1. Naltar Valley – A Colorful Paradise
Naltar Valley is a paradise for nature lovers and tourists, especially photographers interested in snow-capped mountains. Of its many-coloured lakes, especially the Naltar (Bashkiri) Lakes, it can be said it is a fairy-tale country.
Every one of them is of different colour, ranging from blue to green, from green to blue and from blue to turquoise and emerald colour; all these colours are surrounded by forests and glaciers, sometimes by snowcapped mountains.
The valley appears completely different in the different seasons. During the summer, the slopes and field squares measure green and wonderful, while the mountain can be coated with snow in winter.
Naltar also has the beauty of nature, and besides having the beauty of nature, it also hosts a ski resort, thus attracting people interested in winter activities. There is excellent snowy terrain for skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing, as we can see snow-covered slopes. For the adventurous, you can go rock climbing, have Fun, go for a hike, go trail running and even just relax and enjoy the surrounding environment.
2. Hunza Valley – A Trekker’s Dream
Gilgit Baltistan is blessed with some of the most beautiful valleys in Pakistan, including Hunza Valley. Nestled in its shadows are the Rakaposhi, Ultar Sar and Ladyfinger Peak and the views are some of the best in the area. Hunza is a place often called a trekker’s paradise, and there are many trekking trails from which to get into the vantage viewpoint.
The valley is particularly endowed with historical and cultural sites. The Baltit & Altit Forts are classic remnants of Hunza’s historical values. These forts have historical significance, giving a view of the mountains and villages surrounding them. The forts have been preserved properly and converted into cultural sites where the history and cultures of Hunza are exhibited.
Fruit orchards are also abundant in this region, so they found the Hunza Valley. In spring, the valley is flocked with cherry blossoms; in summer, apricot apples and peach trees dominate the valley. Due to the natural sights and wonders and cultural and archaeological significance, Hunza valley is surely a place for anyone planning to travel to Gilgit-Baltistan.
3. Attabad Lake – Beauty Born from Tragedy
Attabad Lake is among a few nice and beautiful sites that are very popular among tourists in Gilgit-Baltistan. The lake was formed in 2010, followed by a huge landslide on the Hunza River, forming a natural barrier. Despite the calamity that resulted in the lake’s formation, this new source of water has been associated with beauty following the disaster.
The sky-blue water of Attabad Lake under the high-rising mountains’ cliffs contrasts with the area’s red rocks. Some fun activities that fauna enthusiasts can participate in in the region include water shooting, yachting, using a jet ski, and fishing.
For those who don’t have much enthusiasm for a hectic hiking session, the lake is also suitable for camping and picnics. It is one of the most beautiful regions characterized by a quiet environment and clean water, which will suit those who love nature.
4. Rakaposhi Viewpoint – Majestic Mountain Views
Rakaposhi stands tall at 7,788 meters and is one of the world’s tallest and most prominent mountains. This mountain is of great prominence and is highlighted because the snow-covered dome can be seen several miles from the Gilgit-Baltistan area.
While the mountain will appeal to the more serious climbers, the Rakaposhi Viewpoint can be reached by car and offers marvellous views.
Sitting on the edge of the Karakoram Highway, the place is one of the best spots to have Rapa Nui and the valleys as the backdrop. There are several cafes and tearooms where people can sit, admiring the panorama of the subtleties and sipping a cup of tea. The viewpoint is also usually a major attraction for tourists, especially those heading towards other parts of the region.
Rakaposhi is towering and majestic, which makes it a favourite among tourists, trekkers, and photographers. If you are planning your travel schedule to Gilgit-Baltistan, then Rakaposhi Viewpoint is worth a visit.
5. Fairy Meadows – A Fairy-tale Escape
Fairy Meadows, touching the base of the Nanga Parbat, one of the highest mountains in the world, is one of the most beautiful places in Gilgit-Baltistan. It gets its name from the green meadows relayed to a fairy-tale more than from its location. Fairy Meadows is located amidst vast forests and snow-clad mountains, which provides a clear picture of the green belt against the snowy background of Nanga Parbat.
Getting to Fairy Meadows requires one to trek. It starts with the Jeep ride on one of the world’s four-wheeling roads and continues with trekking through the beautiful country. After this, you get a view of Nanga Parbat and the beautiful greenery of the meadows down the hills. However, camping within the region is perhaps one of the visitors’ various activities while exploring the park.
6. Khunjerab Pass – Gateway to Adventure
Khunjerab Pass is one of the few permanently staffed high-altitude passes worldwide. It is the highest paved international border crossing at an altitude of 4,693m between Pakistan and China.
It has effectively been part of the famous silk route and has acted as the trading centre between the two countries for a long time. Nowadays, it is listed as one of the historical sites to visit whenever planning to tour the area.
It is worth noting that the panorama of views at Khunjerab Pass is unbelievable. A traveller is welcomed by vast desert vegetation, cliffs, and sometimes snowy mountaintops. Indeed, the weather conditions and its altitude make it feasible for tourists to visit Khunjerab Pass a little more adventurous.
Khunjerab Pass can be an attractive destination for tourists who are fond of history and geography and want to take adventurous tours. This makes it one of the world’s most strategically important natural landmarks and a most beautiful and unforgettable one.
7. Phander Valley – The Little Kashmir
A sublimely beautiful and peaceful area called Phander Valley, also known as Little Kashmir, is among the most scenic regions in Gilgit Baltistan. The valley has all the natural blessings, such as crystal-clear water, green land, and silents. Phander Lake is located at the valley’s centre, a quiet natural lake that can mirror the mountains and trees around it.
Thus, Phander Valley is ideal for tourists and visitors who want to stay tranquil at a serene destination. Fishing is possible in Phander Lake since the lake’s water is calm and relaxing, and the fields and forests nearby offer good trails for hiking. There are also several villages in the region where tourists can taste the local hospitality.
8. Deosai National Park – Land of Giants
The world’s fifth-highest Deosai National Park, also known as “The Land of Giants”, is located at 4,114m. It is popular for its distinctive fauna, such as the Himalayan Brown Bear and many others, and its diverse biogeological zone.
During spring and summer, they can enjoy the wonderful view of wildflowers covering the park.
Hence, Deosai is famous for its clear sky and beautiful night scenery. If you spend a night stargazing in Deosai, you will likely see the stars without limitation because of the high altitude and the absence of artificial light at night.
9. Gilgit River – A Natural Oasis
Gilgit River, running through the middle of the area, brings life to the people and animals of Gilgit-Baltistan. It provides opportunities for fishing, rafting, and simple strolling along its bank. The surrounding terrains are serene and beautiful, providing good scenery to those who want to be free from the city’s noise.
10. Shigar Fort – A Journey into History
Shigar Fort near Skardu is a 17th-century heritage fort that was systematically restored and is a living museum of the history and traditions of the area. Today, the fort has been turned into a heritage hotel so people can get a feel for the rich lifestyle of a fort while having all the facilities of a contemporary hotel. To name but a few attractions near the Shigar Valley, there are numerous opportunities to enjoy jeep riding, mountain biking, and mountaineering.
