Pakistan
A day trip to Naltar from Gilgit provides a beautiful contrast to the drier KKH landscapes. Phander Valley is better experienced with an overnight stay for full enjoyment. From Karimabad (Hunza), Nagar Valley across the river offers views of the Hopar Glacier. Attabad Lake is a short drive north for boat rides. Gulmit/Passu further north offer Wakhi culture and Passu Cones. Minapin/Rakaposhi Viewpoint is on the KKH, displaying spectacular mountain vistas. From Sost, Khunjerab Pass is a full-day trip, offering high-altitude landscapes.
Mainly, hired jeeps or cars are practical for remote valley access. Shared jeeps serve popular routes. Organized tours are available from Gilgit and Karimabad. Find Day Trips on GetYourGuide.
The Karakoram region is full of natural beauty, with many opportunities to explore pristine environments.
Khunjerab National Park, north of Sost, protects high-altitude ecosystems. Deosai National Park, accessible from Skardu, is known as the "Land of Giants" for its high plateau, brown bears, and wildflowers.
Driving north from Passu towards Khunjerab Pass offers increasingly dramatic mountain scenery. The valleys with terraced fields and fruit orchards provide serene landscapes. The Karakoram is a mountainous region with deep valleys; no traditional beaches.
Step off the main highway to discover ancient histories and traditional village life.
Explore ancient rock carvings near Shatial or within the Gilgit area. These petroglyphs link to the region's ancient past. Remains of ancient Buddhist monasteries exist along the Silk Road.
Explore villages like Ganish (Hunza) or smaller settlements around Altit for traditional architecture and local life. Observe farming practices and interact with villagers.
Local pilgrimage sites and Sufi shrines exist throughout the region. Respect local customs if you encounter them during your travels.
The Karakoram Highway region is a rich history. Baltit Fort and Altit Fort in Hunza are well-preserved examples of traditional architecture. These sites provide insight into the region's past.
Interaction with villagers highlights their daily routines and hospitality.
For those with more time, consider extending your Karakoram Highway trip to explore more of Pakistan's northern gems.
A 2-day (1 night) extension. A thrilling jeep ride and hike lead to Fairy Meadows, with close-up views of Nanga Parbat. A beautiful alpine meadow for relaxing and hiking.
A longer excursion (1-2 days from Skardu). Deosai, a high-altitude plateau, features unique cold desert landscapes, known for brown bears and wildflowers in summer. Access is seasonal and requires a jeep.
Fly into Islamabad, drive the KKH north to Hunza, and potentially Khunjerab Pass. This journey includes historical sites and natural beauty.
From Gilgit, travel or fly to Skardu to explore Baltistan's distinct culture, beautiful lakes (Satpara, Kachura), and the high Deosai plateau.
Combine the KKH experience with Baltistan, then return to Islamabad. This offers a comprehensive journey through Pakistan's northern mountain regions.
