The Travel Edit

The Northern parts of Pakistan are diverse and feature stunning landscapes with mountains, plains and flowing rivers. The diversity of flora and fauna found in this part of the world is unmatched and paired with the cultural heritage and history of the land it has become a paradise for travelers. Some of the most prominent and promising places to visit in Northern Pakistan are Skardu in Gilgit- Baltistan and its surrounding areas. Yawar Talib has captured some of the most amazing images which are recommended for travellers to add to their bucket list.

Bilamik Valley

Bilamik Valley is a beautiful valley situated in the district of Gilgit-Baltistan, with Astor in the west, Talo Broq in the north and Harpoh in the east. Bilamik valley is located in Rondu valley which is two hour’s drive from Skardu city and further three hours drive from the Rondu Valley. The Bilamik Valley is a vast and sprawling area with lush green landscape, rich in natural springs and waterfalls.

 

Kachura Lake

Kachura Lake is of clear water and has a depth of 70 metres (230 ft). In summer it has a temperature of 15 °C and in winter the surface is frozen solid and the upper Indus River flows nearby at a lower elevation. The beauty of the Upper Kachura Lake is surrounded by stunning landscape and mostly unexplored by travelers, due to lack of infrastructure owing to its rough terrain The area has a rich flora of the Western Himalayan subalpine conifer forests ecoregion and also known for its wild apricots. Recreational activities at Upper Kachura Lake include hiking, trout fishing, and Himalaya mountaineering.

Basho Valley

Basho Valley Skardu is one of the most beautiful travel destinations in Pakistan. Surrounded by towering mountains, the valley offers stunning views and plenty of outdoor activities to keep visitors entertained.From hiking and climbing to rafting and kayaking, there’s something for everyone in Basho Valley. And don’t forget to explore the local villages and experience the friendly culture of the people who live there. Basho Valley Skardu is truly a must-see destination in Pakistan.

Manthoka Waterfall

Manthokha Waterfall is located in Kharmang Valley Skardu, Gilgit-Baltistan. This waterfall is approx 180 feet high from ground and located almost 80 kilometres (50 mi) away from downtown Skardu. The waterfall is a mystic place featuring lush green pastures, fresh gurgling streams, towering Rocky Mountains of Karakorum and indigenously designed restaurants and much more. The main highlight of the restaurant is the local trout fish apart from the waterfall another worthy feat is the fish farm where trout fishes are kept for the sightseers.

Thalay Valley Broq Khaplu

Thalay Valley is 40km away on the northwest from the district headquarters Ghanche (Gilgit Baltistan), and 110km from Skardu city and situated at 2,647m above sea level and falls in the single cropping zone.

Naltar Lakes

There are three lakes in Naltar Valley known as Naltar Lakes or Bashkiri Lakes at altitudes ranging from 3,050–3,150 metres (10,010–10,330 ft). In one of the three lakes the colour of water is green (due to grasses grown inside the lake) while the second has blue colored water and the third has azure colored water. The lakes are surrounded by dense pine forests. The best time to visit the lakes is from May to October. During the winter, it becomes almost impossible to reach the lake by vehicle due to the heavy snowfall in the Naltar Valley.

Tormik Meadows

Tormik is a valley in the Karakoram mountain ranges in the Skardu District of Gilgit-Baltistan. The valley has its source at the Stak-la and Basha valley lies to its east and Stak Valley to its west. The valley is the second largest valley in terms of population and area.