Determining when the best time to visit Northern Pakistan mostly depends on what the guests hope to get. The high season is from May to September. Since the valleys have blossomed, trekking trails are accessible, and the climate is favourable for any activity. However, each season has something to offer, such as if one is interested in hiking or cultural events, festivals, or winter sports.
1. Summer (May to September)
• Best for: Trekking, sightseeing, cultural festivals, camping, and adventure sports.
• Why: For most tourists, the summer season is believed to be the best time to visit Northern Pakistan. The climate is pleasant, with an average temperature of 15°C to 25°C, perfect for sightseeing. At this time of the year, the snow on high-altitude passes gradually melts, and some of the most popular trekking trails, Fairy Meadow and Nanga Parbat base camp included, become accessible.
Besides trekking, summer is ideal for visiting the best places in Pakistan’s northern areas, including Hunza and Skardu. These places are famous for their scenic features, including clearly watered lakes, valleys, and mountains. Culture lovers can also visit some events, such as the Shandur Polo Festival, which is held in July and attracts people to the highest polo grounds in the world. The availability of roads and trails makes summer the best season, with many activities for travellers. Climbing up the Karakoram Range or getting a boat ride in Attabad Lake in Hunza, the summer season is the best time to be in Northern Pakistan.
2. Autumn (October to November)
• Best for: Photography, scenic road trips, and experiencing fall foliage.
• Why: Autumn is one of the offbeat seasons for photographers and other nature enthusiasts in the Northern Areas of Pakistan. The environment turns red, yellow and orange as the trees pull off their leaves, adding beauty to travel. Places like Hunza and Skardu are especially beautiful in autumn, and with fewer crowds, one can enjoy the view much more than during the summer rush.
Autumn is between 10°C and 20°C; it is an excellent time to take a road trip on the Karakoram Highway or the KKH. This highway is one of the highest paved international road connections, and the view of Rakaposhi and Ultar Sar is breathtaking. Due to fewer tourists and clearer weather, autumn is the best time to visit Northern Pakistan for solitude in nature.
3. Winter (December to February)
• Best for: Snow sports, winter photography, and tranquil getaways.
• Why: Winter in the northern areas of Pakistan is characterised by snow, and the surrounding environment looks quite different – everything is covered in white. Although the weather is still very cold, it is the best time for tourists who wish to go skiing and snowboarding. Naltar Valley is famous for its Ski Resort and is one of Pakistan’s most famous northern areas of Pakistan during the winter season.
As for active tourism and skiing admirers, winter is likely the best time to visit Northern Pakistan, where tourists can enjoy both winter activities and stunning views. Nevertheless, the climate is severe – the heat can drop to -10°C or even lower, depending on the area, but the region’s beauty attracts tourists.
4. Spring (March to April)
• Best for: Flowering season, moderate trekking, and cultural experiences.
• Why: Spring in northern Pakistan is the time of revival when nature blooms. During the pre-monsoon season, when the snow melts, and the valleys turn into flowers, the region best suits moderate trekking and nature walks. It is warmer in spring than winter but cooler than in summer, with temperatures between 10°C and 20°C, making outdoor activities good.
Hunza and Swat Valley are most attractive in spring because of the apricots and cherry blossoms against the backdrop of mountains. Cultural fairs and local markets are common, showcasing the best foods, goods, and other local products. Spring is the best season to visit the famous northern areas of Pakistan because of the natural beauty and cultural heritage. As the trekking tracks gradually open, the spring season is also good for travelling to Naran Kaghan and Chitral. The weather suits those who wish to avoid visiting Northern Pakistan during the hot summer season and the tourists’ rush.
