Explore the Hidden Treasures of Pakistan 2024
Pakistan is a country with surprising and the best tourist attractions to enjoy holidays all over. It has amazing landscapes, natural beauty, and, above all, diverse attractions from the south to the north.
Trips Nomad welcomes all adventure and nature lovers to enjoy their holidays. Furthermore, driving to the north is the ultimate destination for a lifetime of pleasure. Breath-taking nature, enchanting tradition, and beautiful culture with extraordinary art and architecture await you with warm greetings. The magical scenario of naturally blessed Pakistan is something worthwhile to visit for everyone, either by trekking or on tour. This trip in the country went from snow to land in amazing places with different geographical landscapes. One will get to live his/her dreams in the best tourist attractions definitely.
It offers one of the most exciting tours to North Pakistan, and hopefully, you will enjoy the diverse cultures, traditions, and landscapes from valley to valley. They are different from other agencies, mostly offering unspoiled parts of Pakistan, such as the Hindukush Range. Several of the best attractions are still waiting to be discovered and explored. We are here to provide our services by taking you to new places.
Islamabad and Rawalpindi, the Twin Cities of Pakistan’s wonders
This was 15 days of awesome high-light highlights in the Indian capital, Islamabad, the last border between Chitral and Gilgit. Islamabad: Arrival in Islamabad and city tour of the twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad if arrival is in the morning.In sharp contrast to the ancient and historical cities and towns of Pakistan. The Federal Capital is a new city modeled on the pattern of many new and modern western capitals under the shade of Margala Hills. It offers plenty of heart-touching highlights of history and nature to enjoy.
Jordi is one of the best tourist attractions in Pakistan
It is a bustling town, strategically located between Punjab and Azad Kashmir. Moreover, it has a strong colonial influence and possesses a large military cantonment with the headquarters of the Pakistan Army. It is the sister city of Islamabad and is essentially the older part of this day. Old bazaars, such as the Raja Bazaar, retain their oriental character, with artisans who still create in an old-fashioned way. Furthermore, designing jewelry, pounding out copper and brass items, fashioning cane baskets, and hand-carving walnut furniture. In addition, visitors to mosques and crowded bazaars enjoy the warm hospitality of the people who offer tea and soft drinks.
Historical sites are very popular in Rawalpindi. Purana Qila, built by Ghakhar and destroyed by Sikhism, was eventually replaced by a new city, currently known as New Rawalpindi. Rawalpindi was established as part of the Punjab province during the British administration. A 16th-century fort, a Buddhist archaeological site, and quiet hill stations dot the surrounding hillsides.
Fort Pharwala Explore the historical sites
Muqarrab Khan made his futile stay in 1826 in Pharwala fortress Rawalpindi Pakistan, the last bastion of Gakhar, to secure 700 years of Gakhar rule against the Sikhs. The Mughals, the Masters of Gakhars, were on the decline at the time, so something was likely to happen.
Churches in Rawalpindi
There are two churches in Rawalpindi while retaining much of the architecture from the British era. In Llancourt, near Presentation Convent School, there is a cathedral with a lovely garden and a lovely outlook. The Evangelical Church on Mall Road is the other church.
Drive to Chilas on the way to North Pakistan via the 8th wonder
This morning, we set off on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure to Chilas, leaving the lush hills behind. We begin our journey across the Karakoram Highway, cut by the heroic hearts of Pakistan and China. We stop at many places on the way to explore the history of the Road. Ashoka Rocks in Manserah and Shatyal to see the rock carvings made by traders, Buddhist pilgrims, and historians. These happened during their trip to Taxila and the Middle East, which describe the reason for their voyage in many languages.
Explore the best tourist attractions by Driving and Hiking to Tato and hiking to Fairy Meadows
Drive to Raikot Bridge (1.5 hours) and another 2 hours to Tato. You leave your car here and take a jeep to reach Tato. Then another three-hour trek to Fairy Meadow. As we reach your camp late in the afternoon, you will take a rest at an Alpine Hut surrounded by trees and lush green meadows.
Fairy Meadows is the most magical of all of Pakistan’s beautiful spots and holiday destinations. An adventurous road in a four-wheel jeep drive on zigzag takes you to the small village of Tato. From here, two hours of fantastic walking facing Nanga Parbat all take you to Fairy Meadows. Lush green meadows, alpine forest, and under the shadow of Nanga Parbat, noisy with huts, paradise on Earth.
