Places to visit in Northern Areas of Pakistan

Introduction:

Pakistan’s northern areas are a treasure trove of natural beauty, drawing visitors from across the globe with their stunning landscapes. This region is located among the magnificent peaks of the Himalayas and Karakoram ranges and offers calm lakes, beautiful valleys, and a peaceful escape for nature lovers.

What sets the northern areas apart is not just the natural beauty – it’s the warmth and hospitality of the local people. Visitors are often overwhelmed by the genuine friendliness and welcoming nature of the residents, making their trip not just about sightseeing, but also about cultural experiences.

Best Places of Northern Areas.

The Northern Areas of Pakistan are home to some of the most breathtaking places in the world, like the serene Hunza Valley and the stunning Skardu, each offering unique landscapes and cultural experiences.

Let us show you some of the beautiful places which you should visit on your next tour. 

Valleys:

The valleys in Northern Pakistan, such as Swat, Hunza, and Naran Kaghan, are known for their lush greenery, towering mountains, and peaceful rivers, making them perfect spots for nature lovers and adventurers. These places should be the first ones on your bucket list to visit

1. Chitral Valley

Chitral Valley, located in the northernmost part of Pakistan, is a peaceful and culturally rich region surrounded by the high peaks of the Hindu Kush mountains. The valley is home to the Kalash people, known for their distinct traditions and vibrant festivals. Chitral offers breathtaking landscapes, with lush greenery, crystal-clear rivers, and opportunities for trekking and mountaineering. The Chitral Valley’s unique combination of natural beauty and cultural heritage makes it a must-visit destination for those exploring the Northern Areas of Pakistan.

About The Kalash people: 

They are known for their polytheistic beliefs, vibrant festivals, and unique traditional clothing, which features bright colors and detailed embroidery. The Kalash people’s culture is rich in rituals, music, and dance, particularly during their seasonal festivals like Chilam Joshi, Uchal, and Choimus Festival. These festivals occur on the following dates: 

• Chilam Joshi Festival: May 14-16.
• Uchal Festival: August 20-22.
• Choimus Festival (Chitirmas): December 14-16.

Despite their small population, the Kalash have kept their cultural identity and continue to fascinate visitors with their charming way of life.

2. Swat Valley

Swat Valley, often referred to as the “Switzerland of the East,” is a beautiful region in Northern Pakistan, just like Chitral Valley Swat Valley has its own Beautiful Natural beauty, Green Mountains, and Srinkling rivers. The valley offers a mix of natural beauty and historical significance, with ancient Buddhist stupas and calm landscapes that attract both nature lovers and history lovers. The upper areas of the region are relatively colder and often get snowfall in the winter. Swat Valley is also a popular destination for adventure activities like hiking and skiing, making it a year-round attraction for tourists.

Recommended Places to Visit in Swat Valley:

1. Fizagat
2. Saidu Sharif
3. Mingora
4. Kalam
5. Madyan
6. Mahodand Lake

3. Azad Jammu & Kashmir

Azad Jammu & Kashmir is a region of lovely natural beauty, it is located in northeast Pakistan. The northern part of Azad Jammu and Kashmir contains the lower part of the Himalayas, including Jamgarh Peak. However, Sarwali Peak in the Neelum Valley is the highest peak in the state. Fertile, greenery and mountainous valleys are characteristic of Azad Kashmir’s landscape, making it one of the most beautiful regions. One of the most beautiful places in Azad Jammu & Kashmir (AJK) is Neelam Valley, which is surrounded by forests and freshwater streams. River Jhelum and Neelam lead to the biggest city of Jammu and Kashmir, Muzaffarabad. The view of the river between the mountains can be enjoyed from a high peak. It’s an outstanding point for spending your weekends with friends and family.

