There are trips, and then there are escapes—the kind where time slows down, where mountains greet you like old friends, and every twist in the road feels like a new story. That’s what a journey through the northern areas of Pakistan to visit feels like.
As a travel filmmaker and storyteller, I’ve seen how the north connects people not just with nature—but with themselves. Whether you're planning your first Skardu trip or looking for northern places to visit in Pakistan beyond the usual, this guide will help you plan a meaningful and scenic escape.
Why Choose Northern Pakistan for a Scenic Escape?
The northern areas to visit in Pakistan are not just about the landscape—they're about soul-stirring experiences. Snow-covered peaks, turquoise lakes, centuries-old cultures, and warm smiles await you. This region is perfect for those seeking adventure, calm, or simply a break from the noise of city life.
Step-by-Step: Planning Your Scenic Northbound Journey
1. Decide When to Travel
Timing is everything when you’re heading north.
- May to October: Ideal for lush valleys, clear roads, and blooming meadows.
- November to March: Best for snow-lovers, but access to areas like Skardu can be restricted.
If you're aiming to visit Shangrila Skardu or the Deosai Plains, the warmer months are your window.
2. Choose Your Route & Destinations
Let your journey reflect your vibe—whether you want serenity, trekking, culture, or cinematic views.
Top Northern Areas of Pakistan to Visit:
- Skardu: Known for its surreal landscapes and rich Balti culture.
- Hunza Valley: For panoramic views, hospitality, and historic forts.
- Fairy Meadows: If you're up for a bit of hiking and a lot of magic.
- Naran & Kaghan: Ideal for families and first-time northern travelers.
For a truly breathtaking journey, include a Skardu trip in your itinerary. Skardu’s raw beauty has a way of staying with you long after the journey ends.
3. How to Get There
- By Road: The Karakoram Highway and Babusar Top routes offer dramatic views and memorable pit stops.
- By Air: Flights to Skardu and Gilgit are available from major cities (subject to weather).
Pro Tip: If you love road trips, drive through Naran and continue toward Chilas and then Skardu for one of the most scenic routes through the northern areas to visit in Pakistan.
4. Where to Stay
From cozy wooden huts to luxury resorts, the north offers something for every traveler.
Suggested Stays in Skardu:
- Shangrila Resort Skardu – Iconic and peaceful, it's the place that defined Skardu's luxury travel scene.
- Serena Shigar Fort – A historical stay with an authentic cultural vibe.
- Budget-Friendly Options: Numerous guesthouses and campsites are now available through apps and local networks.
5. What to Pack
The north is unpredictable—come prepared for all moods of nature.
- Warm layers, even in summer
- Comfortable trekking shoes
- Power banks and chargers
- Reusable water bottle
- Basic medicines and sunscreen
Your camera gear is a must, especially for that iconic Shangrila Skardu lake shot.
Suggested 7-Day Scenic Itinerary
Day 1: Islamabad to Naran
Day 2: Naran to Skardu (via Babusar Top and Chilas)
Day 3: Explore Skardu – Shangrila Resort, Upper Kachura Lake
Day 4: Day trip to Deosai Plains
Day 5: Skardu to Hunza (or stay and explore Shigar/Khaplu)
Day 6: Hunza – Attabad Lake, Altit & Baltit Fort
Day 7: Return to Islamabad
This route blends the best of the northern areas of Pakistan to visit with scenic drives and cultural insights.
Must-Do Experiences in Northern Pakistan
✅ Have a chai with a local in a roadside tea stall
✅ Camp under the stars in Fairy Meadows or Deosai
✅ Visit the red-roofed paradise of Shangrila Skardu
✅ Ride a jeep on the world’s most adventurous road to Fairy Meadows
✅ Photograph the golden hour in Hunza’s Passu Cones
Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors
- Book early: Especially in peak season, hotels in popular northern places to visit in Pakistan fill up quickly.
- Respect local traditions: The north is culturally rich. Dress modestly and greet people with a smile.
- Internet is limited: Embrace being offline. Let nature take over.
- Stay flexible: Landslides, weather delays, and roadblocks are common—plan buffer days.
Final Thoughts
Planning a scenic escape to the northern areas of Pakistan to visit isn’t just about checking off destinations. It’s about traveling with intention—about seeing places with open eyes and open hearts.
From the reflective waters of Shangrila Skardu to the welcoming roads of Hunza and beyond, every mile in the north is a memory in the making.
Pack your bags, grab your camera, and let Pakistan’s wild north show you what it truly means to escape.
🎥 Watch My Vlog of This Scenic Journey
[Northern Pakistan Playlist]
See how I captured the soul of the north through film, people, and raw moments.
