Places to Visit in Pakistan Northern Areas
Pakistan has a rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, and it is blessed with many stunning mountains, snowy peaks, meadows, lakes, and landscapes. Every year, many local and international tourists visit the northern areas of Pakistan to enjoy the beauty of nature. In a few years, the tourism industry of Pakistan has experienced unpredicted growth. These destinations have mesmerizing beauty that inspires tourists to visit them. Pakistan’s tourism industry has been ranked among the top global tourist destinations. Book the best Pakistan Tour Packages with us.
Hunza Valley:
Hunza Valley is a popular tourist destination. The beautiful hidden gem is located in the Gilgit Baltistan region. It lies between the mountain ranges of Karakoram and the Himalayas. The valley is a land of agriculture and has a stunning tourist attraction. Hunza Valley is famous for its great hospitality and picturesque scenery. Visitors enjoy the valley’s cultural traditions and heritage, making it a perfect escape for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Swat Valley:
Swat Valley is a hidden gem treasure in Pakistan’s KPK province. It is also called the “Switzer Land of Pakistan.” The Valley has picturesque scenery, beautiful mountains, a mild climate, and warm, hospitable people. It is a paradise on earth. Swat Valley has scenic natural wildlife with historical and cultural treasures, including Malam Jabba’s ski resort and Mingora. It has majestic lakes, lush green dense forests, and towering peaks. It became a popular destination for visitors to go hiking, camping, skiing, and relaxing in the beauty of nature.
Naran Kaghan:
Naran Kaghan Valley is a picturesque tourist destination in Pakistan. It is located in the KPK province and is surrounded by towering mountains, meadows, snow-capped peaks, and scenic lakes. It is the most visited destination in Pakistan. The valley has ideal places for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The beautiful lakes include Lulusar Lake, Lake Saif ul Malook, Ansu Lake, and Dudipatsar Lake. Visitors visit Naran Kaghan for summer excursions from May to September.
Shogran Valley:
Shogran Valley is a mountain hill station in the Kaghan district. It is ideal for a short vacation trip. Shogran Valley is located at an elevation of 7,749 feet above sea level. It became a famous tourist destination in a few years. Siri Paye Meadows is the main attraction of Shogran Valley. There is a variety of luxury hotels and motels for tourist accommodation. Lush green meadows, towering mountains, and greenery surround the valley.
Skardu Valley:
Skardu is a beautiful valley and serves as the capital of Baltistan. It is situated at an elevation of 8,202 feet above sea level. Skardu Valley has rugged Rocky Mountains, crystal clear lakes, historic forts, and stunning waterfalls. Skardu Valley is important because it is a way to some of the world’s highest peaks. It is also known as the “Heart of Gilgit Baltistan” and offers stunning, mesmerizing attractions surrounded by dramatic mountains and beautiful Lower Kachura Lake. Visitors enjoy the hospitality of the Balti people and taste the local cuisines of the valley.
Chitral Kalash:
Chitral is a small town situated underneath the Hindu Kush Mountains. The community of people inhabited there belongs to different cultures and religions. Tourists from other countries visit the Chitral Valley in the summer. Visitors witness the historic culture and traditions of Chitral. The ladies wear traditional dress with headscarves and hats made by kalash ladies. It is considered a unique destination in Northern Pakistan that shows the way of life of ancient cultures. Kalash Valley is the homeland of the Kalash people, known for its scenic landscapes and unique community traditions.
Fairy Meadows:
Fairy Meadows is a popular destination in Pakistan. It is a mesmerizing attraction in the Nanga Parbat Mountains. Located in the Diamer district of Gilgit Baltistan at an elevation of 10,800 feet above sea level and is known as one of the most beautiful places in Northern Pakistan. This is the perfect place for adventure and nature lovers. You will reach this destination after a two-hour jeep ride from Raikot. Then, a 40-45 minute trek from Tatu Village to Fairy Meadows. Fairy Meadows is a hidden gem paradise with lush green lakes and snow-capped Nanga Parbat.
Neelum Valley:
Neelum Valley is a spectacular paradise located near the breathtaking Muzaffarabad. It is known as the paradise of Azad Kashmir. The valley has lush green forests, crystal clear lakes, and snow-capped mountain peaks. The people of Neelum Valley are very hospitable and warmly welcoming. The famous places of Neelum Valley are Kutton Valley, Sharda Valley, Arrang Kel, and Ratti Gali. The best time to visit in summer is from September to October.
Gojal Valley:
Gojal Valley, or upper Hunza, is the getaway to the China and Afghanistan border like the Khunjerab Pass China Border. It is situated at an elevation of 15,397 feet above sea level and covered by snow. The mountain ranges of China and Afghanistan surround the valley. The Karakoram Highway connects Pakistan and China via pass through Gojal Valley. This beautiful valley connects the world.
Attabad Lake:
Attabad Lake was formed by a natural landslide in 2010. It is the most beautiful and famous tourist spot in Hunza Valley. Moreover, the Lake has sparkling blue waters among countless hills. Towering mountains, snow-capped peaks, and a serene atmosphere surround the Lake. Visitors can enjoy boating, photography, and hiking. The best time to visit this picturesque Lake is from May to October
Shandur National Park:
Shandur Pass is a plateau located between Chitral and Gilgit at 4,100 meters above sea level. You can only visit this area between April and early November. Only 4×4 jeeps can reach there. Shandur Pass is 168 km away from Chitral. It is the most famous Polo ground in the world. Tourists visit the stadium, watch the polo games, and enjoy the hospitality of Chiltal and Pakistani people.
