places to visit north pakistan

12 Best Places to Visit in Northern Areas of Pakistan

19 Famous Landmarks of Pakistan

10 Amazing Adventure Treks in Pakistan

10 Worst Natural Disasters in Pakistan

Type and hit enter to search.

The Northern Areas of Pakistan are endowed with stunning landscapes, rich cultures, and an adventurous spirit that pervades every valley and peak. This article covers a list of the 12 Best Places to Visit in Pakistan’s Northern Areas. These destinations provide a unique combination of natural beauty, cultural richness, and adventure, making the Northern Areas of Pakistan must-visit for travelers seeking diverse experiences.

Here’s a list of 12 Best Places to Visit in Northern Areas of Pakistan:

• Hunza Valley
• Skardu Valley 
• Fairy Meadows 
• Swat Valley
• Neelum Valley
• kumrat Valley
• Naran-Kaghan Valley 
• Chitral Valley
• Attabad Lake 
• Naltar Valley 
• Deosai National Park
• Shangrila Lake 

1. Hunza Valley 

Hunza Valley is one of the most enchanting valleys in Pakistan’s Northern Areas. Hunza is known for its breathtaking scenery, which are bordered by snow-capped peaks such as Ultar Sar, Ladyfinger Peak, and the majestic Rakaposhi.

Other well-known attractions in the Hunza Valley include Borith Lake, Attabad Lake, Altit Fort, Baltit Fort, Hussaini Bridge, Khunjerab Pass, Passu Cones, Eagle’s Nest Point, and others.

2. Skardu Valley 

Skardu Valley, located in Gilgit-Baltistan area, is a captivating destination noted for its beautiful scenery, high mountain ranges, and tranquil lakes. Skardu is the primary gateway to some of the world’s highest peaks, including K2, the world’s second-highest mountain.

Top attraction in skardu includes; Upper Kachura Lake, Shigar Fort, Mountain peaks (K2, Gasherbrum, Masherbrum), Katpana Cold Desert, Shangrila Lake and others.

3. Fairy Meadows 

Fairy Meadows is a stunning alpine meadow at the foot of Nanga Parbat, the world’s ninth highest peak. Fairy Meadows is located in Gilgit-Baltistan’s Diamer District. It is reached via a difficult jeep track from the town of Raikot. The meadows provide breathtaking views of Nanga Parbat, widely known as the “Killer Mountain.”

Fairy Meadows is the beginning point for hikers attempting to reach Nanga Parbat Base Camp. The hike to the base camp is difficult but rewarding, with close-up views of the enormous peak.

4. Swat Valley

Swat Valley, also reffered to as the “Switzerland of Pakistan,” is a beautiful valley on the Swat River, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. Swat Valley is a popular tourist destination due to its beautiful landscapes and pleasant climate.

White Palace Marghazar, Mahodand Valley & Lake, Natural Ushu Valley, Malam Jabba (Famous Ski Resort), Kalam Valley, and others are prominent tourist destinations in Swat Valley.

Aside from the landscapes, tourists and visitors may engage in a variety of activities such as hiking, zip-lining, chairlift riding, and trekking. Skiing, ice skating, and sledding are popular winter activities.

5. Neelum Valley

Neelum Valley is a gorgeous and enticing valley in AJK, Pakistan. Neelum Valley is a famous location for nature lovers due to its lush green valleys, pure rivers, and snow-capped mountains.

The valley gets its name from the Neelum River, which runs through it. Ratti Gali, Kutton Valley, Sharda Valley, Kel, Arang Kel, and others are among the top attractions in Neelum Valley.

6. kumrat Valley

Kumrat Valley is a beautiful and largely unexplored jewel in Pakistan’s Upper Dir area of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Kumrat Valley has gained appeal among nature enthusiasts due to its lush green valleys, unambiguous rivers, and breathtaking mountains.

Popular spots in kumrat valley include; Panjkora River, Jahaz Banda, Katora Lake and others.

7. Naran-Kaghan Valley 

Naran-Kaghan Valley is a breathtakingly gorgeous location in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Mansehra District. The Kaghan Valley is known for its lush vegetation, meadows, and the Kunhar River, which runs alongside the road.

Naran is a renowned tourist destination in the upper Kaghan Valley, located at an elevation of 2,409 meters. Saif-ul-Mulook Lake, Lulusar Lake, Kunhar River, and Babusar Pass are some of the most well-known attractions in Naran-kaghan.

8. Chitral Valley

Chitral Valley, located in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, is a scenic region recognized for its breathtaking vistas, unique culture, and historical significance. Kalash Valley, home to the indigenous Kalash people, is recognized for its distinct culture, festivals, and traditional wooden homes.

Bumburate, Rumbur, and Birir are the three main Kalash villages. Some of the popular attractions in chitral include; Shandur Pass, Tirich Mir, Chitral Gol National Park, Broghil Valley and others.

9. Attabad Lake

Attabad Lake, also known as Gojal Lake, is a magnificent turquoise-colored lake in the Hunza Valley of Gilgit-Baltistan’s. The lake formed in January 2010 as a result of a major landslide that blocked the Hunza River, resulting in the formation of a natural lake.

Attabad Lake is around 21 kilometers long and has a maximum depth of 358 feet (109 meters). It is one of the region’s biggest lakes. On Attabad Lake, boating is a popular sport, and visitors can take boat trips to explore the lake and its surrounds.

10. Naltar Valley 

Naltar Valley is a breathtakingly gorgeous valley in Gilgit-Baltistan area. It is famous for its beautiful scenery, lofty mountains, and bright lakes.

The valley is surrounded by snow-capped peaks and is located at an elevation of 2,228 meters (7,310 feet) above sea level. Naltar Lake, Bashkiri Lake, Satrangi Lake are among the top Naltar Valley attractions.

11. Deosai National Park

Deosai National Park is a high-altitude plateau and one of Pakistan’s most beautiful national parks. The park spans over 3,000 square kilometers and boasts distinctive landscapes, rich fauna, and magnificent views.

It is located in the Northern Pakistan province of Gilgit-Baltistan. Sheosar Lake is a popular attraction in Deosai National Park.

12. Shangrila Lake

Shangrila Lake, also known as Lower Kachura Lake, is a scenic lake in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan, near the town of Skardu. The lake is located within the Shangrila Resort, a prominent tourist attraction known for its tranquil environment and breathtaking vistas.

Shangrila Lake is about 20 minutes from Skardu, the largest town in Gilgit-Baltistan’s Skardu District. Paddle boating on the lake is a pleasant and scenic activity with views of the surrounding mountains for visitors. 

That concludes our list of the 12 Best Places to Visit in Northern Areas of Pakistan.

Also Checkout  19 Famous Landmarks of Pakistan

Share Article

Other Articles

What Is The Smallest City Of Pakistan?

No comment be the first one., leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Related Posts

What’s Babusar Top Height?

How Many Districts Are In Gilgit Baltistan?

Islamabad To Naran Distance

Best Time to Visit Naran Kaghan

10 Days in Northern Pakistan

If you’re considering your first visit to Pakistan and want an itinerary to rival all others, I’ve got you covered. I recently spent 10 days in Northern Pakistan and I had the adventure of a lifetime. If you are planning a visit to Pakistan for the first time, these are the highlights you cannot miss.

Why you should visit Pakistan

Pakistan is one of the most underrated travel destinations for a variety of reasons. Not without its’ problems, Pakistan is known for having a complex and complicated history since it was established in 1947. For that reason I would personally recommend a guided tour for your first visit, though have no reason not to encourage a solo journey given my own experience.

For the sake of clarity, travelling solo (and in particular as a female) in the likes of Bali or Bangkok is very different to travelling solo in Pakistan. If you are new to solo travel I would suggest gaining experience in countries more populated by tourists and indeed, with a more developed approach toward tourism and foreign visitors.

Because I didn’t travel through Pakistan as a solo female, I would suggest reading this post by The Broke Backpacker for further information and clarity given her thorough documentation on the topic (and brilliant coverage of Pakistan!)

This itinerary follows my 10-day adventure throughout Pakistan, starting in Islamabad. The tour was put together by our guide Atta (you can email him here) who works full time as a guide in Northern Pakistan (more on Atta later). 

Islamabad (or Isloo to the locals) is the capital city of Pakistan but not even close to the biggest city. There are a whopping 213 million people in Pakistan and just 1 million in Islamabad. That makes the city great for a stopover and introduction to the country. I’d recommend at least one full day to explore Islamabad, though it wouldn’t hurt to allow for two and take advantage of shaking jet lag at the same time.

Start the day right with one of the best coffees in Islamabad , found at Mocca Cafe in Kohsar Market. While you are there be sure to wander around and begin to experience the local shopping. I would suggest taking advantage of the opportunity to buy a scarf or two, as you will need to wear a scarf when entering mosques and as a general rule, it is a good idea to have on one hand for certain situations that call for covering up as a sign of respect to the local culture.

For a beautiful pashmina (which are in fact from Nepal), head over to Maharaja Handicrafts at F6 markez, school road. For Afghan Handicrafts and antiques head over to the few shops around the corner from Maharaja on Aga Khan Road near the flower shops.

Check in to the Serena Hotel if you want an unforgettable introduction to Pakistani culture, architecture, and opulent interiors inside what is considered the most beautiful hotel in Islamabad. The hotel has all the perks you could ever need, including an outdoor swimming pool, fitness centre and huge restaurant to enjoy a buffet breakfast.

An important note on this itinerary: it relies entirely on this first flight from Islamabad to Skardu, which is unfortunately subject to many cancellations given the weather path entering the mountain ranges in Skardu. Should your flight be cancelled and you are travelling as part of a tour, alternative arrangements will be made for you. If you are travelling on your own accord, I would recommend having a few days of flexibility in case of cancellation, as there is only one flight a day and it is entirely weather dependent.

Unfortunately our trip began in just that fashion: a cancelled flight to Skardu, resulting in a 12 hour drive toward that direction and a prompt in us reversing our itinerary. With a dose of optimism I am hoping the same does not happen to you, so will proceed to share the itinerary as it was originally planned as we still visited all of these places – just in reverse and with much more time in a bus!

On the way to Skardu be sure to request a seat on the left hand side of the plane for the best photo opportunities – you won’t regret it as you enter the mountain ranges in the North!

Once you arrive be sure to stock up on dried apricots, walnuts and almonds for the long journey by road over the coming days. There were days where we would not eat for 12 hours at a time given the remote locations of these towns, so it is better to be prepared! 

Shigar Fort

A couple of hours drive from Skardu and you will arrive at Shigar Fort, one of Northern Pakistan’s most beautiful hotels occupying an old fort. The experience is real and raw – almost so real that it feels as if you have stepped in to a movie set because it is so picturesque. The town itself is also great to walk around during the day amidst the hustle and bustle or you can take a bicycle for a more relaxed afternoon to stretch the legs after your long plane and bus journey. 

If you can time your luck, there may be a local polo match taking place nearby. Ask your guide or one of the locals for updated information – this is a popular sport in the Gilgit-Baltistan region and known popular as “Game of the Kings”.

Khaplu Palace

It is a further three hours drive to reach Khaplu Palace, but this is hands down one of the most beautiful properties to stay in all of Pakistan and indeed, the highlight of my trip. If you have time to spend more than one night, this property is best enjoyed at a slower pace. Be sure to make use of the guided palace tour as there is much to learn about the history of the palace and its surrounds. 

The Royal High Tea is an experience not to be forgotten and is served on a terrace overlooking the palace grounds and has sweeping views of the surrounding mountains. If you ask politely the hotel staff may also let you explore the rooftop of the palace, which has 360 degree views over Khaplu. 

If you are feeling more active and adventurous, there is a great panoramic view to be had at Thoqsikhar , a two hour hike from the palace. Ask the hotel to pack a picnic lunch or start your journey early in the morning with the sun and return to the palace for a relaxed lunch in the gardens.

If you have time the day you are checking out, consider stopping at Bara , a small town just 20 minutes from Khaplu and en route to your next destination: Gilgit. Here you will find a wool spinning and weave centre that trains and supports local women. This is also a great place to purchase a local Baltistani topi.

It is a lengthy drive from Khaplu to Gilgit, so be sure to leave in good time if you wish to see Gilgit before dark and perhaps even take a hike to the water channel above the city that offers views of the valley below and also features the victory monument of Taj Mughul as well as the 7th century Kargah Buddha rock carving . Whilst in Gilgit we stayed at the Serena Hotel and I was starting to realise how much I appreciated these beautiful hotels being all across Pakistan! They were extremely welcoming and felt like coming home. Buffet breakfasts were a highlight as were the interiors, always dedicated to the local area and paying tribute to influences in Central Asia.

Karimabad, Hunza

If you are going to spend a few days in any one place, I would highly recommend basing yourself for a few days in the Hunza Valley. Renowned for its charm, cleanliness and 995 literacy rate, Hunza is commonly regarded as one of the most beautiful cities to visit in the North of Pakistan.

If you’re feeling peckish, start your day at Cafe de Hunza for a slice of famous walnut cake with an iced latte (which is actually a frappe for ye Westerners) and so refreshing after days and days of instant coffee! 

There are many towns to explore in Hunza, but with limited time we made our way to Gulmit, one of the highlights in the Hunza Valley. Here there are a number of women’s initiatives and it was one of the few cities where we saw women in the streets. To support local communities, some great items to purchase as souvenirs or gifts to take home are apricot creams and oils, gem stones, woollen shawls and woodcraft. You will find many artisans and shop keepers on the streets who are more than willing to help (many of which speak perfect English) and not once was I hassled to buy anything throughout my time in Pakistan.

Not too far from Hunza, I would highly recommend a visit to Attabad lake . This lake appeared  after a landslide that killed 20 people known as the Attabad disaster. The lake collects glacial silt from the surrounding mountains, resulting in its turquoise blue colour in Spring and Summer. Further down the road edging closer to the border with China is the rickety bridge known as “The Indiana Jones Bridge” for its likeness, though it never appeared in the films. It is totally worth a visit but not for the faint hearted!

Karakoram Highway

Considered to be one of the greatest engineering accomplishments of the 20th century, the Karakoram Highway connects Pakistan and China and is one of the highlights of Northeastern Pakistan. The entire journey is 805 miles long but you don’t need to drive the entire way to experience some of the epic scenery that takes you through hair-raising turns, endless mountain ranges and many small villages where locals will wave as you pass by.

Fairy Meadows

If adventure travel is more your style and you’re ready for one wild ride, do not miss the chance to jump on the jeeps and make your way to fairy Meadows along a steep cliff edge. After a one hour drive to the end of the road, it is just a 1.5-2 hour hike to the Fairy Meadows camp, which is a popular stop en route to the Base Camp for Nanga Parbat.

If time is on your side you might consider embarking on the trek to base camp the following morning – according to my guide this was a further 10-12 hour hike with basic lodging at base camp. The Swiss-style cabins at Fairy Meadows are lovely and lush, complete with hot water and electricity! This was a beautiful part of the world to wake up and enjoy the crisp mountain air so if time is on your side, you may even want to stay an extra night.

Brooke Saward founded World of Wanderlust as a place to share inspiration from her travels and to inspire others to see our world. She now divides her time between adventures abroad and adventures in the kitchen, with a particular weakness for French pastries.

Find me on: Twitter | Instagram | Facebook

You may also enjoy:

10 trips that will change your life.

Simply love the photos…

Your visit to Pakistan seems like an adventure. These photos are stunning.

Do you know any trusted tour organizers that I could contact? I will be travelling solo and would prefer to have someone with me all the time or join a group.

The places you mentioned are some of the breathtaking places on earth.

Such a beautiful country Pakistan is

Are these places open nowadays?

Let’s visit hunza together

Totally agree with the writer about 10 days itinerary in Northern Pakistan Tour. If any one wish to hikes more then just Islamabad Tour, 10 days itinerary is even not enough. We visited Karakorum hike spending 2 weeks time staying in a beautiful lodge trek just for seeing some sights. K2, Broad Peak, Gasherbrum I and Gasherbrum II are the highest peaks of Karakoram Mountain Ranges that are clearly visible if you hikes.

Los Angeles

Plan a trip

First trip solo

Packing guide

20 Best Places for Solo Female Travel

Travel after a break up

20 Places in your 20’s

WAYS TO TRAVEL

Solo travel

Adventure travel

Luxury travel

Learn a language

Become a blogger

Tour Northern Pakistan: 10 Bucket-List Worthy Experiences

Discover a part of Asia that is often overlooked by travelers. Northern Pakistan has many exciting adventures to offer from trekking to history.

• Stay at Khaplu Palace, a historic fort turned 3-star hotel in Northern Pakistan that showcases stunning architecture influenced by different regions in Asia.
• Swim in Attabad Lake, a vibrant blue lake in Gilgit-Baltistan province that offers swimming, boating, and other water sports during the summer months.
• Hike to K2 Base Camp, a challenging but rewarding trek close to Nepal, where travelers can experience the second-tallest mountain on Earth and prepare for a scenic and difficult adventure.

There's no lack of amazing things to do in Pakistan, one of the most underrated destinations in Asia and a part of the world often overlooked by backpackers exploring South Asian countries, but it deserves a spot on everyone’s bucket list. Northern Pakistan, in particular, has lots to offer travelers in terms of outdoor adventures and beautiful scenery.

These incredible experiences in Northern Pakistan, specifically in the province of Gilgit-Baltistan, are worth adding to the bucket list.

10 Stay At Khaplu Palace

This historic fort from the 1840s is one of the best remaining examples of a royal residence in Pakistan. Today, it not only serves as a beautiful historical site in the north of the country but also offers overnight accommodation to guests as a comfortable 3-star hotel called Serena Khaplu Palace.

The visually stunning architecture of the hotel comes from influences from different regions in Asia, including Tibet, Kashmir, Ladakh, and Central Asia.

• Address: Khaplu Palace, Serena, Chaqchan Rd, Sargiab, Khaplu, 16800

9 Swim In Attabad Lake

Travelers can add swimming in one of Pakistan’s most beautiful lakes to their bucket list. Attabad Lake, located in Gilgit-Baltistan province, is one of the top attractions in Northern Pakistan; it's a vibrant blue lake suitable for swimming, boating, and other water sports during the summer months.

Pakistan experiences a warm, dry spring from March to May and a hot but wet summer from June to September.

• Address: Gojal, Gilgit−Baltistan, Pakistan

8 Watch The Sunset In The Safaranga Cold Desert

Located just 20 minutes from Skardu in the province of Gilgit-Baltistan, the Safaranga Cold Desert (also called Skardu Cold Desert) is among the most unique attractions in Pakistan that is bucket-list worthy.

The desert is at an altitude of 7,500 feet above sea level in Shigar. The vast landscape of sand dunes earns the name “cold desert” because of this high altitude, and often the dunes are covered in snow. Witnessing a sunset here is truly magical!

• Address: CP6R+3CP, Shigar, Pakistan

7 Hike To K2 Base Camp

Most travelers have heard of trekking to Everest Base Camp , but they might not realize that there is an equally challenging and rewarding trek close to Nepal in Northern Pakistan. K2 Mountain is the second-tallest mountain on Earth, after Everest, with a peak of 28,251 feet .

Similar to trekking to Everest Base Camp, travelers can book a guided trek to K2 Base Camp in Pakistan. The journey takes around 14 days from Askhole, and, much like how travelers prepare for the Everest Base Camp trek , it is a scenic but difficult adventure that hikers must ready themselves for well in advance.

• Address: Hussaini Chowk, Star Market, Hassan General Store, Skardu, 16100

From Lukla To Everest Base Camp: A Guide To The Best Routes And Trails

6 stay at the shangri-la resort skardu.

Travelers might’ve heard of the Shangri-La Resort , but the Skardu hotel is something worth adding to the bucket list. This luxury resort calls itself “Heaven on Earth” and is situated on a heart-shaped lake (as if another sign was needed for how incredible it is).

The rooms available range from cottages to villas to suites, all with scenic views of the idyllic landscapes of Northern Pakistan.

• Address: Kachura, Skardu, Pakistan

5 Visit The Skardu Fort

The Skardu Fort, also called the Kharpocho, is the “King of Forts” and is a bucket-list-worthy attraction to visit in Pakistan.

The historic fortress sits above Skardu city in the Gilgit-Baltistan region of Northern Pakistan. The fort perches on a mountain 40 meters above the city and is situated on the banks of the Indus River.

• Address: Kharpocho Fort, Chumik Rd, Skardu, Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan

4 Hike In Deosai National Park

Deosai National Park in northern Pakistan is situated between the Skardu and Gilgit-Baltistan regions. It’s protected by its status as a national park and is dedicated to the conservation of the Himalayan Brown Bear .

The Himalayan Brown Bear is a critically endangered species due to habitat loss, so this expansive protected area where bears can roam safely is an important natural area in Pakistan. Wildlife photographers and trekkers can add this park to their bucket lists.

• Address: XFCC+6P4 Deosai Park Road Astore, 50991

Beyond The Summit: 10 Things You'll Discover On Foot In The Beauty Of Everest Base Camp

3 tour baltit fort.

Visiting the Baltit Fort in the Hunza Valley is one of the best things to do in Northern Pakistan for the bucket list. The historic fort is located in Karimabad, close to the border with China, in a remote part of the country. More than 700 years old, the fort was a former palace of the Mir of Hunza.

Travelers can take a guided tour of the fort or simply visit the exterior to take beautiful photos of its architecture.

• Address: 8MG9+7W2, Hunza, Karimabad, Gilgit-Baltistan

2 See The Hunza Valley

For outdoor enthusiasts, trekkers, and travel photographers, visiting the Hunza Valley in Northern Pakistan is something to aspire to. The valley is picturesque and surrounded by dramatic mountain peaks.

Interestingly, people in the Hunza Valley have longer than average lifespans , largely attributed to their strong immune systems, low rates of disease, and consumption of Vitamin B-17 through natural foods.

• Address: Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan

Why China's Qinghai Province Is An Over Looked Destination Offering A World Few Ever See

1 drive the karakoram highway.

The Karakoram Highway is the Silk Route, a southern part of the famous Silk Roads trading route in Asia. This drive is an important part of the region’s history and is also one of the most scenic road trips in the world .

Today, the N-35 highway connects Pakistan and China along this interesting and storied corridor.

• Address: N-35, Pakistan

• Gilgit Baltistan
• Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
• Rich & Diverse Landscapes
• Fascinating Cultural Diversity
• Archeology & Heritage Sites
• The Climate

Uncategorized

• [email protected]
• +92-340-3487487
• +92-302-0487487
• Search for: Search Button

Home » Travel Tips » The Northern Areas of Pakistan: True Nature’s Wonderland

The Northern Areas of Pakistan: True Nature’s Wonderland

Pakistan is blessed with the world’s highest peaks, dense forests, deep blue-water lakes, astonishing valleys, and much more. In 2017 and 2018, the British Backpacker Society declared Pakistan the best country to travel to. Pakistan is indeed one of the best countries for tourism, as its northern areas are astonishing.

The northern areas of Pakistan are full of breathtaking locations that will surely make you fall in love with this country all over again. These were some of the most popular and best travel spots in northern Pakistan that tourists should visit this summer. So, get your backpack ready for this summer and start on the journey towards these marvelous destinations with astounding landscapes in the northern areas of Pakistan.

Breathtaking Beauty in Pakistan’s Northern Areas

Hunza valley:.

Hunza Valley is a beautiful, mountainous valley located in the Gilgit-Baltistan region of Pakistan and is known as Heaven on Earth. The valley has diverse natural sights that can take your breath away.

Among these attractions, there are the Baltit and Altit forts, which are also well known, but the Baltit fort has recently been turned into a heritage museum after renovation. In Hunza, there is also a bazaar of Karimbad, which is famous for its local handicrafts, handmade rugs, traditional embroidered caps, handwoven cloth, and gemstones, which are well-known all over the world, particularly Ruby.

Click here to know more whereabouts of Hunza Valley.

Naran Kaghan Valley:

Naran and Kaghan are also the top-ranked valleys in Pakistan, which are situated in the Himalayan Mountains of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. Naran valley remains unapproachable from October till April due to heavy snowfall. The road leading towards the valley gets blocked due to landslides and avalanches coming from the mountains, which means it remains open for just a few months.

The valley is surrounded by lush green mountains and deep alpine forests, giving visitors to the Himalayan valleys a beautiful and healthy impression. In the valley of Naran, there is a lot more to discover, which may include the fairy tale Saif-ul-Malook Lake, an adventurous hike towards the Ansoo Lake, Lulusar Lake, the Queen Dudipatsar Lake, and finally the Babusar Top. These attractions certainly compel numerous visitors to travel to this site with their families, friends, and loved ones to capture the best memories.

Naltar is known for its colorful lakes and is about a 2.5-hour drive from Gilgit. You could also see that the world’s tastiest potatoes are cultivated here. Covered and enclosed by large pine trees, this valley surely doesn’t seem to be a part of this world.

If you really want to get rid of all your anxieties and want to experience paradise in this world, you should visit Naltar at least once in your life. This place will certainly make you fall in love with it.

 Naltar valley:

Naltar is known for its colorful lakes and is about a 2.5-hour drive from Gilgit. You could also see that the world’s tastiest potatoes are cultivated here. Covered and enclosed by large pine trees, this valley surely doesn’t seem to be a part of this world.

Neelum Valley, Azad Kashmir:

Opposite the Keran sector of Indian-held Kashmir and stretching from the Chella Bandi Bridge to Tau Butt, there is a valley known as the Neelum Valley. Neelum is one of the most attractive valleys in Azad Kashmir. It hosts numerous brooks, freshwater streams, green forests, lush green mountains, and a blue river.

Here, you see amazing waterfalls and cataracts falling down the mountains; their milky-white waters flowing over the roads and splashing against the giant rocks will bring out the best in you and your love for nature.

Shogran had witnessed an influx of visitors, trampling over its exquisiteness and beauty. Nonetheless, Siri Paye retains its strong attraction for sightseers as a lush green plateau on top of the Hindu Kush.

                          Wish to find some more, discover further Siri Paye on

Shogran, Siri & Paaye

What is the best time to visit northern areas of Pakistan?

Pakistan is a country that is often misunderstood. It has been through its periods of turmoil, but the tourism sector in the country has been picking up progressively over the last few years. All you have to do is research and find out when to visit Pakistan, and you are all good to go.

Here are some quick facts

The best time to visit Pakistan depends on where you want to travel. The period from May till October is generally considered the perfect season to visit, as the climate is rather warm and dry throughout the country.

If you wish to visit the northwest districts of Pakistan, like Pakhtunkhwa, Sindh, Punjab, or even Balochistan, then October-February would be the best time to travel, as the weather will be cold enough for you to enjoy your tour.

The northern areas of Pakistan have numerous things to offer even the weariest of travelers. The great mountains of the northwest frontier province provide you with some exciting mountain views that will steal your breath away.

Pakistan is piquing the interest of more and more explorers every year, and these gorgeous places show us just why. Whether you are interested in finding out the mesmerizing early history of Pakistan, spending time in nature, or experiencing a truly exclusive culture, you can find it all, and more, in Pakistan. Find a more beautiful

Leave A Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

10 Days – 9 Nights  Hunza Tour Packages 

3 days 2 nights naran babosar tour package, connect with us, guide to pakistan.

• 2nd Floor, 21st-century Mall, Plaza no 54, Mini river view commercial mall extension 2, Phase 7, Bahria Town, Rawalpindi Islamabad.
•  +92-340-3487487
• +92-51-5733641

Travel Pakistan

• Destinations

Join our Team

• Work at GTP
• List your business & products
• Become a local contact
• Terms & conditions
• Copyright & Privacy

Contact our tour manager by clicking below...

Visit our tours page for more information Click Here!

25 Amazing Things to See in Northern Pakistan

Table of Contents

Have you ever wondered about 25 amazing things to see in Northern Pakistan ?

Pakistan is undeniably a destination of excellence that is starting to assert itself on the international tourism scene. Unquestionably, there are many more points of interest to visit, and condensing everything into just 25 is not easy, can be unfair and also reductive.

However, I made an overview of what caught my attention the most on the trip I made with 100Rota , and in this post we will talk about 25 things that you can not miss.

Disclaimer: I use affiliate links here, which means that if you buy something through my affiliate links, I receive commission at no additional cost to you! My views and opinions are never influenced by that! I only recommend products and services that I use!  Read my disclosure  for more information.

For those who only see what the news broadcasts, it is hard to imagine that there is such a place as North Pakistan… in Pakistan. Those unfamiliar with what this country has to offer often wonder what drives someone to travel there.

Imagine a land with monumental mountain peaks, turquoise lakes, idyllic plains, and small villages hidden in the valleys.

Imagine a place where nature is so majestic that it leaves you speechless every day, at every bend in the road.

Now add to this picture traditional architecture, extraordinary monuments and mosques that are authentic works of art.

Finally, add a unique cultural diversity, full of tradition, and absolutely phenomenal people.

This is Northern Pakistan!

During the 3 weeks I spent in the region , I had the opportunity to be dazzled by different types of landscape and to experience the experiences of the people who live there.

It is such a diverse territory that it becomes difficult to choose the most spectacular things to see. Anyhow, let’s do it!

The surprising Lahore that combines history with modernity, in a metropolis with its very own identity. Lahore manages to maintain the excellence of a cultural city and be elegant in the midst of its organized chaos.

It is, admittedly, the cultural capital of the country and does not disappoint the expectations of those who visit.

From the mosques to the bazaars, from the peace of the gardens to the buzz of the old town, Lahore has it all and convinces those who visit to stay a few days to explore it.

Badshahi Mosque

A symbol of the Mughal Empire (1526-1857), built in 1671, the Badshahi Mosque is the crown jewel of Lahore, and one of the most beautiful places of prayer in Pakistan.

Its architecture is characterized by its reddish color, with carved details typical of the era of construction.

The huge courtyard of the mosque can hold up to 100,000 pilgrims, making it the second largest mosque in Pakistan.

It is arguably one of the most impactful places of prayer in the country, and it is worth spending a good bit of time there contemplating its details.

Undoubtedly, it is one of the most beautiful buildings we had the opportunity to visit. And it is not easy to have this status, since the North of Pakistan is full of fabulous buildings.

There, besides the faith and the architectural monumentality, which goes hand in hand with the delicacy of the place, you may breathe peace and tranquility.

Opening hours: every day from 8am – 8pm

Lahore Fort

Right in front of the Badshahi Mosque, in the northwestern part of the Walled City of Lahore, is the historic and imposing Fort, a must-visit monument.

In the 11th century, this construction started as a simple fortification made of adobe bricks, and during the next 500 years it was destroyed and rebuilt several times, during which time the Mongols, Timur and Pashtuns invaded the region.

The fort complex is huge, and one of the highlights to see is the stunning Sheesh Mahal, ‘The Palace of Mirrors’. Built in 1631 by Shah Jahan, its interior is decorated with countless reflecting glass tiles.

The detail of the work of the ‘mirrors’ embedded in the stone is wonderful and, although showing signs of decay, the place is unique.

The Fort has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1981.

The cherry on top, is the view you get of the Badshahi Mosque from the Fort.

