Places To Visit In Northern Pakistan

Categories: Adventure, Tours & TripsTags: Kaghan, KhyberPakhtun, Murree, North, pakistan, Sightseeing, Tour

aghan Valley, a captivating tourist destination in Mansehra district, is nestled close to Naran Valley, forming the perfect haven for those seeking respite from summer’s heat.

It’s a sanctuary where both foreigners and Pakistanis spend their summer holidays, surrounded by exquisite natural beauty.

Notable attractions in Kaghan Valley

Lalazar Valley: Situated in the upper Kaghan Valley, Lalazar is often referred to as the “Land of Flowers.” Known for its vibrant floral landscapes, this hill station is a camping paradise accessible by jeep or trekking.
Shogran: An enchanting hill station, Shogran boasts Forest Rest House and breathtaking snow-covered mountains in winter. It offers a serene atmosphere and an array of restaurants and hotels.
Saiful Muluk: This heavenly lake, located at the northern end of Kaghan Valley, is a sight to behold. With its turquoise waters, it’s an enticing destination for tourists, particularly from May to July.
Siri Paye: A lush green plateau, Siri Paye offers kite flying, horse and jeep riding. In summer, it’s adorned with a carpet of greenery, while winter dresses it in a snowy blanket.
Kiwai: A picturesque village, Kiwai is a pit stop for travelers en route to Naran or Shogran. The Abshaar Cafe waterfall hotel attracts tourists for dining and relaxation.
Dana Meadows: Providing a stupendous view, Dana Meadows offers a sense of being close to the sky and clouds, especially in the winter. It’s an ideal place for camping and relaxation.
Dudipatsar Lake: Also known as Dudipat Lake, this serene lake is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and green hills. It’s the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Kaghan Valley

unza Valley, nestled in the Karakoram mountain range in Pakistan’s Gilgit-Baltistan region, is a breathtaking travel destination known for its towering mountains, pristine lakes, and hospitable locals.

Things to do in Hunza Valley

Visit Altit Fort and Baltit Fort: Explore these ancient forts with stunning views of the valley and beautiful gardens. Both forts offer insights into the region’s history and culture.
Shop in Karimabad Bazaar: Experience local markets and shop for colorful textiles, carpets, and jewelry. Haggling is common, so be prepared to negotiate.
Enjoy Attabad Lake: Visit the stunning Attabad Lake, known for its turquoise waters, where you can have breakfast, hike in the nearby mountains, or rent boats and jet-skis.
Cross Hussaini Bridge: Experience the thrill of crossing the Hussaini Bridge, known as the world’s most dangerous bridge due to its shaky structure and missing boards.
Marvel at Passu Cones: Passu village offers the iconic backdrop of the Passu Cones, making it a popular spot for photography.
Visit Khunjerab Pass: Drive to Khunjerab Pass, the world’s highest land border at 4,733 meters. The scenic journey and stunning border views are worth the drive.

Hunza Valley

kardu, Pakistan, is a hidden gem where the wonders of nature harmonize, where you’ll find a paradise for nature enthusiasts, with its combination of snow-covered peaks, crystal-clear lakes, and unspoiled deserts.

Notable Attractions In Skardu

K2 Base Camp Trek: Explore the world’s second-highest peak with this challenging 14-day trek through breathtaking mountain ranges and glaciers.
Shangrila Resort: For a luxurious retreat, Shangrila Resort offers stunning views, boating, and traditional cultural experiences.
Katpana Cold Desert: Witness the world’s highest cold desert with its unique sand dunes, camel safaris, and the famous Skardu Desert Rally.
Manthal Buddha Rock: Discover the ancient rock carvings dating back to the 8th century, offering a glimpse into Buddhist history and culture.
Satpara Lake: Experience the serenity of one of Pakistan’s largest freshwater lakes, with water sports and a taste of local Balti culture.
Kharmang Valley: Immerse yourself in a valley surrounded by the Karakoram Mountains, offering treks, camping, and insight into Balti traditions.
Skardu Fort (Kharpocho Fort): Explore an 8th-century Tibetan fort with stunning architecture, wood carvings, and panoramic views.
Deosai Plains: Uncover the “Land of the Giants,” a high-altitude plateau teeming with unique flora and fauna, offering trekking, camping, and wildlife encounters.
Sheosar Lake: Marvel at the highest lake of its kind, surrounded by lush plains and views of Nanga Parbat.
Basho Valley: A haven for camping and stargazing, this valley offers cool summer retreats amid green plains and streams. Skardu is a destination that caters to various interests, providing unforgettable experiences for all.

