List of Top Northern Areas of Pakistan
Various locations are spectacular, but we will only discuss the top tourist destinations in the Northern areas of Pakistan.
Hunza Valley
Imagine towering mountains, serene and peaceful landscapes, and organic crops growing everywhere; this is the Hunza Valley. Most consider it one of the most beautiful tourist destinations on Earth, a must-see for every traveler.
This region has long been a popular tourist destination, and the crystal-clear waters of Lake Attabad add to its allure, attracting numerous influencers and photographers.
Hunza, this paradise in northern Pakistan, has long been renowned and has appeared in international magazines multiple times. In the late 1990s, Hunza graced the cover of National Geographic magazine with the headline “Hunza Road to Heaven,” bringing it to the world’s attention.
Top Northern Areas of Pakistan To Visit: Hunza Valley
Since then, Hunza has been renowned for its remarkable charm, its vibrant colors, and natural beauty, a masterpiece of nature, regardless of the weather. Located just 102 kilometers from Gilgit, Hunza enjoys daily flights from Islamabad Airport to Gilgit, operated by Pakistan International Airlines. While flights are weather-dependent, northern Pakistan’s weather is notoriously unpredictable.
Hunza boasts numerous tourist attractions, requiring ample time to explore this region of Pakistan. Highlights include Karimabad, Duikar, Naltar, the Nagar Valley (though not part of Hunza, it is nearby), Ghizer, Passu, Sost Dry Port, and the Khunjerab Pass (the international border between Pakistan and China).
Hunza also boasts the famous Baltit and Altit Forts, meticulously maintained by the Aga Khan Trust to preserve Hunza’s rich cultural heritage. The people of Hunza are known for their warmth, generosity, and hospitality.
But what truly captivates you in Hunza isn’t just its breathtaking natural beauty, but also its people; they are incredibly hospitable, and among the friendliest you’ll ever meet. If you’re adventurous, the Husseini Suspension Bridge in Gojal is a must-see.
Some top things to do in Hunza include:
- Watching the sunrise/sunset at the Eagle’s Nest,
- Enjoying the stunning views from Baltit Fort,
- Enjoying an espresso at a Hunza café,
- Water rafting at Lake Attabad,
- Shopping at the Karimabad Market,
- Dinner at Glacier Breeze Restaurant,
- The Passu Cones and the Rakaposhi View are worth viewing.
Popular tourist attractions in the Hunza Valley include:
- Rakaposhi Peak
- Karimabad
- Altit Fort
- Baltit Fort
- Attabad Lake
- Rush Lake
- Sost Border
- Summit Gulmit
- Borith Lake
- Eagle Nest Duiker
How to reach Hunza Valley? There are two ways to reach Hunza Valley from Islamabad. The first is to fly to Gilgit or Skardu. The second is to drive along the N-15 highway to Hunza, a journey of approximately 10 hours.
What is the best time to visit? The best time to visit the Hunza Valley is from March to October. If you have the opportunity to visit Hunza, it is recommended to plan your trip during the cherry blossom season or autumn to appreciate the breathtaking colors of nature.
Staying options in Hunza: Serena Baltit Inn, Hunza View Hotel, or Eagle Nest to see the epic mountains.
Travel tip: Pack a few warm clothes as mornings and evenings remain cool even during summer.
Our Hunza Valley Tour Packages start from Rs. 150,000/-and include jeep transfers, comfortable accommodation, and a local guide. Spots in summer 2026 are filling up. WhatsApp us at +92 335 5577443 to lock yours in.
Chitral Valley KPK
Chitral, part of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, was a principality until 1969. It sits at the foot of Mount Trich Mir, the highest peak in the Hindu Kush Mountain Range, first summited by a Norwegian expedition in 1950. Mount Trich Mir can be seen from Chitral’s central market. Chitral is also home to the famous Badshahi Mosque. The town has an airport with daily flights to and from Islamabad and Peshawar.
Chitral’s most famous valley is Kalash, home to approximately 2,000 people. This ethnic group practices a non-Muslim religion and has its own religious beliefs, so tourist are requested to respect their privacy and ethical values. The Kalash are distinct from the rest of Pakistan with their unique culture, beliefs, language, cuisine, and lifestyle. Chilam Joshi is the most important festival for the Kalash, attracting tourists from around the world and within Pakistan. However, the most important tourist places to visit in Chitral are:
- Bumburet Valley
- Rumbur Valley
- Birir Valley
- Ayun valley
- Garam Chashma
- Bonni
- Shandur Pass
- Tirch Mir
How to reach Chitral Valley? You can fly from Islamabad to Chitral, a 1-hour flight, with three flights a week. You can also drive along the N45 highway, which takes about eight hours from Islamabad.