Opening hours: every day from 8am – 7pm

Jahangir’s Tomb

Another of the most notable historical sites, a must-visit, is the Tomb of Jahangir.

It is a mausoleum built for Jahangir, one of the most important emperors of the Mughal Empire, who ruled from 1605 to 1627. The construction of the tomb is said to have been completed in the year 1637.

The architecture of this place features some mosaics made with semi-precious stones. This tomb is of extraordinary importance, as it is the only Mughal tomb remaining in Pakistan!

Inside the complex, you will also find a large garden where the locals socialize and enjoy the space with their families.

Shalimar Gardens

The Shalimar gardens are also known as “the lost paradise”.

This garden complex dates back to the Mughal era and was completed in 1642 under the rule of Emperor Shah Jahan (one of Emperor Jahangir’s sons). This name is probably not strange to you, he was the same emperor responsible for the construction of the Taj Mahal.

The elaborate patterns and attention to detail, can be seen in each of the structures present in the complex.

They are the perfect place for a relaxing walk on hot days. In fact, you will find many locals enjoying the space and socializing with friends and family.

The complex also has a large lake, which gives the place a cool and very pleasant atmosphere.

Opening hours: 8am – 6pm

Delhi Gate Bazaar

The Walled City of Lahore (also known as the Old City) used to have 13 gates that allowed entry to the urban center.

When the British conquered the region, almost all of these entrances were destroyed. Six gates have since been rebuilt, the Delhi Gate being one of them.

Today, there is a bustling market inside this gate, in which you can feel the pulse of daily life!

The smells, the colors, the noises, stimulate the senses of those who visit this place. The faint light that mixes with the dust in the air, gives the market a peculiar atmosphere.

It is a great place to meet the locals, socialize with them, and get a glimpse of the mundane life in Lahore.

Wander the alleys, take in the scents, and enjoy the warmth of the people, who will welcome you with broad smiles.

Contrary to what happens in many bazaars around the world, here nobody will push anything on you, nobody will insist that you buy anything.

All the approaches you will have are of curiosity and a demonstration of joy at seeing you there.

Wazir Khan Mosque

From the market at the Delhi Gate, you can see a yellow minaret. If you walk up to it, you will reach the Wazir Khan Mosque.

Go inside and be dazzled by this spectacular architectural work, enjoy the peace and enjoy the energy you feel in this unique and special place.

It’s amazing how in the middle of a market full of life and bustle, you can feel such serenity.

This mosque was built between 1634 and 1641 by Emperor Shah Jahan, and its stunning ornate tiles will capture your attention as you approach the outer courtyard from the gate.

From the moment you enter, the view becomes even more superb. All the interior surfaces of the mosque, including its ceilings and arches, are covered with beautifully patterned frescoes.

Next to the entrance of the mosque you will find the Calligraphers Bazaar , which crosses the axis of the entrance at a right angle, and is marked at this intersection with a large balcony with a dome on top.

Renowned Khattats (master calligraphers) have reproduced verses from the Qur’an and Persian poetry in elegant Nastaliq, Naskh scripts and Tughra forms within elaborate outlines and geometric and floral shapes.

Hopper – Glacier

We were told that it is the oldest glacier in Pakistan. It is also known as Bualtar. And we can find it in an inhospitable setting, cradled by mountain peaks.

It is considered a medium-sized glacier, although it is 18 km long, and its course runs along the northern slopes of the Karakoram in the Nagar district.

Although not considered large, Hoper is the 34th largest glacier in the world.

I don’t know if you have ever had the opportunity to see a glacier and be right next to it, but it is such a unique sensation that it becomes almost indescribable.

We are small next to the immensity of nature and this ice giant, with its peculiar black color, which makes it so distinctive from other glaciers, doesn’t let us forget that.

And when it comes to glaciers, this Hoper region is a privileged one. Besides Hoper, there are two more: Barpu and Mier.

For those who love this type of landscape, it is like reaching “glacier heaven”.

Take advantage of the resting points along the footpath that leads to the main viewpoint, to stop and enjoy the landscape and the tranquility of the place.

Wagah Ceremony

I had already seen the ceremony on YouTube videos, I had also read a lot about it, but nothing, absolutely nothing, prepares us for what we are going to see live.

A few kilometers from Lahore, Pakistan and India share one of the most militarized borders in the world.

The result of a history that has not always been peaceful, the division between the two countries, which were once one, has given rise to a peculiar ceremony.

The village of Wagha lies on a controversial border. Its eastern half remains in India, while its western half is in Pakistan, split in half by the British in 1947.

Wagah remains the only road border crossing between India and Pakistan, although vehicles and people are not allowed free passage.

Every sunset since the partition took place, the crossing between the two countries has been staged in the Wagah flag ceremony. It is a spectacle not to be missed.

Every late afternoon, the Indian and Pakistani military, come out to the cheers of thousands of spectators, who are divided between the stands of the 2 countries.

While one side shouts “Pakistan Zindabad” or “Long Live Pakistan”, the other side shouts “Jai Hind” or “Long Live India”.

It is impressive to see so many people shouting and cheering for their nation. A relatively new nation, but with a thousand-year history.

The energy is so intense that, whether you like it or not, you find yourself shouting too. The next thing I knew, I was shouting with them, as if I had been Pakistani since I was a little girl!

At the end of the ceremony, there is the brief symbolic handshake and the flags are unveiled simultaneously. Finally, the gates are closed.

It is guaranteed to be a unique experience.

Hunza Valley

If your curiosity has ever led you to research Pakistan, you have surely found images of Hunza. This is one of the most touristy regions of the country.

Although the region is known by the name “Hunza Valley”, it is much wider than the valley its name refers to.

It was here, in the Karimabad area, that the mythical Silk Road used to pass through.

And if there is one thing that arouses the imagination and curiosity of travelers, it is this route that has seen caravans of merchants and pilgrims pass through for thousands of years of history.

Karimabad is located at a strategic point on the road through the Karakoram. It is tucked in by the mountain peaks that surround it and is washed by the river that flows through the valley.

Karimabad probably still retains some similarities from the times when it was an important stop along the millennial Route.

Perhaps this is what has made it a tourist attraction in this region of Northern Pakistan. That and the breathtaking scenery in which it is located.

Passu Cones

I am a suspect to talk about one of the most extraordinary landscapes I have ever seen in all my trips around the world.

I carried in my memory the iconic images that I saw over the years on the internet and had the dream of seeing this place with my own eyes.

The “Passu Cathedral” is a masterpiece of nature and a landmark in the landscape. No one is indifferent to it.

Being there is a mixture of “I’m on a movie set”, with “don’t wake me up because I’m dreaming”.

If nature wrote poetry, some of its verses would talk about this epic place. The view is so overwhelming that we lack the words when our eyes see it.

Hussaini Bridge

It has the title of the longest suspension bridge in the world and also has a reputation of being the most dangerous of all suspension bridges.

The sequence of planks that make it up challenges the most adventurous to cross the structure and intimidates the most fearful, like me!

I confess that I lacked the courage to get past the first 2 planks. Seeing the locals lightly crossing the bridge made me think that, in fact, necessity makes human beings adapt to circumstances and relativize danger.

Attabad Lake

Its dazzling turquoise blue waters make it one of the most beautiful places in Pakistan.

Lake Attabad was born out of a natural calamity, when a major landslide occurred in 2010. The flow of the Hunza River was blocked, and the now famous lake was created in its course.

Over time, the lake has become a tourist attraction and it is there that you can enjoy recreational activities, such as taking a beautiful boat ride through the water mirror.

Eagle’s Nest

The Eagle’s Nest is one of the highlights from where you can see one of the most epic sunsets in the Hunza region.

Views are absolutely overwhelming and breathtaking. The feeling you will get, is almost as if you are flying over the Hunza valley.

Don’t let the name fool you, because there are effectively no eagle nests there.

The name comes from a rock formation, which is said to resemble an eagle’s nest… a questionable fact, but what counts is the view!

Baltit Fort

With its privileged location, the Baltit Fort gives you a superb view of the Hunza Valley.

Perhaps this is why, for 800 years, it has served as a strategic point for the protection and defense of the area.

Its unique architecture makes the Fort a place of interest to visit. Both the exterior and the interior are of an extraordinary singularity.

Wander around the building exploring every nook and cranny and let yourself be conquered by the story, so well told by the Fort’s guide.

The views are superb!

It seems almost impossible that this work of military engineering has survived more than 1,000 years to so many natural disasters and enemy invasions.

The Fort is situated in a strategic position, geographically at a lower elevation than its younger neighbor, the Baltit Fort.

Perhaps for this reason, the tower of Fort Altit is quite tall and imposing.

Approximately 400 years had passed after its construction, when the Altit Fort came under a family dispute between the two brothers of the royalty, Prince Shah Abbas (Shabos) and Prince Ali Khan.

It was this dispute that gave rise to the Baltit Fort. The elder brother Prince Shabos got the Baltit, while the Altit remained under the rule of Prince Ali Khan.

After much discord and successive attacks, Baltit became the capital of Hunza.

The guide told us that, there is a legend among the locals that the younger brother, Prince Ali Khan, was buried alive by Prince Shabos inside one of the pillars of the watchtower.

Legend or not, believe me that when the guide tells you the story, you will stare at the pillar!

Altit Fort also served as an important base for merchants from all over the world who passed through here while traveling the Silk Road.

Khunjerab Pass

It is the highest paved border in the world. This alone attracts attention.

The border post between Pakistan and China welcomes curious tourists who take portraits with the neighboring country’s mountains as a backdrop.

The place, situated at an altitude of almost 5,000 meters, is emblematic and only visitable between March and October (depending on the weather).

In my opinion, what really surprised me was the way to get there.

The road to the top takes you through the Khunjerab National Park, home to many animal species, some endangered. It is extraordinary, and simultaneously comforting, to see so much wildlife out there in freedom.

The mountain peaks take on an overwhelming dimension as you climb up to the border. They are a dazzle to the eyes.

7,788 meters of altitude, infinite meters of “spectacularity”! It is also said to be known as the “mother of mist”, and I think the image speaks for itself.

Rakaposhi is impressive. It makes us feel small in front of it. It makes us feel bewitched by its mesmerizing image.

When the winds dance on its summit, the mist that gives it its name is generated. It is possible to perceive that up there the temperature is freezing and the climate inhospitable.

This giant of the Karakoram has as much off delicacy, as nature in its raw state. The mountain materializes the dichotomy of nature.

There are so many amazing peaks in the Karakoram that it is hard to choose one to be the chosen one.

Gilgit-Baltistan

Naltar valley.

Lush forests, crystal clear lakes, and the peace of rural life. Perhaps these are the best terms to describe the Naltar Valley.

Uniquely beautiful, this magical valley is only accessible with 4×4 vehicles. And in a way it’s good that it is.

Being one of the most untouched places, especially in the most remote parts of the valley, in my opinion, it would be a shame to have mass tourism in this area.

Around there you can still get a sense of what rural life was like in that area a few years ago. Far from everything, it maintains nature and customs in a pure state.

Reaching the most remote part of the valley is like taking a trip back in time.

Shepherds wander with their flocks, which graze freely in the valley. The only thing you hear is the animals’ bleating and the wind that makes the branches of the trees dance.

The most remote place of all the remote places we had the opportunity to visit still has wild horses grazing on its slopes.

In the most distant parts of Naltar life is hard. Comfort is scarce in stone houses, which only have a fire to warm the atmosphere.

The winters are extremely harsh and the inhabitants are forced to look for the areas closer to the valley, where the river flows, to find a milder temperature.

Although the Naltar Valley is starting to become quite popular as a tourist destination, especially in the winter for snow sports, there are still areas that remain just as they were dozens of years ago.

Phander Valley and Langar Meadows

I will never have words that do justice to the beauty of this region. It is an idyllic place, of an almost naive beauty. The light, the peace, the perfection of everything in the right place. 

In the Phander Valley, the bucolic image of sheep grazing in the green fields by the riverside takes us back to the imagery of 80’s movies, of a Sunday afternoon.

The dirt road winds along the valley, and sometimes there isn’t even a road.

The children who play freely among the donkeys that wander by, make us realize that life can be simple and uncomplicated.

When a car passes by, the whole village comes out to say goodbye. They welcome us with broad smiles and the innocence of those who live far from the big tourist centers.

Shandur National Park

Further along the road, between Langar Meadows and Shandur, we are transported to a parallel universe. Herds of yaks run free on the plains to the sound of the wind that makes the dust dance in the air.

I know that I often repeat the phrase “it’s like being on the set of a movie” and that I run the risk of sounding cliché.

The truth is that the perfection of nature in this piece of world is almost unreal.

It is one of the most incredible landscapes I have ever had the opportunity to see in all my travels around the world.

It is not easy to get there and the journey is physically and psychologically demanding, but it is worth every minute!

The city of Chitral is located by the river of the same name in the north of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.

The city is the capital of the district and prior to that was the capital of the principality of Chitral, until its incorporation into West Pakistan on August 14, 1947.

It is within the borders of Chitral that the highest and densest section of the Hindu Kush mountain range is located.

The valley is one of the most remarkable places in the world when it comes to natural scenic beauty.

Picturesque mountains, sulfur springs, juniper forests, friendly people, and trout-filled rivers, are truly fascinating.

Its culture is unique. There are two ethnic groups in Chitral. One is the Kalash, who are said to be the descendants of Alexander the Great. The other is called Kho, and they are a substantially larger group who live in harmony with their Kalash neighbors.

Shahi Mosque

The Shahi Mosque is approximately 100 years old and is, to this day, the main place of worship in the city of .Chitral.

The facade of the main entrance, in shades of white and pink, with magnificent details carved into the stone, give this mosque an extraordinary architectural delicacy.

This is a mosque not as exuberant as the ones that started this post. More modest, but with a fabulous charisma, one breathes peace and wisdom here.

Inside, several students dedicated themselves to studying the Koran. In a constant litany, they recited the passages of the holy book. There, one studies religion, its principles and foundations.

It was an extraordinary experience to have the opportunity to witness these moments.

Kalash Valley

I assure you that there is no easy way to get to Kalash!

Given its remote geographical location, getting to Kalash is an adventure in itself. The road dug into the mountain, as wide as a car, close to the precipice, makes hearts palpitate strongly.

The Kalash Valley is in the Chitral District of northern Pakistan, surrounded by the Hindu Kush mountain range. There, tucked in by the huge mountains, the 3500 Kalash live in unique houses made of stone and wood that are stacked on top of each other on steep slopes.

The roof of one house is the balcony of another, on top of the house below. It is almost like a tetris of traditional architecture.

The largest and most populated valley, is Bumburet, reached by a road from Ayun in the Kunar valley. Rumbur is a side valley north of Bumburet. The third valley, Biriu, is a side valley of the Kunar Valley south of Bumburet.

Many historians believe that the Kalash are descendants of the soldiers of Alexander the Great, considering the history of the place and the physical characteristics of the inhabitants.

Light complexioned skins and green or blue eyes are predominant.

It is possible to visit the local cooperative, where you can dress up in the attire of the women of Kalash. A tourist activity that has a purpose that can be considered worthy: to raise funds for this community.

There is also the possibility to have a local guide take you around the village and explain the culture of the Kalash people.

He also takes you to the local cemetery, which has quite particular features, such as open coffins in the open air. It is true, to say the least, you can say it is a different experience!

And if it is in diversity that we find the greatest beauty in the world, be sure to visit the amazing Kalash Valley.

No wonder they say that Peshawar is the friendliest city in Pakistan.

Between “Welcome to Peshawar” and “Welcome to Pakistan”, everywhere you feel the joy of having foreigners there.

Peshawar is the capital of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province and the administrative center (but not capital) of the Federal Territory of Tribal Areas.

It is an ancient city, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Asia, having passed through several ruling empires.

Everyone wants their portraits taken, everyone wants to show off their traditions, everyone wants you to taste their specialties, everyone offers tea, or bread, or whatever they have to offer.

It is hard to say “no” to these people, because their generosity is so great that it moves you deeply.

Old Town – Storytellers’ Market

It is in this city that we have the opportunity to visit the Storytellers Bazaar, a dream come true for me.

That place was part of the Silk Road and it was there that the merchants crossing the Continent stopped to rest.

It was also there that they shared the stories of the places they passed through, over a cup of tea. From the sharing of stories came the name of the bazaar.

For centuries, the Qissa Khwani (or Storytellers Bazaar) was the center of life in Peshawar. And it still remains so.

The architecture of this place is absolutely superb and always makes you walk around with your nose in the air admiring the details.

It is a place full of color, authenticity, tradition and craftsmanship. Where you can buy everything, eat, go to the movies, drink tea, always with a smile on the face from the people who welcome you.

The hustle and bustle is great there, especially at the end of the day, when the streets fill up with people, business intensifies, and you can hear pashtun on every corner.

They are quite possibly the most colorful vehicles in the world! You can see these trucks on the roads, especially in the mountains of Northern Pakistan.

The detailed hand work turns these trucks into authentic works of art, and having the opportunity to visit one of the places where this art is made is a fabulous experience.

To witness the carved woodwork and the hand-made paintings makes it feel like you are in an open-air gallery.

There is a whole coordination of artisans who bring these giants of Pakistani roads to life!

Khyber Pass

Taking the road that was once the Silk Road and is currently the road that leads to Kabul is exciting.

Most stories of conflict in the subcontinent pass through this place. Some older, some more recent, all have one geography in common, the Khyber Pass.

Because it is an unstable region, and without wanting to go into too much geopolitical detail, progress on the road always depends on how things are at the time.

In our case, we were advised by the military man accompanying us, to turn back.

Faisal Mosque

The Faisal Mosque is the ultimate icon of Pakistan’s capital city. Not only because it is the largest mosque in the country, but also because it marks the image of the city with its contemporary and striking architecture.

The iconic landmark of Islamabad’s landscape is among the 50 most beautiful buildings in the world, and is considered by researchers to be a perfect building as it falls within the parameters of the “Golden Ratio”, which determines the architectural balance of a structure.

The Mosque is so spectacular in its dimensions that it can accommodate some 300,000 worshippers.

Já pensaram quais são as 25 coisas mais espantosas para ver no Norte do Paquistão ?

O Paquistão é, indiscutivelmente, um destino de excelência que começa a afirmar-se no panorama turístico internacional. Indiscutivelmente, há muitos mais pontos de interesse a visitar, e condensar tudo em apenas 25, não é fácil e chega a ser redutor.

No entanto, fiz um apanhado daquilo que me cativou mais a atenção, na viagem que fiz com a 100Rota , e neste post vamos falar de 25.

Aviso: Utilizo links de afiliação, o que significa que se comprarem algo através dos meus links de afiliação, recebo comissão sem custos adicionais para vocês! Os meus pontos de vista e opiniões nunca são influenciados por isso! Apenas recomendo produtos e serviços que utilizo!  Leiam a minha divulgação  para mais informações.

Para quem só vê o que as notícias transmitem, é difícil imaginar que haja um lugar como o Norte do Paquistão… no Paquistão. Quem desconhece o que este país tem para oferecer, questiona frequentemente o que leva alguém a viajar para lá.

Imaginem um território com picos montanhosos monumentais, lagos azul-turquesa, planícies idílicas e pequenas aldeias escondidas nos vales.

Imaginem um lugar onde a natureza é tão majestosa que nos deixa sem palavras todos os dias, em cada curva da estrada.

Agora, adicionem a essa imagem a arquitetura tradicional, os monumentos extraordinários e as mesquitas, que são autênticas obras de arte.

Por fim, somem uma diversidade cultural única, cheia de tradição e um povo absolutamente fenomenal.

Assim, é o Norte do Paquistão!

Durante as 3 semanas que estive pela região , tive oportunidade de me deslumbrar com diversos tipos de paisagem e de experienciar as vivencias das pessoas que lá vivem.

É um território tão diversificado que se torna difícil escolher as coisas mais espetaculares para ver. Mas vamos a isso!

A surpreendente Lahore que alia história à modernidade, numa metrópole com identidade muito própria. Lahore consegue manter a excelência de uma cidade cultural e ser elegante, no meio do seu caos organizado.

É, assumidamente, a capital cultural do País e não defrauda as expectativas de quem a visita.

Das mesquitas aos bazares, da paz dos jardins ao burburinho da zona antiga, Lahore tem tudo e convence quem a visita a ficar por ali uns dias para a explorar.

Mesquita Badshahi

Símbolo do Império Mogol (1526-1857), construída em 1671, a Mesquita Badshahi é a jóia da coroa de Lahore, e um dos lugares de oração mais belos do Paquistão.

A sua arquitetura é caracterizada pela cor avermelhada, com detalhes esculpidos, típicos da era de construção.

O enorme pátio da mesquita pode albergar até 100.000 peregrinos, fazendo dela a segunda maior mesquita do Paquistão.

É, indiscutivelmente, um dos lugares de oração mais impactantes do país e vale a pena passar ali um bom bocado a contemplar os seus detalhes.

Indiscutivelmente, é um dos edifícios mais bonitos que tivemos oportunidade de visitar. E não é fácil ter este estatuto, já que o Norte do Paquistão está recheado de edifícios fabulosos.

Por ali, para além da fé e da monumentalidade arquitetónica, que anda de mãos dadas com a delicadeza do lugar, respira-se paz e tranquilidade.

Horário de funcionamento: todos os dias das 08h00 – 20h00

Forte de Lahore

Mesmo em frente à Mesquita Badshahi, na parte noroeste da Cidade Muralhada da Cidade de Lahore, encontra-se o histórico e imponente Forte, um monumento de visita obrigatória.

No século XI, esta construção começou por ser uma simples fortificação feita com tijolos de adobe, e durante os 500 anos seguintes foi destruída e reconstruída diversas vezes, período em que os mongóis, Timur e Pashtuns invadiram a região.

O complexo do forte é enorme, sendo que um dos pontos altos a ver é o deslumbrante Sheesh Mahal, ‘O Palácio dos Espelhos’. Construído em 1631 por Shah Jahan, o seu interior é decorado com incontáveis azulejos de vidro refletor.

O detalhe do trabalho dos “espelhos” embutidos na pedra é maravilhoso e, ainda que manifestando sinais de decadência, o lugar é único.

O Forte é património classificado pela UNESCO desde 1981.

A cereja no topo do bolo, é a vista que se tem da Mesquita Badshahi a partir do Forte.

Horário de funcionamento: todos os dias das 08h00 – 19h00

Túmulo de Jahangir

Outro dos lugares históricos mais notáveis, de visita obrigatória, é o Túmulo de Jahangir.

É um mausoléu construído para Jahangir, um dos imperadores mais importantes do Império Mogol, que governou entre 1605 e 1627. A construção do túmulo terá sido concluída no ano de 1637.

A arquitetura deste lugar apresenta alguns mosaicos feitos com pedras semipreciosas. Este túmulo tem uma importância extraordinária, dado que é o único túmulo Mogol que resta no Paquistão!

Dentro do complexo, vão também encontrar um grande jardim onde os habitantes locais convivem e usufruem do espaço com as suas famílias.

Jardins Shalimar

Os jardins Shalimar são também conhecidos como “o paraíso perdido”.

Este complexo de jardins remonta à era Mogol e foi concluído em 1642 sob o domínio do Imperador Shah Jahan (um dos filhos do Imperador Jahangir). Provavelmente este nome não vos é estranho, foi o mesmo imperador responsável pela construção do Taj Mahal.

Os padrões elaborados de forma detalhada e a atenção aos pormenores, podem ser vistos em cada uma das estruturas presentes no complexo.

São o lugar perfeito para um passeio relaxante nos dias de calor. Aliás, por ali vão encontrar muitos habitantes locais a desfrutar do espaço e a conviver, entre amigos e em família.

O complexo tem também um grande lago, que confere ao local um ambiente fresco e bastante agradável.

Horário de funcionamento: 08h00 – 18h00

Bazar da Porta de Deli

A Cidade Murada de Lahore (também conhecida como a Cidade Velha) costumava ter 13 portas que permitiam a entrada no centro urbano.

Quando os britânicos conquistaram a região, quase todos essas entradas foram destruídas. Seis portas foram reconstruídas desde então, sendo a Porta de Deli uma delas.

Atualmente, há dentro desta porta um mercado bastante movimentado, no qual se sente o pulsar da vida diária!

Os cheiros, as cores, os barulhos, estimulam os sentidos a quem visita este local. A luz ténue que se mistura com a poeira no ar, dá ao mercado uma atmosfera peculiar.

É um ótimo lugar para conhecer os locais, conviver com eles e ter um vislumbre da vida mundana em Lahore.

Percam-se nas ruelas, deixem-se levar pelos aromas e desfrutem da cordialidade das pessoas, que vos vão receber com sorrisos rasgados.

Contrariamente ao que acontece em muitos bazares pelo mundo fora, aqui ninguém vos vai impingir nada, ninguém vai insistir para que comprem o que quer que seja.

Todas as abordagens que vos vão fazer são de curiosidade e de demonstração de alegria em vos ver por ali.

Mesquita Wazir Khan

A partir do mercado na Porta de Deli, é possível ver um minarete amarelo. Se caminharem até ele, vão alcançar a Mesquita Wazir Khan.

Entrem e deslumbrem-se com esta obra arquitetónica espetacular, desfrutem da paz e usufruam da energia que se sente neste lugar tão único e especial.

É incrível como no meio de um mercado cheio de vida e de rebuliço, se consegue sentir uma serenidade tão grande.

Esta mesquita foi construída entre 1634 e 1641 pelo Imperador Shah Jahan, e o seu deslumbrante azulejo ornamentado vai cativar a vossa atenção logo no pátio exterior, assim que se aproximarem do portão de entrada.

A partir do momento em que entram, a visão torna-se ainda mais soberba. Todas as superfícies interiores da mesquita, incluindo os seus tetos e arcos, estão cobertas de frescos com padrões maravilhosos.

Junto da entrada da mesquita vão encontra o Calligraphers Bazaar , que atravessa o eixo da entrada num ângulo reto, e é marcado neste cruzamento com uma grande varanda com uma cúpula no topo.

Khattats (calígrafos mestres) de renome reproduziram versos do Alcorão e da poesia persa em elegante Nastaliq, guiões Naskh e formas Tughra dentro de elaborados contornos e de formas geométricas e florais.

Hopper – Glaciar

Disseram-nos que é o glaciar mais antigo do Paquistão. É também conhecido por Bualtar. E podemos encontrá-lo num cenário inóspito, aconchegado por picos montanhosos.

É considerado um glaciar de tamanho médio, embora tenha 18 kms de comprimento, e o seu curso corre pela encosta norte das Karakoram, no distrito de Nagar.

Ainda que não considerado de grandes dimensões, o Hoper é o 34º maior glaciar do mundo.

Não sei se já tiveram oportunidade de ver um glaciar e de estar bem perto dele, mas é uma sensação tão única que se torna quase indescritível.

Somos pequenos perto da imensidão da natureza e este gigante gelado, com a sua peculiar cor preta, que o torna tão distinto de outros glaciares, não nos deixa esquecer disso.

E no que toca a glaciares esta região de Hoper, é uma privilegiada. Além do Hoper, tem mais 2: o Barpu e o Mier.

Para quem é amante deste tipo de paisagem, é como chegar ao “céu dos glaciares”.

Aproveitem os pontos de repouso ao logo do percurso pedonal que leva ao miradouro principal, para irem parando e desfrutando da paisagem e da tranquilidade do lugar.

Cerimónia Wagah

Já tinha visto a cerimónia em vídeos do Youtube, também já tinha lido bastante sobre ela, mas nada, absolutamente nada, nos prepara para o que vamos ver ao vivo.

A pouco kms de Lahore, o Paquistão e a Índia partilham uma das fronteiras mais militarizadas do mundo.

Fruto de uma história nem sempre pacífica, a divisão entre os dois países, que em tempos foram só um, deu origem a uma cerimónia peculiar.

A vila de Wagha fica numa fronteira controversa. A sua metade oriental permanece na Índia, enquanto a sua metade ocidental está no Paquistão, dividida ao meio pelos britânicos, em 1947.

Wagah continua a ser o único posto fronteiriço rodoviário entre a Índia e o Paquistão, embora não seja permitida a passagem livre de veículos e pessoas.

A cada pôr-do-sol, desde que se deu a partição, a travessia entre os dois países tem sido encenada na cerimónia da bandeira Wagah. É um espetáculo a não perder.

Todos os finais de tarde, os militares indianos e paquistaneses, saem para o aplauso de milhares de espectadores, que se dividem entre as bancadas dos 2 países.

Enquanto um dos lados grita “Pakistan Zindabad” ou “Longa vida ao Paquistão”, o outro grita “Jai Hind” ou “Viva a Índia”.

É impressionante ver tanta gente aos gritos e a vibrar pela sua nação. Uma nação relativamente recente, mas com uma história milenar.

A energia é tão intensa que, quer queiramos quer não, damos por nós aos gritos também. Quando dei por mim estava a gritar com eles, como se fosse paquistanesa desde pequenina!

No final da cerimónia, dá-se o breve aperto de mão simbólico e descerraram-se as bandeiras simultaneamente. Para terminar, os portões são fechados.

É, garantidamente, uma experiência única.

Vale de Hunza

Se já algum dia a vossa curiosidade vos levou a pesquisar sobre o Paquistão, com toda a certeza encontraram imagens de Hunza. Esta é uma das regiões mais turísticas do país.

Apesar de a região ser conhecida pelo nome “Vale de Hunza”, a sua extensão é bem mais vasta do que o vale a que o nome se refere.

Era por aqui, na zona de Karimabad, que passava a mítica Rota da Seda.

E se há coisa que desperta a imaginação e curiosidade dos viajantes, é esta rota que viu passar caravanas de mercadores e peregrinos, durante milhares de anos de história.

Karimabad está stuada num ponto estratégico da estrada que percorre as Karakoram. Fica aconchegada pelos picos montanhosos que a envolvem e é banhada pelo rio que corre no vale.

Provavelmente, Karimabad ainda conserva algumas semelhanças dos tempos em que foi uma paragem importante ao longo da Rota milenar.

Talvez tenha sido isso que a tornou num ponto de atração turística nesta região do Norte do Paquistão. Isso e o deslumbramento que nos provoca a paisagem em que se encontra.

Sou suspeita para falar de uma das paisagens mais extraordinárias que já vi em todas as minhas viagens pelo mundo.

Levava na memória as imagens icónicas que fui vendo ao longo dos anos na internet e tinha o sonho de ver este lugar com os meus próprios olhos.

A “Catedral de Passu” é uma obra de arte da natureza e um marco na paisagem. Ninguém lhe fica indiferente.

Estar ali é um misto de “estou no cenário de um filme”, com “não me acordem porque estou a sonhar”.

Se a natureza escrevesse poesia, em algum dos seus versos falaria sobre este lugar épico. A vista é tão avassaladora que nos faltam as palavras quando os nossos olhos a veem.

Ponte Hussaini

Tem o título de maior ponte suspensa do mundo e tem também fama de ser a mais perigosa de todas as pontes suspensas.

A sequência de tabuas que a compõem desafiam os mais aventureiros a atravessar a estrutura e intimidam os mais receosos, como eu!

