The northern areas of Pakistan are truly magical. This area attracts tourists and adventurers with its natural beauty, including the highest mountains, beautiful valleys, and charming lakes.
Northern Pakistan has something for everyone, from majestic mountains for trekkers to rural local people and their communities to beautiful scenery for nature photographers.
In this guide, you will find the list of destinations and attractions no traveller should miss, a few words about security, and essential tips to make your vacation unforgettable.
What is the Northern Area of Pakistan?
The northern areas of Pakistan refer to the beautiful hills and mountainous areas in the country’s north zone. This region comprises the Gilgit-Baltistan, Chitral, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa districts.
The northern areas are famed for their stunning landscapes, ethnic mosaics, and long-inaccessible tourism. They include the K2 and Nanga Parbat massifs, picturesque valleys, and colourful culture. This area attracts trekking, mountaineering, photographers, and travellers worldwide.
Why Visit the Northern Areas of Pakistan?
The country’s northern regions are famous for remarkable beauties of pure and untouched nature. Covering some parts of the earth’s surface, including the imposing K2, the geography or landscape of the area is stunning, with even challenging trekking adventures. Off the hills are beautiful valleys, clear streams, and dull towns with a glimpse of rural life.
Another advantage of this region is its cultural diversity. Each valley has its own language or even some traditions, making travel very interesting. In Pakistan, tourists can breathe the air of the ancient Wakhians of Hunza or the colourful Kalash valleys of Chitral.
Top Destinations in Northern Pakistan
Hunza Valley
Hunza Valley is a famous tourist destination in northern Pakistan. Nestled in the heart of mountains covered in snow, it is popular for its beautiful scenery and welcoming people. Take a historical tour of the Baltit and Altit forts, which provide a rich look at the area.
Key attractions:
- Attabad Lake: A turquoise gem produced after a landslide in 2010.
- Passu Cones: Magnificent snow-capped mountains that are attractive to photographers.
- Khunjerab Pass: It is also one of the world’s highest paved international border crossings.
Skardu
Skardu is the base for some of the most challenging trekking in the world. Those looking to hack through the Karakoram’s glaciers and ice to the K2 base camp start from Skardu. The town is a quiet getaway with exquisite lakes and historical forts.
Key attractions:
- Shangrila Resort: Popularly known for scenic beauty as the “Heaven on Earth.”.
- Deosai National Park: An elevated plain that supports wildlife populations.
- Shigar Fort: A fully renovated building of historical significance.
Swat Valley
Swat Valley, known as “The Switzerland of the East,” boasts verdant meadows and pristine rivers. It is ideal for families and nature enthusiasts.
Key attractions:
- Malam Jabba: A ski resort with a magnificent sightseeing opportunity.
- Mingora and Saidu Sharif: Cultural centres with the history of Buddhist remains.
- Kalam Valley: Beautiful country highly suited for trekking and picnicking.
Gilgit-Baltistan
Gilgit-Baltistan is a storehouse of adventure and beauty. As a fundamental city, it is often used as the beginning of many treks and has the best view in northern Pakistan.
Key attractions:
- Naltar Valley: Its for the colourful lakes and skiing chance.
- Fairy Meadows: A beautiful, vast green meadow with views of Nanga Parbat.
- K2 Base Camp: This is an arduous climb perfect for those enthusiasts with considerable climbing experience.
Chitral
Chitral is a uniquely cultural and historical place. The Kalash, or the ‘people of the Blue Eyes,’ live in the Kalash Valley and still celebrate marriage and the New Year in a way that is wholly different from that of other valleys.
Key attractions:
- Kalash Valleys: Get acquainted with the culture of the Kalash tribe.
- Tirich Mir: The highest pointed mountain of Hindu Kush mountain.
- Chitral Fort: A historical place with excellent architectural designs.