Hike to Nanga Parbat Base Camp the 9th highest mountain in the World
incredible to the base camp one of the above 8, 000 mountains on the road. A day hike up to Nanga Parbat base camp involves a relatively long day of trekking. The trek follows a walk on a narrow goat path along a ridge overlooking Raikot Glacier; it descends to a stream originating from the melting Ganalo Glacier. Once across the stream, the trek rises to the top of a ridge at the base of the snowy mountains.
Another descent leads to a narrow reach of Ganalo Glacier marked by ice walls and big boulders affording access across the glacier. Following the glacier, the trek rises again leading now to a wider grassy plane and meadows in the wilderness with wildflowers above the tree line. Nestled between the monumental peaks, Nanga Parbat base camp (3,967m) offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, glaciers and huge masses of snow, and the frozen world. Overnight in tents under the shade of Nanga Parbat hearing heart-breaking stories of the Killer Mountain.
Trek to Tato, and Drive to Raikot Bridge and Manapin Nagar the best tourist attraction
The road journey along the path of the ancient Silk Route is an unforgettable experience through winding valleys and tumbling waterfalls. The remains of the Old Silk Route with a magnificent view of Rakaposhi are mind-blowing.
The junction of the three mountain ranges—Kranges—Karakoramsh and Himalaya—is the highlight of this day. You will stand over the junction of two great rivers, the Indus and Gilgit, adding to the beauty of this point as well. Additionally, the Purtap Pul (an old bridge from the early 19th century on the Indus River) is also an addition to this place. Furthermore, the Karakoram to the north, the Himalayas to the south, and Hindukush in the west all have great stories.
Driving Gilgit another hour the central city of Gilgit-Baltistan has its history and beauty. Visiting Kargah Buddha, a rock carving beside the Kargah Nullah (steam) 6km west of Gilgit shows the Buddhist history. This is located along the old road to Punial, which is the most popular short outing from Gilgit. The Buddha figure is about 3m tall and looks down protectively over Gilgit. It was carved in the 7th century and its workmanship reveals a talented master.
Drive to Minapin, a small village in Nagar Valley opposite Hunza. The natural beauty of Nagar valley and the hospitality of its people are beyond description. You will have a great stay in the hotel after this journey of long day drive and listening.
Trek to Rakaposhi Base Camp, the 29th-highest mountain in the world
Four to five hours of amazing walking to Tagha Phari Rakaposhi Base Camp. It is located in the heart of the Karakoram Range, surrounded by lofty peaks, the most majestic being Rakaposhi 7788m 29th highest mountain in the world.
From the village, you will walk on an irrigation channel and cross a small bridge. Furthermore, following the walk, head to Hapakun on a donkey path along the river flowing from Minapin Glacier. A steep climb up along the juniper, willow, throne, and rose bushes with fields of barley takes you to a campsite. It is in a green meadow with fresh spring water at 2800 meters. Usually, visitors with more time camp here.
Another good three-hour path through the forest on a steep pasture leads to panoramic views. These Rakaposhi and Diran peaks 7,266 meters will add to the joy of your holidays. Heading to Tagafari, a vast flat side by the glacier, is a beautiful campsite with an amazing stream. A 20-minute climb up from the camp gives you a great view of the north. In addition, there is a great view of Batura, Passu, Shispar, and Ultar Peaks in the distance. Camp here and enjoy the dancing of your porters.
Trek to Minapin and drive to Karimabad Hunza Explore drive and Hiking on the Road
On the way back, there is an easy walk down to the village, which takes about three hours to reach Minapin. Then drive to Hunza Valley, KValley andad, the former capital of Hunza and a princely state. The natural beauty of the Hunza Valley and the hospitality of its people are unbelievable. You will have a rest, and in the afternoon, pay a visit to the touristic bazaar with various shopping opportunities. Amazing, tourist-friendly inhabitants are there to enjoy talking. The surprise here is that everyone can speak a little English because of the frequent foreign visitors.
Explore the History of Hunza during the drive and hike on the road
Visit to Altit & Baltit Forts, hike to Duiker. After sunset drive to Gulmit
You will begin your day by seeing the fairy-tale-like castle of Baltit, which is located above Karimabad and was erected around 900 years ago. It was tentatively classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site Your history learning will be enhanced by the presence of the Karakoram Mountains. Another older monument at a surprising location adds to the history of Hunza. There is the best place to eat and drink traditional food nearby, or Fort Basi Restaurant. A musical school is another reason to visit there.