Confesso que me faltou a coragem para passar das 2 primeiras tabuas. Mas ver os habitantes locais a passar com ligeireza a ponte, fez-me pensar que, de facto, a necessidade faz com que o ser humano se adapte às circunstâncias e relativize o perigo.

Lago Attabad

As suas águas de cor azul-turquesa ofuscante, fazem dele um dos lugares mais bonitos do Paquistão.

O lago Attabad nasceu de uma calamidade natural, quando ocorreu um grande deslizamento de terras em 2010. O fluxo do rio Hunza foi bloqueado, e o agora famoso lago foi criado no seu curso.

Ao logo do tempo, o lago tornou-se uma atração turística e é lá que podem desfrutar de atividades lúdicas, como fazer um bonito passeio de barco pelo espelho de água.

Ninho da Águia

O Ninho da Águia é um dos pontos altos de onde podem ver um dos pores-do-sol mais épicos na região de Hunza.

As vistas são absolutamente avassaladoras e de cortar a respiração. A sensação que vão ter, é quase como se estivessem a sobrevoar o vale de Hunza.

Não se deixem enganar pelo nome, porque efetivamente não há ninhos de águia no local.

O nome advém de uma formação rochosa, que dizem assemelhar-se a um ninho de águia… facto questionável, mas o que conta é a vista!

Forte Baltit

Com uma localização privilegiada, o Forte de Baltit permite ter uma perspetiva soberba do Vale de Hunza.

Talvez por isso, durante 800 anos, tenha servido de ponto estratégico para proteção e defesa da zona.

A sua arquitetura única faz com que o Forte seja um lugar de interesse a visitar. Tanto o exterior como o interior são de uma singularidade extraordinária.

Percam-se no edifício a explorar cada recanto e deixem-se conquistar pela história, tão bem contada pelo guia do Forte.

As vistas, essas, são soberbas!

Forte Altit

Parece quase impossível que esta obra de engenharia militar tenha sobrevivido mais de 1.000 anos a tantas catástrofes naturais e invasões inimigas.

O Forte encontra-se situado numa posição estratégica, geograficamente a uma cota mais baixa que o seu vizinho mais novo, o Forte Baltit.

Talvez por essa razão, a torre do Forte Altit seja bastante alta e imponente.

Tinham passado aproximadamente 400 anos após a sua construção, quando o Forte Altit ficou sob uma disputa familiar entre os dois irmão da realeza, o príncipe Shah Abbas (Shabos) e o príncipe Ali Khan.

Foi esta disputa que deu origem ao Forte Baltit. O irmão mais velho Príncipe Shabos ficou com o Baltit, enquanto o Altit permaneceu sob o domínio do Príncipe Ali Khan.

Depois de muita discórdia e ataques sucessivos, Baltit tornou-se a capital de Hunza.

Disse-nos o guia que, há uma lenda entre os habitantes locais que diz que o irmão mais novo, o Príncipe Ali Khan, foi enterrado vivo pelo Príncipe Shabos dentro de um dos pilares da torre de vigia.

Lenda ou não, acreditem que quando o guia vos contar a estória, vão ficar a olhar para o pilar!

O Forte de Altit serviu também como importante base para os mercadores do todo o mundo que aqui passavam, quando percorriam a Rota da Seda.

É a fronteira pavimentada mais elevada do mundo. Isto só por si atrai a atenção.

O posto fronteiriço entre o Paquistão e a China recebe turistas curiosos que tiram retratos com as montanhas do país vizinho como pano de fundo.

O lugar, situado a quase 5.000 metros de altituade, é emblemático e apenas visitável entre março e outubro (dependendo da condição meteorológica).

Na minha opinião, aquilo que me surpreendeu mesmo foi o caminho até lá chegar.

A estrada até ao topo leva-nos a percorrer o Parque Nacional Khunjerab, casa de muitas espécies animais, algumas em risco de extinção. É extraordinário, e simultaneamente reconfortante, ver tanta vida selvagem por ali em liberdade.

Os picos montanhosos ganham uma dimensão avassaladora, enquanto se sobe até à fronteira. São um deslumbramento para os olhos.

7.788 metros de altitude, metros infinitos de “espectacularidade”! Diz-se ser também conhecida por ser a “mãe da neblina”, e julgo que a imagem fala por si.

O Rakaposhi é de uma imponência impressionante. Faz-nos sentir pequenos diante de si. Faz-nos sentir como que enfeitiçados com a sua imagem hipnotizante.

Quando os ventos dançam no seu cume, gera-se a neblina que lhe dá o cognome. É possível perceber que lá em cima a temperatura é gélida e o clima inóspito.

Este gigante das Karakoram tem tanto de delicadeza como de natureza em estado bruto. A montanha materializa a dicotomia da natureza.

São tantos e tão deslumbrantes os picos fantásticos nas Karakoram, que difícil é escolher um para ser o eleito.

Vale de Naltar

Florestas luxuriantes, lagos cristalinos e a paz da vida rural. Talvez estes sejam os melhores termos para descrever o Vale de Naltar.

De uma beleza ímpar, este vale mágico é apenas acessível com veículos 4×4. E por um lado ainda bem que assim é.

Sendo um dos lugares mais intocados, em especial nas zonas mais remotas do Vale, na minha opinião, seria uma pena ter turismo massificado nesta área.

Por ali ainda é possível ter noção daquilo que era a vida rural naquela zona há uns anos. Longe de tudo, mantém a natureza e os costumes em estado puro.

Chegar à parte mais remota do vale é como fazer uma viagem no tempo.

Os pastores deambulam com os seus rebanhos, que pastam livremente no vale. A única coisa que se ouve é o balir dos animais e o vento que faz dançar os ramos das árvores.

O lugar mais remoto de todos os lugares remotos que tivemos oportunidade de visitar, ainda tem cavalos selvagens a pastar nas suas encostas.

Nas zonas mais distantes de Naltar a vida é dura. O conforto escasseia em casas de pedra, que apenas têm uma fogueira para aquecer o ambiente.

Os invernos são extremamente rigorosos e os habitantes vêem-se obrigados a procurar as zonas mais junto ao vale, onde o rio corre, para encontrar uma temperatura mais amena.

Embora o Vale de Naltar já comece a ser bastante popular enquanto destino turístico, nomeadamente no inverno por causa dos desportos de neve, há ainda áreas que permanecem tal e qual como eram há dezenas de anos.

Vale Phander e Langar Meadows

Nunca vou ter palavras que façam justiça à beleza desta região. É um lugar idílico, de uma beleza quase ingénua. A luz, a paz, a perfeição de cada coisa no lugar certo. 

No Vale de Phander a imagem bucólica das ovelhas a pastar nos campos verdejantes, à beira-rio, remete-nos para o imaginário dos filmes dos anos 80, de um domingo à tarde.

A estrada de terra batida serpenteia ao longo do vale e por vezes nem estrada existe, temos que nos fazer ao leito do rio para conseguir atravessar para a outra margem.

A crianças que brincam livremente entre os burritos que por ali passeiam, fazem-nos perceber que a vida pode ser simples e descomplicada.

Quando por ali passa um carro, vem toda a aldeia à rua para dizer adeus. Recebem-nos com sorrisos rasgados e a inocência própria de quem vive longe dos grandes centros turísticos.

Parque Nacional de Shandur

Mais à frente no caminho, entre Langar Meadows e Shandur, somos transportados para um universo paralelo, onde manadas de yaks correm livremente nas planícies ao som do vento que faz dançar a poeira no ar.

Sei que repito muitas vezes a frase “é como estar no cenário de um filme” e que corro o risco de soar a cliché, mas a verdade é que a perfeição da natureza neste pedaço de mundo é quase irreal.

É uma das paisagens mais incríveis que já tive oportunidade de ver em todas as minhas viagens pelo mundo. Não é fácil chegar lá e a jornada é exigente em termos físicos e psicológicos, mas vale cada minuto!

A cidade de Chitral está situada junto ao rio com o mesmo nome, no norte da província de Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. É a capital do distrito e antes disso foi a capital do principado de Chitral, até à sua incorporação no Paquistão Ocidental a 14 de Agosto de 1947.

É dentro das fronteiras de Chitral que se situa a secção mais alta e mais densa da cordilheira Hindu Kush.

O vale é um dos lugares mais notáveis do mundo no que diz respeito à beleza natural das paisagens. As montanhas pitorescas, fontes de enxofre, florestas de zimbro, pessoas amistosas e rios repletos de truta são verdadeiramente fascinantes.

A sua cultura é única. Existem dois grupos étnicos em Chitral. De um fazem parte os Kalash, que se diz serem os descendentes de Alexandre o Grande. O outro chama-se Kho e são um grupo substancialmente maior, que vive em pela harmonia com os seus vizinhos de Kalash.

Mesquita Shahi

A Mesquita Shahi tem aproximadamente 100 anos e é, até hoje, o principal local de culto da cidade de .Chitral.

A fachada da entrada principal, em tons brancos e rosa, com detalhes magníficos esculpidos na pedra, conferem a esta mesquita uma delicadeza arquitetónica extraordinária.

Esta é uma mesquita não tão exuberante como as que deram início ao post. Mais modesta, mas com um carisma fabuloso, aqui respira-se paz e sabedoria.

No seu interior, vários estudantes dedicavam-se a estudar o Alcorão. Numa ladainha constante, recitavam as passagem do livro sagrado. Ali, estuda-se religião, os seus princípios e fundamentos.

Foi uma experiência extraordinária ter a oportunidade de presenciar estes momentos.

Vale Kalash

Garanto-vos que não há maneira fácil de chegar até Kalash!

Dada a sua localização geográfica tão remota, chegar a Kalash é, só por si, uma aventura. A estrada cavada na montanha, com a largura de um carro, junto ao precipício, faz palpitar fortemente os corações.

O Vale de Kalash encontra-se no Distrito de Chitral, no norte do Paquistão, rodeado pela cordilheira Hindu Kush. Ali, aconchegado pelas enormes montanhas, os 3500 Kalash vivem em casas únicas, feitas de pedra e madeira que são empilhadas umas em cima das outras em encostas íngremes.

O telhado de uma casa é a varanda de outra, no topo da casa inferior. É quase como um tetris de arquitetura tradicional.

O maior e mais populoso vale, é o Bumburet, alcançado por uma estrada a partir de Ayun no vale de Kunar. Rumbur é um vale lateral a norte de Bumburet. O terceiro vale, Biriu, é um vale lateral do Vale Kunar a sul de Bumburet.

Muitos historiadores acreditam que os Kalash são descendentes dos soldados de Alexandre o Grande, considerando a história do local e as características físicas dos habitantes. São predominantes as peles de tez clara e os olhos verdes ou azuis.

É possível visitar a cooperativa local, onde podem trajar a rigor com as vestes das mulheres de Kalash. Uma atividade turística que tem um fim que pode ser considerado meritório: angariar fundos para esta comunidade.

Há também a possibilidade de terem um guia local que vos leva pela aldeia e explica a cultura do povo Kalash. Leva-vos também ao cemitério local, que tem características bastante particulares, como os caixões abertos a céu aberto. É verdade, no mínimo, pode dizer-se que é uma experiência diferente!

E se é na diversidade que encontramos a maior beleza do mundo, não deixem de visitar o surpreendente Vale de Kalash.

Não é à toa que dizem que Peshawar é a cidade mais simpática do Paquistão.

Entre “Welcome to Peshawar” e “Welcome to Pakistan”, em todo o lado sente-se a alegria por terem ali estrangeiros.

Peshawar é a capital da província Khyber Pakhtunkhwa e centro administrativo (mas não capital) do Território Federal das Áreas Tribais.

É uma cidade antiga, uma das mais antigas continuamente habitada na Ásia, tendo passado por vários impérios dominantes.

Todos querem tirar retratos, todos querem mostrar as suas tradições, todos querem que se prove as suas especialidades, todos oferecem chá, ou pão, ou o que tiverem para oferecer.

É difícil dizer “não” a estas pessoas, porque a sua generosidade é tanta que nos comove profundamente.

Cidade Antiga – Mercado dos Storytelllers

É nesta cidade que temos oportunidade de visitar o  Storytellers Bazaar , para mim um sonho tornado realidade.

Aquele lugar fazia parte da Rota da Seda e era ali que os comerciantes que atravessavam o Continente paravam para descansar.

Era ali também que partilhavam as estórias dos lugares por onde iam passando, ao sabor de um chá. Da partilha de estórias surgiu o nome do bazar.

Durante séculos, o Qissa Khwani (ou Storytellers Bazaar) foi o centro da vida em Peshawar. E ainda continua a ser.

A arquitetura deste lugar é absolutamente soberba e faz-nos andar sempre de nariz no ar a admirar os detalhes.

É um lugar cheio de cor, de autenticidade, de tradição e de artes manuais. Onde se pode comprar tudo, comer, ir ao cinema, beber chá, sempre com o sorriso no rosto por parte de quem nos recebe.

Por ali o rebuliço é grande, especialmente ao final do dia, quando as ruas se enchem de gente, os negócios se intensificam e se ouve  pashtun  em cada esquina.

Arte dos Camiões

São, muito provavelmente, os veículos mais coloridos do mundo! É possível ver estes camiões nas estradas, especialmente nas montanhas do Norte do Paquistão.

O trabalho manual detalhado, torna estes camiões em autênticas obras de arte e ter a oportunidade de visitar um dos locais onde se faz esta arte, é uma experiencia fabulosa.

Presenciar o trabalho de madeira esculpida e as pinturas feitas à mão, faz parecer que estamos numa galeria a céu aberto. Há toda uma coordenação de artesãos que dão vida a estes gigantes das estradas paquistanesas!

Fazer a estrada que foi em tempos a Rota da Seda e que é atualmente a estrada que leva a Kabul, é emocionante.

A maioria das histórias de conflito no subcontinente passam por este local. Umas mais antigas, outras mais recentes, todas têm uma geografia em comum, o Khyber Pass.

Por ser uma região instável, e sem querer entrar em muitos detalhes geopolíticos, o avanço na estrada depende sempre de como as coisas estão na altura. No caso, foi-nos aconselhado pelo militar que nos acompanhava, a voltar para trás.

Mesquita Faisal

A Mesquita Faisal é o ícone máximo da capital do Paquistão. Não só por ser a maior mesquita do país, mas também porque marca a imagem da cidade, com a sua arquitetura contemporânea e impactante.

O marco icónico da paisagem de Islamabad está entre os 50 edifícios mais bonitos do mundo, e é considerado pelos investigadores um edifício perfeito, dado estar dentro dos parâmetros do “Golden Ratio”, que determina o equilíbrio arquitetónico de uma estrutura.

A Mesquita é tão espetacular nas suas dimensões que pode acomodar cerca de 300.000 fiéis.

Share this:

21 thoughts on “25 amazing things to see in northern pakistan”.

Fascinante! ❤

In a million years I would never have thought that Northern Pakistan was so beautiful. I’d be spending the day visiting the 3 glaciers. Although the architecture of the mosques are quite spectacular. That’s for educating us on this part of the world!

Northern Pakistan is phenomenal. The nature there is breathtaking, the landscapes leave you speechless. Add Pakistan to your list because it is so worth it.

What an amazing list of things to see. I’d be really interested in watching the Wagah Ceremony, in particular. The landscapes of the Hunza Valley are *stunning* (take me across the Hussaini Bridge!), and I would love to see herds of yaks.

I would never cross that bridge ahahah I am terrified of heights and that bridge bounces too much for me to consider crossing!

You definitely shown a different side of Pakistan than the media does and I love it! Badshahi Mosque is stunning! I literally had to stop reading and just enjoy your photo! I also had no idea there were glaciers in Pakistan. 😍😍 Gorgeous! You felt safe traveling there?

I felt completely safe traveling in northern Pakistan. The media gives a totally distorted idea of what that country is. Of course, I went with an agency and that makes things safer. There are areas where you have to be aware that you can’t go sightseeing freely and you shouldn’t take chances. With a local travel agency the matter is solved, because they know exactly what you can and cannot do and where you can and cannot go.

Thanks for showing and promoting Pakistan from your personal travels. Ever since you’ve been on this trip I’m learning a lot about the country, which normally you don’t that much, as not many travel there. I can tell from your impeccable pictures how intense of a country Pakistan is. The landscapes are overwhelmingly beautiful, the people have an interesting culture and just looking at the intricate decorations, calligraphy and mosques expose a sheer wealth that’s hard to grasp.

Carolin | Solo Travel Story

Hopefully, Pakistan will become a tourist destination of choice for many travelers, as it has everything to be. The only thing I fear is that mass tourism may mischaracterize the places, but it is the price to pay for showing the world such an extraordinary country that deserves a chance!

I can’t decide what looks most intriguing about Northern Pakistan: the bustling city, interesting buildings or the gorgeous natural scenery. It’s all such a contrast. The architecture is stunning, and a bazaar/market where no one pushes you too much to buy things? Sign me up. You’ve definitely highlighted some fantastic things to see in Pakistan

Pakistan is a fascinating country with extraordinary people. I was delighted with the beauty of the country and the honesty with which we were welcomed. Tourists are approached with curiosity and not to take advantage of them in any way.

I’ve been waiting to read this post – and any more you write on Pakistan – for a while and it doesn’t fail to deliver a wondrous journey. The content is so wide and beautifully written., with so much detail and a great insight into past history. I had no idea the area contained so many wonderful buildings and such lovely scenery. You have given me such a good interpretation of the area that I feel I know it well now. I never thought of visiting Pakistan as a priority but this has changed my viewpoint.

I’m so glad I got you excited about visiting Pakistan. It is indeed a special place on the planet and deserves to be publicized. Above all, it deserves to break the prejudices that exist about the country and the people, because they are ideas that have no reason to exist.

I’ve already had Pakistan on my list but your pictures make me want to speed up my visit. Badshahi Mosque is a stunning piece of architecture and those landscapes in the Hunza valley are out of this world. I now have added Peshawar to my list as it looks like a place rich in culture with welcoming people. Thank you for taking us through this wonderful journey of discovery of this underrated country.

Peshawar is a wonderful city and, in my opinion, a must-see for anyone visiting Pakistan. Go there and I’m sure you won’t regret it. In fact, I’m sure you’ll love it!

Pakistan is such a high bucket list place for me to visit. Between the gardens, mosques, tombs, and amazing scenery, northern Pakistan has a plethora of wonderful things to see. But what really draws me in is the mountain ranges, glaciers, valleys, and turquoise lakes! I love landscape like that and I want to see it for myself!

If you like nature in its purest state and mountains, Pakistan is definitely a place to visit. It is impossible not to get jaw dropped looking at those monumental mountain peaks!

What an epic blog post Angela. Fabulous job. My Pakistani readers have begged me to visit their gorgeous country for years. This is genuinely one of the most eye-popping regions on planet earth.

Thanks so much, Ryan! It is an unmissable country for anyone who enjoys raw nature, different cultures, interacting with extraordinary people and adventure 🙂 basically, Pakistan has everything to be one of the most fabulous destinations in the world

Pingback: Hunza Splendor - Majestic Nature and Culture -

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Privacy overview, discover more from.

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Type your email…

Continue reading

• Terms and Conditions
• Privacy Policy

Northern Areas Of Pakistan Complete Tour Guide

Have you ever heard about the Northern areas of Pakistan? Fair enough! It is termed as a jewel in the crown of the finest tourist destinations existing all around the globe. If you are riveted, let’s check out the most authentic travel guide of the best places to visit in this expanse.

Northern Areas of Pakistan

The North county of Pakistan consists of upper KPK, the entire province of Gilgit-Baltistan, along with some areas of AJK. It is situated between the western Himalayas on the southern side, while, the Karakoram and Hindu Kush Mountain Range on the northern side. This region shares the border with the Wakhan corridor in Afghanistan, Xinjiang territory of China as well as the occupied Kashmir in India.

Besides their socio-political significance, the Northern areas are brimming with the travel opportunities for the tourists. As they offer tremendously picturesque scenery, the bonafide nature, breathtaking landscapes, magnificent peaks, pristine water bodies, dazzling historical sites, rich culture and the extremely hospitable people which cannot be found anywhere else in the world.

Best Destinations In The Northern Areas

The most popular travel destinations in North Pakistan are;

1. Azad Kashmir

Arang Kel, Baboon Valley, Banjosa Lake, Jhelum Valley, Leepa Valley, Neelum Valley, Pir Chinasi, Rawalakot, besides Toli Pir.

2. Gilgit-Baltistan

Astore, Chillas, Concordia, Diamer, Deosai, Gilgit, Ghanche District, Ghizer, Gojal Valley, Hunza, Kharmang, Naltar valley, Nagar, Shigar, and Skardu.

3. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

Abbottabad, Ayubia, Chitral, Kalam Valley, Kaghan Valley, Kalash Valley, Madyan, Malam Jabba, Mardan, Malakand, Mansehra, Mushkpuri, Nathiagali, Naran, Shangla, Shogran, Swat, along with Thandiani.

Why Northern Areas of Pakistan Are Famous?

The Northern areas of Pakistan are well-known all because of the striking natural beauty, rich history, religious/cultural/ethnic diversity, astonishing cold deserts, lush meadows, mighty mountains, bewildering glaciers, scenic trekking trails, astounding plateaus, massive national parks, mesmerizing lakes and rivers, enchanting waterfalls, thick pine forests, glorious ancient sites, intriguing monasteries and temples, incredible traditional food, thriving bazaars, entrancing music, colorful clothes, fascinating flora,  marvelous wildlife and most importantly the indispensably beautiful people.

Weather of Northern Areas of Pakistan

The climate varies from area to area. Actually, the mountains surrounding this region create sharp variations in weather. Precisely the eastern zones that lie close to Western Himalayas are relatively moist but moving further towards the Hindu Kush and Karakoram Mountains, the weather becomes significantly dry.

In summers, the temperatures are really high in certain towns during the daytime. Although, it drops down during the night. But in the areas like Hunza, Astore and Nagar etcetera even the summers are cold.

The weather is really frigid in winter. The majority of the Northern region is covered in heavy snow during this period.

Best Time To Visit The Northern Areas

The best time to visit North Pakistan is during spring or summer. It is because this region is situated above sea level. Hence, during winters the temperature drops down below the freezing point at the majority of the areas. Nevertheless, throughout the spring as well as the summers the weather is quite pleasant, also, the tourists can approach these areas easily.

This region comprises of a prodigious ethnic and lingual diversity. Urdu is the lingua franca as well as the official language of the region, whereas, Arabic is used for religious purposes by the Muslims. English is the co-official language used in education.

The residents of Northern areas preferably speak local languages like Badeshi, Balti, Burushaski, Chilisso, Domaaki, Dameli, Gawarbati, Gawri, Gojri, Hindko, Kalasha, Kamviri, Kativiri, Khowar, Madaghlashti, Mankiyali, Wakhi, Palula, Pashto, Shina, Torwali, Ushojo and Yidgha, for communication among themselves.

Art And Music

The local people highly appreciate art and music. They prefer to sing classical songs or the local folklores while playing musical instruments such as; dhol, chang, karnai and surnai, during festive events or weddings.

The natives of Northern areas perform the classical dance, sword dance, Broqchhos, Yakkha, Chhogho Prasul, Gasho-Pa or Sneopa depending upon the event.

This entire North region is the center of extreme sports like polo, mountaineering, paragliding and skiing. Locals also enjoy playing football, cricket and volleyball.

Yet, the most popular sport in the region is Polo.  Almost every valley has a polo ground. The native people belonging to different age groups play this sport earnestly. Therefore, the region’s elite host many polo tournaments annually.

The lifestyle of people is pretty simple. They live in small homes equipped with only basic facilities. Natives have a deep respect for their cultural values. The majority of people prefer to live in a joint family system. Arranged marriage is an integral part of the culture in many areas.

Traditional Dresses

Generally, women wear long hand-woven frocks or Kameez with Shalwar, Dupatta and a cap. Men wear traditional Shalwar Kameez paired with local hats. During winters, people keep themselves warm by wearing traditional Shawls, Waistcoats, Sweaters and Jackets.

In certain places such as; Kalash Valley, the dress code is considerably different than the other areas of the region.

Different Festivals in Northern areas of Pakistan

1) shandur polo festival.

Polo is a famous regional sport of Gilgit-Baltistan . Hence, a polo festival is hosted at Shandur (Chitral) each year. Shandur is the second-highest polo ground in the world located at the altitude of 3,734m. The event starts in July and commemorates the fierce rivalry between the epic contenders of Chitral and Gilgit. A massive crowd including tourists and locals from surrounding districts attend this festival with great zeal.

2) Silk Route Festival

Silk route is one of the oldest trade routes between East and West that connects China, Rome, Persia and India. It dates back to 200 BC. Due to its immense importance in the region’s economy, the locals of Gilgit- Baltistan celebrate the silk route festival in September every year. They honor the past conquerors by cultural music, folk dance, local food, craft bazaar and an ethnic fashion show.

3) Chilham Joshi Festival

It is a spring festival celebrated from 11 th May to 14 th May in the Kalash Valley. At this event, the local people wear new clothes, women decorate their houses and the culturally dressed Kalash boys and girls gather at the hillside for singing and dancing. The pastoral God called Goshidai is thanked at Joshi for protecting herds. The Kalash people aim to find their spouse during Chillam Joshi.

4) Gianni Festival

This is the most anticipated festival in Hunza Valley. Its celebrations start on 21 st June and end till 25 th June. During Gianni, the people gather in Aliabad or Altit villages where they perform religious rituals and traditional dances. A local dish called Dirum Pitti is specifically prepared to commemorate this festival.

5) Navroz Festival

Navroz Festival is an annual event of Chitral, Hunza, Gilgit and Skardu. It is locally known as “New Day”. The festival begins on 21 st March to mark the first day of the Spring season. Traditionally, the festival is celebrated for physical rejuvenation, spiritual renewal and to pay gratitude to God Almighty for timeless blessings.

Activities that you can enjoy in Northern areas of Pakistan

I) hiking and mountaineering.

Northern Pakistan is home to five of the world’s highest mountains including Godwin Austin (K2), Nanga Parbat, Gasherbrum-I, BroadPeak and Gasherbrum-II. Furthermore, there are more than 160 peaks above 7000m in addition to 700 summits above 6000m located in the same region that serves as a tourist’s reverie.  Gilgit and Skardu are the main hubs of mountaineering expeditions.

ii) Boating

In the serene rivers of North, tourists must try boating or rafting as it’s a once in a lifetime experience.

iii) Fishing

This region has some of the world’s most fascinating water bodies where you can try your luck at fishing. Trout fishing is a renowned hobby of the local people.

iv) Paragliding

Many paragliding associations are operating in North Pakistan that provide ample facilities for this sport intended for the visitors.

v) Trekking

Northern areas are considered as the heaven for trekkers as it offers a wide range of trekking opportunities varying from facile, technical to strenuous treks.

Several ski resorts have been opened in the region. These include resorts of Astore, Deosai (Skardu), Fairy Meadows (Chilas), Malam Jabba, Naltar valley, Nathiagali and Shimsal (Hunza Valley). All of these ski destinations have ample facilities. Also, you can play plenty of alternative sports there. Out of all these spots, Malam Jabba offers ideal skiing opportunities.

Travel Guide To The Northern Areas Of Pakistan

ROUTES to reach Northern areas

PIA operates daily flights from Islamabad International Airport to Gilgit-Baltistan, KPK and Azad Kashmir. From there, tourists can travel to their desired locations via road trip.

Local transport companies like Northern Areas Transport Corporation (NATCO), Masherbrum Transport Pvt and Silk Route Transport Pvt operate buses from Islamabad to the Northern areas and vice versa. Tourists can also rent the 4×4 vehicles to travel solo to this region.

The main travel route to this region via road is Islamabad-Taxila-Fairy Meadows-Deosai-Skardu-Gilgit-Karimabad- Hunza- Duiker- Khunjerab Pass- Gulmit- Phander- Chitral- Kalash Valley- Lawari Pass- Swat – Takht-e-Bhai- Peshawar – Islamabad.

Condition of Roads

In winters, thick snow covers the majority of routes to the Northern areas due to which traffic influx or efflux is almost impossible. Also during monsoon, the heavy rainfall, land sliding or avalanches gridlock the roadway sometimes. Therefore, the best time to visit the region is from May till October as it is easily accessible.

Tour Packages and Expenses

Several local companies offer affordable tour packages for both local and international tourists to travel to the Northern areas of Pakistan. According to the feasibility, you can pick the package of your choice.

Generally, the tour packages propose from 3 to 8 days stay at the desired location. However, if you wish to travel the entire Northern region, the Adventures Tour Pakistan offers a 21 days/20 nights trip to its clients.

The expenses of the trip largely depend on the package of your choice. If you want to travel solo then do not spend lavishly, stay in local hotels or camps, travel on local transport, otherwise rent a 4×4 vehicle, eat traditional foods and most notably try to befriend local people.

Places to Stay

Mobile networks / how to connect / use internet in northern areas.

Depending upon the area you wish to visit, bring a SIM card accordingly. Actually, no mobile network provides complete coverage everywhere in the Northern areas. However in Gilgit/Hunza/Skardu/Neelum Valley, SCO provides the best communication and 3G internet. It is the Pakistan army label that operates in Gilgit-Baltistan as well as Azad Jammu & Kashmir. The SCO SIMs can be purchased from local stores.

Zong offers the best 3G and 4G services in Sost, Khunjerab, Kalam Valley and Swat Valley. While, Telenor is your ideal bet in Chitral district, Kalash Valley, Kaghan Valley and Naran, Telenor also started new campaigns in 2019 on Northern Areas of Pakistan, on instagram the tags are quite famous #TelenorXPakistan & #Telenor4GKaNorth . If you are planning to visit the K2 Base Camp then only a satellite phone can help you.

SIM Cost And Availability

• SCOM cost Rs. 250 for SIM as well as some internet data (3G). But this price rises to Rs.350 if you need 4G coverage.
• Telenor SIM prices are dependent on the plan of your choice i.e. prepaid or postpaid.
• Zong SIM cost also depends upon the plan.

The SIMs of all these networks are available in the local mobile franchises.

Pro Tips For Travelling To The Northern Areas

> choose suitable clothes.

In North Pakistan, the weather varies considerably from time to time. Therefore, instead of wearing heavily warm clothes, dress in layers so that you can take them off whenever required. Also take a warm jacket or coat, the woolen cap, a gloves pair, socks, a raincoat and a pair of boots along with some trousers and shirts.

>  A Little Extra Of Everything

Not many facilities are available in this region, therefore, tourists must take a first-aid kit, power bank, an extra charger for both mobile/laptop and an additional battery for camera/drone.

>  Be Cash Smart

Do not keep a lot of cash with yourself. But make sure you have enough to bear your expenses. Keep cash in different places to avoid losing it. There is an ATM facility available many Northern areas so you can easily avail of it.

Top 25 Natural Lakes In Pakistan

The Spicy Travel Girl

Adventure & solo female travel blog

Hunza Valley, Pakistan: A Full Guide To Pakistan’s Jewel Of The North

When traveling in Pakistan, it’s almost impossible to get around Hunza. Nestled up far in Pakistan’s remote north , the Hunza Valley is the country’s number one tourist destination.

