Destinations

Gilgit-Baltistan & Northern Pakistan

Gilgit-Baltistan Overview: Nestled at the crossroads of the Himalaya, Karakoram, Hindu Kush and Pamir ranges, Gilgit-Baltistan is a “mountain paradise” of jagged peaks, deep valleys and alpine lakes. The region boasts five of the world’s fourteen 8,000m peaks (including K2) and some of the longest glaciers outside the polar zones. Key attractions include the Karakoram Highway (world’s highest paved border road), ancient Buddhist relics (Chaqchan Mosque), rich cultural heritage and access to iconic sites like K2 Basecamp, Deosai Plains, Naltar Valley and Fairy Meadows.

• High peaks and glaciers: Home to five 8,000m giants (e.g. K2 at 8,611m) and vast glaciers such as Baltoro and Biafo.
• Scenic valleys & lakes: Includes famous valleys (Hunza, Skardu, Astore, Ghizer) and lakes (Attabad, Satpara, Sheosar).
• Karakoram Highway: Drives through the region to the Khunjerab Pass (4,693m), the world’s highest paved border crossing.
• Culture & history: Ancient forts (Baltit, Altit), Buddhist rock carvings, and festivals in remote communities add cultural richness.

Best Time to Visit: The tourist season generally runs from late spring to early autumn. May–October offer clear skies, mild daytime temperatures and open roads Summer (June–Aug) is peak season with warm weather and bustling bazaars, while fall (Sept–Oct) brings golden hues. Winters (Nov–Apr) are snowy and many mountain passes close.

Travel Tips: Acclimatize gradually to high altitudes (3,000–4,000m). Roads can be blocked by landslides or snow, so plan flexibly. Permits are usually not required in Gilgit-Baltistan (except for special zones), but always carry ID. Pack warm layers for cold nights. Interact respectfully with diverse local cultures (e.g. Wakhi, Burusho, Balti). Cash is king – ATMs are scarce outside Gilgit and Hunza.

Things to Do: Trek or jeep into the high mountains (K2 Base Camp, Nanga Parbat Base Camp). Drive the full Karakoram Highway to Khunjerab Pass. Raft or fish in glacial rivers. Visit Baltit and Altit Forts (see below). Explore Gilgit city markets and walk historic trails like the Shandur Pass polo route. In summer, picnic on meadows or camp under stars on Deosai’s flower-carpeted plateau.

Hunza Valley – Lakes, Peaks & Forts

Often called “paradise on earth,” Hunza Valley is a dazzling mountain oasis of green orchards, towering peaks and clear rivers. The valley is flanked by spires like Rakaposhi (7,788m) and Ultar, and threaded by the turquoise Hunza River. Its upper reaches (Gojal) feature Attabad Lake – a striking milky-blue reservoir formed by a 2010 landslide – where visitors can kayak, jet-ski or picnic by the water. To the northeast lie the Passu Cones, jagged pyramid peaks rising dramatically above the Karakoram Highway. The heart of Hunza is Karimabad village, fronted by the historic Baltit Fort. Here (and at nearby Altit Fort) you can explore 800–1100-year-old palaces and enjoy sweeping views of the valley.

• Turquoise Attabad Lake: Created by a 2010 landslide, offering boating, jet-skiing and lakeside trails.
• Passu Cones: Iconic 6,100m-high jagged peaks along the Karakoram Highway – great for photos and short hikes.
• Historic forts: Baltit Fort (Karimabad) and Altit Fort (nearby) are century-old Himalayan castles with museums and panoramic views.
• Flowers and orchards: In spring, apricot and apple blossoms bloom; autumn offers golden fields and harvest festivals.

Best Time to Visit: April–October is ideal (Hunza’s roads open by late spring). June–July are busiest and warmest. Autumn brings cool, dry weather and fall colors. Winter snows close high roads; only hardy travelers visit December–March.

