Pakistan is a country with a rich and diverse culture, and its northern areas are a true testament to that. From towering mountains to lush green valleys, there is something for every type of traveler in this region. If you’re planning a trip to the northern areas of Pakistan, here is a 7-day itinerary to help you make the most of your time there.
Day 1
Start your journey in the city of Rawalpindi, which is located just outside the capital city of Islamabad. Rawalpindi is a great place to get a taste of Pakistani culture, with its bustling markets, delicious food, and friendly locals. Spend the day exploring the city and trying some of the local cuisine.
Day 2
Head north to the town of Abbottabad, which is located in the picturesque Abbottabad District. This town is known for its beautiful gardens and parks, so be sure to spend some time strolling around and taking in the scenery. You can also visit the Abbottabad Museum, which has a collection of artifacts and historical items from the region.
Day 3
From Abbottabad, make your way to the city of Gilgit. This city is the capital of the Gilgit-Baltistan region and is a popular starting point for trekkers and mountaineers. You can visit the ancient Baltit Fort, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. You can also take a day trip to the Naltar Valley, which is known for its beautiful lakes and forests.
Day 4
Spend the day exploring the Hunza Valley, which is known for its breathtaking beauty. The valley is home to several small villages and towns, each with its own unique culture and history. You can visit the Altit and Baltit forts, which are two of the oldest forts in the region. You can also take a trek to the beautiful Duikar Village, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
Day 5
From Hunza, make your way to the city of Skardu, which is located at the base of the Karakoram mountain range. Skardu is a popular destination for adventure seekers, with opportunities for trekking, rock climbing, and rafting. You can visit the Kharpocho Fort, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, or take a day trip to the Satpara Lake, which is known for its crystal clear waters.
Day 6
From Skardu, head north to the town of Chilas, which is located on the banks of the Indus River. Chilas is known for its ancient rock carvings and petroglyphs, which date back over 4000 years. You can visit the Diamer Bhasha Dam, which is the largest dam in Pakistan, or take a day trip to the scenic Nanga Parbat Base Camp.
Day 7
On your last day, make your way back to Rawalpindi and spend some time exploring the city before heading back home. Be sure to try some of the local cuisine, including dishes like karahi, biryani, and chapli kebab, which are some of the most popular dishes in the region.
Overall, a trip to the northern areas of Pakistan is a truly unique and unforgettable experience. From stunning natural beauty to rich culture and history, there is something for everyone in this region. So if you’re planning a trip to Pakistan, be sure to include the northern areas in your itinerary.
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