Skardu

urree: Pakistan’s Serene Mountain Retreat. Here you may enjoy sightseeing, boat rides at Kohala, hiking to Mushkpuri Top, mountain climbing, a safari to Nathiagali, shopping, chairlift and cable car rides at Patriata, horse riding, and sampling local Murree cuisine.

Top places to visit in Murree

Patriata Chair Lift: Nestled near Lower Topa, this site offers a scenic 7 km chairlift and cable car journey in the lush mountains of Patriata, providing a delightful experience for families and couples.
Nathia Gali: A mountain paradise 35 km from Murree, Nathia Gali showcases stunning vistas of Kashmir and Kohistan mountains, including the mighty Nanga Parbat on a clear day.
Ayubia National Park: Hosting lush green mountains at 1,050 meters, this park serves as a prime picnic spot, perfect for families and those seeking pleasant weather.
Murree Mall Road: The vibrant heart of Murree, this bustling market is lined with hotels, restaurants, and souvenir shops. It offers a memorable shopping and dining experience.
Bhurban: A green oasis, Bhurban beckons visitors to escape the summer heat with luxurious stays. The road connecting it to Azad Kashmir is just 13 km away.
Kohala: Neelum Point, known as Kohala Point, is a popular tourist attraction due to its proximity to Murree and breathtaking views of the Kashmir Waterfall.
Kashmir Point: Walk from Mall Road to reach this high point, providing stunning panoramic views of the Kashmir mountains amidst the hustle and bustle of Murree.
Ghora Gali: Accommodating most of Murree’s tourists, Ghora Gali offers a unique culinary experience against mesmerizing mountain views.
Lower Topa: At 7,000 ft. above sea level, Upper and Lower Topa provide a cool retreat for escaping summer’s scorching heat.
Khanaspur: This scenic valley is a beautiful retreat amidst the splendors of Murree and its surroundings.
Murree Expressway: Use this route for a journey filled with beautiful mountain sceneries.

Murree

altar Valley, located in the Gilgit-Baltistan region of Pakistan, offers an enchanting retreat for nature lovers. Situated just 34 kilometers from Gilgit, it boasts serene landscapes, lush green meadows, and captivating lakes, making it a year-round destination.

Scenic Lakes:

During the summer months, Naltar’s lakes take center stage. Accessible via 4×4 vehicles or trekking, these lakes include:

Satrangi Lake (Lake of Seven Colors): This stunning lake reflects a myriad of colors, thanks to underwater algae. It offers serene and picturesque views.
Pari Lake: Located north of Satrangi Lake, Pari Lake’s deep blue water is sourced from underground springs.

Winter Wonderland

Naltar Valley becomes a haven for winter sports enthusiasts. The Pakistan Air Force operates the Ski Resort, featuring a Ski Chairlift covering 1.5 kilometers of picturesque terrain.

Every year, Naltar Valley hosts a Winter Sports Festival, typically in late January or early February. The festival includes thrilling activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and ice hockey, drawing participants from around the world.

Warm Hospitality and Culture

The people of Naltar are known for their warm hospitality. The valley is family-friendly and boasts a high literacy rate of 94%, making it an inviting destination for tourists.

Naltar Valley beckons visitors with its breathtaking natural beauty and a welcoming atmosphere, providing a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you seek adventure or relaxation, Naltar Valley has it all.

Naltar Valley

umrat Valley is a valley located in the Upper Dir District of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province in Pakistan.

It has gained popularity as one of the most sought-after tourist destinations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, known for its natural beauty and serene landscapes.

