Planning a 7-day journey through the northern areas of Pakistan? This comprehensive travel guide by Rahaal helps you explore the region’s top destinations, from Naran and Fairy Meadows to Hunza and Skardu, with practical tips, routes, and experiences you’ll never forget.
Why 7 Days in Northern Pakistan Is a Life-Changing Experience
There’s something undeniably magical about northern Pakistan. As the person behind Rahaal – The Explorer, I’ve documented countless journeys through these breathtaking landscapes—from serene lakes to high-altitude valleys and snowcapped peaks.
Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, standing before glaciers, or connecting with local culture, a well-planned 7-day northern areas in Pakistan tour offers a perfect balance of nature, history, and adventure.
Let’s craft an itinerary that captures the best of this region.
Day 1: Islamabad to Naran – Kickoff with Mountain Roads
Route: Islamabad > Mansehra > Balakot > Naran
Distance: ~270 km (8-9 hours)
Start early from Islamabad. After crossing Mansehra and Balakot, the terrain starts to shift into winding mountain roads and river-cut valleys. As you approach Naran, the air gets crisp, and pine trees take over the scenery.
Things to Do:
- Stop at Kunhar River for fresh trout
- Visit Kewai Waterfall
- Walk around the Naran bazaar
🡒 Related Blog: Fairy Meadows vs Naran: Which One Should You Visit?
Day 2: Naran to Lulusar Lake & Babusar Top
Route: Naran > Lulusar Lake > Babusar Top
Distance: ~70 km round trip (3–4 hours)
Day two is dedicated to scenic exploration. Head to Lulusar Lake, known for its mirror-like water. Keep going to Babusar Top—a high-altitude pass with snow even during summer.
Don’t Miss:
- Morning photography at Lulusar
- Drone shots at Babusar (where permitted)
- Lunch at roadside dhabas with mountain views
🎥 Watch: Journey to Babusar Top & Lulusar Lake | Northern Pakistan
Day 3: Fairy Meadows Adventure Begins
Route: Naran > Chilas > Raikot Bridge > Tattu Village > Fairy Meadows Trek
Distance: ~160 km drive + 3–4 hr hike
This will be your most adventurous day. Leave Naran early and reach Raikot Bridge. From there, a jeep takes you to Tattu Village, followed by a trek to Fairy Meadows.
Pro Tips:
- Hire a local guide for safety and info
- Carry essentials for cold weather
- Leave behind unnecessary luggage for the hike
🡒 Blog: How to Reach Fairy Meadows from Islamabad Easily
Day 4: Enjoy the Beauty of Fairy Meadows
You’ve earned this day to relax. The views of Nanga Parbat at sunrise alone will make the trip worth it.
Activities:
- Hike toward Beyal Camp
- Try local food cooked by hosts
- Stargaze at night with a bonfire
Also read: Where to Stay in Fairy Meadows: Best Hotel Options
Day 5: Journey to Hunza Valley
Route: Fairy Meadows > Chilas > Gilgit > Hunza
Distance: ~260 km (8-9 hours drive)
After descending from Fairy Meadows, begin your drive toward Hunza Valley, one of the most enchanting places in northern Pakistan. The journey takes time but offers stunning roadside views of the Indus River and mountain cliffs.
Places to Stop:
- Rakaposhi View Point
- Gilgit Bridge
- Local fruit stalls selling fresh cherries/apricots (seasonal)
🡒 Blog: Why Hunza Valley is the Heart of Northern Pakistan
Day 6: Full-Day Hunza Exploration
Hunza is rich with both history and panoramic beauty. You’ll need an entire day to explore its famous spots.
Must-See Places:
- Altit and Baltit Forts (for history + amazing shots)
- Attabad Lake (for boat rides and jet skiing)
- Passu Cones (for postcard photos)
- Khunjerab Pass (optional day trip)
🎥 Bonus: Exploring Dudipatsar Lake | Northern Pakistan
🡒 Related: 10 Stunning Places to Visit in Northern Pakistan
Day 7: Drive Back or Head to Skardu (Optional)
Now you have two choices: return toward Islamabad via the same route or extend your adventure by heading to Skardu.
Option 1 – Return:
- Break journey at Chilas or Naran
- Reach Islamabad on Day 8
Option 2 – Extension:
- Continue to Skardu via Gilgit
- Visit Shangrila Resort, Upper Kachura Lake, and Deosai Plains
🡒 More: Planning the Perfect Skardu Trip for Summer 2025
Packing List for a 7-Day Northern Pakistan Tour
- Essentials: Trekking shoes, portable charger, flashlight, dry snacks
- Documents: CNIC/passport, COVID vaccination card, any required NOCs
- Gears for Content Creators: DSLR/GoPro, tripod, memory cards, filters
- Winter Prep: Thermals, down jackets, gloves, rain protection
Important Travel Tips from Rahaal
- Start Early, End Before Dark: Always begin your day early and try to reach your destination before sunset.
- Respect Local Cultures: Especially in rural villages, ask before taking pictures of people.
- Support Locals: Choose local hotels and guides—this keeps tourism sustainable.
- Stay Flexible: Weather in northern areas in Pakistan is unpredictable; keep buffer time.
Vlog Collection – Watch These Journeys Come Alive
🎥 Siri Paye Meadows - Shogran Valley | Northern Pakistan
🎥 Exploring Dudipatsar Lake | Northern Pakistan
🎥 Trekking to Dudipatsar Lake | Northern Pakistan
🎥 Journey to Babusar Top & Lulusar Lake | Northern Pakistan
🎥 Baboon Valley Jeep Track Adventure | Northern Pakistan
Other Helpful Guides by Rahaal
- Must-See Northern Areas of Pakistan for Every Explorer
- Northern Pakistan’s Best Spots for Nature Lovers
- Top Tourist Destinations in Northern Pakistan 2025
- Magical Hunza Valley Tours You Can Book Right Now
Final Words from Rahaal
Your 7-day trip through northern Pakistan doesn’t have to be rushed or chaotic. With the right route, local insights, and some patience, you’ll uncover places and people that stay with you forever.
At Rahaal – The Explorer, we don’t just travel—we connect. Let this trip be your way of seeing the world with open eyes, full hearts, and a lens ready to capture stories that matter.
