5 Best Places to visit in northern areas of pakistan

Stunning Northern Landscapes and Attractions

The northern areas of Pakistan are truly a treasure trove of beautiful places, offering breathtaking mountains, serene lakes, lush meadows, and majestic snow peaks. As a country blessed with extraordinary natural beauty, it has consistently been ranked among the top tourist destinations by global tourism agencies, including the British Backpackers Society and Forbes magazine. The efforts of the government to enhance tourism have resulted in an unprecedented growth of the tourism industry, making it easier for travelers from around the world to explore these spectacular spots. The warm friendliness of the people and the sacred landscape further enrich the experience for both local and international tourists.

In recent years, the Govt. has developed new areas with immense tourism potential, alongside improving existing areas, lifting previous hurdles for visitors. For anyone planning a trip, having a comprehensive list of the best travel destinations is essential to ensure a wholesome experience. Imagine a summer getaway where you can follow in the footsteps of wanderers worldwide, visiting spots like Hunza, Skardu, and Swat. These regions stand as prime examples of a site where nature’s beauty meets human accessibility. Whether you’re looking for adventure or tranquility, Pakistan’s northern gems promise unforgettable trips filled with awe-inspiring moments.

1. Naran Valley: Discover the Beauty

Naran Valley is one of the most famous places in northern Pakistan, offering a majestic location surrounded by lush green mountains and deep alpine forests. Located in the Himalayan mountain range, it is a top spot for travelers heading to Skardu or Hunza. The valley is open from April to September, which are the best months to plan a trip and enjoy its marvelous views. From the fairy-tale Saif Ul Malook Lake to the adventurous Hike toward Ansoo Lake, and the serene Lulusar Lake, Naran is a treasure trove for nature lovers. The valley also features the stunning Queen Dudipatsar Lake and the towering Babusar Top, standing at 4,173 m.

During the summer of 2024, many visitors, including friends, families, and loved ones, flock to this site to capture memories and experience its beauty. However, heavy snowfall in October often leads to blocked roads and avalanches, making the area inaccessible during the winter months. Whether you’re exploring the local sights or embarking on a journey to discover its hidden gems, Naran Valley remains one of the most impacting locations for unforgettable vacations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. For a comfortable experience, consider booking a car to make your travel around the valley even more convenient.

2. Hunza Valley

If you’re looking for a fantastic place to explore in northern areas of Pakistan, then Hunza Valley should be on your list. Nestled in the Gilgit Baltistan region, near the China border, it is known for its beautiful scenery, gigantic mountains, and colorful landscapes. The Hunza Valley offers stunning trekking routes like Shimshal pass, Patundas trek, and the Batura Glacier, which attract travelers from all over the world. The valley is also home to historic sites such as the Baltit Fort and Altit Fort, which are part of the Silk Route and over 1000 years old. You can visit Hunza Valley to witness some of the most beautiful natural landscapes, including the famous Khunjerab Pass at the Pak-China border.

During the summer months, Hunza Valley is perfect for travelers looking to spend a wonderful time with friends or special ones. The valley’s culture and traditions will also leave a lasting impression on you, with locals sharing their historical and cultural insights. As you explore this stunning destination, you’ll find yourself surrounded by immense natural beauty. Whether you’re trekking through the majestic mountains or discovering ancient villages like Ganesh or the Batura Glacier, Hunza Valley will offer an experience like no other. Don’t miss the chance to see Four Seven Thousanders peaks such as Ladyfinger (6000 m) and Hunza Peak (6270 m), and enjoy a trip that will stay with you forever.

3. Skardu Valley: A Gateway to Adventure

Located in the extreme north of Pakistan, Skardu Valley is a central hub of Gilgit-Baltistan and a true epitome of serenity, beauty, and wilderness. Known as the Gateway to the Karakorum, it offers astonishing trekking routes like Snow Lake (Lukpe Lawo), K2 Base Camp (Concordia), and Banak La, attracting trekkers and mountaineers from across the globe. The valley is surrounded by mighty mountains such as K2 (8,611 m), the second-highest peak in the world, Broad Elevation (8,047 m), Gasherbrum 1 (8,080 m), and Gasherbrum 2 (8,035 m), making it a dream for those eager to conquer rugged peaks.

Best places to visit in Skardu
Shiger Cold Desert
Shiger Valley and Fort
Khaplu Valley and Palace
Chaqchan Mosque
Deosai National Park
Shangrila (Lower Kachura) Lake
Upper Kachura Lake
Kharpocho Fort
Katpana Cold desert and Lake

The journey to Skardu is equally thrilling, as the road leading to this favorite destination is regarded as one of the world’s Eight Wonders. With its breathtaking views, danger of landslides, and enormous mountains, it offers an unforgettable experience. Beyond its natural allure, the valley’s rich culture, history, and beautiful traditions bear a striking resemblance to Tibet, earning it the nickname Little Tibet. Whether you’re a tourist seeking astonishing beauty or a wanderer drawn to adventure, Skardu Valley is the perfect place to explore in the summer.

4. Fairy Meadows: A Heavenly Destination

Fairy Meadows, located in the northern areas of Pakistan, is a beautiful spot where you can experience nature at its finest. Nestled in the Himalayan mountains of Gilgit Baltistan, this location offers stunning lush green meadows and the incredible view of Nanga Parbat, the world’s ninth-largest mountain at an impressive height of 8,126 m. To reach this heavenly destination, travelers take a bus or private car to Chilas, then continue to Raikot Bridge, and from there, a jeep ride to Tato village. After a short hike through dense woods, you’ll arrive at the breathtaking Fairy Meadows, where adventure and tranquility meet. During peak seasons, the charge for the jeep ride is between 6000 to 8000, but the effort is well worth it for the view of Killer Mountain that awaits you.

This location is not just for those who love nature but also for those seeking adventure. You can explore the region by trekking to Biyal Camp and the Base camp of Nanga Parbat. The journey to Fairy Meadows is an exciting adventurous ride through the world’s most dangerous jeep track, followed by a trek for 3 hours through dense forests, adding to the thrill. With its heavenly beauty, it’s no surprise that Fairy Meadows is often described as a real-life fairytale, making it one of the best places to visit in northern Pakistan.

Naltar Valley

Naltar Valley, located in Gilgit Baltistan, offers an experience unlike any other in Northern Pakistan. This forested region is known for its breathtaking elevation of 9,700 ft and stunning lush greenery that surrounds its beautiful destinations. Naltar is famous for its three remarkable lakes – Rainbow Lake, Blue Star Lake, and Bodroko Lake – all offering unique views and surrounded by pine forests. Whether in summer or winter, the valley is a must-visit spot for travelers looking to explore the serene beauty of Naltar Lake and its surroundings. The valley is easily accessible, with a taxi ride from Normal village to Naltar taking just about 45 minutes.

In addition to the natural beauty, Naltar is home to one of the oldest Ski resorts in Pakistan. The area is also equipped with a hydropower plant constructed by the government to fulfill the electricity requirements of both Naltar and Gilgit. During winter, the valley hosts the International Ski Festival, attracting a vast number of travelers to enjoy skiing in the cold, snowy mountains. The stunning views and unique experiences, including the chance to see the snow-covered mountains, make Naltar a perfect destination for those looking to create lasting memories.