There’s something about road trips that make travel personal. It's the winding roads, the pit stops for chai, the unexpected stories, and the freedom to explore at your own pace. For a storyteller like me, the road is more than just a path—it’s a narrative waiting to unfold.
If you're ready to hit the highway, this guide brings you the best routes through the northern areas of Pakistan to visit, whether you’re chasing lakes, mountains, or meaningful moments.
Let’s fuel up and head north.
Why a Road Trip to Northern Pakistan?
The northern areas to visit in Pakistan offer an unmatched variety of landscapes—from lush green valleys and alpine forests to high-altitude deserts and glacial lakes. While flights can get you to certain destinations quickly, nothing beats the journey through these roads carved between mountains.
It’s not just about the destination—it’s about the thrill of the drive.
1. Islamabad to Skardu – The Grand Adventure
- Route: Islamabad → Besham → Chilas → Skardu
- Drive Time: Approx. 18–20 hours
- Best For: Hardcore road trippers, nature photographers, and adventurers
This route is long but rewarding. As you reach Skardu, the landscape transforms dramatically—welcome to Baltistan, the crown jewel of the northern places to visit in Pakistan.
Don’t Miss:
- Shangrila Resort, famously known as Shangrila Skardu, with its red-roofed cottages and serene lake.
- Upper Kachura Lake – a peaceful, untouched haven.
- Satpara Lake and cold desert of Shigar.
Pro Tip:
Break the journey in Chilas or Jaglot for rest. From Jaglot, the Skardu Road offers stunning views but demands experienced driving.
2. Naran to Babusar Top to Skardu – The Scenic Shortcut (Seasonal Route)
- Route: Naran → Babusar Top → Chilas → Skardu
- Drive Time: 12–14 hours (Babusar Top open from June to October)
- Best For: Those combining a Naran Kaghan trip with Skardu exploration
This is the most scenic way to reach Skardu. Start with a night in Naran, explore Saif-ul-Malook, then hit the road toward Babusar Top early morning.
Highlights:
- Lulusar Lake and scenic views from Babusar Top
- Dramatic transition from green Kaghan to rugged Baltistan
- Perfect if you're planning a photography-focused Skardu trip
3. Islamabad to Hunza via Karakoram Highway (KKH)
- Route: Islamabad → Abbottabad → Chilas → Gilgit → Hunza
- Drive Time: 16–18 hours
- Best For: First-time explorers of the northern areas of Pakistan to visit
The KKH is legendary. Carved into the mountains along the Indus River, this route takes you into the heart of Gilgit-Baltistan. Hunza is ideal for a cultural and scenic deep dive.
Must-Stops:
- Rakaposhi View Point
- Altit & Baltit Fort
- Attabad Lake and the tunnels
Though not part of Skardu, Hunza is often on the radar of those exploring northern areas to visit in Pakistan by road.
4. Swat to Kalam to Kumrat Valley – The Forest Trail
- Route: Swat → Bahrain → Kalam → Kumrat
- Drive Time: Varies by stop, but around 8–10 hours from Swat to Kumrat
- Best For: Forest lovers, camping enthusiasts, families
This route isn’t as high-altitude as others but offers dense pine forests, wooden bridges, and crystal rivers. A must if you want green valleys without extreme climbs.
Route Tips:
- You’ll need a 4x4 vehicle for Kalam to Kumrat
- Spend a night under the stars in a camp beside Panjkora River
5. Fairy Meadows Road Trip – Only for the Brave
- Route: Islamabad → Chilas → Raikot Bridge → Jeep ride + Hike to Fairy Meadows
- Drive Time: Islamabad to Raikot (12–14 hours) + Jeep ride and hike
While the road to Raikot is smooth, the jeep track to Fairy Meadows is ranked among the most dangerous roads in the world—but it’s also one of the most thrilling.
For: Hardcore adventurers and nature lovers.
Fairy Meadows offers views of Nanga Parbat and a chance to camp near one of the world’s most majestic peaks.
Bonus Route: Skardu to Deosai Plains
Already in Skardu? Take a drive to Deosai National Park, known as the ‘Land of Giants’. The plains are dotted with wildflowers and offer sightings of Himalayan brown bears.
Distance: About 30–40 km but takes 2–3 hours due to off-road terrain
Ideal Add-On for Your Skardu Trip
Tips for a Northern Pakistan Road Trip
- Drive smart: Roads in the north can be narrow, winding, and unpredictable—drive with caution.
- Pack essentials: Snacks, water, fuel, medical kit, and backup power.
- Stay charged: Power banks and car chargers are essential—especially if you’re filming.
- Respect locals: Always ask before filming or taking photos.
Best Time for a Road Trip
The best months for exploring the northern areas to visit in Pakistan are May to October. Babusar Top and Deosai remain closed in winter due to snow.
Suggested 7-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Islamabad to Naran
Day 2: Naran to Skardu via Babusar Top
Day 3: Explore Shangrila Skardu, Kachura Lakes
Day 4: Drive to Deosai Plains
Day 5: Skardu to Hunza (if possible) or chill in Skardu
Day 6: Return journey via Chilas
Day 7: Chilas to Islamabad
This loop gives you a taste of multiple northern places to visit in Pakistan—each one wildly different, each one worth the drive.
Final Thoughts
Northern Pakistan isn’t just a destination—it’s an experience. And there’s no better way to truly feel it than through a road trip. Whether you're gliding past the blue waters of Shangrila Skardu or winding through pine forests in Kalam, the journey will stay with you far longer than the miles.
So fill up your tank, roll down your window, and let the mountains call you forward.
🎥 Watch My Road Trip Vlogs on YouTube
[Northern Pakistan Playlist]
See these routes through my lens—real roads, raw moments, and the kind of beauty you can't script.