And that’s for a good reason – blessed with some of the world’s tallest mountains , bluest lakes , and kindest people , Hunza Valley is a true gem. No traveler should leave Pakistan without experiencing the relaxing morning calmness at the scenic Attabad Lake or crossing the iconic Hussaini Bridge after enjoying an impressive view of the Passu Cones .

Thanks to this, Hunza Valley is perhaps the most developed tourism destination in Pakistan , with plenty of foreign and domestic visitors arriving every season.

However, despite the region’s immense popularity among tourists, traveling to an area as remote as Hunza always comes with its own obstacles and requires plenty of planning in advance, especially if you decide to travel independently.

Therefore, I decided to compiles this full Hunza Valley guide where I’ll share with you everything I learned during my visit to Hunza in Fall 2020 – plus plenty of advice from locals!

Traveling to Pakistan anytime soon? Here’s everything you need to know about traveling to Pakistan in 2022!

*DISCLAIMER: This post contains affiliate links. This means that from every purchase made through this website, I’ll earn a small commission with no additional cost to you.*

Table of Contents

Pin It For Later!

Where Is Hunza Valley?

Located at around 2,500 meters altitude, Hunza Valley is a beautiful mountain valley located along the Hunza River in the Karakoram mountain range in Gilgit-Baltistan, the northernmost part of Pakistan. The region borders China’s Xinjiang province in the northeast, which is connected by the high-altitude Khunjerab Pass and divided by the highest land border in the world. The most important towns in Hunza Valley include Karimabad, Altit, and Aliabad, which are home to some of Pakistan’s most popular tourist attractions.

Weather In Hunza Valley

Due to its high altitude and location in the mountains, the temperatures in Hunza Valley are relatively cool all year round. The warmest month of the year is August, with daytime temperatures averaging around 12°C and the coldest month is January, with temperatures as low as -30°C.

Hunza’s climate is relatively dry with the largest amount of rain fall in the summer months and the most snow fall in autumn and spring. Beware of dusty roads when traveling.

When To Visit Hunza Valley

Given the cool temperatures compared to other parts of Pakistan, Hunza Valley is an excellent place to visit in summer if you want to escape the scorching heat of Lahore and Karachi. The best time to visit Hunza is therefore summer, although the place is also enjoyable in spring and autumn.

Traveling to Hunza in winter is not recommended due to the awfully low temperatures and lack of accessibility. Due to heavy snowfall, many roads in northern Pakistan are closed throughout the winter months, making it rather complicated to travel to Hunza Valley from other parts of Pakistan.

Hunza Valley In Autumn

Hunza Valley is the best place to experience vibrant autumn colors in Pakistan. The orange-yellow trees that line up along the turquoise water of the Hunza River with grey mountainscapes in the background create the perfect setting for photographers and couples alike, making autumn one of the most popular seasons to visit Hunza Valley besides summer.

Generally speaking, autumn colors can be enjoyed throughout October and November in Hunza Valley. However, due to the rapidly dropping temperatures in November and the uncertainty of the road situation in northern Pakistan, traveling to Hunza in November is not recommended, making mid-October the best time to experience autumn colors in Hunza Valley.

How To Get To Hunza Valley

There are two major ways to get to Hunza Valley from other parts of Pakistan. The most popular route is overland via Naran and Babusar Top. You can start your journey in Islamabad and follow the Karakoram Highway all the way until Karimabad.

Another way is to fly into Gilgit and begin your journey from there. This might be your only option if you decide to travel in winter and Babusar Top is closed. While flying might save you some time to get to Hunza, it can be a little pricey and unreliable (as if going by road was reliable LOL).

As always, hiring a private driver who is experienced with the rather turbulent roads of northern Pakistan is the best way to get to Hunza Valley. Driving by yourself is not recommended. There are also regular buses to Hunza from other parts of Pakistan but they lack the comfort and freedom of independent car travel.

As Pakistan’s most popular tourist destination, there are also plenty of organized tours to Hunza, however, thorough research about the tour company is required for a safe and enjoyable experience. I personally recommend Travel Studio 92 for (very!) fun tours and responsible behavior towards foreign and domestic guests.

Hunza Valley Hotels

Hunza Valley is nothing short of hotels that fit every traveler’s budget. I personally had a great experience staying at Hidden Valley Lake Resort , a remote hotel resort located right next to the stunning Attabad Lake in Gojal. It’s the best place to experience an incredible sunrise over the blue water in the morning and an impressive star sky at night away from all the crowds. And, another big plus, the place is run by the coolest Hunza grandpa you’ll ever meet, so a good laugh is guaranteed during your stay!

However, be aware of frequent power outages, lack of signal, and unreliabilty of warm water.

For a high-end experience, consider staying at Luxus Hunza in Garelt.

How To Get Around Hunza Valley

Do the region’s remoteness and lack of infrastructure, traveling by private transportation is a must in Hunza Valley. You can either hire a driver or private guide or join an organized tour. Public buses are available as well but as always, private transportation is a lot more comfortable and allows you to explore the region at your own pace.

Things To Do In Hunza Valley

Hunza Valley may be famous for its beauty but what things are there actually to do in Hunza? The answer is: a lot. Below are some suggestions of things to do in Hunza Valley:

Visit Altit Fort

This over 1000-year-old fort was the residence of the Mirs of Hunza Valley and the oldest monument in the region. Visit the fort to enjoy an incredible view of Hunza Valley and its beautiful gardens.

Altit Fort is open from 9:30 am – 5:30 pm and the entrance fee is 200 rs. for locals and slightly more expensive for foreigners.

Visit Baltit Fort

Similar to Altit Fort, Baltit Fort is a beautiful ancient fort overlooking the Hunza Valley. The approximately 700-year-old fort became the local Mirs’ residence after the rulers left Altit Fort. The building was renovated with the help of Balti craftsmen,

Visit Baltit Fort for beautiful views of Karimabad, a meal at the top, and folk performances. The hours of the fort are from 9:00 am – 5:30 pm and there is a small entrance fee.

Shop For Souvenirs At Karimabad Bazar

Karimabad Bazaar is the perfect place to shop for souvenirs, be it local Hunza crafts or artifacts from all across Pakistan. One souvenir shop after the other will give you an incredible selection of colorful textiles, carpets, and jewelry.

As in all markets across Pakistan, haggling is essential at Karimabad Bazaar. If you aren’t sure about the regular prices of things, it’s a good rule to go with half of the price that the vendor suggests.

Enjoy Incredible Views Of Attabad Lake

Attabad Lake is the icon of Hunza Valley and with its calm turquoise water, it effortlessly enchants every traveler to the region. What few visitors know is that this 100-meter-deep lake is still relatively young and was only created in 2010, when a massive landslide blocked the flow of the Hunza River in the region.

There are plenty of ways to enjoy the beauty of Attabad Lake during your trip to Hunza Valley. Be it having breakfast at your hotel right in front of the lake, hiking in the nearby mountains, or renting a boat or jet-skiing to completely immerse yourself in this serene environment, there are no boundaries (as long as you don’t actually try to swim).

Cross Hussaini Bridge, The World’s Most Dangerous Bridge

Known as the ‘most dangerous bridge in the world’, Hussaini Bridge is an old suspension bridge that connects the area around Hussaini with a small settlement on the other side of the Hunza River. The bridge is very shaky and the wooden boards are placed very far from each other with multiple pieces missing, making it a real adventure to cross.

You can reach the bridge following a small trek from the main road. The entrance fee to the area around the bridge is 200 rs.

Marvel At The Majestic Passu Cones

Passu is a small village in Hunza Valley that is blessed by the majestic backdrop of the impressive Passu Sar mountain and the Passu Glacier, which give the area a crown-like appearance.

The area around Passu is a popular photo spot because the Passu Cones create an amazing background for every photo. Because the traffic in the region is very low, it’s a common practice to pose in the middle of the road in Passu.

Visit The World’s Highest Land Border At Khunjerab Pass

This last destination is quite far from Hunza Valley but definitely worth the drive. At 4,733 meters altitude, the border between Pakistan and China is not only the highest land border in the world but also one of the most out-of-the-world places to visit in Pakistan.

You don’t need to cross to China to enjoy this place. The entire drive up Khunjerab Pass is incredibly scenic and if you’re lucky enough, you might even have some incredible encounters with the local border officers!

The drive from Karimabad to Khunjerab Top takes about four hours and there is a $10 per person entrance fee to enter Khunjerab National Park. Be prepared for extreme cold and lack of oxygen at the border.

Hunza Valley Local Specialties

Visiting places is only one side of traveling. Another side is enjoying all the local specialties that the region has to offer.

Below are some Hunza Valley specialties which will help you gain a deeper travel experience in the region:

Food In Hunza Valley

• Mamtu (dumplings): I can never say no to this northern specialty! Similar to Chinese jiaozi, Pakistani mamtu are unique to the Gilgit-Baltistan region and a must-try food during every visit. Plus, unlike in China, Pakistani mamtu are always 100% halal!
• Chinese food: When driving from Hunza Valley towards Khunjerab Pass, you’ll see how the density of Chinese restaurants gradually increases. But, unlike in other parts of Pakistan, these restaurants aren’t all Desi Chinese cuisine but they actually serve authentic Xinjiang food, making them a nice change of taste if you’ve been traveling in Pakistan for an extended period of time already.
• Fruits: Hunza Valley is famous for its fruits. This includes apples, apricots, pears, plums, anything that grows in cooler climates. Visit in autumn for delicious fresh apples or enjoy jams and dried fruits all year round.
• Hunza water: Perhaps one of the most intriguing specialties from Hunza Valley is Hunza Water. Actually, Hunza Water is nothing but unfiltered glacier water that locals regularly consume. However, Hunza Water can also refer to an alcohol that is illicitly brewed in Hunza Valley. While I hate being a party-pooper, I strongly urge you to stay away from the alcoholic Hunza Water. Not only is it illegal in Pakistan but illicitly brewed alcohols also follow no safety guidelines, which increases the risk of methyl poisoning.

Souvenirs To Buy In Hunza Valley

• Hunza cap: The Hunza Cap is an iconic symbol of Hunza Valley. Male versions of the cap are usually simpler and include a feather while the female versions are decorated with beautiful embroidery. They are an excellent souvenir from Hunza Valley and look absolutely beautiful in photos.
• Wool textiles: Thanks to its cool climate, Hunza Valley is nothing short of beautiful wool textiles. From dresses to scarves, you can find anything that will help you stay warm for your next winter.
• Dried fruits, nuts, and jams: Dried fruits, nuts, jams, and honey are all local products that make excellent gifts for your friends and family around the world. I made sure to buy lots of apple jam and honey for my family in Germany during my last visit to Hunza and ate an entire bag of dried apricots by myself.

Is Hunza Valley Safe?

In an environment as serene as Hunza Valley, it’s easy to forget about the basic safety precautions. However, safety should be your number one concern wherever you go.

Here’s what you should be aware of when traveling to Hunza Valley:

Road Safety

Like anywhere in Pakistan’s north, the roads in Hunza Valley aren’t great, although they’re by far not the worst in the country. Go with an experienced driver and avoid speeding or adverse weather conditions.

Health Concerns

The two major health concerns in Hunza Valley are food poisoning and altitude sickness.

For food poisoning, it’s enough to avoid drinking tap water and stick to cooked foods. For altitude sickness, you should make sure to acclimatize slowly, stay hydrated, and carry snacks with you.

-> Check out this extensive Pakistan packing list that includes everything you’ll need to stay safe and healthy while traveling in Pakistan

With the presence of illicit breweries and very cheerful local people, it’s no surprise that you might encounter drunk people in Hunza. Although incidences are rare, it’s best to keep your distance from people who might be drunk and if you do happen to get harassed by someone, you should notify the Hunza Tourist Police .

Of course, it should go without saying that you should also stay away from any illicit alcohol that you might encounter in Hunza.

Female Safety

Last but not least, female safety is a concern in every part of Pakistan. Women are advised to always travel with male company, avoid dark and abandoned areas, and dress modestly at all times. Don’t trust men too easily – they can be the nicest people in the beginning and turn into creeps within a second.

In my opinion, travelers from other parts of the country were a much bigger problem than local men but it’s always good to be a bit skeptical towards everyone.

Read more:  Is Pakistan Safe For Women Travelers? Here’s What It’s REALLY Like

Where To Explore Next

Did you enjoy Hunza Valley? Also check out these wonderful destinations in Pakistan:

• 10 Awesom e Things To Do In Islamabad In A Day
• Top 12 Most Beautiful Places To Visit In Karachi
• Full Itinerary For An Incredible Balochistan Day Trip From Karachi
• How To Visit Taxila Independently As A Tourist
• Fairy Meadows And Nanga Parbat Base Camp Trek: Everything You Need To Know
• A Complete Travel Guide To Skardu
• The Ultimate Guide To Naran, Pakistan

Pakistan’s number one tourist destination is a true gem that must not be missed when traveling to Pakistan. From beautiful landscapes to fun adventures, Hunza Valley offers the best experience for independent travelers and group tours alike. The region’s tourism infrastructure is well developed, making independent travel much easier than in other parts of the country.

Still, there are a few things to be aware of when traveling to Hunza Valley independently or with a group and I hope this guide could clarify things a bit and inspire you to book your trip to Hunza now!

Have you been to Hunza Valley yet? How was your experience? Let me know in the comments below!

Share this:

17 comments.

Really interesting post, not somewhere I’ve heard much about before. I also can’t resist a dumpling 🙂

I have never heard about this place before but it looks stunning! I am so amazed by this valley after looking at your photos! I am glad I discovered it thanks to you!

What an excellent post! The Hunza Valley looks absolutely stunning with the mountains, lake and views for miles. This is an area I would definitely want to visit one day and will keep this guide handy for when I do! Great tips on traveling there too!

What a beautiful mountain region of Pakistan to explore! This is the type of place I would love to travel to.

Ahhh Pakistan is one of my dream destinations! From your photos, the Hunza Valley looks exactly like I’ve imagined Pakistan would be like.

Wow how stunning is this valley. I’m so tempted to book a trip here, it’s such a shame you don’t hear more about it for travel.

Wow Pakistan has always been on my list but those forts look amazing. I’d love to visit and learn more about the history

• Pingback: Warm Encounters At The Icy Border: Visiting Khunjerab Pass From Hunza Valley - The Spicy Travel Girl
• Pingback: Traveling To Pakistan During The Pandemic: Everything You Need To Know - The Spicy Travel Girl
• Pingback: 10 Awesome Things To Do In Islamabad In A Day - The Spicy Travel Girl
• Pingback: A Complete Travel Guide To Skardu, Pakistan - The Spicy Travel Girl
• Pingback: Full Itinerary For An Incredible Balochistan Day Trip From Karachi - The Spicy Travel Girl
• Pingback: Is Pakistan Safe For Women Travelers? - Here's What It's REALLY Like - The Spicy Travel Girl
• Pingback: How To Visit Taxila Independently As A Tourist - The Spicy Travel Girl
• Pingback: The Ultimate Guide To Naran, Pakistan - The Spicy Travel Girl

Attabad Lake is just breath taking

Hunza Valley is the jewel of Pakistan in all aspects. The blog describe and is well written but there is much more than this. The beauty of Hunza Valley cannot be described in words and the words are less for it.

Thanks for sharing this kind stuff. Keep Sharing!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

• Honeymoon Tour Packages in Pakistan
• Naran Kaghan Tour Packages-Book Now
• Adventure Tour Packages
• Chitral Tour Packages
• Hunza Valley Tour Packages -By Air and Road
• Swat Tour Packages- Kalam & Malamjaba
• Skardu Tour Packages-By Air & Road
• Best Pakistan Northern Areas Tour Packages
• Astore Minimerg Tour Packages
• Ghizer Phander Valley Tour Packages
• Gwadar Quetta Tours Packages
• Azad Kashmir Tour Packages
• Festival Tour Packages
• Nathiagali Tour Packages
• Family Tour Packages in Pakistan
• One Day Tour Packages
• Tour Packages in Pakistan
• Pakistan Northern Areas Tour Packages
• Trekking Tours in Pakistan K2 -Nanga Parbat
• Sikh Yatra Tour
• Kalash Valley Festivals Pakistan -Book Now 2024-2025
• Skardu Pakistan Tour
• Hunza Tour Packages -Book Now & Get 10% off
• Tourism Packages in Pakistan
• Lahore Tour Packages Pakistan -Guided Tour
• Buddhist Historical & Religious Sites Tour
• Adventure Tours Pakistan Jeep Safari-Trekking
• Tour Packages For Pakistan
• Pakistan Tour Packages from USA
• Pakistan Tour Packages from South Korea
• Travel to pakistan from Malaysia
• Pakistan Tour Packages from Russia
• Pakistan Tour Packages from Japan
• Pakistan Tour Packages from Canada
• Pakistan Tour Packages from Germany
• Pakistan Tour Packages from France
• Pakistan Tour Packages from India
• Travel to Pakistan from UK
• Pakistan Tour Packages from Azerbaijan
• Travel Packages in Pakistan
• Rent a Car in Islamabad -at Lowest Rates
• Rent a Car – Book Best Car Rental Services in Lahore
• Pick and Drop Services in Islamabad Lahore
• Skardu Rent a Car-Book Your Car and Prado at Best Price
• Rent a Car in Karachi Pakistan-Rent a Car Now
• Rent a Car in Gilgit Hunza
• Karachi To Islamabad One Way Drop Off Services
• Islamabad to Karachi Car Van Services
• Skardu Hunza Drop off Services
• Islamabad to Karachi car service
• Dubai Travel Packages from Pakistan
• Turkey Travel Packages from Pakistan
• Thailand Tour Packages from pakistan
• Malaysia Tour Packages from pakistan
• Egypt Tour Packages from pakistan
• Uzbekistan Tour Package 2024 from Pakistan
• Azerbaijan Tour Packages from pakistan
• Maldives Tour Packages from Pakistan
• Russia Tour Packages from pakistan
• Indonesia (Bali) Tour Packages from pakistan
• South Africa Tour Packages from Pakistan
• China Tour Packages from Pakistan
• Sri Lanka Tour Packages from pakistan
• Japan Tour Packages from Pakistan
• Jordan Tour Packages from Pakistan
• Europe Tour Packages from Pakistan
• Morocco Tour Packages from pakistan
• Kazakhstan Tour Packages From Pakistan
• Kenya Tour Packages from Pakistan-Explore Africa
• Australia Tour Package from Pakistan
• Canada Tour Packages from Pakistan
• USA Tour Packages from Pakistan
• UK Tour Packages from pakistan 2024(Family-Couple)
• Vietnam Tour Packages From Pakistan
• Mauritius Tour Packages from Pakistan
• Iran Tour Packages From Pakistan 2024
• Lebanon Tour Packages from Pakistan
• Bosnia Tour Packages
• Singapore Tour Packages from Pakistan 2023-2024
• The 10 Best Umrah Packages From Pakistan
• Georgia Tour Packages from Pakistan
• South Korea Tour Packages from Pakistan
• Qatar Tour Packages from Pakistan
• Greece Tour Packages from pakistan
• Hongkong Tour Packages from Pakistan
• Switzerland Tour Packages from Pakistan-at best Price
• Italy Tour Packages from Pakistan (Couple &Family)
• France Tour Packages from Pakistan
• Hotels in Hunza
• Hotels in Skardu
• Hotels In Islamabad
• Hotels In Naran
• Hotels In Shogran
• Hotels In Karachi
• Hotels In Chilas
• The10 Best Hotels in Swat Valley
• The 10 Best Hotels in Neelum Valley Kashmir
• Hotels in Lahore
• Hotels in Gilgit
• Hotels in Kalam
• Hotels in Chitral
• Hotels in Nathigali
• Hotels in Ghizer
• Hotels in Sharda
• Hotels In Peshawar
• The Best 20 Hotels in Murree-Mall Road And Bhorban
• Hotels in Khaplu
• Hotels In Bahawalpur
• Muzaffarabad Hotels
• Malamjabba Hotels
• Hotels in Besham
• Gwadar Hotels
• Hotels in Fairy meadows
• Hotels In Kumrat
• Hotels In Arang kel
• Hotels in Rawalakot
• Hotels in Sialkot
• Hotels in Gujranwala
• Hotels In Quetta
• Hotels in Balakot
• Hotels in Faisalabad
• Hotels In Sukkar
• Hotels In Multan
• Hotels In Astore
• 5 Star Umrah Packages from Pakistan
• 10 Days Umrah Package from Pakistan
• 14 Days Umrah Package From Pakistan
• Ramadan Umrah Packages 2024- Book Now
• Umrah Packages from Karachi Pakistan
• Umrah Packages from Islamabad Pakistan
• Umrah Packages from Lahore
• Packages For Umrah -Book Now
• 7 Days Umrah Package from Pakistan
• 21 days umrah package from pakistan
• Hotel in Makkah Saudi Arabia
• Umrah Visa Price from Pakistan
• Booking Hotel in Madinah-30% Discounted Rate
• Umrah Taxi Service in Makkah Madinah
• Travel Insurance From Pakistan Online on Discounted price
• Pakistan Online Visa- Apply Now -Pak Tour Services
• Turkey Visit Visa from Pakistan-requirements and fee
• Bahrain Visit Visa- One Month & 1 Year
• UK Visit Visa from Pakistan -Update-Fees
• Egypt Visit Visa From Pakistan
• USA Visit Visa Pakistan
• Canada Visit Visa For Pakistan
• Schengen Visa From Pakistan -Fee-updates
• Japan Visit Visa From Pakistan-Price-Updates-News
• China Visit Visa from Pakistan| Price-Updates-News 2023
• Thailand Visa for Pakistan-Fee and Requirements
• Malaysia Visit Visa From Pakistan
• Russia visit Visa From Pakistan/Price -Updates-News 2023
• Azerbaijan visa for Pakistani-Fee & Requirements
• Dubai Visit Visa Pakistan
• Uzbekistan Visa
• Indonashia Visit Visa From Pakistan| Price-Updates-News
• Singapore Visit Visa From Pakistan/ Price-News-Updates
• Kazakhstan Visit Visa From Pakistan| Price-Updates-News
• Cambodia Visit Visa from Pakistan/ Price-Updates-News
• Iran Visa for Pakistani /Price-Updates-News 2023
• Vietnam Visit Visa from Pakistan | Price- News-Updates
• Iraq visa from Pakistan-Apply Online
• Immigration from Pakistan
• Canada Immigration From Pakistan| Services|- Updates-News
• Canadian Work Permit from Pakistan|
• Australia Immigration From Pakistan|Services-Updates-News
• PIA Ticket Booking -at Discounted Price
• Serene Air Ticket| Booking Online at Cheap Price
• Emirates Ticket Booking from Pakistan /Best Rates Guaranteed
• Etihad Air Ticket Booking from Karachi-lahore-islamabad
• Thai Airways Ticket Booking from karachi-lahore-Islamabad
• Saudi air Ticket Booking from Pakistan at Lowest Price
• Airsial Ticket Booking- Get Best Price Online
• Turkish Airline Ticket Booking
• Qatar Airline Ticket Booking in Pakistan-At Best Price
• Fly Dubai Ticket Booking from Karachi Multan Pakistan
• Airblue Ticket-Check and Book online at lowest price
• Fly Jinnah Ticket- Cheap Domestic Airline
• Pakistan Area History Million Years
• 15 Best Pakistans tourist attractions
• Pakistan Festivals: List of Famous cultural Festival in Pakistan
• Pakistan Travel guide
• Bus tickets book online

Northern Areas of Pakistan The Best 10 Tourist Places to Explore

Date: July 29, 2023 By admin Categories: Pakistan Tourism No comments

Escape to the breathtaking beauty of Pakistan’s Northern Areas, where majestic mountains and pristine lakes await your discovery. This hidden gem of South Asia offers a truly unforgettable adventure for nature enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike. As you embark on this journey, prepare to be mesmerized by the rugged peaks of the Karakoram and the mighty Himalayas, standing tall against the azure sky. Immerse yourself in the tranquil serenity of the crystal-clear lakes, reflecting the grandeur of the surrounding landscapes. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker, an avid photographer, or simply someone who craves a break from the chaos of everyday life, the Northern Areas of Pakistan will captivate your senses and leave you yearning for more. Explore the enchanting valleys of Hunza, Skardu, and Gilgit, where ancient traditions and warm hospitality welcome you with open arms. Discover hidden villages, taste traditional cuisine, and lose yourself in the magic of this untouched paradise. Are you ready to embark on a journey that will redefine your sense of adventure? Start planning your Northern Areas escape today and prepare to be awe-inspired by nature’s masterpiece.

Table of Contents

The Breathtaking Landscapes of the Northern Areas

The Northern Areas of Pakistan boast some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes in the world. From snow-capped peaks to lush green valleys, every corner of this region offers a sight to behold. One of the highlights is the Karakoram Highway, often referred to as the eighth wonder of the world. This legendary route takes you through dramatic mountainous terrain, with breathtaking views at every turn. As you traverse the highway, marvel at the towering peaks of Nanga Parbat and Rakaposhi, which dominate the horizon.

The valleys of Hunza, Skardu, and Gilgit are a haven for nature lovers. Hunza Valley, in particular, is known for its stunning cherry blossoms that paint the landscape in vibrant hues during the spring season. Skardu, located at the confluence of the Indus and Shigar Rivers, offers a picturesque setting with its clear blue skies, lush meadows, and rugged mountains. Gilgit, the capital of the Northern Areas, is surrounded by snow-capped peaks and offers a gateway to some of the region’s most iconic attractions.

The Northern Areas are also home to several glaciers, including the Baltoro Glacier, the Biafo Glacier, and the Hispar Glacier. These frozen wonders are a sight to behold, with their shimmering ice formations and imposing presence. Whether you choose to hike along their icy trails or simply admire their splendor from afar, the glaciers of the Northern Areas are sure to leave you in awe.

Exploring the Majestic Mountains of the Region

The Northern Areas of Pakistan are a paradise for mountain enthusiasts. With the mighty Karakoram and Himalayan ranges dominating the skyline, this region offers countless opportunities for trekking and mountaineering. K2, the second highest peak in the world, is a major draw for climbers from around the globe. The challenging climb to its summit is reserved for the most experienced mountaineers, but even the base camp offers a mesmerizing experience.

For those seeking a less daunting adventure, the Fairy Meadows in the Nanga Parbat region are a must-visit. This picturesque meadow offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks and serves as a base camp for treks to Nanga Parbat, also known as the “Killer Mountain.” The trek to Fairy Meadows is relatively moderate, making it accessible to a wider range of hikers.

Another popular destination for mountain exploration is the Deosai National Park. Located at an altitude of over 4,000 meters, this high-altitude plateau is often referred to as the “Roof of the World.” With its rolling hills, crystal-clear streams, and diverse wildlife, Deosai offers a unique and unforgettable trekking experience.

Serene Lakes and Their Charm

The Northern Areas of Pakistan are blessed with an abundance of pristine lakes, each with its own unique charm. One of the most famous is Lake Saif-ul-Malook, located in the Kaghan Valley. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains, this emerald-green lake is a sight to behold. Legend has it that fairies descend to the lake on full moon nights, adding an element of enchantment to its already magical ambiance.

Another must-visit lake is Attabad Lake, situated in the Hunza Valley. This stunning turquoise lake was formed as a result of a massive landslide, which blocked the flow of the Hunza River. Today, Attabad Lake is a popular spot for boating and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

Rama Lake, nestled in the Astore Valley, is yet another gem of the Northern Areas. This serene lake is surrounded by lush green meadows and towering mountains, creating a picture-perfect setting. The peaceful atmosphere and untouched beauty of Rama Lake make it an ideal spot for relaxation and contemplation.

Famous Trekking Trails in the Northern Areas

The Northern Areas of Pakistan offer a plethora of trekking trails, each showcasing the region’s natural beauty in a unique way. One of the most famous trekking routes is the Karakoram Highway trek. This challenging trail takes you through some of the most remote and spectacular landscapes, offering panoramic views of the Karakoram range.

The Baltoro Glacier trek is another iconic adventure in the Northern Areas. This multi-day trek takes you through the heart of the Karakoram Mountains, passing by some of the world’s highest peaks. Along the way, you’ll witness the incredible beauty of Concordia, a place where four of the world’s highest peaks converge.

For those seeking a shorter trek, the Fairy Meadows and Nanga Parbat base camp trek is a popular choice. This moderate trek offers breathtaking views of Nanga Parbat and the surrounding peaks, as well as the opportunity to experience the unique culture and hospitality of the local communities.

Adventure Activities in the Region

The Northern Areas of Pakistan are a playground for adventure enthusiasts. From rock climbing and paragliding to white-water rafting and skiing, there is no shortage of adrenaline-pumping activities to keep you entertained. Skardu, in particular, is known for its rock climbing opportunities, with several challenging routes available for climbers of all levels.

If you’re looking to soar high above the mountains, paragliding in the Hunza Valley is an experience not to be missed. Take in the breathtaking views as you glide through the air, with the Karakoram range as your backdrop.

For those who prefer water-based adventures, white-water rafting in the Indus River is a thrilling experience. Brace yourself as you navigate through the rapids, surrounded by the stunning landscapes of the Northern Areas.

During the winter months, the Northern Areas transform into a winter wonderland, offering excellent opportunities for skiing and snowboarding. Head to the ski resorts in Naltar and Malam Jabba, where you can hit the slopes and enjoy the powdery snow.

Local Culture and Traditions

The Northern Areas of Pakistan are not only known for their natural beauty but also for their rich cultural heritage. The region is home to diverse ethnic communities, each with its own unique traditions and customs. Take the time to immerse yourself in the local culture, interact with the friendly locals, and learn about their way of life.

One of the best ways to experience the local culture is through attending traditional festivals and events. The Shandur Polo Festival, held annually in the Gilgit-Baltistan region, is a must-see. This thrilling event showcases the traditional sport of polo, played on the world’s highest polo ground.

Savor the flavors of the Northern Areas by trying the local cuisine. From hearty meat dishes to freshly baked bread and aromatic teas, the food in this region is a culinary delight. Don’t miss the opportunity to try the famous Hunza apricots, known for their sweet and tangy flavor.

Accommodation Options and Recommended Stays

The Northern Areas of Pakistan offer a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. From luxury resorts to guesthouses and camping sites, there is something for everyone.

In Hunza, Serena Hunza Hotel is a popular choice for those seeking luxury and comfort. With its stunning location overlooking the Hunza Valley, this hotel offers breathtaking views and world-class amenities.

For a more authentic experience, consider staying in a traditional guesthouse in Skardu or Gilgit. These guesthouses offer a glimpse into the local way of life and provide an opportunity to interact with the friendly hosts.

Camping is also a popular option in the Northern Areas, allowing you to immerse yourself in nature and sleep under the stars. There are several designated camping sites in the region, offering basic facilities and a chance to truly disconnect from the outside world. See List of Hotels in northern area of pakistan

Best Time to Visit the Northern Areas

The best time to visit the Northern Areas of Pakistan is during the summer months, from May to September. The weather during this time is pleasant, with clear skies and mild temperatures. It is also the perfect time for trekking and outdoor activities, as the trails are accessible and the landscapes are in full bloom.

