There’s a reason travelers from around the world are falling in love with the northern areas in Pakistan—they’re wild, beautiful, and refreshingly untouched. If you’re searching for a travel experience that combines majestic mountains, heartfelt hospitality, and soul-stirring views, then this guide is for you.
As someone who has wandered through many valleys and stood at countless cliff edges with a camera in hand, I’ve gathered 10 unforgettable places that represent the raw beauty of Pakistan’s north.
Let’s dive into the most stunning destinations that deserve a spot on your bucket list.
1. Hunza Valley – The Crown Jewel of the North
A list of stunning places in the northern areas in Pakistan has to begin with Hunza Valley. Tucked away in Gilgit-Baltistan, Hunza is a mix of natural beauty and cultural richness.
- Highlights: Attabad Lake, Passu Cones, Altit & Baltit Forts
- Best Time to Visit: April to October
- Why Go: The locals are among the warmest in Pakistan, and every turn in Hunza feels like a postcard.
2. Skardu – The Land of Giants
Skardu is where the Himalayas and Karakorams seem to whisper ancient stories. The town is the gateway to mighty peaks like K2 and offers some of the most serene lake views in the country.
- Highlights: Upper Kachura Lake, Shigar Fort, Cold Desert
- Best Time to Visit: May to September
- Why Go: For high-altitude peace, powerful landscapes, and stargazing like you’ve never seen.
3. Shangrila Skardu – Heaven on Earth
Located just outside Skardu town, Shangrila Skardu is often called "Heaven on Earth." Its red-roofed cottages around a heart-shaped lake make it a dream destination.
- Highlights: Shangrila Lake, resort stay, boating
- Best Time to Visit: Summer
- Why Go: It's one of the most photogenic spots in all of Pakistan. Ideal for couples, families, and solo travelers alike.
4. Neelum Valley – Kashmir’s Secret Paradise
Nestled in Azad Kashmir, Neelum Valley is lush, green, and wildly underrated. With blue rivers, wooden houses, and peaceful villages, it's a great escape for those seeking serenity.
- Highlights: Arang Kel, Keran, Sharda
- Best Time to Visit: April to October
- Why Go: It feels like stepping into a fairy tale with alpine forests and unspoiled scenery.
5. Fairy Meadows – Nature’s Balcony to Nanga Parbat
Not for the faint-hearted, reaching Fairy Meadows requires effort—but it’s worth every step. Overlooking the killer mountain Nanga Parbat, it’s one of the best trekking destinations in Asia.
- Highlights: Camping, hiking to Nanga Parbat Base Camp
- Best Time to Visit: June to September
- Why Go: To wake up with the 9th highest mountain on Earth right in front of you.
6. Deosai Plains – The Roof of the World
High-altitude plains that bloom with wildflowers in summer—Deosai is a surreal experience. It's home to Himalayan brown bears and sky-high serenity.
- Highlights: Sheosar Lake, wildlife, wide-open skies
- Best Time to Visit: July to early September
- Why Go: Perfect for those who want to feel like they’re walking on clouds.
7. Kalash Valley – Culture Frozen in Time
Tucked near Chitral, Kalash Valley is home to the indigenous Kalash people, known for their unique traditions, colorful festivals, and untouched customs.
- Highlights: Bamburet, festivals, Kalasha culture
- Best Time to Visit: During their spring or summer festivals
- Why Go: To experience a culture unlike any other in Pakistan, surrounded by green valleys and wooden homes.
8. Khaplu – The Hidden Kingdom
Often called “Little Tibet,” Khaplu lies east of Skardu and is known for its historic palace, glacial rivers, and quiet charm.
- Highlights: Khaplu Fort, Hushe Valley, trout fishing
- Best Time to Visit: Summer
- Why Go: To see the blend of Tibetan architecture and mountain majesty in one town.
9. Rama Meadow – The Gateway to Tranquility
On the road to Nanga Parbat from Astore lies Rama Meadow, a green expanse surrounded by pine forests, ideal for picnics, photography, or just pure relaxation.
- Highlights: Rama Lake, pine forests
- Best Time to Visit: May to August
- Why Go: Less crowded and truly peaceful—a nature lover’s escape.
10. Gorakh Hill – The Murree of Sindh
While not technically in the north, it’s worth a mention. Gorakh Hill is in Sindh, but at over 5,600 ft, it offers cool temperatures and views that resemble the northern areas in Pakistan.
- Highlights: Sunset and sunrise views, cool climate
- Best Time to Visit: Winter
- Why Go: For those in the south who crave a quick mountain escape.
Travel Tips for Exploring Northern Pakistan
- Plan Early – These destinations get booked fast, especially Hunza and Skardu.
- Travel Light, Pack Smart – Include layers, medication, and a reusable bottle.
- Stay Respectful – The locals are welcoming, but it’s important to respect local customs and dress codes.
- Capture, But Be Present – As a filmmaker, I encourage documenting—but don’t forget to feel the place too.
Final Thoughts
The northern areas in Pakistan are more than just locations on a map—they’re experiences waiting to unfold. From Hunza Valley’s dramatic cliffs to Shangrila Skardu’s dreamlike lake views and Neelum Valley’s calming rivers, every destination tells its own story.
So pack your curiosity, respect the roads, and lose yourself in a place where the sky feels closer and the people feel like home.
🎥 Watch My Journey Through These Stunning Places
[Northern Pakistan Vlog]
Follow me as I explore these valleys through the lens of a traveler, not a tourist.