Travel Tips: Altitude ranges 2,400–3,500m, so acclimatize. The Karakoram Highway through Hunza has been rebuilt with tunnels (e.g. at Attabad) but still check timing and weather before long drives. Local guesthouses in Karimabad and villages like Gulmit offer homestays – bookings in summer are advised. Hire a local guide for remote treks (e.g. to Passu Cones or Shimshal Lakes) and carry cash (few ATMs above Aliabad). Respect the Ismaili culture: modest dress is appreciated.

Things to Do: Boat or swim in Attabad Lake; walk the suspension bridges (e.g. Hussaini Bridge) near Passu. Climb up to Eagle’s Nest/Altafabad vantage points for dawn views of Rakaposhi Tour Baltit and Altit Fort complexes and their terraced gardens. Hike through orchards, or trek farther to Batura Glacier or Hunza Peak. Sample local delicacies (apricot jam, walnut bread) and shop for handicrafts in Karimabad’s bazaar. Participate in the Chilim Joshi spring festival (late May) to see Kalash dancers in Hunza.

Skardu – Gateway to K2 and Baltistan

Skardu Valley is the main gateway to the Karakoram’s giants. Surrounding glaciers cradle some of the highest peaks on Earth, including K2 (8,611m), Gasherbrums and Masherbrum. Skardu town (2,500m) sits on the Indus River with views of the “cold desert” and Spantik peak. Nearby is Satpara Lake, Skardu’s primary lake, whose emerald waters are ideal for fishing and boating. To the east lies Deosai National Park, a vast alpine plateau called “land of giants” (avg. 4,114m) blanketed with wildflowers in summer. Historic gems include the 400-year-old Shigar Fort (now a heritage hotel and museum of Balti culture) and the wooden Khaplu Palace (a short drive south). Skardu also serves as base for treks to K2 Base Camp via the Baltoro Glacier.

• K2 and Karakoram: Skardu is the jump-off for K2 expeditions. Surrounding peaks tower above the valley.
• Satpara Lake: A short drive from Skardu, this large freshwater lake supplies the town and offers trout fishing and rowboating.
• Shigar Fort: An ancient 17th-century fort (“Palace on the Rock”) restored as a museum/guesthouse.
• Deosai Plains: A 4,114m alpine meadow (world’s 2nd highest plateau) teeming with flowers and wildlife (bears, ibex) in summer

Best Time to Visit: May–September is best. Late spring/summer brings mild days (10–25°C) and open roads. Autumn (Sept) has clear skies. Winters are harsh (Skardu often cut off by snow). Deosai is typically open July–Sept only, as roads close under snow.

Travel Tips: Flights to Skardu connect from Islamabad (weather permitting), or 10–12h drive via Karakoram Highway and the 100km Skardu Road. Once there, use 4WD vehicles for Deosai or Shigar (unpaved roads). Altitude in Skardu is moderate, but nights get cold year-round. Respect local Balti customs (conservative dress) and tip tour guides/boats. Currency exchange in Skardu town.

Things to Do: Visit Satpara and Shangrila (Lower Kachura) Lakes for lakeside walks and a meal. Stay at Shangrila Resort (famous “Pearl of Heaven”). Day-trip to Shigar Valley: tour Shigar Fort and hike to scenic Khanqah or Manthoka Waterfalls. Take a jeep safari onto Deosai Plains – camp by Sheosar Lake (huge glacial lake) or spot Himalayan brown bears. For adventure, trek to K2 Base Camp (16–18 days from Askole) or 5-day Concordia trek.

Fairy Meadows – Nanga Parbat Basecamp

Fairy Meadows is a lush sub-alpine grassland (about 3,300m) often cited as one of Pakistan’s most idyllic spots. German climbers named it Märchenwiese (“Fairy Tale Meadows”) for its green pastures and stunning backdrop. To the south looms Nanga Parbat (8,126m), Pakistan’s ninth-highest peak, “the Killer Mountain,” whose south face dominates the skyline. The journey is part of the adventure: a perilous 15km jeep track from Raikot Bridge to Tattu Village, followed by a 4km hike. Once there, pine forests surround scattered guest huts and campsites under the towering peak.