Furthermore, driving to Duiker is part of the adventure of climbing 400 m on the trail. The stunning sunset vista at Eagle’s Nest Duiker, as well as an awe-inspiring view of Hunza, can be found here. Duiker is located at a height of 2935 meters above sea level. The morning sunrise is also worth enjoying here.
Gulmit the Center of Upper Hunza Gojal has the best tourist attractions
Gulmit, Gojal’s capital, is a little community at roughly 2400 meters above sea level, well above the flooded river. Since the rise of the new ‘Attabad Lake,’ a lot has changed. From Gulmit, there are numerous excellent day treks near the Karakoram Highway. The Gulmit Museum, which houses traditional ethnic artifacts, is located next to the Marco Polo Inn in a chamber of Raja Hussain Ali Khan’s residence.
The polo ground’s north end is known as Old Gulmit. The summer mansion of the Mir of Hunza, which is no longer in use, the old Shia mosque with carved woodwork, the Tomb of Silum Khan III, water mills, and old dwellings may all be found here.
Drive to Passu for some of the area’s best day treks and longer hikes. The community, which is over 150 years old and possesses grazing rights up the north side of the 56-kilometer-long (Batura Glacier), can feed big herds of yaks, cattle, sheep, and goats, but its agricultural land is less lucky. For those with less expertise, there are numerous interesting day treks in Gulmit and Passu. An interesting day hike to Borith Lake climbing Gholkin Village and Glacier Moraine walk is also there. You may combine it with the view white Passu Glacier.
Explore driving and hiking over Yaunz Pass between Passu and Batura Glacier
This takes a five- to six-hour day trip, taking a path toward Passu Glacier and climbing steeply up the lateral moraine on the right side of the glacier, then along the high cliff. After an hour, a walk will take you to the snout of the glacier and get you to the ridge with stunning views of Passu, Shispar, and Ultar Peaks to your left. The view to the right is exciting The Batura group of peaks is incredible.
Crossing a hot, dry, flat Yazbin Pass about 3200 meters leads you down to Yazbin. It is the first campsite on the Batura Trek with a view of the second-largest mountain in Pakistan. You can camp here or go down to Passu in two hours, descending along the Batura Glacier to KKH. Visiting Rainbow Suspension Bridge is worth a copy of Hussaini Bridge but shorter.
Drive to Naltar Valley one of the Best Holiday Destinations in Pakistan
Naltar Valley is the most highly recommended day outing from Gilgit. Two hours north of Gilgit to the beautiful valley on a paved road. It was old Hunza Road before KKH, passing through the cultivated area of Normal, a large village, from where a road turns to the northwest to the lovely valley of lower Naltar. More than 10 km take you to the upper Naltar, lush green alpine pastures and pine forests surrounded by spectacular snowy peaks. The only ski resort is also there in Naltar. Visit a seven-color lake in an hour’s drive on a rough jeep road with spectacular views.
Drive to Ishkoman Valley in the West of Gilgit-Baltistan
Visit Gilgit, which is the administrative headquarters of Gilgit Baltistan, formerly known as the Northern Area. The drive to Ishkoman Valley is 3–4 hours on Shandur Road. The Ishkoman Valley, running north to south to join the Gilgit Valley, divides the Karakorum Range from the Hindu Kush. It was once the principality of Chitral during the Kingdom System of 1972. It was incorporated into Pakistan in the same year.
The valley is a junction of numerous trekking routes with beautiful landscapes and amazing natural scenery. The people here mostly speak the language of Chitral, named Khowar. In some parts of it, people are speaking Shina, the language spoken in Gilgit and Punial. There are Wahki-speaking people in the valley. It offers fascinating day hikes and long-day opportunities in the entire valley. Most importantly, the short treks in a circle from one valley to another. The most interesting thing is that more than four lakes are within walking distance.
With the amazing living standards and culture of the region, you will be warmly welcomed by the people to visit home. That makes it different from other regions. We have spots for hiking for the day too; hopefully, you will enjoy it. The evening with the local musical show and dancing is a unique culture of the area. There are several day hikes and places to visit, as we will tell in the coming future posts. For adventure holidays, you may visit the 9 best treks in Hindukush.
Drive to Yasin Valley and enjoy the best tourist attractions
The Yasin Valley, like the Ishkoman Valley, is located in the Ghizar District’s northwestern corner. It is located east of Ishkoman at an elevation of 2100–2800 meters. The valley is large, flat, and well-watered in its lower reaches, making it totally fruitful with irrigated fields. Burushaski is the native language of the region, which is also spoken in the Hunza and Nagar valleys. In addition, it has historical significance.