If you’re looking to witness the cherry blossoms in Hunza Valley, plan your visit in April. This is when the valley is transformed into a sea of pink and white, creating a spectacle that is not to be missed.

During the winter months, from December to February, the Northern Areas receive heavy snowfall, making it a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts. The snow-covered landscapes and glistening mountains create a magical atmosphere that is truly unique.

Tips for a Memorable Trip to the Northern Areas

– Plan your itinerary in advance, considering the distances between different attractions and the time required for each activity.

– Pack appropriate clothing and gear, taking into account the weather conditions and the activities you plan to engage in.

– Respect the local culture and traditions, and adhere to any dress codes or customs that may be in place.

– Stay hydrated and take necessary precautions to avoid altitude sickness, especially if you plan to engage in high-altitude activities.

– Carry a good camera to capture the stunning landscapes and moments of your journey.

– Engage with the local communities and be open to learning about their way of life.

– Follow responsible tourism practices, such as avoiding littering and respecting the natural environment.

– Stay updated on weather conditions and road closures, as the Northern Areas are prone to landslides and avalanches during certain seasons.

– Lastly, allow yourself to be fully present and immerse yourself in the beauty and tranquility of the Northern Areas. Take the time to appreciate the small moments and create memories that will last a lifetime.

The Northern Areas of Pakistan offer a truly unforgettable adventure for those seeking to reconnect with nature and experience the magic of untouched landscapes. From the majestic mountains to the pristine lakes, every corner of this region is a testament to the awe-inspiring beauty of our planet. As you embark on this journey, be prepared to be captivated by the rugged peaks, enchanted by the crystal-clear lakes, and embraced by the warmth and hospitality of the local communities. Start planning your Northern Areas escape today and prepare to be awe-inspired by nature’s masterpiece.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Note: Comments on the web site reflect the views of their authors, and not necessarily the views of the bookyourtravel internet portal. You are requested to refrain from insults, swearing and vulgar expression. We reserve the right to delete any comment without notice or explanations.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are signed with *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• How It Work
• Work With US
• azad-kashmir
• Pakistan Tour Packages
• Customize Your Pakistan Tour
• Letter of Invitation

Best Places To Visit In Pakistan

• BY PAK VOYAGER LLC
• DATE 05/19/2023

Best Places to Visit in Pakistan

From the Karakoram, Hindu Kush and Himalayan mountain ranges to the serene alpine lakes that call them home, wondrous landscapes aren’t in short supply in northern Pakistan. But where exactly are the best places to visit in Pakistan?

  Below is a selection of our favourite destinations in Pakistan, whether you’re looking to soak up some culture, put your adventure skills to use or simply discover pure serenity.

Hunza Valley

Location: In the extreme north of Pakistan next to the Chinese border, within the Gilgit-Baltistan region .

How to get there: Fly from Islamabad to Gilgit, then continue by road. You can rent a car and drive one and a half to two hours or take a bus, travelling along the beautiful Karakoram Highway to Hunza.

  There’s no doubt that Hunza Valley is one of the top places to visit in Pakistan. The region’s culture has been shaped over time, not only by its inhabitants but also by the travellers and merchants that have passed through along the Silk Road. Hunza is a largely untapped haven of culture and warm hospitality, with more than its fair share of natural beauty.

  Snow-covered mountains rule the landscape here, their peaks often hidden by ethereal mist. It’s one of the best places to visit in Pakistan for adventure – think cycling or biking along the Karakoram Highway, hiking mountain trails, like Ondra Poygah, and exploring ancient glaciers, like Batura glacier.

  There are plenty of important cultural spots to explore too, including Baltit Fort and Altit Fort, both past residences of Hunza’s royal family. Attabad Lake is also well worth a visit. It has a rather sad tale to tell. Though an incredibly beautiful part of Hunza’s landscape now, it only came into existence in 2010, when a landslide destroyed the village that sat where the lake is now. The landslide also blocked the Hunza River, which led to the lake’s creation. 

Find out more about Hunza Valley Explore Hunza Valley . 

Swat Valley

Location: In the north of Pakistan, close to the Afghanistan border.

  How to get there: Fly to either Peshawar city or Islamabad, then take a bus or rent a car and drive to Swat Valley. By car, the journey takes three and a half hours from Peshawar or four hours from Islamabad.

  Known as the Switzerland of the East, Swat Valley is a region full of snow-capped mountains and dotted with charming red cottages. The valley sits in the foothills of the Hindu Kush mountain range with the Swat River running through its centre.

  The home of Malala Yousadzai noble peace prize winner, Swat is one of the best tourist places in Pakistan. Visit now and you’ll find a region of peace, with a rich Buddhist history and endless natural wonder to explore.

  High up in the Hindu Kush mountains is the Malam Jabba Ski Resort, one of the best places to visit in Pakistan for winter skiing. And you can’t visit Swat Valley without a trip to the Butkara Stupa, an important archaeological and historical site. The main stupa, which is thought to have been started in the 3rd century BC by Ashoka, stands in the centre of the site, and small stupas built by pilgrims stand around it.

  Find out more about Swat Valley Explore Swat Valley .

Location: In the northwest of Pakistan, close to the Afghanistan border.

  How to get there: The quickest way to reach Chitral is by flying from Islamabad. However, you can also take a bus or rent a car and drive from Islamabad, Peshawar or Gilgit. Though these drives are long, it gives you the chance to enjoy northern Pakistan’s breathtaking scenery.

  Chitral Valley is one of the most secluded regions in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province but it’s well worth making the journey here. Set in the Hindu Kush mountains, its picturesque landscapes are truly awe-inspiring but what sets Chitral apart is its rich culture. A visit to Chitral Valley is the chance to experience the locals’ simple way of life for yourself and enjoy faultless hospitality wherever you venture.

  Explore the town of Chitral and you’ll get to uncover the region’s history, not least through the Chitral Museum. The region is also home to one of the best places to visit in Pakistan, the Kalash valleys. In the valleys of Bumburet, Birir and Rumber live the Kalash tribes, who live separately from the rest of civilization and enjoy traditions that remain unaffected by modern times.

  Find out more about Chitral Valley. Explore Chitral Valley . 

Skardu Valley

Location: In the northeast of Pakistan.

How to get there:   You can reach Skardu Valley by flying from Islamabad, or take a bus or rent a car and drive from Islamabad or Gilgit and drive to Skardu along the Karakoram Highway. The main route, the route that all public transport takes, is along the Karakoram Highway to Alam Bridge (just south of Gilgit city) and along Skardu Road to Skardu. If renting a car and driving yourself, another option is to take the Karakoram Highway to midway between Chilas and Gilgit, then take Astore Valley Road that leads to Astore Valley then through Dewsai National Park on to Skardu. Though this road isn’t metaled in some parts, many people prefer this route for its serenity and the amazing landscapes it offers up. Note, however, that the road is closed at Dewsai National Park in winter due to heavy snowfall. 

Skardu Valley brings together a variety of landscapes: desert, mountains, meadows and forests. Some of the world’s highest mountain peaks call the region home and create a stunning backdrop for the lush green meadows and the Katpana Desert’s cold desert dunes.

  Skardu is the perfect gateway to some of the world’s tallest mountains, making it the best place to visit in Pakistan for adventurers. The Skardu region boasts K2, the second highest mountain in the world, and the Trango Tower Peaks, offering up some of the toughest rock climbing terrain in the world.

  History lovers have plenty to explore here too. Places like Khaplu Palace and Shigar Fort, past homes of Skardu royalty, stand as a testament to the area’s past. Today, they house hotels and museums that help paint the picture of Skardu’s history.

Find out more about Skardu Valley Explore Skardu Valley . 

Location: In the east of Pakistan, near the Indian border.

  How to get there: Fly into Lahore. Many major airlines service Lahore’s Allama Iqbal International Airport.

  The city of Lahore is the cultural centre of Pakistan’s Punjab province and the second-largest city in the country after Karachi. In contrast to Islamabad, Lahore has stood for centuries and its rich history can be seen in its architecture: some stunningly intricate and some far more disorderly.

  The old part of the city used to be bordered by a wall but, for the most part, the wall has been replaced with open parks and gardens filled with greenery and water. To the southeast of the old city is the newer part, which fades out into the bustling suburbs.

  The old city is home to the ornately decorated Wazīr Khān Mosque and Lahore Fort, a truly beautiful example of Mughal architecture. This fortress was constructed in the Mughal era and includes palaces, gardens and museums. It’s a beautiful place to explore, decorated in marble and stunning tile work. Experiencing Lahore’s food scene is also a must. Get a taste of authentic Pakistani dishes by sampling the city’s food street and wander the Anarkali Bazaar to shop for local food, clothes and other treasures.

Location: In the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province in northern Pakistan.

  How to get there: Fly to Bacha Khan International Airport Peshawar from a selection of Middle Eastern destinations or catch a domestic flight from Lahore, Karachi or Islamabad. It’s also possible to reach via road from Lahore or Islamabad, either by renting a car or catching a bus.

  Peshawar, meaning ‘frontier town’, is the capital of Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province and acts as its cultural and economic centre. It’s not far away from the Khyber Pass which was once part of the Silk Road. From textile to sugar mills, the city boasts a fair few industries that make it a prosperous place.

  It used to be the capital of the ancient Buddhist kingdom of Gandhara. Today, the city’s bustling streets are full of rickshaws taking people from A to B, historic buildings and remnants from its Buddhist past. Peshawar’s beautiful architecture makes it a dream to explore, like the 17th century Mughal Mahabat Khan Mosque, with its highly decorated interior and welcoming courtyard. Make sure to visit the Peshawar Museum in the centre of the city too; not only is the historic building itself a treat to see, but it also houses artefacts that help shed a light on Peshawar’s history. 

Astore Valley

Location: In the northeast of Pakistan in the Gilgit-Baltistan region .

  How to get there: Take a bus or rent a car and drive from Gilgit to the city of Astore. The drive takes approximately two and a half hours by car and longer by bus. Alternatively, it’s possible to drive from Chilas too, which also takes about two and a half hours.

  Not only is Astore Valley known for the beautiful scenery typical of this part of Pakistan, but it also has a simple charm all of its own. Take a walk through some of the different villages in the valley and you’ll find a lovely atmosphere against the backdrop of ice-cold streams, lush green pastures, towering mountains – everything that makes Astore Valley one of the best places to visit in northern Pakistan.

  The Valley is set at the eastern face of Nanga Parbat, the Killer Mountain. Laila Peak, Chongra Peak and Rakhiot Peak help form the awe-inspiring backdrop too, along with the thick forests of pine, cedar and fir trees.

  One of the best spots to visit in Astore Valley is Rama Meadows, near the city of Astore. At an elevation of 3,300 metres, these pristine meadows are famous for their lush green plains, babbling brooks and pretty views. Trekking up from the Meadows is a must too, where you can visit the stunning Rama Lake. Astore Valley is also a great place from which to visit Deosai Plateau, the 2 nd highest plateau in the world.

Location: In the mid-north of Pakistan; the gateway to northern Pakistan regions.

  How to get there: Visitors can fly into Islamabad. Many major airlines operate flights here.

  T he capital city of Pakistan is surprisingly modern. Though it's never neglected its history nor its cultural influences, it’s an undeniably forward-thinking city. It’s a well-thought-out metropolis, created as a capital city in  14 August 1967 . The city is laid out in a grid pattern, with an abundance of lush green spaces too.

  Though many are tempted to treat Islamabad as a city best passed through on the way to Pakistan’s stunning northern regions, it’s an emerging travel destination and a stay here is the best way to experience the modern side of Pakistan. There’s plenty to see and do, including the impressive Shah Faisal Mosque and the Pakistan Monument. Visitors can also take in the incredible views across Islamabad as they hike along Margalla Hills trails, and sample delicious food at some great restaurants that sit atop the hills.

  If you fancy experiencing the older side of Pakistan whilst in Islamabad, take a trip to Islamabad’s nearby sister city, Rawalpindi – it’s older, sprawling and slightly chaotic.

  Islamabad is a fairly walkable city. An evening stroll around Fatima Jinnah Park is the ideal way to soak up the city’s atmosphere. In fact, walking might just be the best way to get a real feel for the place. If you don’t fancy walking all the time, however, getting a taxi or an Uber is another good way to get around or, of course, you could rent a car. 

Azad Kashmir

Location:  In northwestern Pakistan, just west of the Indian-controlled state of Jammu and Kashmir.

  How to get there:   Rent a car  and drive from Islamabad. The journey takes around four and a half hours and takes you along the Islamabad-Murree-Muzaffarabad expressway and Rawalakot road.

  The Pakistan region of Kashmir was once part of the state of Jammu and Kashmir.  The Pakistan-administered region is known as Azad Kashmir, meaning ‘free Kashmir’, and is divided into three main divisions – Mirpur, Muzaffarabad and Poonch.

  Thanks to the Neelum and Jhelum Rivers that snake through it, the region is covered in lush greenery, with the magnificent Himalayas as its backdrop. The only thing that could rival the beauty of its landscapes is Kashmir’s culture, shaped over centuries by communities that have travelled here from across the world. Many of the locals practise Sufism, a mystical form of the Islamic religion. Look out for the many Sufi shrines across the region, like the Pir Chinasi shrine that sits atop the Pir Chinasi mountain.

  Some other incredible places to visit in Azad Kashmir include the Leepa Valley, with its terraced rice paddies, the ruins of the Red Fort in Muzaffarabad valley, and the tranquil Banjosa Lake. 

  Find out more about Azad Kashmir  Explore Azad-Kashmir .

Ghizer Valley

Location: In the Gilgit-Baltistan region in northern Pakistan.

  How to get there: Rent a car and drive to Ghizer from the city of Gilgit. It’s a two-hour journey to the main town of Gahkuch.

  For most regions of Pakistan, tourism has been relatively untapped, but nowhere is this more true than Ghizer. In the past, the region’s infrastructure has been precarious, making it a difficult place to visit. Construction of new infrastructure and repairs of the old have gradually increased tourism in the area and now it's ready for your visit.

  The area’s beauty and tranquillity are simply unparalleled. The pristine azure waters of the Gilgit River runs through Ghizer and alpine lakes and wetlands sit high in the mountains.

  The town of Gahkuch is the commercial and administrative hub of Ghizer and is home to some great hotels and restaurants. From the town, you can also access Phander Valley, one of the most popular places in Ghizer with its trout-filled rivers and small villages, and the beautiful Khalti Lake, which freezes over in winter and becomes a playground for the locals. And no trip to Ghizer is complete without experiencing the locals’ favourite game: Polo!

Naran Kaghan

Location:  In the north of Pakistan, in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.

  How to get there:  The best way to reach the Naran Kaghan region is by making your way to Mansehra, the closest city. Mansehra can be reached by renting a car and driving from the capital city of Islamabad via the newly constructed Hazara motorway, taking around two hours. From Mansehra, take Naran Road, a thin but metaled road, to Naran, which takes around three and a half hours. 

  Side by side, the Naran and Kaghan valleys offer up exceptional terrain for adventure-seekers. The region is the gateway to the north of Pakistan and is home to bustling trade markets full of curiosities and some wonderful tourist resorts too, making it one of the best tourist places in Pakistan.

  With mountain peaks as high as 2,409m, the glacier-fed Kunhar River running the length of the valleys, and the dense forest in between, Naran Kaghan is thought by many to rival the Alps of Europe. This place has a charm all of its own, though, from the Siraiki and Gujjar tribes that work the land and hospitable residents ready to introduce you to the local delicacies.

  For water lovers, a visit to Naran Kaghan is a must for the chance to raft on the mighty Kunhar River and to experience the enchanting Saif ul Malook Lake that sits high up among snow-capped peaks. Or, if you’re simply seeking some sanctuary, Naran Kaghan has lush alpine meadows, pristine lakes and more than its fair share of tranquil valleys.

With PakVoyager’s online tour packages Pakistan travel is easier than ever before. So, wherever you choose to go, let us take care of you from start to finish, and explore the wonders of the country with one of our hand-picked Pakistan tour companies .

  Click here to pick your perfect destination, then browse and buy Pakistan tour packages online. 

Get Updates & More

Thoughtful thoughts to your inbox

+971 45589794

+92 5813550116, [email protected].

• How It Works
• Work with Us
• Privacy Policy
• Terms And Conditions

Ways To Pay Us

Copyright © 2024 by PAKVOYAGER.COM

A 2 Week Pakistan Itinerary to Northern Pakistan & the Cities!

Categories Asia , Itinerary , Pakistan

Words cannot describe how much I loved my 3 weeks in Pakistan. Backpacking Pakistan is high up there as one of my favourite trips and to see how much I loved it, the best way is to check out my Instagram Stories (see Lahore & Islamabad here , and the Northern areas of Pakistan here ) and my Pakistan YouTube videos !

Pakistan tourism is slowly increasing thanks to the visa process becoming a lot easier in 2019, so now in 2020 and 2021, you don’t have to be an intrepid traveller to visit Pakistan. You CAN visit beautiful Pakistan in 2 weeks on a Pakistan itinerary like this! So if you’re bored with the usual 2-week holiday destinations, in this Pakistan travel blog and Pakistan travel guide, this is where to go with 2 weeks in Pakistan!

Pakistan Itinerary

Find What You're Looking For Easily Here!

Best Time to Visit Pakistan.

Pakistan is an all year round destination however you can’t visit the whole country all year round! The Northern area of Pakistan is the most popular area to visit in Pakistan for tourists right now and rightly so, it’s stunning and so easy to travel!

When planning your Pakistan itinerary and your trip to the beautiful Northern areas of Pakistan you’ll want to visit during late Spring, Summer and early Autumn otherwise the mountains are covered in snow and tourist attractions in Northern Pakistan close up. I visited Pakistan in the last week of September and the first 2 weeks of October and although it was a good time to visit and the crowds were less, it was getting chilly.

If you can only visit Pakistan during the winter months like November to April, you’re going to want to visit Southern Pakistan including Karachi and Lahore .

There are many Pakistan itineraries you can do but on your first visit to Pakistan, I think the below Pakistan itinerary is the best itinerary for Pakistan and I’d recommend you do this between May and early October .

Best Places to Visit in Pakistan.

A lot of people are still asking- is Pakistan safe? The answer is yes but, there are certain areas of Pakistan that tourists cannot visit , specifically those areas on the western side of the country near Afghanistan and Iran, and that’s ok because as tourists you wouldn’t want to visit there anyway and there are more than enough places that tourists can visit in Pakistan!

When it comes to safe areas of Pakistan to travel and good places in Pakistan to visit, places such as Lahore, Islamabad, Karachi, Peshawar, Swat, Hunza, Skardu are all possible for foreigners to visit and most of these are included in the below itinerary!

Map of Pakistan.

Day 1, 2 – Explore Islamabad City.

Islamabad is the capital city of Pakistan and its airport is well connected with international flights. Islamabad is a pretty new city, it was only built in the 1970s so it’s a great place to start your Pakistan adventure and your Pakistan itinerary no matter how long you stay in Pakistan for!

Things to do in Islamabad.

Pakistan Monument & Museum.

Faisal Mosque for Sunset.

Margalla Hiking Trails.

Lok Virsa Heritage Museum.

Golra Railway Station and Heritage Museum.

Saidpur Village for Lunch.

Dinner at Monal.

Islamabad is organised into blocks called F-7, G-8 etc and it’s an extremely safe and easy city to see. The best way to see all of Islamabad’s tourist attractions and the best way to get around Islamabad is by Uber which is really cheap and there are always drivers available.

To see a more crazy side of Islamabad on your Pakistan itinerary, head to Rawalpindi and check out the Bazar’s and Street Food. Islamabad and Rawalpindi are known as twin cities however they are very different!

Day 3 – Fly from Islamabad to Skardu.

Flight from Islamabad to Skardu.

There are daily flights each morning from Islamabad to Skardu with Pakistani Airlines . Do note that this flight along with the flight to Gilgit in Hunza do not always run due to the weather up in Northern Pakistan and are often cancelled and delayed . (I speak from experience!)

However, because Skardu has a bigger airport than Gilgit the planes are bigger and therefore, the chances of them being cancelled are lower so I suggest flying to Skardu first on your Pakistan itinerary. And make sure you book the earliest flight possible as there are more chances of this one leaving than the later ones ! (Again, talking from experience!)

If your flight does get cancelled Pakistani Airlines will book you onto the next available flight which should be the next day when flying to Skardu. Because you are on a tight timeframe, you may even want to book a flight on Day 2 in Pakistan so if it gets cancelled you have another day spare.

The flight from Islamabad to Skardu is one of the best in the world, it’s essentially a scenic flight as you fly above the mountains the whole way and even go over Nanga Parbat, the ninth highest mountain in the world!

Related Post: Skardu and Hunza are now pretty popular regions to visit in Pakistan for foreign tourists. If you want to visit somewhere else in the Northern Areas of Pakistan, look into SWAT which is known as the Switzerland of Pakistan. Here are the best places to visit in Swat Valley .

Day 4 – Explore Skardu.

There are a few different ways you can explore Skardu. I stayed in Upper and Lower Kachura Lake for 2 nights, spending one night at each lake. Accommodation around here is limited and relies on you turning up to see what’s available, however, there is a Shangrila Resort on Lower Kachura lake which is   really nice and if you are treating yourself to a holiday in Pakistan, I’d recommend booking here. However, if you are reading this because you will be backpacking Pakistan, Motel Tibet is a cheap hotel next to Lower Kachura Lake.

Places to visit in Skardu:

Upper & Lower Kachura Lake

Satpara Lake

Satpara Dam

Cold Dessert

Skardu Fort

Manthal Buddha Rock

The best way to get around Skardu on this 2 week Pakistan itinerary will be to hire a driver for the day. Upper and Lower Kachura Lake are in walking distance but all of the above things to do in Pakistan are further apart.

Related Post: Make sure you read my 10 Pakistan Travel Tips to know BEFORE going to Pakistan !

Day 5 – Travel from Skardu to Hunza.

Skardu to gilgit road..

There is a direct road that goes from Skardu to Gilgit. Do check the current conditions of the road as they have been working on it to make it better but I believe there can still be regular issues and road works happening. The road from Skardu to Gilgit will take you to the start of the Karakoram Highway .

This is just another way that Pakistan is making moves to improve tourism in Pakistan for both domestic tourism and international tourism and connect the tourist places in Pakistan.

Deosai National Park.

Once the road is finished it will be possible to travel from Skardu to Gilgit directly, however, if you want more of an adventure and you want to take a more scenic route between Hunza and Skardu then I recommend hiring a jeep and driver  on your Pakistan itinerary (foreign tourists cannot rent drive cars and jeeps themselves at the time of writing this) to take you via Deosai National Park . You’ll want to leave early in the morning and you’ll need to spend a night in a town called Astore  as you won’t make it to Gilgit in one day.

Your driver will know where to take you and where to stop so you can get chai and lunch in the teahouses in Deosai National Park which I loved so much, it was so nice speaking to all of the friendly locals in here.

Day 6 –  Drive to Karimabad in Hunza.

The karakoram highway..

Ask your driver to take you to Rama Lake this morning before you leave Astore. Make sure they drive as far as they can but you will need to walk for the last part however the views when you get to Rama Lake are worth it.

From Rama Lake, head towards Hunza up the Karakoram Highway! This drive will take about 6 hours and you may want to get your jeep driver to drop you in Jaglot or Gilgit and then get a taxi further North to Hunza from here as otherwise, you’ll be paying for your driver to drive all the way up and then back down again.

We found it very easy to catch taxis, and hitchhike, along the Karakoram Highway. Or you can hire a motorbike in Gilgit and ride as the Karakoram Highway is perfect to ride along!

I suggest heading to Karimabad and staying there for one night as part of your Northern Pakistan itinerary as it’s a great tourist town with very friendly locals, good places to eat, a relaxed atmosphere and it’s one of most beautiful places in Pakistan.

Day 7 –  Explore Karimabad in Hunza.

Things to do in karimabad..

Baltit Fort

Eagles Nest

Cafe de Hunza

Day 8 – Attabad Lake.

Further north, up the Karakoram Highway, is Attabad Lake. This is an impressive blue lake that was created in 2010 because of a landslide which blocked the Hunza River and created this separate lake, now it is a popular tourist attraction in Northern Pakistan.

Boat tours can take you out on Attabad Lake which is well worth doing to see the sheer beauty of this Pakistan destinations.

You can stay overnight in accommodation close to Attabad Lake but I would suggest continuing further up the Karakoram Highway to one of the villages and towns to see even more of the beautiful places in Pakistan!

I personally recommend that you look into Rehman Backpackers which is the accommodation in Hunza I stayed in. Rehman and his Dad- Khan Bhag are very well known in this area of Hunza.

Alternatively, I would recommend staying in a hotel in the village of Gulmit which has plenty of hotels, guesthouses and places to eat with a really nice, local vibe.

Day 9 – Hussaini Suspension Bridge & Hiking in Hunza.

You may have heard of the ‘scary bridge in Hunza’ this is Hussaini Suspension Bridge and you have to visit it on your 2 weeks Pakistani itinerary! The only thing is, is that it is closed to cross during the day and has men guarding it, so if you want to cross it, you’ll need to go before 8:00 am.. and don’t say that I told you!

It would be a good idea to get a local to take you out hiking in Pakistan today because they will know all of the good areas. Because I stayed at Rehman Backpackers, we got to go out with Rehman’s Dad along Husseini Suspension Bridge and then on a 4-hour hike all the way to the village of Passu , including crossing Passu Suspension Bridge which was even scarier than Husseini bridge and through the local fields. I’ll be honest and say we couldn’t have done this without a guide and local so look for some help here.

If you are doing a Pakistan itinerary by motorbike you can bike up to Passu and still see the very famous Passu Cones which are one of the most iconic landmarks on the Karakoram Highway!

If hiking in Hunza isn’t your thing, today you could visit the China Pakistan Border which is just a few hours further up North and the Karakoram highway.

Day 10 – Fairy Meadows Hike & Stay.

Make sure you get up early this morning and head back south along the Karakoram Highway, past Gilgit to Raikot Bridge  to catch a jeep and then hike up to the Fairy Meadows!

The Fairy Meadows is a green plain up in the mountains, which is common in the Northern areas of Pakistan, however, this one is special and the reason it is one of the best places in Pakistan to visit is because from there you can get an incredible view of Nanga Parbat, the second highest peak in Pakistan (the highest is K2), and the ninth highest mountain in the world! 

From the Fairy Meadows, you can climb even further to Nanga Parbat Base Camp . If you follow this 2 week Pakistan itinerary, you won’t have time to do this but if it’s on your list of things to do in Pakistan and on your Pakistan bucket list, be sure to create an extra day to do it.

I didn’t go to the Fairy Meadows in Northern Pakistan as it started to get too cold in mid-October but I found this blog post from Against the Compass very helpful on how to get to the Fairy Meadows by jeep and by foot when I was planning my Pakistan travels. It’s on my Pakistan itinerary for my next trip to Pakistan though!

Day 11  – Fairy Meadows to Gilgit.

Now you can reverse the journey and from the Fairy Meadows head back to Gilgit but I would take your time as from my experience there’s not really any things to do in Gilgit for tourists.

Here I suggest 2 options to get back down South and back to Islamabad:

1 – Fly from Gilgit to Islamabad.

This flight is the flight that gets cancelled a lot as it is a small plane and a small runway. I booked this flight and crossed my fingers that it did run and didn’t get cancelled and it was fine, so it can be fine, however, nothing is guaranteed. Again, if you do go for this, book the earliest flight with Pakistani Airlines leaving Gilgit to Islamabad to increase your chances of getting on.

You will need to fly on Day 12, not Day 11 as you need a few hours to get down from the Fairy Meadows.

2 – Overnight bus from Gilgit to Islamabad.

If you are worried about the flight to Islamabad, and if you have to leave Pakistan on a specific date and you are going to be tight on time, I suggest getting an overnight bus which will ensure you do arrive back in Islamabad on time.

Day 12  – Gilgit to Islamabad, Islamabad to Lahore.

Lahore is a must-visit place in Pakistan and I don’t think you can do this Pakistan itinerary without going there.

Unfortunately, as it stands there are no direct flights between Northern Pakistan and Lahore and although there are flights from Islamabad to Lahore I found them to be very pricey, and I wouldn’t trust booking a connecting flight from Islamabad to Lahore after flying back from Gilgit in case your flight from the North is delayed.

Luckily Lahore is just a 5-hour bus journey from Islamabad and there are regular, high-quality   coaches running all day.

If you feel like you saw enough of Islamabad earlier on in the trip, then I’d suggest flying from Gilgit to Islamabad or in the morning or doing the overnight bus journey, and getting a taxi straight to one of the bus stations in Islamabad to get a bus to Lahore.

I found that I couldn’t book buses online because of my international bank card but I used bookme.pk to help check the times of buses from Islamabad to Lahore and Lahore to Islamabad and then went to the station 45 minutes before to book a ticket at the station.

Day 13 –  Explore Lahore & Wagah Border Ceremony.

Lahore is a chaotic city and it will give you a good taste of Punjab. If you have been to Amritsar in India you will notice many similarities.

Things to do in Lahore.

Lahore Fort

Badshahi Mosque

Sulfi Night

Street Food Tour

Wagah Border Ceremony

Day 14 –  Leave Pakistan.

Lahore Airport is well connected with international flights so you could fly out of Pakistan from Lahore. However, if it works out cheaper to get return flights from Islamabad, be sure to book a later flight and get the bus from Lahore to Islamabad in the morning.

Make sure you watch of my Pakistan YouTube videos and Instagram Stories to help you see just how amazing Pakistan is and why you should visit!

For more of my Pakistan blog posts to help you plan your trip see:

ALL PAKISTAN POSTS

If you liked this please share it! 🙂

• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
• Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)

By using this form you agree with the storage and handling of your data by this website. *

Thursday 28th of July 2022

Hello, do you still remember where you stayed in Astore? I'm planning a trip in September but struggle to find places to stay there. It seems there's not a lot of choices in Booking.com. Thanks.

Thursday 6th of October 2022

@TheWanderingQuinn, thank you. I just returned and my trip was incredible. Your post gave very useful information. I hope to visit again!

TheWanderingQuinn

Hello, I don't have the name I'm afraid but if you are going with a driver I wouldn't worry about booking anything in advance as they will know places to stay, and if you are driving yourself then I'd also not worry as we found that so many areas in the mountains didn't have places online (which is totally understandable when you see these small remote towns and villages) but once you are there there will be places to stay :)

• Environment / Pakistan / Tourism

Top 15 Beautiful Northern Areas of Pakistan to Visit

by ahblog · Published July 14, 2021 · Updated February 23, 2024

Pakistan is a country located in the South Asia region. It’s the 33rd largest country, spanning 881,913 square kilometers (340,509 square miles) by area, including a 1,046-kilometre (650-mile) coastline with the Arabian Sea and Gulf of Oman in the south region. Pakistan has four borders with different countries and territories, Afghanistan to the west, India to the east, Iran to the southwest, and China to the northeast. Pakistan is a country with multi-culture, multi-season, astonishing hill stations, fascinating mountain ranges, stunning deserts, scenic lakes, and breathtaking historical places in Pakistan . The northern areas of Pakistan are the most magnificent and attractive region of the country. In summer and winters, locals and foreign tourists plan to visit the stunning northern areas of Pakistan to enjoy the elegance of the majestic mountains and surprising lakes. These beautiful places are inclusive support of tourism in Pakistan because most of the attractive spots are in the northern areas. We have noted down the most adventurous Pakistan northern areas . Before going into depth, let’s take a look at how tourism in Pakistan impacts the economy.