What is the best time to visit? The best time to visit Chitral is from March to October. During this period, you can enjoy Chitral’s vibrant festivals and celebrations.
Kalash Valley
If you visit Chitral, the Kalash Valley is an absolute must-see. Home to the renowned Kalashi people, believed to be descendants of Alexander the Great’s soldiers, the Kalash Valley offers a unique cultural experience due to its remote location. The region comprises three main valleys: the Bumburat Valley, with the most developed infrastructure; the Rumbur Valley; and the Birir Valley, which receives the most foreign visitors each year.
Northern Areas Of Pakistan That You Have To Visit: Chitral Valley
What is the best time to visit? The best time to visit the Kalash Valley is during its three major festivals. At these festivals, you’ll see spectacular performances: dances, brightly colored costumes, and exquisite styling. The Chilam Joshi Festival takes place in May, the Uchal Festival in autumn (September), and the Choimus Festival, which lasts for about two weeks around the winter.
How to reach Kalash Valley? The best way to get to the Kalash Valley is by local jeep. Jeeps typically depart from Chitral around 1 pm for the three valleys. The journey from Chitral to your destination takes approximately two hours.
Skardu
Surrounded by the majestic Karakoram and Himalayas, Skardu is a paradise for hikers and mountaineers. Skardu is 763 kilometers from the capital, Islamabad. The city itself boasts numerous attractions, but it’s best known as the starting point for climbers attempting to summit K2 and other nearby peaks. In summer, climbing teams can often be seen preparing for ascents of K2 and other nearby mountains. Skardu Airport offers daily flights to and from Islamabad. Picturesque, tranquil, and with well-preserved natural scenery, it’s a must-see. Don’t miss Upper Kachura Lake, which is the most popular Skardu tourist destination.
Skardu’s numerous lakes attract visitors seeking stunning scenery. Among the most famous is Shangri-La Lake, located in the Kachura Valley. Although man-made, it’s internationally renowned thanks to the world-famous Shangri-La Resort.
Just steps from the Shangri-La Resort is Upper Kachura Lake, a natural lake with warm waters ideal for swimming. Also located in the heart of Skardu is Lake Sadpara, the region’s largest blue lake, renowned for its crystal-clear waters.
Other must-see attractions include the expansive Deosai National Park, the Basho Valley, the Katpana Desert (near Skardu), the Shangri-La Resort, the Manthal Buddha statue, Lake Sadpara, and more.
Northern Areas Of Pakistan That You Have To Visit: Skardu Valley
The top places to visit in Skardu Valley are:
- Skardu Fort
- Khaplu Valley
- Kachura Lake
- Shangri-La Lake
- Satpara Lake
- Shigar Fort
- Deosai
- Sheosar Lake
- Katpana Lake
- Basho Valley
How to reach Skardu? You can take a flight from Islamabad to Skardu, which takes about 1 hour. On the other hand, you can drive to Skardu via S-1, which takes 13 hr 40 min (636.9 km).
Where to stay: Shangrila Resort, Safena Hotel, or glamping (luxury) at Katpana Desert Camp.
Bonus travel tip: Book flights in advance, as flights fill up quickly during high season.
All basic Skardu Valley packages start at Rs. 99,000/- and include easy planning, all-inclusive transport, fine hotels, and professional guides. Now message to customize.
Fairy Meadows
The name “Fairy Meadows” is enough to evoke the imagination, wondering if fairies truly inhabit this place. Given its enchanting beauty, the existence of fairies is not impossible. Stepping into Fairy Meadows is like entering a fairytale world. The name was given by Austrian mountaineer Herman Buhl after his visit to this majestic, lush green land, which was called the paradise of fairies.
Fairy Meadows in Pakistan is one of the world’s most magical tourist destinations, attracting visitors from around the globe. However, the rugged mountain roads also add a touch of thrill to the journey. Pakistan’s many dangerous roads lead travelers to some of the most beautiful places, and the Fairy Meadows route is one of them. The picturesque Fairy Meadows journey begins at the Rakiot Bridge on the Karakoram Highway and ends at Tattu village. The treacherous gravel roads of the rugged mountains are difficult to travel and accessible only to local residents, who also provide transportation services to tourists.
Places in Northern Areas Of Pakistan: Fairy Meadows
To reach Fairy Meadow, you must first take a bus or private car along the Karakoram Highway to Chilas, then drive approximately 50 kilometers to Reikot. From Reikot, you can take a jeep to Tattu village, where the trek begins. This journey takes about two hours.
Nanga Parbat is the ninth-highest peak in the world. It seems to soar above the sky, an impassable fortress, resisting the attack of ice, snow, and earthquakes. It’s like a scene from a fantasy movie, but it’s real.