Deosai National Park:
Deosai National Park is a lush green plateau located near the Karakoram and Himalayas mountains at an elevation of 13,497 feet above sea level. It is also called the “land of Giants” because of its huge biodiversity. The national park is home to Himalayan brown bears, snow leopards, and lammergeiers. During summer, beautiful flora and fauna bloom around Sheosar Lake. Two accessible routes reach there via Skardu and Astore.
Khunjerab Pass:
Khunjerab Pass is the highest crossing border between China and Pakistan, also known as the Pakistan-China border. It has beautiful scenery, with snow-capped mountains and landscapes surrounding it. You can see a group of yaks and goats in this area. Both Pakistani and Chinese soldiers have close relationships on the border.
Khaplu Valley:
Khaplu Valley is a beautiful small village near Skardu. This picturesque valley was the wealthy kingdom of the Khaplu rulers, but the people of the world don’t know about this small village. The Aga Khan Trust refurbished and restored the Khaplu Palace to its unique glory. Tourists explore the picturesque palace and stay in this excellent hotel to experience the hospitality of the valley.
Naltar Valley:
Naltar Valley is a popular tourist attraction located 54 km from Gilgit City. The valley has lush, dense forests, crystal-clear lakes, and a ski resort. Only 4×4 jeeps go there. The valley is covered with snow, and the lake freezes in winter. There are many hotels and guest houses in the valley to accommodate visitors. The best time to visit this valley is after May until the end of autumn to capture the beauty of nature.
Pir Sohawa:
Pir Sohawa is a beautiful place in Islamabad, Pakistan’s capital. It is famous among tourists, foreigners, visitors, and diplomats who visit Islamabad. This picturesque place has many scenic restaurants where visitors can enjoy a stunning view of the whole city. The mesmerizing scenery, delicious cuisine, and relaxed atmosphere attract tourists and families. Visitors visit this place when they are in Islamabad.
Garam Chashma Chitral:
The beautiful small village of Garam Chashma is located in Chitral Lotkoh Valley. In recent years, this picturesque village has attracted tourists from all over Pakistan. Visitors visit this area in Pakistan’s northern region and bathe in the water because it is believed that the water cures various diseases. Lush green meadows, towering mountains, and stunning landscapes surround the valley. If you plan to visit Chitral, you must visit Garam Chashma.
Golaghmuli Valley:
Golaghmuli Valley is located in Upper Ghazir Gilgit Baltistan. The Valley is situated to the east of Chitral and north of Swat. The Valley is separated from Swat and Chitral by substantial mountain passes. The accessible route to reach Golaghmuli Valley starts from Gilgit Chitral Road and continues to Gupis until Wadi Yasin, which will lead directly to Wadi Golaghmuli.
Fort Baltit:
Golaghmuli Valley is located in Upper Ghazir, Gilgit Baltistan. It is situated to the east of Chitral and north of Swat. Substantial mountain passes separate the valley from Swat and Chitral. The accessible route to reach Golaghmuli Valley starts from Gilgit Chitral Road and continues to Gupis until Wadi Yasin, which leads directly to Wadi Golaghmuli.
Kumrat Valley:
Kumat Valley is a famous tourist destination offering visitors a breathtaking landscape. The Upper Dir Valley in KPK is known for its lush greenery, dense forests, majestic lakes, and waterfalls. The valley is very close to nature’s beauty, allowing you to experience the scenic view. Kumrat Valley is located 370 km from Islamabad. Tourists can accommodate a wide variety of hotels, camps, and cabins. The best time to visit Kumrat Valley is between June and October to explore the beauty of nature.
Murree:
Murree is the most visited tourist destination due to its cool weather, lush greenery, and breathtaking views. This location is accessible all year because of its open routes and highways. During travel, you may also see monkeys on the roadside. It is located in the Pir Panjal ranges of the Himalayas. Visitors enjoy things to do in Murree outdoor activities, such as hiking, trekking, and sightseeing.
Best Time to Visit the Northern Areas of Pakistan
Spring (February to April): Explore the colorful cherry blossom.
Summer (May to September): Ideal for trekking and outdoor adventures.
Autumn (October to November): Witness vibrant foliage and clear skies.
Winter (December to February): Perfect for snow activities and a winter wonderland experience.
Culinary Delights in the Northern Areas of Pakistan
Local Cuisine Exploration
Explore the local cuisines of northern areas of Pakistan. Visit the vibrant markets and bazaars in mountain towns. Each dish has a unique taste, telling the story of the region’s traditions and people. Taste delicious dishes like Yakhni, hearty Mamtu dumplings, and Chapli Kebabs, and don’t miss the chance to taste the famous walnut cake in Cafe De Hunza, which offers a delightful end to a meal.
In conclusion
The beautiful places in Pakistan’s northern areas attract more tourists every year. If you want to explore ancient historical heritage, spend time in nature, or experience a cultural tradition, you can find it in Pakistan’s northern areas.