Tourism in Pakistan

Pakistan is a geographically diverse country consisting of several beautiful places in northern areas to visit. For the last few years, Northern Pakistan has gained popularity in the tourism industry. The current Pakistan government has also declared to end the No Objection Certificates for international tourists endeavoring to visit the northern areas of Pakistan map. As we all know, tourism impacts a country’s economy and especially in development. In Pakistan, tourism contributes a significant proportion to the country’s GDP.

There is a long list of tourism impacts. We have listed down some of them. Have a look!

Impacts of Tourism

• The prerequisite of new infrastructure.
• The encouragement of trade, income, and entrepreneurship.
• Generate the foreign exchange.
• Increased the economy.
• Expand regional development.
• The opportunities of new jobs and employment.

List of Top 15 Beautiful Northern Areas of Pakistan:

With an area of 72,971 km2 (28,174 sq mi) covered with lush green mountains located at an elevation of 1,500 m (4,900 ft) Gilgit, is the capital of Gilgit–Baltistan. Having a population of 216,760, it’s the northernmost area of Pakistan. Gilgit-Baltistan is part of the greater Kashmir region and a part of a long-running dispute between Pakistan and India. It is home to five of the “eight-thousanders” and has more than fifty peaks above 7,000 meters (23,000 ft).

According to WorldAtlas, three of the longest Non-Polar Glaciers in the World, Biafo Glacier, Baltoro Glacier, and Batura Glacier are found in the Gilgit-Baltistan region. Gilgit is famous for its unique culture, natural beauty, and hospitality. It is also one of the most attractive hill stations in Pakistan. Get to know about famous deserts of Pakistan .

2. Naran Kaghan

Naran is a small town in the Mansehra District of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan. At an altitude of 2,409 meters (7,904 ft), it is located 119 kilometers (74 mi) from Mansehra city. Kaghan is an alpine valley located in the Mansehra District and 23.0 km away from Naran. Both are always written together because whoever visits Naran can’t go back without visiting Kaghan. There is just one hour drive from Naran to Kaghan. It is one of the most famous domestic places for local tourists. More than 2 million foreign and local tourists visit Naran Kaghan each year, and this ratio is increasing every year. There are various attractive locations in Naran Kaghan, most interestingly the Lake Saif ul Malook, Siri Paye Meadows, Besal & Jharkhand Shogran, Siri Paye, Babusar Top, Lulusar Lake. These beautiful places in Pakistan offer sublime attractions in the northern areas in Pakistan. The highest point of Naran is Babusar at an elevation of 13600 feet, and Kaghan’s highest point is Babusar Pass at an elevation of 4,173 meters or 13,691 feet. From there, you can see a glimpse of Rakaposhi Peak, 280 km away from there. These two valleys are playing a massive role in promoting tourism in Pakistan. Also read about tourism companies in Pakistan .

3. Fairy Meadows

For foreign tourists, another popular traveling destination in Pakistan is Fairy Meadows. With an altitude of about 3,300 meters (10,800 ft) above sea level, it is located in Gilgit-Baltistan, under the shadows of the majestic Nanga Parbat peak (8,126 m), the Second Highest Mountain in Pakistan. The name Fairy Meadows was given by German climbers and was locally known as Joot. It’s a grassland near one of the base camps of Nanga Parbat – one of the beautiful mountains in Pakistan. It is the most favorite point for trekkers and hikers. The government of Pakistan declared Fairy Meadows a National Park in 1995. From April until the end of September, it’s the tourist season at Fairy Meadows. The ethereal beauty of this fairyland is mesmerizing for nature lovers. The dark alpine forest and lush green meadows in the surroundings are the reasons for its popularity. You can also read about Dams in Pakistan .

Skardu is located between the River Indus and the River Shigar at an elevation of 2,500 meters (8,202 feet). It covers 77 km² (30 sq mi) of a total area and serves as the capital of the Skardu District. The name “Skardu ” is derived from the word Balti – low land between two high places. These two high places are Shigar city and the high-altitude Satpara Lake. There are many beautiful lakes in Pakistan that exist in Skardu. Skardu was the cultural sphere of Buddhist Tibet in the mid 7th-century CE. The Skardu, one of the most beautiful places in Pakistan, is the point of attraction for hikers, mountaineers, and climbers. As it offers the most challenging hiking routes and the world’s highest peaks. Some of these highest peaks and treks are mentioned below:

• Gasherbrum 1
• Gasherbrum 2
• Trango towers
• Haldi Cones

The best time to visit Skardu is the Cherry Blossom, Spring, and Golden (Autumn) Season. The spring season has pleasant weather, so travelers can explore more. There are many attractive places in Skardu to visit. Some of them are Shangrila Lake, Upper Kachura Lake, Khaplu valley, Deosai Plateau, Basha Valley, and Manthoka Waterfall. 

Chitral is situated on the Chitral River in the northern Chitral District, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan. It is famous among people for its rich culture, traditions, festivals, and scenic views. Until 1969, it was a princely state that encompassed the region. It’s surrounded by the beautiful mountain ranges in Pakistan , the Hindukush mountain. Chitral covers a total area of 57 km2 (22 sq mi), at an elevation of about 4,900 feet (1,490 meters) above sea level. There are a lot of places that should be visited while traveling to Chitral. Some of them are mentioned below:

• Kalash Valley
• Ayun Valley
• Shandur Top
• Shandur Lake
• Shahi Qilla
• Chitral National Park
• Bamburat Valley

It’s at the feet of Tirch Mir Peak, which is the highest peak of the Hindukush mountain range. Chitral has also played a contributory role at the time of the Kashmir war. If you are planning a tour in Pakistan, a visit to Chitral is a must-visit to enjoy the scenic view from the top of Tirch Mir Peak.

Murree is in the Galyat region of the Pir Panjal Range in the Rawalpindi District of Punjab. It is also one of the most visited hill stations in Pakistan . It’s about 30 km (19 mi) northeast of Islamabad, with an average altitude of 2,291 meters (7,516 ft). It takes almost 40 minutes to get there from Islamabad. The majority of the tourists visit this beautiful place from the twin cities – Islamabad and Rawalpindi. Murree is spread in a total area of 434 sq kilometers. The Margalla Hills, a part of the Himalayan Mountain Range, is also in Murree. Murree is known for its weather as it remains pleasant almost the whole year, excluding January – March because heavy snowfall occurs in these months. But still, people visit it to see the stunning view of snow-covered mountains. There are a lot of attractive points in Murree. Some of them are mentioned below:

• Kashmir Point
• Nathia Gali
• Pindi Point

Murree is always cherishing and joyful amongst domestic and foreign travelers. The most attractive point for the visitors and especially for children to visit Murree is the chairlift.

7. Kalam Valley

Kalam is located at a distance of 99 kilometers (62 mi) from Mingora in the northern upper Swat district, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, northern pakistan. It has become one of the top tourist destinations at a distance of 2,001 m (6,565 ft). It is known for its snow-capped mountains, dark and wild forests, and breathtaking lakes. It is also called a sub-valley of Swat and land of rivers and stunning waterfalls. If you are a climber, trekker, or camper, then Kalam is a place you have to visit at once in your life. A famous lake, the -spelling-remark”>Mahodand Lake, is just 35.4 km from Kalam. On the way to Mohdand lake, you can also visit the USHU Jungle and Matiltan areas – one of the biggest waterfalls. The whole year the weather remains chilled and snowy in Kalam. Some of the most attractive tourist spots in Kalam are written below:

• Ushu Forest
• Kundol lake
• Mahodand Lake

Some of the famous mountains of Pakistan are also in Kalam, including Mount Falaksar. It is also the highest peak in Kalam. You might also like to read historical places in Islamabad .

8. Neelum Valley

Neelam Valley, the second name of heaven, it’s one of the most charming, divine, and beautiful places in Pakistan. Located in the west of the Mansehra District of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa- Pakistan’s Province has taken all the attractions. It is one of the most attractive places in Azad Kashmir and is known because of the blue water river that flows with curves like a snake. It gives an exceptionally magnificent expression that creates an outstanding scenic view. By the locals, it’s known as the Paradise of Kashmir. There is a rumor that this name was taken to define it as a precious stone called Neelum. Before the partition of Pakistan and India, the valley was called Kishanganga . The river flows from Gurez Valley in Indian-administered – Jammu and Kashmir then follows first westward and a south-western direction till it meets the Jhelum River at Muzaffarabad. It covers a total area of 3,621 km2 (1,398 sq mi) with an elevation of 1,615 m. The people often speak five different languages, Urdu, Hindko, Kashmiri, Shina, Gojri, and Kundal Shahi. It is also the most attractive spot for domestic and international tourists that supports tourism in Pakistan.

Some of the attractions points near Neelam Valley are:

• Banjosa Lake
• Ratti Gali Lake
• Kutton Jagran
• Kutton Valley
• Sharda Valley

If you want to explore northern Pakistan, then you need to visit Neelum Valley at once in your life. Get to know about Museums in Pakistan .

9. Hunza Valley

If you are living in Pakistan, you must have heard about Hunza in northern pakistan. It’s one of the most popular, stunning, and beautiful northern areas of Pakistan. Hunza is a delightful sight for the eyes that gives an exceptional picturesque view. This mountainous valley is in the Gilgit-Baltistan region of Pakistan. The valley is bordered to the northwest of Ishkoman, southeast of Shigar, north of Afghanistan, and northeast of Xinjiang. Located at an elevation of 2,438 meters – 7,999 feet it covers a total area of 11,660 km2 – 4,500 sq mi. Geographically, Hunza is divided into three regions, Upper Hunza – Gojal, Central Hunza, and Lower Hunza. The valley is wrapped with spontaneous snow-covered mountains, lakes, and fruit-loaded orchards. The Altit Fort, Baltit Fort, Attabad Lake, Passu Cones, Eagle’s Nest, and Ultar Glacier are also situated in this stunning valley. Several surviving Buddhist archaeological sites are located in the valley, such as the Sacred Rock of Hunza. The surrounding peaks rise more than 7,000 m in the Hunza Valley. Every year, thousands of tourists visit Hunza to see the magic of nature. Read more about swimming pools in Islamabad .

Some of the attractions points of Hunza Valley are:

• Attabad lake
• Hussaini Hanging Bridge
• Passu Glacier
• Eagle’s Nest

10. Swat Valley

Swat Valley, located in the northwest mountains of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, is one of the most visited northern areas of Pakistan. With Green trees everywhere, forests, green surroundings, flowing rivers with colors of rich blue water, it looks like an exact out of a fairy tale. Kalam is the most famous place in Swat Valley. It’s also the 15th-largest district of the KPK, one of the provinces of Pakistan . It covers a total area of 5,337 km2 – 2,061 sq mi with an elevation of 980 m – 3,220 ft. Before 1969, the swat was considered to be a rich autonomous and self-governing state called the Yousafzai State of Swat. After that, it became a part of Pakistan. In the past, Swat Valley was a significant hub of Hinduism and Buddhism, following the old kingdom of Gandhara. The valley was famous for having an exceptionally stunning and picturesque view which supports tourism in Pakistan.

Some of the most attractive points of Swat Valley are:

• Marghazar White Palace.
• Kalam Valley
• Kandol Lake
• Boyun Village
• Jarogo Waterfall

11. Kumrat Valley

The list of northern areas of Pakistan is incomplete without Kumrat Valley. Located in the Upper Dir Kohistan, this Valley is no less than a fairytale destination. It’s renowned for its spectacular scenery. Snow-capped mountains, beautiful lush green meadows, and the winding Panjkora River make the view absolutely breathtaking. You can easily travel to this one of the top tourist destinations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa from Peshawar. On the way to Kumrat Valley, you can also explore Peshawar. There are so many magnificent places to visit in Peshawar .

The tall Deodar forest with giant trees growing near the river makes it even more special. This forest creates a magical feeling that attracts many tourists. Kumrat Valley is also home to diverse flora and fauna, making it an outstanding spot for nature lovers and adventurers. If you want a peaceful getaway surrounded by nature’s beauty, Kumrat Valley is the place to be. Must-visit places in Kumrat Valley include Jahaz Banda Waterfall, one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Pakistan. Other tourist destinations in Kumrat Valley include Do Kala Chashma, Katora Lake, Kumrat Forest, Wooden Canals Thal, Jahaz Banda Meadows, and Jandrai Trek. Katore Lake is listed among the most famous lakes in Pakistan, whereas Kumrat Forest is included among the most stunning forests in Pakistan .

12. Naltar Valley

Next on our list of northern areas of Pakistan is Naltar Valley. The Valley is a wonderful place surrounded by lush greenery and breathtaking views. You can take a 45-minute jeep ride from Nomal Village to reach it. Just a heads up, though: it can get pretty chilly up there! Once you arrive, you’ll have many amazing spots to explore, such as Pari Lake, Naltar Lake 1 (Satrangi), Blue Lake, and many more.

It’s an ideal location to create unforgettable memories and capture incredible photos. Don’t miss the chance to attend the International Ski Festival if you’re around during winter!

Owing to its beauty and economic potential, the Valley is witnessing real estate development at a faster pace. It is anticipated that Real estate companies in Pakistan will soon start their projects there. Real estate companies in Islamabad are no exception.

13. Malam Jabba

Malam Jabba is a must-visit place in northern areas of Pakistan list. Malam Jabba is a hill station in the Valley of Swat on the peaks of the Hindukush range. The Valley is known for its lush green surroundings, deep rivers, and high mountains. Malam Jabba is a renowned ski resort built by Pakistan in collaboration with Austria. Its surroundings include many luxury hotels, including Green Palace Guest House, Pearl Continental, and Hotel Rock City Resort.

Like housing societies in Islamabad , several residential projects and societies have been established in Malam Jabba. The aim of these societies is to provide a contemporary and urban living style to the local people.

To upgrade healthcare facilities, many hospitals are providing services. In an emergency during your trip, you can rush to the local hospital instead of taking your patient to hospitals in Islamabad or Peshawar.

14. Arang Kel

Arang Kel is a beautiful village tourist attraction located in the Neelam Valley of Azad Kashmir. It is one of the famous places from the list of Northern Areas of Pakistan. Arang Kel is located at an altitude of 8379 feet. It is also called “the pearl of Neelam Valley as the Arang Kel is surrounded by lush green beauty.

The best season to visit the tourist destination is the summer season. Because, the green fields and wandering horses, goats, and other creatures present a soothing view. Furthermore, the snow-capped mountains, chirping of birds, and wooden huts attract tourists from across the world. To facilitate the tourists, many multinational companies have sponsored Pakistan’s northern areas for example establishing chairlifts, constructing bridges, and opening food outlets.

15. Kalasha Valleys

In northern areas of Pakistan, Kalasha Valleys in the Chitral district are attracting tourists due to their location in the heart of the Hindu Kush mountain range. The elevation of the area is 1,670 meters above sea level making its climate extremely cold. 

Apart from the natural beauty of the valleys, the people of the Kalash Valleys have a unique culture and language. Not only local tourists but the valleys also have attracted international tourists. The arrival of foreign tourism to the country may increase the chances of legalizing cryptocurrency in Pakistan due to the online payment of international tourists.

Conclusion:

So these were the top 15 beautiful places in Pakistan. Hence, Pakistan is a country rich in culture and having beautiful places. We have mentioned a few of the northern areas of Pakistan. If you are planning a trip to visit Pakistan, then this article might be helpful to you. You can also read our blog on places to visit in Islamabad .

Which northern area is the most beautiful in Pakistan?

All the Northern areas in Pakistan are beautiful but the Hunza Valley is one of Pakistan’s most picturesque tourist areas.

Is Gilgit a northern area?

Yes, Gilgit is one of the most beautiful tourist destinations in Northern Areas in Pakistan.

Read More Related Blogs:

• Business Ideas in Pakistan
• Construction Companies in Pakistan
• Insurance Companies in Pakistan
• Shopping Malls in Islamabad
• Waterfalls in Pakistan

Tags: beautiful places in Pakistan hills in Pakistan lakes in Pakistan mountains of Pakistan northern areas of pakistan pakistan northern areas tourism in Pakistan

• Next story  PM to begin work on two mega projects today
• Previous story  وزیر اعظم عمران خان کی شجرکاری مہم میں مون سون بارشوں سے بھرپور فائدہ اٹھانے کی تلقین

You may also like...

14 Best Places to Visit in Islamabad

June 4, 2021

 by  ahblog

 by ahblog · Published June 4, 2021 · Last modified February 26, 2024

North Hills “Your Next Tranquil Home”, & Why

September 17, 2021

 by ahblog · Published September 17, 2021 · Last modified January 3, 2024

بیجنگ نے سی پیک کو توسیع دینے کا فیصلہ کیا ہے۔

March 20, 2023

 by ahblog · Published March 20, 2023

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

recently published

• Recent Posts
• Popular Posts

Business / Pakistan

Top 9 Best Courier Companies in Pakistan

15 Apr, 2024

Business / Economy / News

Saudi Delegation to Visit Pakistan for Economic Discussions

Business / Environment / Lifestyle / Technology

Top 10 Solar Companies in Pakistan in 2024

5 Apr, 2024

Business / News

Pakistan’s Cement Sector Records Sales Boost in March 2024

4 Apr, 2024

Construction / News

Tarbela 5th Extension Hydropower Project Back on Track

3 Apr, 2024

Uncategorized

کیا آپ زمینی کھاتوں کی اصطلاحات موضع ،کھیوٹ، خسرہ کے بارے میں جانتے ہیں؟

12 Jan, 2021

ملک میں لارج سکیل مینوفیکچرنگ انڈسٹری کی مجموعی پیداوار میں 7 عشاریہ 41 فیصد اضافہ ریکارڈ :پاکستان بیورو آف سٹیٹسٹکس

13 Jan, 2021

دنیا بھر میں مالیاتی نظم و نسق کی بنا پر ریٹنگ کرنے والی بین الاقوامی ایجنسی موڈیز نے پاکستان کے بینکاری سکیٹر کی آوٹ لک کو مستحکم قرار دے دیا۔

14 Jan, 2021

الحیات گروپ اور پشاور ڈویلپمنٹ اتھارٹی کے درمیان ریگی ماڈل ٹاون کا گیٹ بنانے کامعاہدہ طے پاگیا۔

TOP PROJECTS

EXPLORE HERE

• Capital Cities

Best Places To Visit In North Pakistan | Pakistan Guide

Travelers from all around the world like to Best Places To Visit In North Pakistan . Govt. has upraised all the travel hurdles for guests from all around the globe. As a result, in the summer of 2022, an enormous range of wanderers from around the world are coming back to travel to the foremost friendliness country.

Table of Contents

Best Places To Visit In North Pakistan

Northern areas have the best places to visit in Pakistan with heavenly landscapes. For several years, the country is considered the most effective travel destination in the World. Also, Pakistan was listed on the list of best travel destinations to travel in 2019 by Forbes magazines. The reason is, it was the complete country listed for Best travel sites, here we have a number of the best places to visit in north Pakistan.

Naran Kaghan

On the highest of the list of the most beautiful places in northern areas of Pakistan , here is the Naran Kaghan depression of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Pakistan. Naran valleys keep open for a few months in order to deliver a number of marvelous views of nature. Moreover, the path remains closed throughout winter from October to January.

Thanks to significant precipitation in northern areas of Pakistan . Because the road leading towards gets block thanks to avalanches coming back from the mountains. However, Naran is one of the foremost northern areas in winter in terms of traveling places. Every year, an enormous range of holidaymakers jaunt this website with their friends, families, and fair-haired ones to capture effective reminiscences. The place is enclosed by the luxurious inexperienced mountains and deep alpine forest giving a stunning impact regarding valleys. Within the way of Naran, there are tons a lot of to get just like the fairy tale Saif Ul Malook Lake. Moreover, hike towards the Ansoo Lake, as well as Lulusar lake, and last Babusar top.

Hunza Valley

Lies within the mountains of Northern Pakistan, the large and colorful Hunza valley within the Gilgit Baltistan region just about the China border. Hunza valley is the most beautiful valley in Pakistan as well as the stunning place to go to within the northern areas of Pakistan. For years, Hunza valley has been giving its wanderers history and culture alongside their colorful traditions.

What is more to historical and ancient expects, Hunza is legendary all-round the globe among travelers for its large natural landscape. It will place a powerful impact on the mind of travelers. However, depression contains a heap of a lot to get. Ganesh village may be a historical Silk Route settlement around a thousand years, speculated to be the primary Silk Route settlement.

What is more, Hunza is meant to be the sole destination within the world from wherever one will witness the wonder of 4 mighty Seven Thousanders peaks alongside some noted peaks. In Hunza, there are several gorgeous trekking routes that will take travelers to a different world. A number of the foremost stunning trekking routes are Shimshal pass, Patundas trek, Batura ice mass trek, and lots of a lot of others.

Skardu Valley

Here we have escorted the entry to the Karakorum mountain chain on this list. Skardu valley lies within the Karakoram of Gilgit Baltistan in so much of northern Pakistan . Being the favorite destination within the mountainous region of Pakistan, Skardu wanderers that one will ne’er expect in northern areas of Pakistan.

Moreover, it is one of the best places to visit in Pakistan . The road leading towards Skardu is speculated to be the Eight surprise of the World because the approach supplies some breathless views with the danger of a big landslide. Moreover, the valley contains a wealthy culture and history with stunning traditions. Likewise, culture and traditions. However, Skardu is the Baltistan in the Gilgit Baltistan region, which is thought because of the very little Tibet.

Best Places to go to In Skardu

Skardu valley contains a heap to supply for travelers in order to wander within the mountains to explore several of the places. From the mighty mountains to the globe’s highest desert, Skardu has everything for its lovers. A number of the most effective places to go to in Skardu are:

• Shangrila (Lower Kachura) Lake
• Upper Kachura Lake
• Kharpocho Fort
• Kalpana Cold desert and Lake
• Shiger Cold Desert
• Shiger Valley and Fort
• Khaplu Valley and Palace
• Chaqchan Mosque
• Deosai National Park

However, because of the Skardui’s entry to Karakorum Mountains, it’s several of the globe’s most stunning and astonishing trekking routes. With these mighty peaks in Skardu, it becomes a dream for the mountaineers to overcome. per annum, thousands of mountaineers return to Pakistan to undertake rising these mighty peaks in the Skardu depression. Thus, check that to possess a journey during this place to go to northern areas of Pakistan this summer .

Fairy Meadows

Name given on the heavenly beauty during this piece of land, Fairy meadows exist the so much chain mountains of Gilgit Baltistan of Pakistan. The destination is legendary as a result of the dark alpine forest within the close, lush inexperienced meadows with the marvelous mighty mountain. It is one of the best northern areas in the winter in Pakistan.

Nanga Parbat is thought because the Killer Mountain with the name listed as the Second Highest peak in Pakistan. On the opposite hand, the height is the Ninth Largest in the world. Within the Fairy meadows, explore some stunning regions by trekking towards Biyal Camp and the Base camp of a mountain peak.

Biyal Camp is thought to be the primary camp of Killer Mountain. To achieve this Fairyland of Pakistan, one must take the adventurous motorcar ride on the globe’s most Dangerous motorcar track. Trek around three hours through dense woods. The destinations get shut throughout winters as a result of the significant precipitation creating it troublesome to measure there. This summer, place this destination on your travel list among different best places to go to in the northern areas of Pakistan .

Naltar valley

Lastly, a resort hotel, Naltar valley within the Gilgit Baltistan of Northern Pakistan. The valley is the most beautiful valley in Pakistan choked with lush foliage all around with astonishing views. One will visit this destination by taking a motorcar ride from the traditional village for around forty-five minutes. However, the weather remains cold in the Naltar depression because it has an elevation of 9,700 ft. It offers some stunning destinations for travelers.

Pakistan Railway Timetable’s Information 2022 Update

How Safe Is Pakistan To Visit

RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR

Mini Marg A fascinating valley

Hanna Lake Quetta: A Beautiful Lake – Pakistan Guide

Best Places To Visit in Gilgit Baltistan, Pakistan

Editor picks, most famous places of pakistan you’d love to visit in 2022, 10 biggest animal markets during eid ul azha in pakistan, pakistan railway time table 2022, top 8 delicious pakistani ramadan recipes you should try | pakistan guide.

Benefits and Usage of Binance

Unlocking Crypto Wealth: A Comprehensive Guide to Maximizing Profits on Binance

Hidden Gems of Pakistan

Popular category.

• Capital Cities 27
• North Area 22
• Islamabad 9
• Khyber Pakhtunkhwa 5
• Privacy Policy
• Terms and Conditions

Wander-Lush

20 Most Beautiful Places in Pakistan – From Mountains to Mosques

It’s hard to imagine a more magnificent landscape than the rugged peaks, hidden villages and wind-swept plains of Pakistan. Here are 20 of the most beautiful places in Pakistan , from wild mountain passes and unreal lakes, to ornate mosques and ancient fortresses.

Thanks to Samantha for sharing her Pakistan tips. Samantha is a self-proclaimed South Asia addict and hippopotamus lover who’s been on the road for seven months so far. She blogs about her indefinite budget-backpacking adventure at Intentional Detours, where she shares guides and stories to help and inspire you to visit offbeat places, too. 

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

Western media might try to tell you otherwise, but trust me – Pakistan is an absolutely stunning country. Think famous mountain peaks, emerald-green and turquoise-blue valleys, deserts filled with remnants of ancient civilization… And that’s not even the half of it.

One thing’s for sure: Pakistan sure isn’t lacking in beautiful places to visit!

Also read: 7 best Pakistani cultural experiences for travellers .

During the 4 months I spent in the country, I was constantly blown away by what I was seeing. There’s an endless number of perfect natural (and man-made) sights to see while backpacking Pakistan , so I thought I’d spotlight 20 of the very best for future travellers.

20 most beautiful places in Pakistan

Without further ado, here are the 20 most beautiful places in Pakistan (in no particular order), a country that quickly and fiercely stole my heart.

1. Swat Valley

Though it has had a rough past, the present and future of Swat Valley are shining very bright. This stunning valley in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan is something straight out of a fairy tale.

Think bright green fields and forests, picturesque villages, and rivers boasting shades of blue so clear and bright you wouldn’t have thought them real!

The true beauty of Swat can be found around the town of Kalam, which serves as a base to the explore the beauty of the valley. Here are 3 places you can’t miss in Swat Valley:

Boyun Village

Boyun, also known as Green Top, is a short drive or manageable up-hill walk from Kalam town. When you finally reached the pinnacle, you’ll be rewarded with a panorama of one of the most vast and beautiful villages I’ve ever seen – along with sweeping views of the valley below. Boyun is an easy day trip from Kalam.

Kandol and Spindhor Lakes

These alpine lakes lie 2 hours away from Kalam. These days, Kandol Lake is accessible via jeep track and is a bit more commercialised, whereas Spindhor can only be reached on a 2-hour trek. Whichever you choose to visit, both are absolutely counted among the most beautiful places in Pakistan.

Ushu Forest

This well-preserved forest is full of deodar trees and is a fabulous place to get lost. The road that leads into the forest continues on to several villages set along the Kalam River.

2. Hunza Valley

If you live in Pakistan – or have read anything about the country – it’s almost certain you’ve come across the name Hunza. Don’t let the word ‘valley’ confuse you, though – Hunza is actually a massive district made up of numerous valleys and villages. One part of the ancient Silk Road , here are some of the most beautiful sights in Hunza:

Passu Cones

The Passu Cathedral is a natural work of art and one of the most recognisable scenes in Pakistan. Though staying overnight in Passu village is no longer allowed, the cones are visible from a ways away, starting from the village of Gulmit. The most iconic view of the Cathedral is from the Karakoram Highway, about an hour’s drive from Gilgit City.

Attabad Lake

A lake that doesn’t look real… Even when you’re standing right in front of it. Attabad was born out of tragedy when a massive landslide occurred in 2010. The flow of the Hunza River was blocked, and the now-famous lake was created in its wake. Its bright-blue turquoise waters make the it one of the most beautiful places in Pakistan.

Eagle’s Nest

Want to see one of the most epic sunsets in the Hunza Valley? Head to Eagle’s Nest around golden hour! The name comes from an upscale hotel/restaurant nearby, but you can drive up to the viewpoint without going there.

3. Yarkhun Valley

Though it’s relatively unheard of and forgotten compared to Pakistan’s most famous tourist spots, I think Yarkhun Valley was the most beautiful place I visited in the country. Located in the Upper Chitral district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Yarkhun dazzles with its mountain ranges and untouched villages.

Reaching the valley, which stretches for many kilometres past the administrative town of Mastuj, requires a bit of effort if you don’t have your own vehicle. If you do have one though, the ride isn’t too bad – just prepare for mostly dirt roads!

The side valley of Gazin is most definitely worth a detour if you make it all the way to Yarkhun. Here, you can see the mountains of the Thoi Pass, a high-altitude pass that connects Upper Chitral with Yasin Valley in Gilgit Baltistan.

4. Phander Lake

Phander Lake, located in Phander Village, is almost too good to be true. The teal-coloured lake sits silently amongst light-green trees befitting a landscape painting.

Despite being insanely beautiful, Phander Lake doesn’t see anywhere as close to the number of tourists as the more popular Attabad Lake does.

During the 4 days I spent in Phander relaxing lakeside, I didn’t encounter any other tourists. If you do visit, I highly recommend you stay at the Lake Inn, which is a short walk away and charges 1,000 rupees per night.

There is also the expensive (5,000 rupees) PTDC that overlooks the lake, but the hospitality and value at Lake Inn reign superior.

5. Broghil Valley

Located way up north very close to Afghanistan’s Wakhan Corridor, Broghil Valley was formerly only accessible via trek or horseback. These days, the once-hidden locale can be reached by a treacherous jeep track – yet it still only receives a handful of visitors during the few months it’s not frozen under heaps of snow.

Currently, whether or not foreigners are allowed to visit Broghil is iffy. (If you’re insistent, make sure you check with the Deputy Commissioner’s Office in Chitral before making the trek up there.) But Pakistanis – please go see this beauty! The valley is home to numerous high-altitude lakes, yaks, and sprawling green pastures, all set against a dramatic mountainous backdrop that soars above 13,000 feet.

Moreover, a day’s trek from Lashkargaz, the last village in Broghil, will lead you to Karambar Lake, one of the highest in the world!

A city… Say what? Yes, Lahore may be a metro but its treasure trove of historical places surely makes it one of the most beautiful places to visit in Pakistan. Lahore was the city of Mughals, and so much of their creations still remain.

If you’re wondering what are the best places to visit in Lahore , hold tight because there’s a whole lot of them!