More precisely, the World Health Organization listed the Fairy Meadow Trail as the second most dangerous trekking route in the world in 2013. After passing Tattu village, a rugged five-kilometer stretch forces hikers to continue on foot to Fairy Meadows, which will take about three to four hours of hiking.
Fairy Meadow is located in the Raikot Valley, specifically at the end of the Raikot Glacier. The Glacier originates from Nanga Parbat, and a beautiful stream flows into the Indus River. The night view is breathtaking; the galaxy seems to be right above you, and the silence echoes there. Locals and many hotels have camping setups there to fully enjoy the view. Some popular attractions of FairyMeadows are:
- Nanga Parbat
- Rama Lake
- Raikot Bridge
- Rakhiot
- Chongra
- Ganalo Peak
How to get Fairy Meadows? Now, Fairy Meadows is easily accessible because of paved roads. You can drive to Fairy Meadows via Gilgit, take a direct flight to Gilgit, and then move to Fairy Meadows. The flight takes 2:30 hours; however, the drive to Fairy Meadows lasts 10:30 hours but is worth seeing.
The best time to visit Fairy Meadows is from March to October. But avoiding traveling to Fairy Meadows during the monsoon season is advisable.
Murree Hills
Are you searching for a quick dose of nature without traveling too far? Simply go to Murree. It takes about 40 minutes to reach from Islamabad and is the perfect day trip if you’re in the capital. At 12,605 hectares, the Margalla Hills are part of the Himalayan foothills north of Islamabad. You can get a 10,000-foot perspective on the shocking Faisal Mosque from here.
Places in Northern Areas Of Pakistan: Murree
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Naran Kaghan Valley
Naran is a popular domestic tourist destination. It is part of the district Mansehra and has so much to offer. Naran has been attracting more than 2 million visitors annually, and this growth rate continues to improve each year. However, several places in Naran Kaghan are fascinating and are increasingly rich in history and culture.
The most mesmerizing is Lake Saif-ul-Malook, one of the world’s top lakes. Moreover, this lake is the most visited in Pakistan. Saif ul Malook offers sublime beauty in the Northern areas of Pakistan. However, it is a half-hour jeep ride from Naran Baazar.
Northern Areas Of Pakistan That You Have To Visit: Naran Kaghan Valley
The road is bumpy and only accessible by 4×4 Jeeps. During the summer season, Naran is full of tourists. You won’t find more tourists anywhere in Pakistan than in Naran. Naran’s top point is Babusar Top, at 13600 Feet. From there, you can see a glimpse of Rakaposhi Peak, 280km away. Some other famous places in the Naran region are Shogran, Sharan, Siri Paye Meadows, Lalazar Meadows, and Noori Top. Lulusar Lake is another stunning lake in the Naran Region. The top places to visit in Naran Kaghan are:
- Saif ul Malook Lake
- Lulusar Lake
- Shogran
- Siri Paye
- Babusar Top
- Lalazar
- Balakot
How to get Naran Kaghan? You can reach Naran Kaghan from Islamabad via Mansehra – Naran – Jalkhad – Chilas Rd/N-15 and the Hazara Motorway/M-15, taking approximately 5 hr 59 min (281.2 km).
The best time to visit Naran Kaghan is from March to October. In winter, the road is usually closed due to heavy snowfall.
Staying Options: Eagle Resort, PTDC Motel, or guesthouses or resorts located along the river.
Pro-tip: Go early in the morning to avoid day-trippers.
Our Naran Kaghan Tour Packages start at Rs. 49,000/-. Good at getting away, book it before summer.
Swat Kalam Valley
Kalam is a land of rivers, towering mountains, waterfalls, and lovely people. Kalam is one of the top-visited places in the northern areas of Pakistan. Kalam has all the elements to be termed the top tourist destination in Pakistan. Kalam has great forests for camping, lovely mountains for trekking and climbing, lakes for boating, and various excellent resorts. Mohdand Lake is one of the most refreshing lakes in northern Pakistan. Mohdand Lake is a 2-hour jeep ride from Kalam Bazar.
You can visit the Ushu Jungle, and the Matalan area has one of the largest waterfalls in Pakistan. The climate remains chilly there, and you need a warmer outfit to stay accessible. Road infrastructure is being improved. The section from Madyan to Kalam requires repairs, but paving is currently underway.