Activities to Enjoy in Northern Pakistan
Trekking and Hiking
The northern zones of Pakistan have a fascinating topography for trekkers. Excellent! There are many trails, from the easy ones for beginners to the most complex ones for experienced ones. Popular treks include:
- Nanga Parbat Base Camp
- Hunza’s Ultar Sar trek
- The Concordia and K2 Base Camp Trek
Camping
Camping is one of the most effective ways to experience the natural beauty of Pakistan’s northern regions. Fairy Meadows, Deosai National Park, and Rush Lake are some of the finest camping sites.
Cultural Exploration
Additionally, it is always enjoyable to meet the people of northern Pakistan. You can visit their fairs and celebrations, taste their unique cuisine, and get acquainted with their culture.
Adventure Sports
Adventure opportunities in northern Pakistan will interest lovers of extreme tourism. You can go paragliding in Hunza, skiing in Malam Jabba or thrilling rafting in the Gilgit River.
Is It Safe to Travel to Pakistan?
The most popular question tourists may ask is: Is it safe to travel to Pakistan? In the northern regions, the answer is yes.
There is relatively little crime, and the people are friendly. However, similar to any other travel destination, some basic guidelines should always be followed.
Safety Tips:
- If you are going to explore the country’s deserted areas, it is recommended that you accompany a good guide or tour operator.
- Be informed of the current weather because sometimes there can be some slippage or a snowblock on the roads.
- When driving, respect the local culture, especially regarding dress. Wear decent clothes, especially in rural regions.
- Always bring a minor first-aid kit and other required prescription or over-the-counter medicines.
Is Pakistan safe to travel?
Those who have been to the northern part of Pakistan have much to say about their experiences and the friendliness of people from northern Pakistan.
Now that we understand the region’s basic information let’s move on to the most important: art, how to get there and some valuable tips for travelling in northern Pakistan.
When to Visit
May to October is a suitable time for the northern areas of Pakistan. Summer offers appropriate weather and clear vision, whereas autumn lets us see fall colours.
What to Pack
- Warm clothing is not in summer, as nights can sometimes be a bit cold.
- Comfortable hiking shoes.
- Power banks and adapters.
- Covers trek and adventure travel insurance.
Transportation
The primary means of transport to the northern region of Pakistan is by road or air. Flights within the country to Gilgit and Skardu can be taken, but weather hitches often affect them. The Karakoram Highway has a pleasant outlook in road tourism but is challenging.
The Cultural Delight Trip through Northern Pakistan
The people of northern Pakistan, along with the landscapes they inhabit, exhibit remarkable diversity. In other words, they have their language, tune, the kind of music they dance to, and customs. Highlights include:
- Kalash Festivals: Join the Kalash tribe at festive occasions in different seasons.
- Local Cuisine: You should eat chapshuro, a pastry casing filled with meat, and harissa, a spicy, meat-based stew beverage.
- Handicrafts: Shawls, carpets, and wooden carvings are the best souvenirs to buy; they are made locally.
Conclusion
As an international visitor, I am eager to embark on a dream tour of the northern regions of Pakistan. It is further complimented by natural scenery, cultural tourism, and northern Pakistani people, all of which guarantee guests a worthwhile trip. Regardless of whether you are an adrenalin junkie, a naturist, or a history lover, there’s something unique to do in the northern part of Pakistan.
With that, let the anticipation begin, and travel to Pakistan can start now. The region is excellent for sightseeing and is also secure and friendly. Therefore, do not hesitate to begin your journey through northern Pakistan while learning why everybody should go there.
FAQs
When is the best time to visit the northern state of Pakistan?
The best time to go is from May to October when the climate is good, and the roads are easy to access.
Is a visa required for tourism to Pakistan?
Indeed, it does, as most travellers to the country need a visa. Like many other countries, Pakistan also has an e-visa system.
Is it safe to trek in the northern areas?
Yes, however, hiring local guides and getting information on the weather is useful.
What are the most popular tourist attractions in northern Pakistan?
You should visit many beautiful areas, including Hunza Valley, Skardu, Swat Valley, Fairy Meadows, and Chitrad.
Can I travel to Northern Pakistan and still consider my pockets?
Can a trip be economical with reasonably priced accommodations and local transportation?