Recommended Places to Visit in Azad Jammu & Kashmir:

1. Neelum Valley
2. Mirpur
3. Kel
4. Rawalakot
5. Muzaffarabad
6. Ratti Gali Lake
7. Gurez Valley (Kel to Taobat)

4. Naltar Valley

Naltar Valley, Located in the Gilgit-Baltistan region of Northern Pakistan, is a hidden gem known for its colorful lakes, dense pine forests, and peaceful landscapes. The Valley has gained popularity because of its untouched Natural beauty among the tourists. The valley is home to small, close-knit communities that primarily engage in farming and livestock rearing. 

Naltar Valley is famous for its stunning lakes, such as Satrangi Lake (Rainbow Lake), Bodlok Lake, and Blue Lake, which are surrounded by mountain peaks and are a perfect place for nature lovers.

Recommended Places to Visit in Naltar Valley:

1. Naltar Lake 
2. Naltar Valley 
3. Naltar Ski Resort

5. Naran Kaghan

Naran Kaghan, located in the Mansehra district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, This region is probably the most famous tourist destination in Northern Areas of Pakistan among tourists. We recommend visiting Naran Kaghan in Summer for enjoyable weather, But if you are a snow lover, chances are that you may experience that in winter.

Naran is famous for Lake Saiful Malook with emerald-green waters which is about 7 kilometers away from Naran, an excellent point of attraction for tourists. This beautiful lake is surrounded by high mountains and covered with snow giving it a beautiful colorful natural experience for tourists.

Recommended Places to Visit in Naran Kaghan:

1. Shogran
2. Siri Paye
3. Kaghan
4. Naran
5. Saiful Malook Lake
6. Babusar Top 
7. Lulusar Lake
8. Ansoo lake

6. Fairy Meadows

Fairy Meadows, located near the base of Nanga Parbat in Gilgit-Baltistan, Fairy Meadows has the world’s nine highest peaks Naga Parbat is covered in snow and greenery, giving it a paradise feel. Fairy Meadow is preferably for those who love camping under the stars and for those who love hiking because you will find Mountains throughout the region.

Best Places of Baltistan

1. Ghanche

Ghanche, located in the Gilgit-Baltistan region of Pakistan, is Located along the borders of Tibet and India. Dosai National Park is a beautiful Park that is famous for its diverse wildlife and wildflowers. The region has some beautiful roads covered with yellow leaves fallen from trees giving it a romantic feel.  

Recommended places to visit in Ghanche:

• Barah valley
• Keris Valley View Point (Chanma)
• Astana Mir Mukhtar Keris (Tomb)
• Yabgo palace Keris
• Jerba So Keris (Lake)
• Khashal Agri Tourism Park Ghowari
• Dongsa Rock View Point Kuro

2. Shigar

Shigar is located in the heart of Gilgit-Baltistan, 20 minutes’ drive from Skardu. This hidden gem is famous for the iconic Shigar Fort, Amburik Mosque

Khanqah-e-Muallah Shigar is a stunning example of ancient Balti architecture and proof of the region’s rich heritage. You will be also able to experience the wide grounds filled with water with white sand and yellow grass from the bird’s eye.

Recommended places to visit in Shigar:

1. Amburiq Mosque 
2. Blind Lake Shigar
3. Khilingrong Mosque

3. Kharmang

Kharmang, a lesser-known district in Gilgit-Baltistan, 120 kilometers away from Skardu.

The Waterfall from the mountains streaming between the two mountains gives it a most pleasant experience.

Kharmang is also famous for the ancient Chaqchan Mosque which is made of wood and reflects the Iamic, and ancient heritage of Kharmang. Tourists can experience the small village and culture of the Khamrang which still exists.

Recommended places to visit in Kharmang:

1. Khamush waterfall
2. Ghandus Lake
3. Manthokha Waterfall
4. Kharman Pari Valley

4. Skardu

Skardu is a major town in Gilgit-Baltistan. If you love high mountains then Skardu will be the place for you because it has the world most highest mountains K2 covered with snow. You can reach Skardu via PIA flights directly to Sarkdu and experience the region from above the sky as well. Skaradu is a home of beautiful lakes such as Shangrila (Lower Kachura) and Upper Kachura, which offer calm reflections of the mighty high mountains of Skardu. Skardu is for those who want to relax and have some adventure you will be able to find both in Skardu. 