Northern Areas Of Pakistan That You Have To Visit: Swat Kalam Valley
Some other areas in Swat are worth visiting. Murghzar is exceptionally green and well-located in the Swat area, a 30-minute drive from Saidu Sharif, the capital of Swat. White Palace is also in Swat and offers great cultural value. It was built in the 1940s with the same marble used in the famous Taj Mahal; it also features several ancient structures. Malam Jabba is the highest point in Swat and is most famous for skiing during the winter season. The top places to visit in the Swat Valley are:
- Kalam Valley
- Kumrat Valley
- Madyan
- Bahrain
- Marghazar
- Saidu Sharif
- Mahodand Lake
- Malam Jabba
- Fizaghat
- Kundol Lake
How to reach Swat Valley? You can drive through the Swat Motorway, a 5-hour drive from Islamabad. Or you can take a direct flight to Swat, that land at Saidu Shareef Airport.
The best time to visit Swat is year-round, but you can enjoy it most from March to October. But if you are a snow lover, you must visit in winter for some majestic views.
Gilgit Baltistan
Gilgit-Baltistan, known to Pakistanis for its northern region, is home to some of the highest mountains in the world. Combining endless green grasslands, deep valleys, beautiful waterfalls, and steep roads, Gilgit-Baltistan is a haven for every nature lover and a paradise for every explorer.
Gilgit is the administrative capital of the region. Before the split of the Indo-Pakistani subcontinent, it was also an essential stop on the Silk Road. This is where Buddhism took root in India. One of the other significant towns here is Skardu, which has some of the most beautiful glaciers, museums, forts, and resorts, making it a top tourist destination.
The Gilgit-Baltistan district became a separate administrative unit in 1970. It contains three districts, each with more partitions. The three significant districts are Gilgit, Baltistan, and Diamir. Gilgit District includes Hunza, Nagar, and Ghizer Districts. The Diamer region comprises Astore and Diamer subdivisions. Meanwhile, the province of Baltistan includes Shigar, Ganchi, Skardu, and Kharmanj as additional sub-districts. The top places in Gilgit Baltistan one must visit are:
- Skardu Valley,
- Attabad lake
- Nagar Valley,
- Hussaini Suspension Bridge
- Khaplu Valley,
- Karakoram Highway,
- Shigar Valley
- Khunjerab Pass
- Gupis Valley
Azad Kashmir-Neelum Valley
Azad Kashmir, located in northern Pakistan, is another enchanting place. A veritable paradise, it boasts azure lakes, magnificent waterfalls, majestic mountains, and lush meadows. It is one of the few havens where beauty is perfectly integrated with nature. Azad Kashmir has so many breathtaking sights that choosing the most beautiful one can be quite challenging.
Northern Areas Of Pakistan That You Have To Visit: Azad Kashmir, Neelum Valley
With so many hills, mountains, waterfalls, rivers, and lakes, Azad Kashmir is one of those places tourists want to return to again and again, because its beauty is not enough to experience in a lifetime. As the only obstacle to tourism in Azad Kashmir, which is the safety and security aspects, is firmly handled by the government, it is undeniable that more and more tourists will travel to Pakistan to experience the tourist attractions of Azad Kashmir for themselves. The top places in Azad Kashmir one must visit are:
- Taubut
- Arang Kel
- Shardha
- Neelum Valley
- Pir Chinasi
- Toli Peer
- Banjosa Lake
Naltar Valley
Located 34 kilometers from the central Gilgit Valley, at 15,348 feet above sea level, Naltar is a barren canyon offering beautiful views. This beauty is far from the hustle and bustle of Gilgit-Baltistan towns.
Northern Areas Of Pakistan That You Have To Visit: Naltar Valley
Naltar is an ideal year-round tourist destination, offering tranquility away from the city’s hustle and bustle, whether in winter or summer. In winter, it boasts superb ski resorts; in summer, it’s a perfect holiday retreat. Lush green landscapes and picturesque lakes make it a true paradise. The must-see attractions in the Naltar Valley include:
- Rattu Ski Resort,
- Satrangi Lake,
- Blue Lake,
- Naltar-Pakora Trek
- Naltar Lake
- Dhudia Lake.
Deosai National Park
The Deosai Plains are among the greatest natural wonders of northern Pakistan. Many words can describe it: wild, arid, fertile, enchanting, and so on, but one word best captures its essence: Deosai is the epitome of vastness and grandeur.
Upon arrival, one is greeted by endless meadows and a limitless sky. The most distant landmarks are the mountains that encircle the plain, and these mountains themselves seem to protect it. For any visitor, the entire region feels like a miniature world, as if the mountains had isolated this breathtaking plateau from the rest of the world.
Northern Areas Of Pakistan That You Have To Visit: Deosai National Park
When translated, the name Deosai means “shadow of giants.” However, Deosai’s weather is so unpredictable that nights can get chilly, and it can start raining from nowhere. Plus, the top places in Deosai that one must visit are:
- Sheosar Lake,
- Kala Pani,
- Deosai Top
- Shatoung Nala.
