It’s that time of the year, yet again, when all is gay and jolly and holiday cheer is all around you!
Why not add to the holiday spirit, pack up your bags and zoom to the beautiful valleys of Pakistan?
Yes, you read it right! Pakistan is a country, rich in untapped and hidden tourist gems, particularly the valleys. So take a sneak peek at the top 10 valleys of Pakistan you should add to your visit-list!
‘One sees great things from the valley; only small things from the peak’Gilbert K. Chesterton.
Hunza Valley
Hunza Valley is paradise on Earth! From Baltit fort to Borith lake, Hunza valley offers an assortment of activities besides providing a serene and breathtaking view.
Bring out your inner adventurer and opt for a trekking tour.
Shigar Valley
Shigar valley is the gateway to Karakoram hills and is a popular destination for mountaineering expeditions. The breath-taking beauty of this valley far outweighs the tough conditions one might have to endure.
If speed is your game, then don’t miss the international jeep rally which is held every year in SarfaRanga desert of Shigar Valley.
Naltar Valley
Naltar valley is in the north-west of Gilgit-Baltistan and hosts a huge number of tourists, both during the summers and winters. The snow-capped mountains and the lush green forests give a contrasting beauty to the area.
The Snow-capped Mountains host the national skating championship every year during the winter season, so get your skating gear ready!
Rupal Valley
‘Climb the mountain not to plant your flag, but to embrace the challenge, enjoy the air and behold the view. Climb it so you can see the world, not so the world can see you’
David McCullough Jr.
This lush green valley is the gateway to the Rupal face which is considered as one of the highest mountain faces in the world. This is a popular trekking area despite the fact that it is a fairly remote destination.
Leepa Valley
Located in Azad Kashmir, Leepa Valley is not only rich in scenic beauty but is also home to juicy apples, crunchy walnuts, vibrant red cherries and honey! Crystal clear streams, lush green pastures and majestic mountains make up this valley.
‘Study how water flows in a valley stream, smoothly and freely between the rocks. Also learn from holy books and wise people. Everything – even mountains, rivers, plants and trees – should be your teacher.’Morihei Ueshiba
Neelum Valley
Neelum valley is a bow-shaped district of Azad Kashmir and is a very sought-after tourist destination. It is not only popular for its spectacular beauty but is also well-known for its wild life which includes Snow leopards and Ibex.
Kutton Jagran resorts are surrounded by verdant green mountains and the famous Kundalshahi waterfalls, giving a magical feel to the place.
Swat Valley
One of the most sought-after local tourist destinations, Swat valley is known for its regal glaciers, glacier-fed roaring rivers, pine forests, beautiful orchards and floral mountain slopes. Swat has a rich historical background and is a prime destination for brushing up your photography skills.
Swat Valley is commonly known as the Switzerland of the East!
Naran Kaghan ValleyKaghan is located within the Mansehra district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. It is a hidden jewel, rich in mountain streams, alpine meadows and pine forests.
Naran, which is about 7888km above sea level, forms the base for the tourists and is the center point. No trip is complete without paying a visit to the legendary Lake Saif-ul-Mulook.
Lake Saif-ul-Mulook is surrounded by mountains and crowned by the summit of Malika Parbat. It is a sight to behold!
Kalash Valley
Kalash valley is located in the Chitral district. Besides being a beautiful and scenic valley, it has a rich history which is often embroiled in controversy. The Kelash citizens have their own religion, culture and heritage. The best time to visit the valley is when the Kelash are celebrating their festivals!
Shandur Pass
“Life is either a daring adventure or nothing.”Helen Keller
Shandur Pass is a relatively isolated area and lies between Gilgit and Chitral. It is known as the highest polo ground on earth. A polo festival is held here annually which attracts a lot of tourists.