Recommended places to Visit in Skardu: 

1. Skardu Fort
2. Satpara Lake
3. Shangrila Lake
4. Shigar Valley
5. Khaplu Valley
6. Narsok village

Best Places in Gilgit

1. Ghizer

Ghizer, located in the northern part of Gilgit-Baltistan, Ghizer area has lush green valleys, high peaks covered with snow, and clear rivers, this region offers stunning views and a peaceful environment. Tourists can explore beautiful spots like the Phander Lake known for its Clyster clear water. You can also visit Ishkoman Valley with its rich culture and ancient heritage.

Places to visit when visiting Ghizer:

1. Phander Lake
2. Karambar Lake
3. Broghil Valley National Park
4. Khalti Lake

2. Hunza

Hunza, situated in Gilgit-Baltistan, is one of Pakistan’s most beautiful and famous tourist destinations. This valley is surrounded by High mountains, including the iconic Rakaposhi and Ultar Sar. The area is known for its beautiful wide fields, clear rivers, and lovely landscapes, including the famous Attabad Lake, which was formed after a landslide in 2010 and now attracts visitors with its crystal clear waters. Hunza’s combination of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and warm hospitality makes it an ideal destination for tourists looking to experience the best of Northern areas of Pakistan.

Recommended Places to Visit in Hunza:

1. Baltit Fort Hunza
2. Attabad Lake
3. Altit Fort
4. Nagar Valley

3. Nagar

Nagar, located in Gilgit-Baltistan near the town of Hunza, has some famous peaks that offer a spectacular site covered in thick snow. One of these peaks is Rakaposhi Peaks which lies in the Karakoram Mountain range. The mountains in Nagar are even more beautiful with glaciers adding to the stunning scenery. Nagar is also famous for the high-altitude Rush Lake, with its clear, dark blue water offering a spectacular view of the mountains.

4. Gupis-Yasin

The Yasin Valley is located in the Gupis Yasin district, towards the east of Ishkoman. It is a part of Gilgit Baltistan and is known for its large rocks and clean blue water streams. The land in the valley is fertile and well-irrigated due to its proximity to the river.

Key spots to visit in Gupis-Yasin include the beautiful Yasin Valley, with its calm meadows and traditional villages, and the beautiful Gupis Valley, which is known for its charming landscape and clear waters.

Some Important Things to be remembered:

1. When to Visit

Summer is the best season for a trip here. The weather’s just right – not too hot, not too cold. It’s when the snow falls, showing all the gorgeous greenery. But, if you are a winter person, then be fully prepared for snow and cold weather!

2. Getting to Northern Areas

Most international visitors fly into Islamabad and then take domestic flights to places like Gilgit or Skardu. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the famous Karakoram Highway for an unforgettable road trip. Within the Northern Areas, you can hire local drivers or join tour groups to get around.

3. Money

Bring some cash with you, as ATMs can be hard to find in remote areas. Major towns will have banks where you can exchange currency. Pakistani Rupee is the way to go here.

4. Stay Safe and Healthy

The mountains are beautiful but can be tricky. Always check weather reports before heading out. Drink bottled water and pack some altitude sickness medications if you’re not used to high places.

Wrapping Up: 

Pakistan’s Northern Areas are absolutely astonishing, which is peaceful food for the soul. From the high peaks of the northern mountains to the hospitality of Pakistani people and warm smiles, this place has it all. Whether you’re an adventure, a cultural, or just need some chill time in nature, you’ll find your happy place here.

So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, charge your camera, and get ready for the trip of a lifetime in the Northern areas of Pakistan!

Remember, folks, to leave behind only footprints and take with you nothing but beautiful memories (and perhaps a handful of breathtaking photos for your social media feed)! Happy travels!