• Dramatic Setting: Alpine meadow in Rakhiot Valley, beneath Nanga Parbat’s massive summit.
• Adventure Access: Only reachable by local jeep (departing Raikot Bridge) plus a short trek on foot. The narrow cliffside road adds to the thrill.
• Camping & Lodging: Camps and wooden cabins (e.g. on Fairy Meadows field) allow multi-day stays for stargazing and sunrise views.
• Views and Trails: Stroll through wildflower fields; the panorama of Nanga Parbat is breathtaking, especially at sunrise/sunset.

Best Time to Visit: Mid-May to September. Snow blocks the access road in winter. Summer offers the clearest views and wildflowers. Nights can still be chilly, so carry warm gear.

Travel Tips: Jeep permits are required (drivers at Raikot Bridge; no private vehicles allowed). The hike from the jeep point to the meadows is ~1 hour (horses available). Weather changes quickly; bring rain gear and layered clothing. Limited food is available, so pack snacks or eat at the simple mess huts. Altitude is moderate, but stay hydrated after the nerve-racking jeep ride.

Things to Do: Camp overnight and hike to Nanga Parbat Base Camp (about 4–5 hours further up). Trek to nearby viewpoints like Nanga Parbat Viewpoint or Rupal Peak (Lady Finger). Relax in quaint Fairy Meadows village, enjoy bonfires, and photograph the emerald meadows against the snowy giant. In autumn, try the short trek to Amir Camp or Rakhiot Glacier for solitude and glacial scenery.

Khunjerab Pass – High-Altitude Frontier

Khunjerab Pass sits at 4,693m on the Pak-China border, the highest paved international border crossing. It is the pinnacle of the Karakoram Highway, with a Pakistan Customs post and a Chinese customs building a short distance apart. The pass provides panoramic views of snow-covered peaks and rolling grasslands; marmots and Himalayan ibex may be spotted in the nearby Khunjerab National Park. In summer, wild yaks and even snow leopards roam these areas.

• High-Altitude Road: Khunjerab is the world’s highest paved border crossing and highest point on Karakoram Highway. The road was completed in 1982.
• Border Landmark: Photo ops at the signpost (above 15,000 ft) and cafés on the pass. Entry to China requires visa (not needed for day-trip on Pakistani side).
• Scenic Plateau: Stark, windswept landscape – a vast high-altitude pass with distant glaciers visible.
• Wildlife Reserve: Part of Khunjerab NP, habitat for endangered snow leopard and Marco Polo sheep.

Best Time to Visit: June–September, when the pass is open (closed in winter due to heavy snow). The road typically opens in May/June. Spring brings sparse wildflowers; summer days are cool (10–15°C) but sunny.

Travel Tips: Dress very warmly (it can snow any month!). Allow a few days at altitude before arrival. Carry extra fuel and supplies (the only fuel station is at the border). Internet/cell service is spotty. Time your visit mid-morning when visibility is best. Respect border regulations – walk only where allowed, and don’t litter.

Things to Do: Pause at the marker for photos of yourself “standing on the roof of the world.” Explore the Khunjerab National Park trails on foot or by jeep (wildlife spotting). Hike the short paths along the pass or descend slightly into China if you have proper documentation. On the Pakistani side, relax at the Border Town rest area; on clear days see both Pakistani and Chinese customs buildings gleaming in sunlight.

Naltar Valley – Lakes & Ski Slopes

Naltar Valley lies west of Gilgit and is renowned for its emerald forests, skiing and multi-colored lakes. Towering pines and cedars blanket the mountainsides. The valley’s Naltar Lakes – including Satrangi (Rainbow) Lake, Blue Lake, Halima and Bodo – are a series of glacial-fed lakes known for vivid hues. At 2,950m elevation, the Naltar Ski Resort is Pakistan’s oldest winter sports facility, hosting national ski events. A chairlift was installed recently to reach higher slopes.

• Colorful Alpine Lakes: Three main lakes – Satrangi (Rainbow), Blue and Bodlok – accessible by a rough jeep track (4WD recommended). Satrangi’s waters shimmer in different colors.
• Pine Forests: Dense conifer forests (pine, deodar, juniper) cover the valley, with wildlife including markhor, ibex and Himalayan brown bear in the sanctuary.
• Naltar Ski Resort: Ski slopes at ~2,900m and chairlifts offer winter sports; hosted the 2016 Karakoram Alpine Ski Cup. Fresh snow falls Nov–Mar.
• Photography & Birds: Naltar is nicknamed the “Valley of Little Angels” for its beauty; birdwatchers may see pheasants and Himalayan monal.