The kings of Chitral and Gilgit have always fought over it. The monarch of Yasin’s history reads like a list of patricide, fratricide, and avunculicide.
Explore the History of Yasin Valley while drive and hike
Yasin was an important kingdom until the twentieth century, holding the shortest and most direct route between the Oxus and Indus Valleys. It was the capital of the Little Bolor, which dominated Gilgit in the early centuries AD. In the early eighth century, the Tibetans, who held Great Bolor (Baltistan), attempted to obtain access to the Oxus Valley. This was when Yasin joined forces with Arabs and attacked China. Yasin kept the Tibetans at bay with Chinese assistance until 742. The reason was that Tibetans convinced Yasin’s king to marry a Tibetan princess and identify himself with them.
The Chinese responded by attacking in 747. With 10,000 troops, they crossed the Pamir and defeated an equal force of Tibetans on the Wakhan side of the Broghil Pass. Then I chased them across the Broghil and Darkot passes. The Chinese then took Yasin and cut the birch-rope bridge across the Gilgit River at Gupis. That was a source of access. It took one year to rebuild. Thus blocking the advance of the Tibetans’ reinforcement coming from Gilgit. The Gigit River cannot be forded in the summer, and there is no route along its north bank.
The ending of Chinese Rule in Yasin
Chinese rule proved to be short-lived, however, as a defeat in 751 near Tashkent at the hands of Arabs lost control of Central Asia. The Chinese returned in 1749. In the eighteenth century, the king of Mastuj controlled Yasin and, at times, Gilgit as well. The Ghizar Valley west of Yasin is as smooth as the Shandur Pass, making it easy for Mastuj to communicate with Yasin. It is the best part of exploring driving on the road
Yasin has played a pivotal role in the history of Gilgit Baltistan. It came to the attention of Victorian Britain following the murder of British explorer Goerge Hayward in Darkot village in 1870. Russian advanced through Darkot and Broghil pass to capture Gilgit but they were stopped at the Darkot pass.
The British took an interest in the valley and opened its agency at Gilgit in 1877, British and Russian continued to jostle for control. Russian spies stood at the top of the Darkot Pass in 1890, peering down into Yasin, but retreated unseen. Five years later the Pamir Boundary Commission crossed the Darkot Pass with 600 ponies to survey the frontier. The Russian threat subsided, and in the twentieth-century Yasin became another small kingdom ruled by raja. It was absorbed by Pakistan in 1972.
Geography of Yasin Valley
Geographically, Yasin Valley of Gilgit Baltistan is the meeting point for the Central Asian countries in the Hindukush range. The great mountains of Gilgit Baltistan, to the Northeast of its borders, connect with Ishkomman Valley. Moreover, it has a long border along the Korumbar and Wakhan Corridor and Chilinji Pass to Chupusan upper Gojal. To the South, its border connects with the Yarkun Vally of Chitral district of KPK to continue to Afghanistan. Because of this geographical importance, ancient invaders and conquerors used these passes to proceed to the Sub-Continent. All these highlights make it the best tourist attractions in Pakistan.
The beauty of Yasin Valley and its access to the best tourist attractions in Pakistan
It was considered one of the remotest regions in Gilgit Baltistan. However, the modern technology and sacrifice of a martyr (shaheed) Lalik Jan Nishan-e- Haider made it accessible. Now a short time by improving the road to Yasin to reach the best tourist attractions. Once it took eight hours for Gigit to reach there, but now it takes only four hours.
The valley is very beautiful, with spectacular views of the snowcapped mountains of Hindukush. It passes through the beautiful villages of Punial and Gupis on the Shandur road leading to Chitral. The people of Yasin are unique in their hospitality as compared to any other part of Gilgit Baltistan. There is a unique beauty for travelers to enjoy their holidays. It has camping spots, simple, reasonable hotels to stay at, and easy and challenging trekking routes for trekkers. In addition, for climbers, there are mountains (most of them unclimbed yet) with the best tourist attractions.
You can go on a day hike, a short trek or a month-long trek from the valley crossing passes from one part to another part of the district. The detailed itineraries and descriptions of the trekking routes will be shared in the next posts. Some of them have been described already in the previous posts.
Phandar Valley the Most Beautiful Holiday Destination
Phander Valley is a 4-5-hour trip from Shandur Lake through the Yasin and Phander Rivers. It is known for its natural beauty, particularly its blue-sky lakes, crystal-clear rivers teeming with trout, and many more attractions for tourists. Trout fishing is one of the best attractions as well. Village walks will be similar to those in the Ishkoman and Yasin valleys. There are different cultures, traditions, and living standards compared to others. It has a pleasant summer but a harsh winter because it is at a high altitude. However, winter is another great attraction in the Phandar Valley.