The most famous of the city’s monuments include the Badshahi Mosque, the Wazir Khan Mosque, and of course the Lahore Fort. Add to that dozens upon dozens of beautifully preserved tombs, lively shrines, and havelis upon havelis , and you have yourself the cultural capital of Pakistan.

7. Hingol National Park

Hingol National Park is technically in Pakistan, but it looks more like a Martian planet! The park is over 6,000-square-kilometres and contains incredibly unique rock formations, vast canyons, numerous animal species, and even a mud volcano .

What’s more, part of the National Park hugs the coast, adding the ocean to all its other assets. Though totally out-of-this-world in its looks, Hingol is only 3.5 hours from Karachi, Pakistan’s most populous city.

Pakistanis shouldn’t have any problem entering the park, but foreigners have had mixed experiences. Some who were accompanied by locals have been able to spend a night/ weekend in the park, while others were only given day permission. There is no public transport to the park, so having access to your own transportation is a must.

8. Kalash Valleys

The Kalash Valleys, comprised of Bumboret, Rumbur, and Birir, are home to the Kalash people, a religious and ethnic minority in Pakistan with their own beliefs, culture and language. The valleys they live in are certainly some of the most beautiful places in Pakistan – not just for their natural splendour, but also for the beauty of the Kalash themselves.

The valley of Rumbur is particularly stunning. Here, kilometres of dusty road and mountains rumble alongside the Kalash River. The Kalash people live in wooden homes that cling to the high hills, and the women are particularly famous for their brightly-coloured traditional dress and headwear that differs from anything else one can find in Pakistan.

Being only 2.5 hours from Chitral City, it’s very easy to make it out to one of the valleys these days. If you do decide to head to Rumbur, take a day to trek all the way into the valley. The last settlement of Rumbur, Sheikhandeh, is a former Nuristani village whose inhabitants migrated across the border to Pakistan a few hundred years ago.

9. Deosai Plains National Park

Deosai is often referred to as the roof of the world. And it kinda is. At 4,117 metres (13,497 feet), the massive plateau is the second-highest on the planet, and is only really accessible during summer.

Sprawling emerald-green meadows, snow-capped peaks and glistening blue lakes greet visitors who make the journey to this beautiful spot. The Himalayan Brown Bear calls Deosai its home and has been spotted by many a visitor – watch out for them if you’re camping!

The park charges an entrance fee of 1,000 rupees for foreigners and 40 rupees for Pakistanis.

10. Gorakh Hills

Hills in the desert… Yup, the Gorakh Hill Station is located in Sindh, but is certainly elevated as a part of the Kirthar Mountains. At 1,734 metres (5,689 feet), the top of the hills provide some of the most beautiful views in Southern Pakistan. This is the perfect spot for a weekend camping trip.

Gorakh Hills are about 8 hours from Karachi, but only 2 to 3 hours from the city of Dadu, making the latter a better place to start your journey. There is no public transport, but there are a few rest houses for anyone who isn’t looking to pitch a tent.

11. Shimshal

Though a bit out of the way compared to some of the other beautiful tourist places in Pakistan featured on this list, Shimshal Valley is well worth the effort required to reach it. The locale is known for being a major adventure destination that’s particularly popular amongst climbers and mountaineers.

But Shimshal isn’t just one of the most beautiful places in Pakistan for adrenaline junkies. The village itself is divine come summer. Incredibly, it almost exclusively relies on solar energy! Easier short treks to nearby yak pastures can also be arranged, as can just simply wandering around and enjoying the epic vistas and fields of mustard-yellow flowers.

12. Shah Jahan Mosque

Thought all the Mughal relics were in Punjab? Think again! The Shah Jahan Mosque – also known as the Jamia Masjid – is located in Thatta, a town in Pakistan’s Sindh province. It’s widely known for having the most elaborate display of tile work in all of South Asia. Blue and sandstone colours adorn the interior of the mosque and are sure to wow all who visit.

The mosque was commissioned by Shah Jahan when he sought refuge in Thatta back in 1647 and somehow remains in amazing shape today. Though Sindh might seem to be a far cry from the mountains, the immaculate artistry present here makes it one of the most beautiful tourist places in Pakistan.

13. Fairy Meadows

Though it has become a bit touristy (and pricey), Fairy Meadows is no doubt a stunner. The meadows offer an incredible view of Nanga Prabat, the world’s 9th highest mountain peak.

Reaching Fairy Meadows is a bit of a challenge. The journey starts with a jeep ride across one of the most dangerous roads in the world and culminates with a 5 kilometre trek. It’s possible to rent a campsite, or you can bring your own equipment to enjoy a night or two basking in one of Pakistan’s most epic views.

Currently, the price for a jeep into the meadows is around 8,000 rupees ($51), and walking the road is prohibited. Lucky it’s possible to split the cost with other travellers.

14. Chapursan Valley

Like Broghil, Chapursan Valley also borders Afghanistan’s Wakhan but is situated more to the east. This stunning collection of villages and vistas sees only a handful of tourists and is one of the most remote places you can visit in Hunza.

Chapursan is home to the Wakhi people, an ethnic group who speak Wakhi and belong to the Ismaili sect of Islam. With royal blue skies, massive mountain peaks, sprawling lakes and virtually no commercialisation, Chapursan Valley is as beautiful a place in Pakistan as they come!

To reach it, you’ll first need to head to the town of Sost that sits near the Pakistan-China Border. If you have your own vehicle, you’re all set to head on up from there. If not, shared jeeps leave from Sost each morning around 6am.

While in the valley, don’t miss the Baba Ghundi Shrine, a mystical Sufi shrine dedicated to a saint who supposedly held magical powers. Also don’t forget to enjoy the company of the yaks!

15. Khunjerab Pass

This high-mountain pass isn’t for the faint of heart. At nearly 4,600 metres (15,397 feet), this popular tourist attraction connects Pakistan with China to form the highest paved border crossing in the world.

Many people venture to the border to take photos at the official gate, which is surrounded by insanely tall peaks and grassy fields. As for transport, it’s best to travel here with your own vehicle as bus tickets can get pricey. For adventurous travellers, hitchhiking is also an option, as it is on much of the Karakoram Highway.

16. Rakaposhi Base Camp

For all those trekking enthusiasts out there – this one’s for you! The Rakaposhi Base Camp Trek is doable in one day, even for beginners, and offers some truly insane views of Rakaposhi, a 7,800-metre peak!

There are few ways to get as up close and personal with Pakistan’s giants than this. The trek starts from the village of Minapin, where it should take those with a decent fitness level about 4 to 5 hours to reach the top.

While it is possible to camp, the descent is much quicker, making the entire journey there and back a plausible one-day affair. Due to extreme weather, it’s only possible to do the trek between May and October.

17. Margala Hills

Islamabad might be a glitzy ‘new’ city, but did you know it also has a vast array of hills perfect for climbing? The Margala Hills are spread out over over 12,000 hectares and contain multiple hiking and running trails.

Ascending to the various peaks of the range show off Islamabad in ways you might not have known were possible. There are few places in Pakistan that remain so close to the city yet so deeply connected to nature.

18. Rohtas Fort

Say hello to another of the most beautiful places in Pakistan – this time a 16th-century fortress that’s recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Rohtas Fort is located near Jhelum in Punjab, which is about 4 hours from Lahore and 2 hours from Islamabad.

The fortress is one of the largest in the Subcontinent and has remained in remarkable condition despite its age. Hours can be spent roaming around the massive structure, a beautiful relic that almost seems to transport visitors back in time.

It’s easy to get lost amongst the walls and gates for an entire day. Keep in mind that the fort charges an entrance fee of 500 rupees for foreigners and 20 rupees for Pakistanis.

19. Naltar Valley

Naltar Valley is about 54 kilometres (34 miles) from Gilgit City in Pakistan’s Gilgit-Baltistan region. The popular tourist attraction is known for its dramatic forests, a collection of crystal-clear lakes, and in the winter, skiing facilities.

Though many tourists just come for the slopes, I think the real magic of Naltar can only be witnessed in the summer months when the lakes unfreeze and the forests can be best enjoyed.

This magical valley is only accessible via Jeep, but public transport does exist from Gilgit. There are a number of hotels and guesthouses to accommodate tourists in the valley’s two villages. To avoid peak tourist season, steer clear of visiting during the month of May and try coming in fall instead. You might be lucky enough to catch some epic foliage towards the end of October.

20. Katpana Desert

Beautiful places in Pakistan truly cover every landscape imaginable… Including the Katpana Cold Desert. Though it has all the makings of a ‘warm’ desert, what makes the Katpana stand out is its altitude. It does, in fact, become covered with snow in the winter.

Said to be the highest cold desert in the world, sand dunes at this altitude look truly unique. Very few countries can lay claim to such a rarity. Travellers can reach the Katpana Desert easily from Skardu, as it’s only about 30 minutes away. Don’t count on there being public transport, though.

Most beautiful places in Pakistan: Final thoughts

Listing the 20 most beautiful places in Pakistan isn’t an easy task when almost everywhere you turn, the landscape is mesmerising in one way or another. Though this is only a small sample of what Pakistan has to offer, I strongly recommend trying to visit at least a few of these highlights.

I absolutely loved every minute of the 4 months I spent travelling through Pakistan. But in a country this big and beautiful, I know there’s always more to discover. Happy adventuring! 

Most beautiful places in Pakistan

Save & share this post on Pinterest:

81 Comments

Dear Emily, Thanks for the best article about Pakistan’s beautiful tourist attractions. I am wondering to know have you visited to the Ghizer Valley like Yasin, Ishkoman, and Phander Valleys there many best places to visit as well. Above all, this part of Pakistan is less visited by tourists either international or domestic.

Great article! Thank you so much!!

Amazing journey and Finding Pakistan is a beautiful and pleasent country full of colours and Attractive places. It’s natural and there is just a little bit investment needed to be put into the Tourism and Management. We hope you shall visit our other areas of our country. Thanks

Thank you Emily for exploring my region. I am resident of Gilgit Baltistan and I still couldn’t write about the beauty of my region as you did. Thank you for visiting Gilgit Baltistan and Pakistan as well. Welcome you again

I noticed most of these are northern areas, really pakistan needs to improve the ways to attract the international tourism providing them super facilities, sure safety and appropriate services..

I suggest you to visit visit Azad kashmir all district (10) of Azad kashmir are beautiful such a wonderful place you can search all district’s photos on Google. Heaven on earth

suggest the most beautiful, quite and relaxing place in Azad Kashmir

Shounter Valley, Baboon Valley Azad Kashmir heaven on earth

Thanks for giving us beautiful insights into our country

Yes Pakistan is the one of the beautiful country Please extend number of places because I ever some most places I think there is 50+ places for visiting

Dear, First of All appreciate your effort to consolidate Pakistan beauty in your article and really Pakistan is most beautiful country in World, if we explore it properly then we will experience this.

You could easily expand this article to 50 places. Pakistan has incredible natural beauty and the people are most hospitable

Being a Pakistani Please have a look at the Skardu (New Zealand of PK) by search on Google you will find such amazing photos. I appreciate your effort, Emily and Samantha!

Wow, absolutely stunning! I hope I can visit some day. Thanks so much for your comment!

Emily u r welcomed, I live here in rawalpindi if u like u will be welcomed with warm heart.

Excellent article…Pakistan is amazing indeed.

Gilgit-Baltistan is famous for its dramatic mountains especially the snow-capped mountains. GB has unlimited scenery views and is known as heaven on earth. It is one of the beautiful places in Pakistan, delighting and pleasing several tourists, travelers, and adventure lovers. Planning to visit Gilgit-Baltistan? Here are the most enchanting places to visit.

I’m surprised to see Rohtas Fort on here. It’s an amazing site for sure. We have family that live in the village inside the Fort, so whenever we’re in Pakistan, we visit quite often. I still think more effort needs to be made in order to maintain it…

All these places are Beautiful. Pakistan is a beautiful country.

Wow Such amazing article . My land my heaven

Thank you for the beautiful insights. Neelum valley in Kashmir is gorgeous, particularly the area around rattigalli and shounter valley. Naran and Sapat valleys as well as haramosh and then the wonderful Concordia and Snow lake treks. Pakistan has Karakorums Himalayas and Hindukush mountain ranges. Beautiful alpine lakes, pristine forests and waterfalls.

Thank you Taimur for the recommendations!

Sad to see that The Beauty Queen of Pakistan (Kumrat Valley) is not included in the list

Thank you Nazim for the recommendation! It looks spectacular!

Not only Kumrat but who North Pakistan is worth seeing. North.pk interested people may work on this portal.

Northern areas of Pakistan are really paradise of Allah on earth. These areas are magically beautiful. Once you reach there, you will never like to come back. I will suggest the tourists to visit l these location to see nature.

Thank you for sharing the amazing article. Pakistan is like heaven on earth. Everyone must visit Neelam valley.

Great Information for us I love Pakistan and i love traveling

Thanks for your great information about beautiful placese

I have been to most of the places .there are more beautiful places in Pakistan just like kumrat valley,jaz banda, madak lasht Chitral, phasti chitral, Rama lake gilgit baltistan and many more

Emily, is this information-you gathered is from internet or you literally visited these areas?

Hi Jamil, thanks for your comment. This is a guest post by Samantha of Intentional Detours. You can find her bio at the top. She has visited these places in Pakistan and many others – you can follow the link to her site for more articles.

From Bangladesh, i want to visit pakistan. But getting visa is a big problem from Bangladesh. Can any one help me? By proper information.

AssalamoAlykum, hope someone in Pakistan should help out, I live far away but have visited some of those Beautiful places, wish you will too someday

Hi thank you very much and i mean it. its lovely great introduction to Pakistan. And you are right Pakistan is a big and really beautiful country its impossible to mention and visit all the great places whether its Mountains, People, Deserts, Rivers, Sandy beaches with blue waters or Green planes. yes we should try to explore more and more. Good effort lady. Love it

Thank you Abdul for your comment!

Wow, Excellent post. Hats off to ur brilliant exploring skills.

Pakistan is one of the top tourist countries in the world. It has so many beautiful places to visit that attracts people from this world especially the northern side.

Lovely Post… Commendable.. though you haven’t listed Pakistan in your “Asia” destination tab 🙂

If u go Lahore u should also go Nankana sahib shrine , situated nearer to Lahore,

Such a beautiful places in pakistan every body most visited all this places I love pakistan

Sooooo beautiful natural places in Pakistan and many places you don’t show. so more places visit in Pakistan & highlights the natural beauty to show the world.. thanks

Unbelievable, I have visited only few of them and missed most of them because I stayed out of the country most of my life. Not only Pakistan but the Pakistani people are also amazing, very friendly, hospitable, helping and very kind people. Pakistani food is delicious, every big city has its own variety.

Thanks for your comment! I hope you get to explore more of Pakistan soon 🙂

This a great list of beautiful places in Pakistan. Pakistan is a wonderful country which has many attractions for every one. Thank you for sharing. The pictures are awesome I must say.

Mashallah, Very nice places. I am going to kund beach in Islamabad

Truly Pakistan is like heaven on earth.

Hello! Indeed Pakistan is really a Heaven on Earth and the Hearts of Pakistanis are more beautiful than these places. I believe that the World must now open its eyes and see the peace and tranquility we Pakistanis have earned through the hardships and struggles. Our Hearts are always open for everyone.

I love nature and of course the beauty of pakistan everyone should visit here and see the beauty of nature

Pakistan is rich in it’s culture, traditions, historical places and natural beauty. You have nicely described most of the beautiful places to visit in Pakistan.

Nice review about Beautiful Places in Pakistan.

♥ 😘 From Pakistan 🇵🇰 ♥ 😘

so many beautiful places in Pakistan…

Valuable information. Let’s promote Pakistan tourism in a positive way.

Nice info and I have visited 7 places from them but I try to visit physically all . Such a great contribution. Like it and appreciate you.

Minar-e-Pakistan is equivalent to nationalism and patriotism in Pakistan. It is the national monument, located at the center of Lahore. The tower was built between 1960 and 1968 on the site where the All-India Muslim League passed the Lahore Resolution on 23 March 1940.

Very interesting article

Great list but you missed many many beautiful places in Pakistan. Our country has a lot of natural beauty.

Hi Emily, Thanks for ur article, it was an excellent effort. Yes there can be hundreds of wonderful sites in Pakistan but u filtered very well. Since I’m an admirer of GB beauty of Pakistan n visits a lot, probably its a typo saying Rakaposhi @ 7800 feet (actually it’s 7800 mtrs) but to me this small error impacts the uniqueness of this Majestic beauty of the world. Rakaposhi is the TALLEST free standing mountain in the world, almost 20000 feet (6000 mtrs) from base to top, few people also misunderstand this record with Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, which is about 16000 feet (4800 mtrs) from base to top. Rakaposhi is not only the tallest but the steepest climb in the world, whee u can see its summit while standing on the road at the bottom.

Shall strongly suggest to keep writing n keep visiting Pakistan.

Thanks n regards,

Thanks Nadeem for all the tips!

HI Emily thanks for your blog it is quite helpful and gives me idea to planned by visit being a pakistani i never visit northern areas of pakistan but i am planning to go on dec 2020 and i feel mountains areas will be fully covered by white sheet (full of snow) i hope my tour will be amazing INSHALLAH.

I’m so glad to hear that! Happy travels!

Dear all, Seeing is believing. But how about visa to travel to Pakistan. I am not sure if visas are issued to Pakistan by Pakistan embassy here in India currently. Please do elaborate. Thanks again…

Pakistan has opened E visa and and on Arrival tourist Visa for majority nationalities around the world. That’s why number of international tourists growing sharply. For india some restrictions however Sikhs getting religious tourist visa and Indians with dual nationality get visa easily on foreign passports.

Excellent information. I would also like to add Ketas in Potwar platue with it amazing hindu temple ruins and beautiful scenery.

Hi Emily, Your article on 20 Most Beautiful Places in Pakistan is just an amazing effort. One can understand how challenging it is to select only 20 out of hundreds of attractions stretching across the country. Its diverse landscape, historic monuments, cultural diversity, food, weather patterns presenting seasonal variations in natural colors, and much more…. The more you travel the more you explore. Keep it up!

saif ul malook is also a beautiful lake in pakistan.

Thanks for the tip!

No mahudand lake is best

I don’t know who wrote this but they forgot to mention the most beautiful and picturesque Kaghan valley here. So heartening!

Thanks for the recommendation!

Tirah Tirah is the most beautiful natural and popular aria in Pakistan but unfortunately no one is known to it.i am certainly say .if you come to tirah then you will come again and again. It has all natural no artificial and it has highest mountain with full up natural trees and beautiful waterfalls. Being only 3.5 hours from Peshawar city .it is very easy to go there .no difficulty .it has peaceful way regards niaz muhammad afridi

Pakistan is a really amazing country with lots of places to visit as a Pakistani I didn’t knew about them.Truly Pakistan is like heaven on earth

Can I ask what I should see 2weeks free time near lahore and islamabad I will be in December so north pakistan I cannot go

Hey Mexx, you can still visit Hunza valley in December, alternate routes are open, and you can also take flights from Islamabad to Gilgit and Skardu if you want to avoid long road journeys. Both places are easy to access in winters and breathtaking.

Indeed Pakistan is really a Heaven on Earth and the Hearts of Pakistanis are more beautiful than these places. I believe that the World must now open its eyes and see the peace and tranquility we Pakistanis have earned through the hardships and struggles. Our Hearts are always open for everyone.

Beautiful places. Amazing people. Everyone should visit this piece of heaven on earth

PAKISTAN IS AMAZING THANKS FOR YOUR COMPLIMENT

Very welcoming people, safe country unlike what we usually see in media. Many places are like heaven on earth.

My land my heaven

I have also visited many beautiful places in Pakistan. Hunza Valley is just like heaven.

Amazing article No doubt, Pakistan is full of amazing and beautiful places. All kind of natural beauty is present in many areas of Pakistan including streams, rivers, and mountains, etc.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• Subscribe to future posts

5 Amazing Places To Visit In Northern Areas Of Pakistan

Places To Visit In Northern Areas Of Pakistan 2024

Travelers from all around the world love to visit the northern areas of Pakistan. Govt. has lifted all the travel hurdles for visitors from all around the globe. As a result, in the summer of 2024, many wanderers worldwide traveled to the friendliness country blessed with the sacred landscape. During 2017 and 2018, the British Backpackers society listed the country with the best travel destinations in the world. Also, Forbes magazine listed Pakistan as the best travel destination in 2019 . As the country is listed as the Best travel site, we have some of the most beautiful places to visit in northern Pakistan .

Naran Kaghan

Hunza valley, skardu valley, fairy meadows, naltar valley.

On the top of the list of the best places in northern Pakistan, we have Naran Kaghan valley in the Himalayan Mountains of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. Naran valleys stay open for a few months to deliver marvelous views of nature. The valley remains closed during winter from October to April due to heavy snowfall in northern areas of Pakistan. The road towards the valley gets blocked due to avalanches from the mountains. However, among the local travelers, Naran valley is one of the most famous traveling places in northern areas of Pakistan. Every year, many visitors visit this site with their friends, families, and loved ones to capture the best memories.

The valley is surrounded by lush green mountains and deep alpine forests, impacting travelers about Himalayan valleys. In the valley of Naran, there is much more to discover, like the fairy tale Saif Ul Malook Lake , Hike towards the Ansoo Lake , Lulusar lake , The Queen Dudipatsar Lake, and lastly, Babusar Top (4,173 m) . So plan for this summer’s 2024 and get on the journey to explore Naran valley , among other best places in northern Pakistan .

Top places of Naran Kaghan:

Lake saif ul malook .

Saif ul Malook Lake needs no introduction as it is one of the most famous lakes in Pakistan. The Saif ul Malook, 9 kilometers long and 50 feet deep, also rises 3,224 meters above the surface. It also captivates anyone with her captivating beauty. The jeep drive to the lake through winding roads makes the trip even more adventurous.

Babusar Top

In second place is Babusar Top, known for its cool breeze. Babusar Top is one of the main tourist attractions in Naran Kaghan. Here you can enjoy the hot coffee, cool breeze, and calm atmosphere.

Next came the rich green meadows of Lalazar. The plateau is covered with rare flora and fauna. Lalazar is 3123 meters above sea level. Even in the hot summer, the climate here is delightful.

Lulusar Lake 

The Naran Kaghan valley is full of lakes and waterfalls. Lake Lulusar is one of the beautiful lakes. Lulusar offers stunning views from an altitude of 3410 meters above sea level. No trip to Naran Kaahan is complete without a visit to the magnificent lake. A 48-kilometer jeep ride can reach the lake.

About 6 kilometers from Naran Valley, Kaghan’s famous picnic area is Shogran. The lush Sugarland meadows add even more awe to the hike. The tall mountains and pleasant climate cannot be described in words.

Next on the list is Siri Paye, which is closer to Shogran. Equally a tranquil treat for couples away from the hustle and bustle of major cities. A lake called Siri Lake is also where visitors can ride horses.

Balakot became the gateway to the Valley of the Khans. It’s a tiny town where you can shop and eat delicious local food. In addition, Balakot offers stunning panoramic views, and it’s on the banks of the Kunhal River. Tourists love to “fish,” “boat,” and “raft” on the Kunhal River.

Malika Parbat

It is known as the “Queen of the Mountains” Marika Parbat. This is a popular stop for visitors to the Naran Kaghan Valley. Huge mountains can also be seen through Saif ul-Malook Lake. Few brave souls have climbed this mountain. The highest point of Malika Parbat is 5290 meters above sea level.

Another famous lake in Khan Valley is Ansu Lake. Ansoo is an Urdu word that means “tears.” This is a teardrop-shaped lake found in the Khan Manor Valley. Due to the high altitude, the climate there is harsh. The lake completely freezes over in winter and is even more beautiful in summer. Summer is the best time to visit Ansu Lake, according to the weather updates of Ansu Lake.

Last but not least is the city of Jalkhad. Naran is less than a 3-hour drive from the city. Jharkhand provides a base camp area for the park. There is a small basin lake and green lawn for nature lovers to enjoy camping. Also, Jharkhand has an approximate altitude of 10,200 feet.

It lies in the mountains of Northern Pakistan, the gigantic and colorful Hunza Valley far in the Gilgit Baltistan region near the China border. Hunza Valley is one of the most beautiful places to visit in the northern areas of Pakistan. Hunza valley has been offering its wanderers the history, culture, and colorful traditions for many years. Moreover, to historical and traditional expectations, Hunza valley is famous all around the globe among ravelers for its immense natural landscape that can strongly impact travelers’ minds. However, the valley has a lot more to discover.

Places To Visit In Hunza

Some of the best travel destinations in Hunza Valley are Ganesh Historical settlement , Baltit, Altit Fort , Attahbad Lake , Shimshal Valley , Passu cones and glacier , Khunjerab Pass (Pak-China Border), and much more.

Ganesh village is a historical Silk Route settlement around 1000 years old, supposed to be the First Silk Route settlement. Furthermore, Hunza valley is supposed to be the only destination in the world where one can witness the beauty of Four mighty Seven Thousanders peaks along with some famous peaks like Ladyfinger peak   (Bublimating – 6000 m) and Hunza Peak (6,270 m).

In Hunza Valley , many beautiful trekking routes can take travelers to another world. Some of the most beautiful trekking routes are the Shimshal pass , Patundas trek , Batura Glacier trek, and many more.

So make sure this summer 2024 to travel to explore this fantastic place of Northern areas of Pakistan with your friends or someone special to have a wonderful time.

Rakaposhi View Point

First is Rakaposhi’s point of view. No matter where you are in Hunza, the massive Rakaposhi mountain can be seen from anywhere. In addition, the mountain is part of the Karakoram range, with an altitude of 7,788 meters. Rakaposhi means “shining wall.” The summit is surrounded by famous glaciers such as Barpu, Biro, Bagrot, and Pisan. Rakaposhi’s sunrises and sunsets are nothing short of a sight to behold.

In second place is Karimabad, the capital of Hunza province. The city is famous for its history as it was home to royalty. The city presents its oldest appearance with stone-built houses and streets. Some of Karimabad’s well-known attractions are Baltit Fort and Victoria Memorial Monument. In addition, Ultar Nala also falls in Karimabad.

Altit Fort 

Altit Fort is an ancient fort above Karimabad in the Hunza Valley. It was home to the hereditary rulers of Hunza, who received the title of Mir. Around 1100 years ago, Altit Fort was the residence of former princes. It is there now as a museum. Each fort is a masterpiece of architecture and craftsmanship. Refurbished by Agha Khan Culture Trust, the impressive design is a legacy for future generations. Altit Fort is not just a place but a legacy that has evolved.

Baltit Fort

Fort Baltit, another Hunza Valley fort, is a must-see. The fort’s foundations are said to be around 600 years old but have been rebuilt and altered over the centuries. The fairy-tale Baltit Fort above Karimabad is a Hunza landmark, built on giant legs with wooden windows overlooking the valley. Initially, it was used as the residence of Mers Hunza. Because of the opposition of the ruler’s two sons to the ruler, they were moved to a new place, Altit Fort.

Attabad lake 

Attabad Lake is one of the most amazing places in Hunza Valley. The crystal clear turquoise waters mesmerize anyone in the mighty Karakoram range. Impressive with its colors and charm in spring, it attracts many tourists every year. The lake is 13 miles long and approximately 358 feet deep. The lake has also been voted one of Pakistan’s best lakes due to its beauty.

Another wonder of the Nagar Valley in Hunza is Rush Lake. Also, Nagar is one of the most attractive valleys. Best of all, the mesmerizing colors of the Nagar Valley will never go unnoticed; nothing is more beautiful than simplicity. Rush Lake in Nagar Valley is an alpine lake with a surface elevation of nearly 4694 meters. Surrounded by huge mountains, the lake is considered the highest lake in Pakistan.

Sost Village

Sost is the last Hunza town on the border with China along the Karakoram Highway. The city is an essential point for all passenger and cargo traffic on the highway, as all traffic crossing the Pakistan-China border passes through the town. Along with the Khunjerab pass is the high mountain pass of the Karakoram range. In addition, the Khunjerab Trail also includes a national park where the rare snow leopard lives. It is an excellent symbol of friendship in Pakistan.

Here we go with the Gateway to the Karakorum mountain range on this list. Skardu valley lies in the Karakorum Range of Gilgit Baltistan in northern Pakistan. Being my favorite destination in the mountainous region of Pakistan, Skardu valley offers a lot to the wanderers that one can never expect and ever forget after visiting such places in northern areas of Pakistan. The road leading towards Skardu valley is supposed to be the world’s Eight wonders, as the way offers some breathtaking views and the danger of enormous landslides every time it receives rain. The valley has a rich culture and history with beautiful traditions. Likewise, culture and traditions are similar to Tibet. However, Skardu is the Baltistan in the Gilgit Baltistan region known as Little Tibet.

Best Places To Visit In Skardu

Skardu valley has a lot to offer for travelers to wander in the mountains to explore, as many places have not been visited. From the mighty mountains to the world’s highest desert, Skardu has everything for its lovers. Some of the best places to visit in Skardu valley are:

• Shangrila (Lower Kachura) Lake
• Upper Kachura Lake
• Kharpocho Fort
• Katpana Cold desert and Lake
• Shiger Cold Desert
• Shiger Valley and Fort
• Khaplu Valley and Palace
• Chaqchan Mosque
• Deosai National Park

However, as the Skardu valley is Gateway to Karakorum Mountains, it has many of the world’s most beautiful and astonishing trekking routes. Snow Lake (Lukpe Lawo), K2 Base Camp (Concordia), the Banak La, and many more are the most amazing. Furthermore, Skardu hosts the K2 (8,611 m) , the second-highest peak of the world, Broad elevation (8,047 m), Gasherbrum 1 (8,080 m), Gasherbrum 2 (8,035 m), and many more mighty and famous mountains. With all these rugged peaks in Skardu, it becomes the dream for the mountaineers to conquer. Thousands of mountaineers visit Pakistan yearly to try climbing these rugged peaks in Skardu valley. So make sure to journey in this place to visit northern areas of Pakistan this summer.

Name given to the heavenly beauty in this piece of land, Fairy meadows lie in the Far Himalayan mountains of Gilgit Baltistan in the northern areas of Pakistan. The destination is famous because of the dark alpine forest, lush green meadows in the center, and the tremendous mighty Nanga Parbat peak (8,126 m) at the front, making this one of the best places to visit in northern areas of Pakistan.

Nanga Parbat is known as The Killer Mountain, with the name listed as the Second in the Highest peak in Pakistan. On the other hand, the height is the Ninth Largest in the world. In the Fairy meadows, one can explore some beautiful regions by trekking towards Biyal Camp and the Base camp of Nanga Parbat .

Furthermore, Biyal Camp is known to be the first camp of Killer Mountain. To reach this Fairyland of Pakistan, one has to take the adventurous Jeep ride on the world’s most Dangerous Jeep track and then trek for around 3 hours through dense woods. The destinations get close during winter because of the heavy snowfall making it challenging to live there. This summer, put this destination on your travel list among other best places to visit in northern areas of Pakistan.