Best Time to Visit: May–October is ideal for accessing lakes and hiking (summer greenery). Satrangi Lake’s road is closed by snow in winter. Ski season runs December–February, but road clearance can be challenging.

Travel Tips: Reachable via Gilgit–Nomal road; the last 6 km to the lakes is rough. A 4×4 jeep is essential. There are basic guesthouses and camping spots (Pine Resort at Naltar Bala). The 18MW Naltar Hydropower complex supplies the valley, so electricity is available. Carry cash and snacks. Even summer nights are cool; pack warmly.

Things to Do: Ride the chairlift for valley panoramas. Hike around the lakes (careful of slippery shores). Camp under the stars by the lakes. In winter, try skiing or snowboarding. Visit the Naltar Wildlife Sanctuary to learn about conservation of markhor and bears. Photography: capture the contrast of snowy peaks, green forests and turquoise lakes.

Rama Meadows – Astore’s Alpine Meadow

Rama Meadows is a serene high-altitude meadow (∼3,300m) in Astore Valley, a short drive from Astore town. It is a vast grassy plateau dotted with grazing yaks and villages. Surrounded by pine forests and mountains, the meadow is famed for its peaceful scenery and mountain vistas. From here, trails lead to Rama Lake, a small glacial lake known for reflections of the peaks. On clear days Rama Meadows offers sweeping views of Nanga Parbat’s south face, the world’s ninth-highest mountain.

• Verdant Pastures: Lush green fields and wildflowers at 10,800 ft, with grazing lands and rustic shepherd huts.
• Spectacular Views: Southern flank of Nanga Parbat looms in the distance; the panorama of ridges and blue skies is unforgettable.
• Rama Lake: A short jeep ride (or hike) uphill leads to a crystal alpine lake (Rama Lake), perfect for reflection shots.
• Tranquility: Fewer tourists than Hunza or Skardu; ideal for relaxing in nature.

Best Time to Visit: June–September when the road is open. Summer brings pleasant days (15–20°C) and wildflowers; early autumn is cool with clear air. Winters are impassable due to heavy snow.

Travel Tips: Drive via Astore town → Rama village (tar road) → jeep track to meadows (13 km total). Local 4WD jeeps are available. Stay in village guesthouses or camp (bring warm sleeping bag). Food is very basic: locals farm potatoes and wheat; carry extra snacks. No cell service beyond the village.

Things to Do: Jeep or hike to Rama Lake and picnic by its shore. Walk and explore the meadows and forest paths. Photograph the waterfall near Duratun village. For the adventurous, trek further to Kramber Peak (2-3 day trek) or visit nearby Domail Peak. Watch locals tend to their livestock and sample rustic Astore cuisine (roti, yak meat stew).

Deosai National Park – The Land of Giants

Deosai National Park is an enormous alpine plateau (average 4,114m) dubbed “the Land of Giants,” straddling Skardu and Astore regions. At 3,600 km², it is the world’s second-highest plateau after the Tibetan Plateau. In summer the grassy plains are carpeted with vibrant wildflowers (anemones, gentians) and the sky is alive with butterflies. The park protects rare wildlife: the endangered Himalayan brown bear has recovered here (population rising from 19 in 1993 to 78 in 2022). Also present are Siberian ibex, snow leopards, marmots, and hundreds of bird species. The centerpiece is Sheosar Lake, a deep blue glacial lake against a backdrop of snowy peaks.

• High-Altitude Meadow: Open grasslands and rolling hills at 4,000+m, ending abruptly at jagged mountain ridges.
• Wildflowers & Butterflies: In spring and summer, the plains bloom with anemones, blue poppies and carpets of greenery.
• Sheosar Lake: A 2.3km-wide alpine lake with crystal-clear water, one of the park’s must-see sights.
• Unique Wildlife: Protected bears, wolves, marmots and ibex roam freely; birders can spot eagles and snow partridge.

