Must-Visit Places in the Spectacular North of Pakistan
Recently, Pakistan was named the top tourist destination for the year 2020 by the United States based luxury and lifestyle publication, Conde Nast Traveler. With the resplendent pictures of the beautiful places in Pakistan we get to see on the internet, it is easy to understand why.
From humungous rocky mountains to lush green fields and snow blanketed hills, this marvelous country has got it all.
This article lists a few must-visit places in the beautiful northern areas of Pakistan. These tourist attractions offer thrill and adventure like no other place on planet Earth!
Shangrila Resort, Skardu: A True Reflection of Pakistan’s Beauty
Known as the Tibet-e-Khurd, Skardu is a paragon of serenity, wilderness, and unmatched beauty. It is the central valley of Gilgit-Baltistan located in the extreme north of the country. This place is a true reflection of the beauty of Pakistan.
After crossing Jaglot on the Karakoram highway, a narrow and tiring road heads towards this heavenly place. The journey might be tiring because of the quality of the roads, but believe me when I say, it is worth it! You will be welcomed by rocky mountains, countless streams, and the heartwarming hospitality of the local people.
Shangrila resort is about thirty minutes drive from Skardu. In order to reach there, you will have to cross the famous wooden bridge built over the Indus river.
Dining in the restaurant of the Shangrila rest house is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. We don’t always get to enjoy our meal while wrapped around the monstrous mountains, do we? Oh, and don’t forget to sip on some tea after you’re done eating. You’ll thank me later!
Hunza Valley: Stepping Into Wilderness
Pleasing to the eye, the Hunza valley is one of the most beautiful places in Pakistan. It is situated in the famous region of Gilgit-Baltistan. Its magnificent views and full of life people will leave you speechless.
In recent years, Hunza valley has been like a magnet for tourists all over the world; thanks to its majestic snow-covered mountains and crystal clear lakes. If you are traveling in Pakistan, you just cannot miss the opportunity to visit this beautiful place.
You can visit forts like Altit and Baltit to get a sense of the fascinating history of this divine region. Furthermore, the famous Attabad lake- the middle of the wilderness- is something you should definitely pay a visit to. This picturesque lake is surrounded by undulating gigantic rocky mountains that will make you skip a heartbeat.
Naran Kaghan: The Epitome of Beauty
Located In the upper Kaghan Valley in the Mansehra District of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, this medium-sized town will not fail to amaze you. It is one of the top tourist attractions in Pakistan. This place is home to eye-grabbing lush green meadows and flowing crystal water rivers that will make you forget all your worries.
Referring to Naran Kaghan as beautiful will be an understatement. This 160-kilometer long valley is home to brilliant blue lakes, majestic mountains, pine forests, alpine meadows, and spectacular local culture. Indeed, it is a true symbol of the beauty of Pakistan.
You will be welcomed by local people who offer nothing but love. Here, you will feel a sense of belongingness; a sense of connection. You will find a home away from home.
The Heavenly Siri Paye
A heavenly meadow situated above Shogran city, Siri Paye isn’t very easy to access. Sir Paye constitutes two peaks covered in lush green surface. You will see tall green pines talking to the sky while soaked in the clouds — a sight that you will remember for a long time.
A narrow, bumpy, and steep track will lead you to this awe-inspiring place. It will be a forty minutes exhilarating ride on a jeep; a ride you will cherish for the rest of your life. This exciting ride will take you to one of the most sensational views in the Kaghan Valley — overlooking the surrounding gigantic peaks and the city of Shogran.
A crystal clear freshwater lake is situated right in the middle of this stunning meadow. You will see animals grazing around the lush fields while the beautiful flowers adorn the meadow. These breathtaking views will leave you with no option but to stop and stare.
Conclusion
Pakistan is one of the very few countries that offer beautiful places with “-30 degrees Celsius” and “50 degrees Celsius” at the same time. The range of spectacular and accessible places that always open doors to new adventures in this country is astonishing.
So what are you waiting for? Book yourself a ticket, travel to Pakistan, and experience adventures in some of the most beautiful places that you will ever see.