Lastly, we got a Ski resort, Naltar valley, in the Gilgit Baltistan of Northern Pakistan. The valley is full of lush greenery all around, with astonishing views. One can visit this destination by taxiing from Normal village for about 45 minutes. However, the weather remains cold in Naltar valley, with an elevation of 9,700 ft. It offers some beautiful destinations for travelers to visit. Some of the best to explore are Naltar lake 1 (Satrangi) , Pari lake, Blue Lake, and much more. In summer, a vast number of travelers come to visit such destinations to record in their memory. Furthermore, travelers enjoy the International Ski Festival in the valley in winter. Get this great destiny on your list of travel for summer 2024.

Final Thoughts

These were some of northern Pakistan’s most famous and best travel destinations that travelers should visit this summer of 2024. So set your backpack ready for 2024 and journey towards these unique destinations of astonishing Landscapes in northern Pakistan .

EXPLORE THE TOURS OFFERED BY SEE PAKISTAN TOURS

Want to learn more?

We’re here to help whether you need information or you already have a travel program.

Speak to our dedicated concierge team

+92 310 5436 581 [email protected]

Office E2, 5th Floor, Khalifa Heights, Chaklala Road near Committee Chowk, Rawalpindi

• Group Tours
• Hotels In Pakistan
• Car Rentals
• Destinations
• Naran Kaghan Tours

Facebook Customer Reviews

• +92 310 543 6581
• Enquire Now

14 things you need to know before traveling to Pakistan

Sep 2, 2023 • 9 min read

Pakistan offers amazing adventures but it pays to read up on the challenges © Dave Primov / Shutterstock

Pakistan is one of the world’s great surprises, with an incredible diversity of scenery – from the world’s biggest mountain glaciers to the sparkling waters of the Indus River – alongside some of the most beautiful forts, mosques and archaeological sites in the Subcontinent. It is the cultural bridge between India and Central Asia and home to some of the most hospitable people you’ll ever meet.

It would, however, be fair to say that Pakistan has a mixed reputation beyond its borders. The country is beset with economic, political and security problems, but much has changed security-wise in recent years. An incredible welcome is guaranteed here, but this is also a destination that requires a bit of research in order to travel with confidence. Start your planning with the following essential travel tips.

1. Choose the right season for the areas you are visiting

Travel in Pakistan is strongly affected by the seasons . The summer months of July and August are the best time to visit the high mountains of the Karakoram and Hindu Kush ranges in the north, but this is also the busiest time for domestic tourism and it’s incredibly hot elsewhere in the country. If you want to explore the center, south and west of the country, consider a visit in spring (April and May) or autumn (October and November), especially if you don’t plan on going trekking. October brings fabulous fall colors to places like the Hunza Valley, whereas winter (November to February) is the best time to explore central and southern Pakistan.

Festivals worth planning your trip around include the Shandur Polo Festival in the second weekend of July, held atop the mountain pass between Hunza and Chitral, and the Chilam Joshi spring festival in the Kalash Valley in mid-May.

2. You’ll probably need a visa and letter of invitation to visit Pakistan

Most foreigners need a visa to enter Pakistan but you can apply online through the immigration department’s slightly glitchy e-visa system . You will also need a letter of invitation from a local hotel, your Pakistani host or a Pakistani travel agent to secure a visa, so give yourself enough time to get this document in place. Even if you don't plan on taking a tour, travel agencies can provide a letter of invitation for a fee. Contact your local Pakistani embassy or high commission for the latest information. 

3. Be prepared for some challenges if you travel during Ramadan

The Muslim fasting month of Ramadan brings a specific set of challenges for travelers. Most Pakistani Muslims avoid eating or drinking between dawn and dusk during this holy month, and most restaurants close during the day, with offices often working reduced hours. You’ll need to be fairly self-sufficient when it comes to food during daylight hours and you should avoid eating in public during the fasting period. This said, evenings are especially lively during Ramadan, as the devout break their daily fast with blowouts in local restaurants.

The dates for Ramadan shift annually according to the Islamic lunar calendar and sightings of the moon, and the festival moves forward by 11 days each year, relative to the Gregorian calendar; in 2024, the festival should start around 10 March.

4. Get a Pakistani SIM card to use the local taxi apps

Public Wi-Fi is not all that common outside of larger cities in Pakistan, so it’s useful to bring an unlocked smartphone for mobile browsing. Buy a local SIM card from the main customer service center for your chosen operator, in whichever town you happen to be in. Travelers recommend Zong , Telenor or Jazz for central Pakistan, or the government-owned SCOM for the mountainous northern area of Gilgit-Baltistan .

With a local SIM and phone number, you should be able to use local taxi apps such as Uber and its local equivalent Careem , which will save you both time and money, compared to flagging down local taxis in big cities such as Islamabad and Lahore .

5. Bring plenty of photocopies of your passport

There are lots of checkpoints in Pakistan where you'll need to show your identity documents, so bring lots of photocopies of your passport’s information pages and Pakistan visa, and always travel with the original passport on your person. You’ll find yourself handing over these copies regularly on long-distance road trips, including when traveling on the Karakoram Highway . 

6. Enjoy the local hospitality (but don’t abuse it)

Culture and customs can vary widely as you move from region to region in Pakistan but in general, you’ll find most Pakistanis to be extremely friendly and hospitable. Conversations, cups of chai and even dinner invitations flow easily, and you can expect to participate in hundreds of selfies.

Hospitality is so integral to Pakistani culture that many locals feel obliged to offer to pay for a foreigner’s meal or bus tickets, even if money is short. You may have to turn down these invitations multiple times to avoid burdening anyone unnecessarily. If you do share a meal in Pakistan be sure to pass and accept food with your right hand only; the left hand should not be used for eating or shaking hands. 

7. Women travelers might face some challenges in Pakistan

For the most part, Pakistan is a conservative, male-dominated society, and this can pose some challenges for female travelers. Women and men don’t mix much in public, and women generally sit in segregated areas on public buses and trains and, often, in restaurants. Attitudes towards foreign women can be protective and curious but women traveling alone may face some suspicion, and sexual harassment can sometimes be a risk in crowds. Special rules for women also apply at some religious sites.

For solo women travelers traveling through Pakistan, it helps to already have some experience of travel in other Islamic countries. Women traveling with a male companion generally face fewer obstacles. On the plus side, women travelers can gain insights into family dynamics and the lives of Pakistani women, which are completely off-limits to male travelers. And in some situations, foreign women may have unique access to both the male and female worlds.

8. Invest in a shalwar kameez to travel like a local

Pakistan’s national dress is the shalwar kameez , a garnet resembling a long shirt worn over wide, baggy trousers, popular with both men and women. It's worth investing in a set if you are going to be traveling for any length of time in Pakistan. The shalwar kameez is supremely practical and comfortable in this climate – you’ll also blend in nicely with the crowd, and locals will respect you for sharing in their culture. Women should also add a dupatta scarf to cover their hair when visiting mosques and other religious sites.

9. Dial down public displays of affection

Many Pakistanis are socially conservative, and public displays of affection between men and women – including kissing, touching and even holding hands in public – are frowned on. Attitudes towards LGBTIQ+ people can also be quite negative, and same-sex relationships are illegal, so Pakistan is not a good place for openly  LGBTIQ+ people to travel . It is not unusual for Pakistani men to hold hands or drape arms around each other, but this is generally platonic. 

10. Treat bargaining as a lighthearted sport

Haggling is acceptable, commonplace and often necessary in Pakistan, but it is best approached as a lighthearted social exchange rather than a life-or-death struggle, as some travelers treat it when traveling in Asia. The goal is for both purchaser and seller to walk away happy. 

When bargaining, respond to the first price quoted with a lower offer, then work back and forth until you reach a price you can both agree on. If you can afford it, avoid haggling over small sums – local people are often poorly paid and financially insecure, and overpaying by a few rupees won’t make a big dent in your wallet.  

11. Be aware of the no-go areas

The security situation can vary widely as you travel around Pakistan. Potentially dicey areas include parts of rural Sindh, some neighborhoods in Karachi , the area of Indus Kohistan close to Abbottabad (where Osama Bin Laden lived in hiding until 2011), parts of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa province bordering Afghanistan , and all of Baluchistan and Azad Kashmir provinces.

In general, you are unlikely to stumble into a danger zone because foreigners require a No Objection Certificate (NOC) to visit such places, and you won’t be given one of these without excellent local contacts. The safest parts of the country are central Punjab Province and the area north of Gilgit, extending as far as the Chinese border along the Karakoram Highway . Check out the latest travel advisory information from your home government before you travel. 

While the risk is small, terrorist attacks and kidnappings do take place in Pakistan, and street crime can be an issue in parts of Karachi. Stay alert, exercise caution, and heed local advice on problem areas. Be aware that Sufi and Shia shrines are sometimes targeted by extremists, so visiting these locations can bring a slightly elevated risk.

12. Don’t panic if you get an armed escort

The Pakistani government is keen to protect the nation’s tourism industry, and officials sometimes insist that tourists take an armed guard to visit certain locations. You don’t have to pay for these guards, but the use of their services is mandatory. 

Some travelers find the guards somewhat constraining but their presence is usually just a precaution. You may be given a police escort in places such as Swat, the Kalash Valley and the scenic Fairy Meadows hiking area (on the northern flanks of Nanga Parbat peak).

13. Get travel insurance (and read the small print)

Good travel insurance is important for travel to Pakistan, but be aware that most policies won’t cover you for areas where your home government advises "against all travel." For example, in 2023, the British Foreign & Commonwealth Office was advising against all travel to Swat and Peshawar, amongst other destinations. Check the latest government travel advisories for up-to-date information and plan your itinerary accordingly.  

14. Give some thought to potential problems before you come

Beyond security issues, natural disasters such as flooding and earthquakes are unfortunately common at times in Pakistan, while power cuts are a smaller but more frequent occurrence. Monitor the local and international media for news on problem areas, and if you get caught in a natural disaster, follow the guidance of the authorities.

In terms of personal health, intestinal problems are the most common complaints among foreign tourists; the two golden rules are don’t drink the tap water and be wary of pre-cooked food. Eating from busy stalls and restaurants where food is freshly cooked is the way to go. 

Explore related stories

Destination Practicalities

Oct 15, 2023 • 3 min read

Here’s our guide to navigating the entry requirements for visiting Sri Lanka as a tourist, with information on visa types, costs and how to apply for one.

Sep 4, 2023 • 6 min read

Aug 24, 2023 • 6 min read

Aug 13, 2023 • 7 min read

Feb 8, 2020 • 2 min read

Dec 20, 2023 • 7 min read

Dec 16, 2023 • 12 min read

Dec 5, 2023 • 4 min read

Sep 3, 2023 • 10 min read

Aug 30, 2023 • 12 min read

Top 10 Places to Visit in Northern Areas of Pakistan

Travelers from all over the world flock to Pakistan’s northern regions. The government has removed all travel barriers for travelers from all across the world. As a consequence, a large number of travelers from all over the globe are expected to visit the friendliest country in the world, which is gifted with wonderful scenery, in the summer of 2024. In this blog we will discuss about best places to visit in northern areas of Pakistan. 

In these northern areas, people want to do business as these are the major tourist attractions all around the world , If you also want to do business then checkout some of the best business ideas in Pakistan   that will help you make a massive income.

Northern Areas of Pakistan Map:

For instance Realtorspk.com present the map of northern areas of pakistan in which we highlighted the information of roads, hotels, distance and travel time of major tourist spots and list of facilitation centers. Let’s have a look:

Download: Map of Northern Areas of Pakistan

The beautiful landscapes of Pakistan are a treat to see, from the wonderful high mountains to the valleys underneath. Some of the beautiful northern areas are listed below:

Here is the List of Top 10 Northern Areas of Pakistan to Visit:

1.  naran kaghan.

In Pakistan’s northern regions, Naran Kaghan is the most popular area. The valley is encircled by lush green mountains and deep snow-capped forests, creating a lovely impact for those exploring Himalayan landscapes. The valley is located in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Himalayan Mountains. Because of significant snowfall in Pakistan’s northern areas, the Naran valleys are only available for a brief time during the summers. From October to April (Winter season), the valley is closed due to heavy snowfall. As the route becomes obstructed and buried in several feet of snow. In any event, Naran Valley is a famous voyaging destination. For Pakistani visitors and families, Naran is typically a close second to Murree.

In these northern areas there are many best places for investment in real estate but you need many things to consider before investing in Real Estate and then plan to invest .

The Naran Kaghan valley in the Himalayan Mountains of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Pakistan is at the top of the list of the greatest destinations in Pakistan’s northern territories. The Naran valleys remain open for a few months to provide some of nature’s most breathtaking sights. Due to significant snowfall in Pakistan’s northern areas, the valley is blocked throughout the winter months from October to April. Due to avalanches from the mountains, the route leading to the valley is blocked. However, among local tourists, Naran Valley is one of the most well-known tourist destinations in Pakistan’s northern regions. Every year, a large number of people visit this spot with their friends, family, and loved ones in order to record the greatest memories possible. Also read our blog on best restaurants In Peshawar .

The Himalayan valleys are surrounded by lush green mountains and deep alpine forests, creating a magnificent impression on visitors. There’s plenty more to see and do in Naran’s valley, including the fairytale Saif Ul Malook Lake, a hike to Ansoo Lake, Lulusar Lake, Queen Dudipatsar Lake, and Babusar Top (4,173 m). Hence, create a plan for the summer of 2021 and embark on a tour to discover Naran Valley, as well as other beautiful locations in northern Pakistan.

2. Hunza Valley

The massive and colourful Hunza Valley, far in the Gilgit Baltistan area near the China border, is located in the mountains of Northern Pakistan. Hunza Valley is one of Pakistan’s most picturesque tourist destinations in the north. Hunza Valley has been providing history and culture, as well as colourful customs, to its visitors for many years. Aside from historical and cultural attractions, the Hunza Valley is well-known among travellers all over the world for its vast natural beauty, which has a powerful impression on the minds of visitors. The valley, on the other hand, has a lot more to offer.

Apart from Beauty of northern areas , also checkout our blog on provinces of Pakistan and historical places in Pakistan .

3. Skardu Valley

Skardu Valley is located in Gilgit Baltistan’s Karakorum Range, in far northern Pakistan. Skardu valley, my favourite location in Pakistan’s mountainous region, gives a lot to travelers that one can never expect or forget after visiting such places in Pakistan’s northern regions. The road leading to Skardu Valley is said to be the World’s Eighth Wonder, as it offers some spectacular vistas as well as the threat of a massive avalanche every time it rains. The valley has a rich cultural and historical heritage, as well as lovely customs. Tibet’s culture and traditions are also comparable. Skardu, on the other hand, lies in the Baltistan area of Gilgit Baltistan, sometimes known as Little Tibet.

In these northern , there are also many small shopping malls , If you want to invest in these shopping malls then checkout some of benefits of investing in Shopping Malls before investing in any shopping mall.

Skardu valley has a lot to offer those who want to roam through the mountains and explore some of the sites that have yet to be explored. Skardu has it all for its loves, from huge mountains to the world’s highest desert it also contains the beautiful lakes of Pakistan . The following are some of the top sites to visit in Skardu Valley:

• Lake Shangrila (Lower Kachura)
• Lake Kachura (Upper)
• Fort Kharpocho
• Katpana is a cold desert with a lake.
• Shiger Desert 
• Fort Shiger and Shiger Valley
• Valley of Khaplu and Palace
• Mosque of Chaqchan
• National Park of Deosai

However, being the gateway to the Karakorum Mountains, the Skardu valley offers several of the world’s most magnificent and amazing trekking paths. Snow Lake journey, K2 Base Camp (Concordia) trek, Banak La trek, and many more are among the most magnificent.

So Skardu is third in our list of northern areas of Pakistan .

4. Naltar Valley

The valley is surrounded by lush foliage and offers breathtaking vistas. This site may be reached by taking a 45-minute jeep trip from Normal village. However, due to its elevation of 9,700 feet, the temperature in Naltar valley stays frigid. It has a number of attractive places for tourists to visit. Naltar Lake 1 (Satrangi), Pari Lake, Blue Lake, and others are among the finest to visit. During the summer, a large number of tourists flock to such locations to capture their memories. Moreover, throughout the winter, visitors may attend the International Ski Festival in the valley. Make this beautiful destination a part of your summer 2022  trip plans.

As mentioned earlier that there  are many good real estate investment opportunities in these areas but there are many factors affecting real estate market in Pakistan , so you need to consider these factors before investing in real estate.

So Naltar valley is in fourth position in our list of northern areas of Pakistan

Places to visit in Murree :

• Pindi Point
• Kashmir Point
• Upper Topa 

Murree is located near Islamabad , and Islamabad is one the beautiful cities in the world , If you have plans to live in Islamabad in future then checkout some of the best Housing Societies in Islamabad where you can buy a property.

So Murree is on fifth number in our list of northern areas of Pakistan

6. Kumrat Valley

Kumrat is known for its verdant meadows, snow-capped mountains, the Panjkora River, misty mounds, and woodlands, all serving as homes for a diverse range of flora and wildlife. It is worth noting that the Panjkora River is undoubtedly one of the most significant  rivers in Pakistan , which flows through the province of KPK.

For the past few years, the Kumrat Valley’s distinctive selling offer has been its tall Deodar forest trees situated on flat terrain near to the Panjkora river.

This areas lies in KPK near Peshawar and If you want to live in Peshawar then checkout some of the best real estate companies in Peshawar and invest in their residential projects .

Despite the fact that the valley is less green than the Neelam Valley as a whole, the distinctive fairytale mood created by the Deodar trees has attracted tourists for numerous years.

Chitral is a famous city located on the Chitral River in the northern Chitral District in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The city is well-known for its vibrant culture, festivals, scenic views, and traditions. The beauty of the city is enhanced by the beautiful mountain range of Hindukush that surrounds the area.

Chitral covers around 57 km of area (22 sq. mi) at an elevation of 1,490 meters (4,900 feet). Many tourist points make Chitral an attractive place to visit. Chitral Museum is enlisted among the most visited  National Museums in Pakistan . Some of the attractive tourist points in Chitral are:

• Ayun Valley
• Chitral National Park
• Bamburat Valley
• Kalash Valley
• Shandur Lake & Top
• Tirch Mir Peak

Chitral is also famous for the historical role it played at the time of the Kashmir war. If you plan to visit a beautiful place enriched with breathtaking views and historical background in Pakistan, Chitral is a must-visit place.

8. Swat Valley

Swat Valley is one of the most beautiful places in Pakistan. The Valley surrounds stunning views, mesmerizing river Swat, and different tourist points. The Valley is visited by tourists worldwide, and it is known as the true beauty of Pakistan.

It is said that Queen Elizabeth II visited Swat in 1961 and gave it the title of Switzerland of the east as its landscapes are similar and equally beautiful to Switzerland. Swat is one of the most visited valleys in the northern areas of Pakistan.

The Valley is situated along with Swat River in KPK. Mingora is the chief town of the valley, and Saidu Sharif is the capital. The Valley features pleasant weather, eye-catchy lakes, high peak mountains, spring, waterfalls, etc. Visitors can enjoy the view of the beautiful mountain ranges of Pakistan from Swat Valley.

Apart from views, many activities are enjoyed by tourists and visitors, like hiking, zip-lining, chairlift riding, and trekking. In winter, people enjoy skiing, ice skating, and sledding. Many people come here to fish in natural lakes.

If you are looking for a family fun trip in a cool and peaceful atmosphere, you will find Swat among the best northern areas to visit in Pakistan.

9. Neelum Valley

There is no doubt that the most beautiful mountains in Pakistan lie in Kashmir, and Neelum Valley is known as the paradise of Kashmir. The Valley contains hills, rivers, forests, and streams. Neelum Valley is also famous for its abundant fruits like apples, walnut, and plum. Among many famous places of Neelum Valley are Kutton Valley, Sharda Valley, Arrang Kel, and Ratti Gali. Sharda Valley has the remains of the oldest university, known as Sharada Peeth. This university was famous as a temple university between the 6th and 12th centuries CE. Today, it is included in the  historical places of Pakistan .

10. Malam Jabba

Malam Jabba is a must-visit place in northern areas of Pakistan list. Malam Jabba is a hill station in the Valley of Swat in the peaks of the Hindukush range. The Valley is known for its lush green surrounding, deep rivers, and high mountains. Malam Jabba is a renowned ski resort built by Pakistan in collaboration with Austria. There are many luxury hotels in its surroundings, including Rock City Resort, Green Palace guest house, and Pearl Continental hotel.

Which mountain is situated in the northern areas of Pakistan?

In northwest Pakistan, there is a mountain range called the Hindu Kush. It is one of the largest mountain ranges in Pakistan. Most parts of the Hindukush mountain are located in the northern areas of Pakistan.

What are northern areas of Pakistan famous for?

The Northern Areas of Pakistan are famous as three world’s famous mountain ranges meet here. It includes Hindukush, Karakorams, and the Himalayas. Many mountains of these three ranges are located in northern Pakistan.

Summing Up:

The northern areas are a great place to visit. Without a doubt, there are so many interesting places and landscapes to explore that one can never get tired of. From Hunza to Naran Kaghan to the deep valleys of the northern mountains. The people are extremely friendly and they can guide you to a number of unique spots to visit. The beauty of Pakistan can be seen in these beautiful places. Also read our blog on famous dams in Pakistan

Read More related Blogs:

• Construction companies in Pakistan
• Historical places in Peshawar
• Real Estate Projects in Peshawar
• Real estate marketing ideas
• Construction Cost of 3 Marla, 5 Marla, 10 Marla, and 1 Kanal House in Pakistan
• Plot Size Conversions in Pakistan
• Best cities to invest in Pakistan
• Motorways and Highways of Pakistan
• Commercial areas to invest in Peshawar
• Malls in Islamabad
• Parks in Peshawar
• Floor plan for 5 marla house

Realtors Blog

Discover insightful articles, tips, and expert advice on real estate trends, buying and selling properties, home improvement, and more on the Realtorspk Blog

Bill Gates Arrives in Pakistan, Meets PM Imran During First-Ever Visit

Pakistan's Exports About to Hit $38 Billion

You may also like

List of Top 5 Shopping Malls In Peshawar

Punjab Government has started development work on Southern Loop of Ring Road

اسٹیٹ بینک آف پاکستان نے ہجری سال 43-1442 کے لیے زکوٰۃ کا نصاب مقرر کردیا۔

Punjab gets its first Eco-Friendly Road in Lahore

How to Check NTN Number Online

Commerce Minister Announces Tariff Reforms for Boosting Trade Competitiveness

PM Establishes Committee to Address Track and Trace System Delays

World Bank Cites Governance and Financial Management Issues with Pakistan’s Sovereign Wealth Fund

Government to Introduce Pakistan Honor Card Scheme for Top Taxpayers

• phone_in_talk +1-512-549-4070
• email [email protected]
• account_circle Register
• shopping_cart Cart

Cart is Empty

Places to visit in Pakistan

Explore pakistan’s diverse wonders: a comprehensive travel guide.

Pakistan, located in South Asia, is a treasure trove of diverse beauty and cultures. Comprising five incredible provinces, it shares borders with India, Afghanistan, Iran, and China. Moreover, this richly historical nation offers countless places to visit and experience, making it an ideal destination for those seeking both cultural enrichment and adventure. There are several places to visit in Pakistan we will walk you through in the blog check with Discover Pakistan. You will find your favorite destinations without a doubt here.

There are some affiliate links where I can make a little commission from these see Disclaimer.

Historical Marvels in the Plains to Visit in Pakistan

The plains of Pakistan unfold dynamic historical sites, inviting visitors to delve into ancient and modern history.  Therefore, from the bustling city of Karachi on the southern coast to Lahore, known for its rich history and iconic landmarks like the Lahore Fort and Badshahi Mosque. Above all, there’s no shortage of cultural exploration. The capital city, Islamabad, boasts modern attractions like the Faisal Mosque and Rawal Lake. Meanwhile, Peshawar, the City of Flowers, showcases its history through the Qissa Khawani Bazaar and the Mahabat Khan Mosque. Peshawar is the best place to visit in Pakistan.

Mountainous North Pakistan is the best place to visit in Pakistan for Adventure Lovers

 Venturing into the northern areas reveals breathtaking natural beauty, with stunning mountain ranges, valleys, and lakes.  Especially, destinations like Hunza Valley, Naran, Kaghan Valley, Ghizer, and Skardu offer opportunities for trekking, camping, and sightseeing amidst the local culture. In addition, to five of the world’s above 8,000 meters peaks, the northern regions are a haven for adventure seekers. Travel to these five base camps adds to the joys of visiting the best places in Pakistan. A Part of these is our adventure holiday destinations like K2 Base Camp Trek and there are many more.

Other Must-Visit Destinations in Pakistan

Beyond these, explore the ancient city of Taxila, the wildlife wonders of Hingol National Park, and the surreal Khewra Salt Mine. Pakistan, with its cultural, historical, and natural splendors, promises an unforgettable experience for every traveler. Doubtlessly, you will enjoy visiting these best places in Pakistan in your life.

Accommodation Options Across the best places to visit in Pakistan

To ensure a comfortable stay, Pakistan provides a range of accommodation options catering to various budgets and preferences. Luxurious stays at Serena Hotel (Islamabad), Pearl Continental (Lahore), and Marriott Hotel (Karachi) offer top-notch amenities for those seeking indulgence.

Budget-conscious travelers can explore affordable guesthouses and hostels such as Envoy Hostel and Islamabad Backpackers Hostel. Remote regions offer traditional Pakistani guesthouses like Fairy Meadows Cottages and homestays like Kalash Guest House for a closer experience of local culture.

For nature enthusiasts, eco-lodges like Shangrila Resort (Skardu) and Eagle’s Nest (Hunza) provide a unique blend of comfort and immersion in the stunning landscapes.

Travel Insurance in Pakistan to visit Safely and is essential for travel anywhere

Nobody travels intending to get sick, wounded, or worse. However, being ready with the right travel insurance might spare you and your loved ones from having to cover unforeseen medical expenses or missed trip expenses.

Your current health insurance probably won’t cover you if you leave the country if you work for a company.

Travel health insurance helps you pay for medical expenses if your trip is cancelled or delayed in addition to covering illnesses or accidents that happen while you’re away. could even help with misplaced or stolen/lost luggage. For this, you can check with SafetyWing Travel Insurance. Their benefits and coverages are best fit for travelers worldwide. Go for it without hassle.

If you are a worldwide traveler find your best booking site here.

Book your ride anywhere you go by clicking here.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Best Places to Visit in Pakistan.

Why is Pakistan the best to visit?

 Pakistan is the best place to visit due to its incredible destinations for a memorable holiday experience.

Which is the most visited place in Pakistan?

 Lahore, with its rich history and iconic landmarks, is the most visited place in Pakistan.

What are the most beautiful places in Pakistan?

Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, Hunza, and Chitral are among the most beautiful places in Pakistan.

What makes Pakistan the best country for adventure lovers?

The high mountains of Pakistan make it the ultimate adventure destination globally.

How can I book my trip to Pakistan to see the best places?

Discover Pakistan is the best travel agency that curates the best tour packages with attractive prices looking at your budget and interest.

Contact us without hesitation with your queries.

In concluding our exploration of Pakistan’s myriad wonders, it becomes evident that this South Asian gem is an unparalleled destination for travelers seeking a harmonious blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. From the bustling streets of Karachi to the historical richness of Lahore, the modern allure of Islamabad, and the breathtaking landscapes of northern Pakistan, every corner offers a unique tapestry of experiences.

The accommodation options, ranging from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses and eco-lodges, cater to the diverse preferences of visitors. Pakistan’s warmth extends beyond its landscapes, reaching the hearts of travelers through the hospitality of its people.

As you plan your journey with Discover Pakistan, rest assured that every step unveils a new facet of this enchanting nation. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a history enthusiast, or someone longing for serene natural retreats, Pakistan invites you to embrace an unforgettable adventure.

In the end, it’s not merely about visiting places; it’s about immersing oneself in a cultural mosaic, discovering history, and forging memories that last a lifetime. Stay connected with Discover Pakistan, your gateway to the wonders of this remarkable nation, and embark on a journey that transcends the ordinary. Pakistan awaits, ready to unfold its secrets and stories to those willing to explore.

We offer attractive tour Packages in Pakistan with your budget interest. Reach us at Discover Pakistan.

LEAVE A COMMENT Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

By subscribing to our newsletter, you will receive regular updates, travel tips, special offers, and exclusive content from Discover Pakistan.

No thanks, I’m not interested.

When is Eid al-Fitr 2024 and how is it celebrated?

The three-day festival celebrates the completion of the fasting month of Ramadan by Muslims across the world.

As a new moon was not sighted on Monday evening after Maghrib prayers, Muslims in Saudi Arabia and neighbouring countries will fast one more day, completing 30 days of Ramadan. The first day of Eid will then be celebrated on Wednesday, April 10.

The first day of Eid al-Fitr is determined by the sighting of the crescent moon marking the start of the month of Shawwal, the 10th month of the Islamic (Hijri) calendar.

Keep reading

A ramadan no palestinian will ever forget, the cost of a ramadan iftar meal around the world, ramadan 2024: where do your dates come from, in washington, dc: celebrating ramadan, protesting israel’s siege of gaza.

Lunar months last between 29 and 30 days so Muslims usually have to wait until the night before Eid to verify its date.

Other countries follow independent sightings.

When the sighting has been verified, Eid is declared on television, radio stations and at mosques.

How do Muslims celebrate Eid?

Traditionally, Eid is celebrated for three days as an official holiday in Muslim-majority countries. However, the number of holiday days varies by country.

Muslims begin Eid day celebrations by partaking in a prayer service that takes place shortly after dawn, followed by a short sermon.

On their way to the prayer, which is traditionally held in an open area, Muslims recite takbeerat, praising God by saying “Allahu Akbar”, meaning “God is great”.

It is customary to eat something sweet before the prayer, such as date -filled biscuits known as maamoul in the Middle East. This particular festival is known as the “sweet” Eid – and the distribution of sweets is common across the Muslim world.

Muslims usually spend the day visiting relatives and neighbours and accepting sweets as they move around from house to house.

Each country has traditional desserts and sweets that are prepared before Eid or on the morning of the first day.

Children, dressed in new clothes, are offered gifts and money to celebrate the joyous occasion.

Girls and women in many countries decorate their hands with henna. The celebration for Eid begins the night before as women gather in neighbourhoods and large family gatherings for the application of henna.

In some countries, families visit graveyards to offer their respects to departed family members right after the morning prayers.

It is common for Muslim-majority countries to decorate their cities with lights and hold festivities to commemorate the end of the fasting month.

Eid amid the onslaught in Gaza

For some 2.3 million Palestinians in Gaza this Eid, this will be the first Muslim religious holiday after more than 33,000 people have been killed in Israeli attacks. With little food aid, and very limited water, Gaza’s Eid al-Fitr will be mired in destruction amid the continuing attacks.

What are common Eid greetings?

The most popular greeting is “Eid Mubarak” (Blessed Eid) or “Eid sa’id” (Happy Eid). Eid greetings also vary depending on the country and language.

The video below shows how people say Eid Mubarak in different languages around the world.