Must-Visit Places in Kumrat Valley

Jahaz Banda: This high-altitude meadow, perched at 3,100 meters above sea level, is surrounded by snow-covered peaks like the Katora Peak and Black Mountain Range. A challenging but rewarding 14-kilometer trek from Kumrat Valley offers breathtaking views.
Katora Lake: At an altitude of 4,000 meters, Katora Lake is a glacial lake surrounded by towering peaks. Accessible via a strenuous 6-kilometer trek from Jahaz Banda, it’s a summer hotspot for camping and trekking.
Badagoi Pass: This mountain pass at 3,500 meters above sea level connects Upper Dir district with Chitral district. It offers spectacular panoramic views but demands a challenging 14-kilometer trek from Kumrat Valley.
Thal Village: A picturesque village near Kumrat Valley, Thal Village is renowned for its traditional architecture, lush orchards, and welcoming locals. It’s an ideal place to immerse in local culture and savor traditional cuisine.
Do Kala Chasma: This narrow gorge, carved by the Panjkora River, is located near Kumrat Valley. A moderately challenging 6-kilometer trek offers stunning vistas of the surrounding mountains and river.
Panjkora River: The Panjkora River flows through Kumrat Valley, offering opportunities for fishing, picnicking, and rafting. Local guides can help you explore the river and its surroundings.
Shahi Masjid Dir: A historic mosque in the city of Dir, the Shahi Masjid Dir boasts beautiful architecture and intricate artwork, dating back to the Mughal era.
Chitral Gol National Park: Located near Kumrat Valley, this protected area spans 775 square kilometers and is home to diverse wildlife, including snow leopards, Himalayan ibex, and musk deer. Visitors can explore the park on foot or by jeep, enjoying breathtaking views of mountains, glaciers, and meadows.

Kumrat Valley

wat Valley, nestled in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty.

Swat is often referred to as the “Switzerland of Pakistan” due to its striking landscapes, featuring towering mountains, lush meadows, and pristine lakes.

Swat Valley’s beauty is further enhanced by the Swat River, which originates in the Osho Range of Mountains.

Key tourist attractions in Swat Valley

Bahrain: A charming village along the Swat River, often used as a stopover for travelers heading to higher regions in Swat.
Kalam Valley: Situated at 2,000 meters above sea level, Kalam is a popular sub-valley in Swat. It offers a bustling marketplace and camping opportunities along the Swat River.
Kundol Lake: Nestled in the Utror Valley, this lake is fed by melting glaciers and springs, surrounded by dense forests.
Malam Jabba: A hill station in the Karakoram Range and Pakistan’s largest ski resort.
Swat Museum: A rich collection of Gandhara statues and artifacts.
Marghazar White Palace: A historic palace built by the Wali of Swat and a royal guesthouse during the Swat State era.
Spin Khwar (White Stream): A picturesque lake fed by a small white stream, surrounded by mountains.

Swat Valley

hitral Valley in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province is a serene and picturesque destination known for its captivating natural beauty and welcoming culture.

Chitral shares its borders with Afghanistan to the west and north, Dir and Chitral districts to the south, and Gilgit Baltistan to the east. The Chitral River flows through the valley, nourishing its forests and agricultural lands and adding to the area’s beauty.

Key tourist attractions in Chitral

Tirich Mir: The highest peak in the Hindukush Range, Tirich Mir offers stunning views of the region.
Kalash Valley: Known for its unique culture and festivals, Kalash Valley attracts visitors from around the world.
Chitral Museum: This museum provides insight into the history and culture of the Chitral and Kalash people.
Shahi Masjid (Shahi Mosque): This mosque, built in 1924, is renowned for its architectural style.
Qila Shahi (Shahi Fort): Adjacent to the Shahi Mosque, it is an impressive but private residence.
Polo Ground: Polo is a popular sport in Chitral, and the polo ground offers a chance to witness the game.
Governer’s Cottage: Offering clear views of Tirich Mir on a sunny day.
Barmoghlasht: A luxurious resort located south of Chitral.
Garam Chashma: Famous for its warm water springs, precious stones, and pristine environment.
Ayun Valley: Located along the Chitral River, it is celebrated for its natural beauty.
Goleen and Koghazi: These neighboring areas offer stunning landscapes, abundant fruits, and lush meadows.