Best Time to Visit: July–September only (park road is gated much of the year due to snow). July brings peak blooms; August offers clear weather. October is chilly, and everything closes by late October.

Travel Tips: Access from Skardu (via Mecon Bridge/Chilam route) or Astore (via Chilim). A 4×4 vehicle is essential once the plain is reached. Entry tickets and guide permits are checked at the Chilim or Deosai entrance gates. There are no hotels; camping is popular (park hut near Sheosar Lake available). Bring plenty of warm clothing even in summer – nights can near freezing. Do not disturb wildlife (keep distance from bears). Pack out all trash; facilities are minimal.

Things to Do: Drive or jeep-safari the winding road across the plateau. Hike from the road to Sheosar Lake and around Salah Sar (salt lake). Enjoy flatland trekking and spot marmots or ibex along trails. Have a high-altitude picnic with a view of the Great Himalaya wall. On returning, consider stopping at the Gultari viewpoint for panorama. For photographers, the contrasting colors of green meadows, blue lake and white peaks are a dream.

Gupis & Phander Valleys – Lakes and Trout Fishing

Gupis and Phander form scenic valleys in the remote Ghizer district of Gilgit-Baltistan. Turquoise lakes and broad rivers thread through lush meadows and wooded slopes. Phander Valley is famed for Phander Lake – a crystal lake whose waters shift from deep green to blue, teeming with trout. Above Gupis town lies Khalti Lake, a placid reservoir framed by Hindu Kush peaks. Further north is Baha Lake, one of Pakistan’s longest lakes (5km) known for clear skies reflected in its deep blue water. The entire area is renowned for excellent trout fishing in rivers and lakes.

• Crystal Lakes: Phander and Khalti lakes are among the prettiest – calm, clear and surrounded by peaks.
• Trout Paradise: Rivers like Phander River and springs are full of brown trout (local hotels serve fresh trout dishes). Note: fishing requires a permit from the Fisheries office.
• Green Villages: Scattered villages and camps offer picnic spots on riverbanks and views of terraced fields and distant mountains.
• Wildlife & Culture: The valley is rich in flora and fauna; nomadic shepherds (Gujjars/Bakarwals) often camp here. Gupis Fort (historic site) overlooks the junction of several gorges.

Best Time to Visit: June–October, when roads are passable and weather is mild. Winters bring deep snow and rivers may freeze, although hardy anglers still attempt winter fishing.

Travel Tips: The main road follows the Gilgit–Shandur Highway via Gahkuch (Ghizer’s hub). Small towns offer basic lodging; Phander has a few guesthouses and riverfront hotels. Bring warm layers (nights cool) and insect repellent in summer. If fishing, obtain a license from Gahkuch. Cell signal is limited. Respect local norms (some villages are conservative).

Things to Do: Fish for trout in Phander River or Baha Lake (many lodges can arrange boats). Walk around Phander Lake or take a short hike to the higher-elevation Gople or Khallat villages. Visit Gupis Fort ruins for sunset views over Khalti Lake. Camp beside the lake under the stars. Photograph the rainbow-like reflections in Sost Lake (midway between Gupis and Phander). If timing permits, drive north to cross Shandur Pass (famous high-altitude polo ground) for more alpine vistas.

Baltit & Altit Forts – Hunza’s Heritage Castles

Perched above Karimabad in central Hunza, Baltit Fort and Altit Fort are 800–1,100-year-old hilltop citadels once home to Hunza’s hereditary Mirs. These stone-and-wood castles are UNESCO-recognized cultural treasures. Baltit Fort (the younger, 700-year-old) stands on a flattened ridge overlooking the Hunza River, with restored chambers and timber framing. A spiral stairway leads visitors through its audience halls and kitchens. Below, Altit Fort (∼1100 years old) anchors the original Altit village; its Shikari Tower is arguably the oldest structure in Gilgit-Baltistan. Both forts have on-site museums displaying traditional costumes, weaponry and household items, and offer sweeping views of the valley and mountains.

