Pakistan is one volume that has always been open to interpretation.Be it diplomats or tourists, foreigners in general, are often intimidated by the image painted of Pakistan on the global canvas.Just how much, I came to know courtesy my recent attendance at the Orange Festival at the Zaildar House, Taxila, specifically hosted annually to make visitors more acquainted to the customs of Pakistan.
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The Northern Areas are the most spectacular and fascinating region of Pakistan. The three world’s famous mountain ranges meet here — the Himalayas, the Karakorams and the Hindukush.The historic Karakoram Pass (5,575 meters), an ancient trading route between the Northern Pakistan and Xinjiang, China, gives its name to the range, which forms the watershed between the Indus and the Central Asian deserts.
Top 12 northern areas of pakistan.
Gilgit is a bustling city and the administrative headquarter of Gilgit-Baltistan. It is located in a beautiful broad valley at the confluence of the rivers Indus and Huza. It has an airport that makes it a starting point for many visitors who come by air, who come to explore the sky-high mountains of the Karakoram Highway. Gilgit is an ancient city, located on the legendary Silk Road, and was once a centre of Buddhism.
Top 12 northern areas of pakistan.
Skardu is a major city of this region, 200 kilometers east of Gilgit. This town has the facility of an airport thus it can be reached by air as well. Otherwise, the road from Gilgit is also good and passes through the Indus river valley, a route of most spectacular scenery. The drive on this road is itself a great experience. The town is situated in a broad lush green valley, beside the river Indus, at the elevation of 2,200 meters. A vast range of boarding and lodging facilities are available in the city
Top 12 northern areas of pakistan.
This amazingly beautiful town is located 100 kilometers north of Gilgit. It is located in an enchantingly beautiful valley of the same name and the river flowing in the valley is also known as Hunza river. The road from Gilgit to Hunza is good and the scenery all along the route is simply super, with lush green valleys, sparkling water of the river and snow capped mountains all around
Top 12 northern areas of pakistan.
This small town of Khaplu, is located 100 kilomters further east of Skardu. This is one of the farthest places of Pakistan. It is famous for its apple and apricot orchards and beauty. A most peaceful place imaginable. Deep in the Karakoram range the place is simply fascinating and a great place to roam about or simply take rest and relax amidst its stupendous natural beauty. The area is also known by other names like Shyok Valley, Ghanche and Little Tibet.
Top 12 northern areas of pakistan.
Another gem of architecture, Altit Fort, it is said to be 1100 years old, which makes it even older than the nearby Baltit Fort. Its architecture is awe inspiring and truly fascinating. It is also located on a high-rise rock and was a defensive position. It has withstood many challenges from man and nature over its long history. A wonderful place to visit and enjoy its ancient architecture and the amazing scenery of the valley and mountains.
Top 12 northern areas of pakistan.
Astore is the administrative headquarter of a district of the same name. The beautiful valley where it is situated is also called Astore, which is known for its beauty. Its altitude is almost 2,500 m and is a tourist hub in the region. There are many hotels and guest houses to cater to the needs of visitors. A great place to spend a day or two and explore the natural beauty of the surrounding areas.
Top 12 northern areas of pakistan.
The Attabad Lake was formed on Hunza river, 20 kilometers east of Hunza town, in January 2010 as a result of a major landslide that blocked the flow of the river. Now the lake is spread over a length of almost 10 kilomters and has become a tourist hot spot. Its crystal-clear blue water, surrounded by lofty mountains makes it a huge attraction for tourists who come to enjoy boating and the serene surroundings.
Top 12 northern areas of pakistan.
One of the most enchanting tourist destinations, Fairy Meadows, is located about 90 kilomters south of Gilit. It was declared a national park in 1995 by the government of Pakistan. It was named Fairy Meadows by some German mountaineers. It is located at the height of about 3,400 meters and serves as a base camp for the nearby Nanga Parbat mountains. With a height of 8,126 meters, it is considered one of the most challenging mountains for the mountaineers.
Top 12 northern areas of pakistan.
Naltar valley is another popular tourist spot in the north-west of Gilgit at a distance of about 50 kilometers. It is located at a height of over 3,000 meters and is famous for its ski resort. Skiing competitions are held during winter at this resort. It is also known for its nature reserve, where wildlife like markhor, wild goat, Alpine ibex, snow leopard, brown bear, grey wolf, red fox, leopard cat, etc, roam freely. Naltar valley is heavily forested which makes it so beautiful and popular among tourists
Top 12 northern areas of pakistan.
Passu Cones or Passu cathedral is a wonderful work of nature. These mountains are located 45 kilomters from Hunza towards Khunjerab pass. The breathtaking view of these hills attract a large number of visitors. The scenery is spectacular and unforgettable. An experience you would not like to miss.
Top 12 northern areas of pakistan.
A fantastic place 120 km from Chilas it is famous for its lush green meadows. A PTDC motel provides good accommodation facilities. Further two kilometers up in the mountains is located a lake of the same name.
Top 12 northern areas of pakistan.
It is a beautiful lake high in the mountains, 25 kilometers east of Hunza. At 4,694 m, it is the highest peak in Pakistan. Not easy to reach, it is a place for brave hearts, hardy and sturdy. As the hiking is tough in the rugged mountains. But the ultimate reward of exploring this wonder of nature is worth the effort.
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