you can enjoy boating with beautiful mountain views.
  • Camping and Stargazing at Deosai Plains: Deosai is an excellent spot for camping, where stargazing on clear nights reveals a spectacular view of the Milky Way.
  • Exploring Sheosar Lake: Located within Deosai, this Lake is famous for its mirror-like surface, which reflects the snowy peaks in the distance.

Fairy Meadows

Highlights: Nanga Parbat Base Camp, Majestic Views, Camping, Trekking

Fairy Meadows, located at the base of the majestic Nanga Parbat, is one of Pakistan’s most magical destinations. The vast green fields give the perfect scenery with the view of the second-highest mountain peak in the country.

Fun Activities:

Trek to Nanga Parbat Base Camp: This is some of the finest scenery that any effortless hiker will get as a reward, thanks to the trek challenge from the base of the Nanga Parbat mountain.

  • Camping in Fairy Meadows: Set up a tent or stay in a local hut and enjoy peaceful nights under the stars, surrounded by nature.
  • Photography and Sunrise Views: Mornings in Fairy Meadows are magical, as the first rays of sunlight hit the Nanga Parbat, creating a breathtaking view for photographers.

Swat Valley

Highlights: Mingora, Malam Jabba, Kalam Valley, Ushu Forest

Swat Valley is often called the ‘Switzerland of Pakistan’ because of its outstanding natural beauty and cultural richness. The valley is colorful in winter and summer and is perfect for attracting tourists.

Fun Activities:

  • Skiing in Malam Jabba: It is a ski resort famous for winter and provides skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports activities.
  • Exploring Kalam Valley: Kalam Valley, with its pine forests, waterfalls, and rivers, is an excellent spot for hiking, fishing, and boating.
  • Visit Ushu Forest: This dense, green forest in Kalam Valley is a beautiful spot for nature walks and picnics among towering trees and scenic mountain views.

Naltar Valley

Highlights: Lakes, Ski Resort, Pine Forests, Wildlife

Skiing is also good in winter, so it is an excellent place for nature and adventure lovers throughout the year. With its beautiful and vivid, vibrant lakes and tranquil pine trees, the Naltar Valley is idyllic.

Interesting Visits:

  • Satrangi Lake: This Lake’s water is rainbow-colored because of minerals, which is a treat for the eyes.
  • Skiing in Winter: Naltar Valley has one of Pakistan’s oldest ski resorts, where visitors can enjoy skiing amid spectacular views.
  • Exploring Pine Forests: Take a peaceful walk or picnic in the lush green pine forests surrounding the valley.

Ratti Gali Lake

Highlights: Trekking, Vibrant Blue Waters, Scenic Meadows

Deep color and stunning views of Ratti Gali Lake at a high altitude in the mountains of Azad Kashmir. It can be reached by an exhilarating jeep ride, followed by a short trek.

Fun Activities:

  • Boating and Fishing: Visitors can enjoy boating and fishing in Lake Lake’s pristine waters.
  • Trekking Through Meadows: In the summer, the surrounding meadows are covered with vibrant wildflowers, making the trek to Ratti Gali a treat for the eyes.
  • Camping by the Lake: Spend a night under the stars by the Lake, surrounded by the serene beauty of Kashmir.

Khunjerab Pass

Highlights: World’s Highest ATM, Snow-capped Peaks, Unique Wildlife

The Khunjerab Pass is amongst the highest paved international borders in the world, at 4,693 meters above sea level. It offers stunning views of snow-capped heights and the chance to spot rarer wildlife like ibex and maybe even Marco Polo sheep!

Fun Activities:

  • Visiting the Highest ATM: Make a memorable stop at the world’s highest ATM, operated by the National Bank of Pakistan.
  • Wildlife Spotting: Look for wildlife that roams freely in this region, such as ibex and snow leopards.
  • Photographing Panoramic Views: The surrounding mountains and valleys make for stunning photos, mainly snow-covered.

Shandur Pass

Highlights: Polo Festival, Stunning Landscapes, Local Culture

Measuring at an altitude of 3738 m, Shandur Pass is regarded as the Roof of the World, which links Gilgit-Baltistan with Chitral and provides a perfect arena for its famous annual Shandur Polo Festival.

Interesting Activities:

  • Attend the Polo Festival: This festival is held every summer, featuring exhilarating polo 

matches, traditional music, and vibrant dances.

  • Hiking and Sightseeing: The surrounding landscapes offer endless opportunities for hiking, photography, and exploring local culture.
  • Camping on the Pass: Spend a night camping on Shandur and experience the beauty of this high-altitude destination under a blanket of stars.

Neelum Valley

Highlights: Keran, Kutton Waterfall, Arang Kel, Lush Landscapes

Azad Kashmir has the most beautiful travel destination, Neelum Valley, with rivers, organic food, and green island villages. The valley provides a peaceful escape with many places for nature and cultural experiences.

Fun Activities:

  • Trip to Kutton Waterfall: This waterfall is a popular picnic spot, surrounded by lush greenery and flowing rivers.
  • Trek to Arang Kel: Arang Kel, often called the “Jewel of Neelum Valley,” is a beautiful village accessible by a short trek with breathtaking views.
  • Camping by the River: Spend a night by the river to enjoy the soothing sounds of nature in this tranquil valley.

Ayun and Bamburet Valleys

Highlights: Kalash Culture, Unique Traditions, Stunning Scenery

Ayun and Bamburet are the two central valleys of Kalash Valleys that are home to indigenous people called Kalash, famous for their different cultures, festival events, and dresses.

Fun Activities:

  • Cultural Exploration: Engage with the Kalash community and learn about their ancient customs, festivals, and colorful traditions.
  • Attend Local Festivals: Experience festivals like Chilam Joshi, where Kalash people celebrate with dance and music.
  • Photography and Hiking: The surrounding mountains, rivers, and colorful villages provide ample photography and hiking opportunities.

Pakistan’s northern areas are not only the mountains where shade swans aren’t treated just as seen; it is a trade-off of experience and living. So, plan your trip now and explore the natural and cultural treasures waiting for you back in north Pakistan!

Frequently Asked!

  • What is the best time to visit Pakistan’s northern areas?
    The best time to visit is from May to October for pleasant weather and open access to most tourist spots.
  • How do I reach Hunza Valley?
    You can reach Hunza by flying to Gilgit and then driving to Hunza or taking a direct bus from Islamabad.
  • Are there winter sports in northern Pakistan?
    Yes, Malam Jabba and Naltar Valley are popular spots for skiing and snowboarding in winter.
  • Is it safe to travel to these areas?
    Generally, northern Pakistan is safe, especially with guided tours. Always check travel advisories.
  • Can I find accommodations easily?
    Most popular destinations offer hotels, guesthouses, and even camping sites.
  • What are the top trekking spots?
    Fairy Meadows, Nanga Parbat Base Camp, and Ratti Gali Lake are popular trekking spots.
  • Do I need a guide for the treks?
    For long and challenging treks, hiring a guide is recommended for safety.
  • What kind of wildlife can I see?
    You may spot ibex, markhor, snow leopards, and various bird species in parks like Deosai.
  • What should I pack for the trip?
    Bring warm clothing, trekking boots, a first-aid kit, and essential outdoor gear.
  • Are there any festivals in northern Pakistan?
    Yes, festivals like the Shandur Polo Festival and Kalash festivals offer vibrant cultural experiences.