• Historic Architecture: Fortresses built of granite and timber; Altit Fort’s “Shikari Tower” dates to around 900–1000 AD. Both forts underwent careful restoration in the 1990s–2000s and won UNESCO heritage awards.
• Panoramic Views: Climb the terraces to overlook Hunza’s orchards, villages and distant Rakaposhi. Baltit Fort faces north over Karimabad, Altit faces southeast over Altit village.
• Museums: Baltit Fort’s grand hall displays heirloom thrones and artifacts; Altit Fort shows craft tools and a photo gallery of Hunza’s past.
• Cultural Experience: Often folk music or dance performances take place on the grounds. There are handcrafted gift shops and guesthouses nearby.

Best Time to Visit: Open March–November (closed in deep winter). Spring and autumn days are pleasant; midday sun makes the climb up Baltit’s stairs easier.

Travel Tips: Entry requires a ticket (available at each fort). Wear shoes suitable for steep stone steps. Audio guides provide historical context. The forts sit at ~2,400m – a short uphill walk from Karimabad center (all abilities). Bring water and sun protection. Photography is allowed, but flash is restricted in some rooms. Nearby Altit Fort has a small café and handicraft shops selling Kalamkari carpets and walnut wood carvings.

Things to Do: Start at Altit Fort, wander through its old village of stone houses (some still inhabited). Continue up to Baltit Fort and leisurely explore its rooms and terracesIn the evening, walk or drive to the Eagle’s Nest Viewpoint (near Altit village) for sunset over Hunza. Don’t miss the cascading Spinsar and Rakaposhi Viewpoints along the road. Inside Altit village, try traditional Hunza dishes (like warm walnut cake) at a local eatery.

Kalash Valleys – Unique Culture & Scenic Beauty

The Kalash Valleys of Chitral (Bumburet, Rumbur, Birir) host the Kalash people, a small animist tribe with an ancient culture. In these green valleys, wooden thatched houses and colorful attire stand out amid conifer forests and rolling hills. Kalash men and women celebrate polytheistic festivals reflecting nature’s rhythms. For example, Chilam Joshi (May) and Uchau (September) feature music, dances and rituals to honor spring and harvest. The Kalash language and customs are distinct – their religion is often likened to ancient Vedic or pagan beliefs.

• Living Culture: Kalash are Pakistan’s only non-Islamic people. Their unique polytheist faith, festivals and intricate embroidered dress draw anthropologists and tourists.
• Valleys & Villages: Bumburet (lower Kalash valley) is most accessible by paved road. Traditional wooden homes with flat roofs and stone courtyards fill the villages of Rambur and Birir further east.
• Scenic Setting: Surrounded by lush pastures and forested peaks (8,000+ ft). Pine, walnut and fruit trees frame the winding river. Wildflowers carpet the meadows in spring.
• Festivals: Visitors often plan trips around the vibrant spring (Chilam) or fall (Uchau) festivals, where villagers wear bright headdresses (shushut and susu) and perform ritual dances.

Best Time to Visit: Late spring (mid-May) for Chilam Joshi or early fall for Uchau. June–September offers pleasant weather (20–25°C in days). Winters are harsh and off-limits except to hardy trekkers.

Travel Tips: The only road access is via Ayun (Chitral) to Bumburet valley; passes to adjacent valleys exist but require hiking. Respect local customs: ask permission before photographing people, avoid entering inner courtyards uninvited. Accommodation: basic guesthouses or homestays are available. Carry cash and basic medicines (local clinics are minimal). Food is simple (polenta, beans, flatbread); try doi (yogurt) and phari (rice puddings).

Things to Do: Tour Kalash settlements to see ancient shrines (known as gaon) and fruit orchards. Hike between valleys along mountain trails. If visiting in May or Sept, join the Kalash festivities and sample rotika (Kalash wine) and local snacks. Collect handwoven Kalash textiles (geometric patterns) from village shops. In autumn, the surrounding pine forests provide perfect trails for nature walks. The dramatic backdrop of snow-capped mountains and blue skies makes the Kalash Valleys unforgettable.

Upcoming Departures — Northern Pakistan Tours