Northern Areas of Pakistan: Discover 10 Most Beautiful Places
Discover the top 10 most beautiful places in the Northern Areas of Pakistan, from serene lakes and majestic valleys to adventure-filled trekking spots. Explore these stunning destinations now!
The Northern Areas are filled with majestic mountains, green valleys, sparkling lakes, and ancient glaciers. This region offers stunning natural beauty that attracts travelers from around the world. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat in nature or an adventurous trek, the Northern Areas have it all. In this article, we will explore the 10 most beautiful places in this region that will leave you in awe.
Table of Contents
1. Naran Valley
Naran Valley is one of the most popular destinations in the Northern Areas of Pakistan. Located about 280 kilometers from Islamabad, this beautiful valley is set at a high altitude of 7,904 feet above sea level. Naran Valley is especially popular during the summer months when its lush green landscapes are free from snow. However, from October to April, the valley is often closed due to heavy snowfall.
The valley is known for its tall mountains covered in thick forests, making it a great place for nature lovers. One of the most famous attractions in Naran Valley is Saif-ul-Muluk Lake, which is often considered one of the most beautiful lakes in the world. Every year, thousands of tourists visit Naran to enjoy its cool weather, hiking trails, and breathtaking views.
2. Hunza Valley
Hunza Valley is another magical place in the Northern Areas. It is located about 600 kilometers from Islamabad and sits at an altitude of around 8,000 feet. Hunza Valley is made up of three distinct regions: Upper Hunza, Central Hunza, and Lower Hunza. Each part has its unique charm, offering visitors breathtaking mountain views, fresh rivers, and ancient villages.
One of the most famous spots in Hunza is the Hussaini Hanging Bridge, known as one of the scariest bridges in the world due to its old wooden planks and the strong wind that shakes it. Hunza is also home to Rakaposhi and other towering peaks that make it a paradise for trekkers and mountain climbers.
Read Also: Discover the Top 10 Must-Visit Places in Islamabad, Pakistan
3. Naltar Valley
Located about 40 kilometers from Hunza, Naltar Valley is another hidden gem of the Northern Areas. Naltar Valley is famous for its peaceful and remote location. The valley is covered with thick forests, making it a haven for wildlife and nature lovers. It is also home to three beautiful lakes: Satrangi Lake, Neeli Lake, and Burluk Lake. Each lake has its unique color and charm, making Naltar a favorite spot for photographers.
During winter, Naltar Valley becomes a hub for skiing and other snow sports. The valley’s tall peaks and frozen lakes make it a great place for winter sports enthusiasts.
4. Swat Valley
Often referred to as the “Switzerland of the East,” Swat Valley is famous for its green meadows, rivers, and high mountains. This valley is located about 180 kilometers from Islamabad and has an altitude of 3,220 feet above sea level. Swat Valley’s beauty has been appreciated for centuries, and even Queen Elizabeth visited it in 1961, calling it one of the most beautiful places she had ever seen.
The valley is known for activities like trekking, jeep safaris, and skiing in the winter. Popular tourist spots include Malam Jabba, a famous ski resort, and Kalam, a beautiful village surrounded by forests and waterfalls.
5. Kumrat Valley
Kumrat Valley is a lesser-known but equally stunning destination in the Northern Areas of Pakistan. Located about 370 kilometers from Islamabad, the valley sits at an altitude of 7,540 feet. It is famous for its dense forests, crystal-clear rivers, and snow-covered mountains.
Visitors can enjoy trekking through Kumrat Forest, explore the peaceful Katora Lake, or simply relax in the lush green meadows. This valley is still relatively undiscovered by mass tourism, making it a perfect destination for those who want to experience the untouched beauty of nature.
6. Fairy Meadows
Fairy Meadows is one of the most magical places in the Northern Areas. Situated at the base of Nanga Parbat, the ninth-highest mountain in the world,
Fairy Meadows is known for its beautiful green meadows and spectacular views of the snow-capped peaks. The valley is located about 450 kilometers from Islamabad, at an altitude of 10,800 feet. Reaching Fairy Meadows is a journey full of adventure on its own. The journey includes a thrilling jeep ride followed by a trek, but the breathtaking views of Nanga Parbat and the surrounding landscapes make it all worthwhile.
7. Neelum Valley
Neelum Valley is another stunning region in the Northern Areas. Located about 236 kilometers from Islamabad, this valley is often called the “paradise of Kashmir” because of its natural beauty.
The valley sits at an altitude of 8,380 feet and is known for its dense forests, flowing rivers, and snow-capped mountains. Neelum Valley is also famous for its fruits, such as apples, walnuts, and plums, and offers visitors the chance to explore charming villages like Sharda. The valley’s beauty is unmatched, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers.
8. Malam Jabba
Malam Jabba is one of the top ski resorts in the Northern Areas of Pakistan. Located about 280 kilometers from Islamabad, this hill station sits at an altitude of 9,000 feet and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Malam Jabba is popular for winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding.
During the summer, the resort becomes a beautiful spot for hiking and enjoying the cool mountain breeze. The lush green forests and charming landscapes make it a perfect destination for nature lovers all year round.
9. Lake Ratti Gali
Ratti Gali Lake is one of the most beautiful alpine lakes in the Northern Areas. Located at an altitude of 12,130 feet, this glacial lake is surrounded by snow-covered mountains and lush green meadows.
It is accessible by a trek from Dowarian in Neelum Valley, and the journey to the lake is as beautiful as the destination itself. The crystal-clear waters of Ratti Gali Lake reflect the surrounding peaks, creating a magical and peaceful atmosphere that attracts visitors from all over.
10. Skardu
Skardu is a gateway to some of the world’s highest peaks, including K2, the second-highest mountain on Earth. Located about 640 kilometers from Islamabad, Skardu is situated at an altitude of 8,200 feet above sea level. The region is famous for its stunning lakes, including Shangrila Lake and Satpara Lake, as well as its ancient forts like Skardu Fort and Shigar Fort.
For adventurers, Skardu is the starting point for treks to some of the most challenging and breathtaking mountain ranges in the world, including the Karakoram Range. Whether you’re interested in trekking, exploring historic sites, or simply enjoying the natural beauty, Skardu is a must-visit destination in the Northern Areas of Pakistan.
Conclusion
The Northern Areas of Pakistan are full of natural beauty and offer something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat in the mountains or an exciting adventure, these 10 beautiful places are sure to leave a lasting impression. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore the stunning landscapes, charming valleys, and peaceful lakes of the Northern Areas of Pakistan!
By visiting these places, you will not only witness the beauty of nature but also create memories that will last a lifetime. The Northern Areas truly are a paradise for anyone who loves nature, adventure, and stunning scenery.