You may combine this with Chitral driving over Shandur Pass and Kalash Valleys and down to Islamabad via Lawari Tunnel. There are mind-blowing holiday destinations in Swat Valley and Peshawar. Visit our previous Tour of the West to North Pakistan.
In addition, the summer is a pleasant holiday destination; it has numerous lakes easily accessible. There are awesome day hikes and long treks with exciting highlights and the best tourist attractions. Shandur Pass, the lake, and the highest polo ground in the world are part of Phandar Valley. The blue-sky lakes, crystal-clear rivers, and streams are the best tourist attractions for nature lovers. Trout fish are an additional natural product of this region. Above all, the road journey to Chitral over Shandur Pass is an exciting holiday destination.
Pakistan offers a plethora of tourist attractions, making it an ideal destination for adventure and nature lovers. From the southern to the northern regions, the country boasts diverse landscapes, natural beauty, and a rich cultural tapestry. Trips Nomad invites travelers to embark on a 15-20-day tour starting from Islamabad and concluding at the border between Chitral and Gilgit, offering a unique blend of history, nature, and adventure.
Islamabad and Rawalpindi: Twin Cities of Wonders
The tour begins in Islamabad, the modern capital, and explores Rawalpindi, a city steeped in history and colonial influence. This itinerary includes visits to historical sites, such as Purana Qila, churches, and Fort Pharwala, providing a glimpse into the region’s rich past.
Drive to Chilas via the 8th Wonder: Karakoram Highway
The journey continues towards the north via the Karakoram Highway, with stops at Ashoka Rocks and Shatyal to explore rock carvings. The drive offers breathtaking views and a historical perspective of the ancient Silk Route.
Trek to Fairy Meadows and Nanga Parbat Base Camp
The tour includes a trek to Fairy Meadows, nestled under the shadow of Nanga Parbat, the world’s 9th highest mountain. A day hike to Nanga Parbat Base Camp offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers, creating a memorable experience for trekkers.
Drive to Gilgit and Visit Historical Sites
The journey proceeds to Gilgit, the central city of Gilgit-Baltistan, where travelers can explore historical sites like Kargah Buddha and drive towards Minapin in the Nagar Valley. Furthermore, the tour encompasses diverse landscapes and cultural experiences.
Trek to Rakaposhi Base Camp
A trek to Rakaposhi Base Camp, the 29th highest mountain globally, provides an opportunity to witness the majestic peaks and glaciers of the Karakoram Range. The trek takes adventurers through picturesque meadows and offers panoramic views of Rakaposhi and Diran peaks.
Drive to Karimabad, Hunza Valley: Explore Altit and Baltit Forts
The tour continues to Karimabad, the former capital of Hunza, where travelers can explore Altit and Baltit Forts. A hike to Duiker for a sunset vista and a visit to Gulmit, the capital of Upper Hunza Gojal, add cultural richness to the journey.
Explore Ishkoman and Yasin Valleys
The itinerary includes a drive to the Ishkoman Valley, known for its trekking routes and beautiful landscapes. Yasin Valley, with its historical significance and geographical importance, offers a unique blend of adventure and history.
Drive to Phander Valley and Swat Valley
Travelers can extend their journey to Phander Valley, known for its lakes, trout fishing, and stunning natural beauty. The tour concludes with a drive to Chitral via Shandur Pass, offering a scenic route and cultural experiences.
Final Words
Pakistan’s diverse landscapes and cultural richness make it an exciting destination for travelers seeking adventure and natural beauty. Furthermore, Trips Nomad invites enthusiasts to explore the best tourist attractions and create lasting memories in this captivating country.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How long is the suggested tour duration?
The recommended duration for the tour is 15-20 days, providing ample time to explore the diverse attractions from Islamabad to Chitral.
Q: Are there options for day hikes and short treks during the tour?
Yes, the itinerary includes opportunities for day hikes, short treks, and longer hikes, catering to various preferences and fitness levels.
Q: What is the best time to embark on this tour?
The suggested time for the tour is during the summer season, when the weather is pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploration.
Q: How can one book this tour with TripsNomad?
Interested travelers can contact Trips Nomad through the provided contact form on their website or leave a comment expressing their interest. Moreover, the team is available 24/7 to assist with planning and queries.
Final words about the best tourist attractions in Pakistan
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