Gilgit Baltistan is also known as the northern areas of Pakistan. Yet, the western Himalayas are on the south. These areas contain two districts of Baltistan and three of Gilgit.
The main political centers are the town of Gilgit, Skardu, and Chilas.
Therefore, these are the jewels of the best travel destinations on the globe. Pakistan northern areas are popular for natural landscapes, rich culture, and historical traditions. These can make anyone fall in love with this country.
So let’s go and check out some rare travel places in this country.
Northern areas of Pakistan map: Historical Facts
Before freedom in 1947, Maharaja Hari Singh possessed Gilgit and Baltistan. After separation, Jammu and Kashmir remained an independent state. The Line of Control divided into these areas in the north and Azad Kashmir in the south.
The United Nation used “Northern Areas” to refer to Kashmir. In 1970, the territory became a single unit made by Gilgit, Baltistan, and states of Hunza and Nagar.
In 1963, a small part of these called the Shaksgam tract gave to China by Pakistan.
It is separate from Kashmir. On 29 August 2009, the order granted self-rule to people of forming Northern Area of Pakistan, known as Gilgit Baltistan.
Subdivision
Gilgit Baltistan divides into two divisions by government. These two are next divided into seven more districts. This includes two Baltistan districts of Skardu and Ganache.
On the other hand, the five Gilgit districts are Gilgit, Ghizer, Diamer, Astore, and Hunza-Nagar.
However, the main political centers of these are the towns of Gilgit and Skardu.
Climate
The climate varies from region to region. The mountains create sharp changes in weather. The eastern part is more moistened than the western Himalayas. While the climate dries on going towards Karakoram and Hindu
kush.
Towns like Gilgit and Chilas are very hot during the day in the summers and cold at night. However, the valleys of Astore, Khaplu, and Hunza, etc. remain cold even in summers.
Five famous destinations of the northern area of Pakistan
This country is a multi-culture and multi-season. Yet, the language changes every 15 miles. Many locations are beautiful but here we’ll discuss the top five of Pakistan tourism.
1): Hunza:
It is the wonderland of this state. It has always been popular on the list. In the late 90s, it grabbed attention when it was on the book cover of National Geographic Magazine. The title was, “Hunza Road to Heaven”.
The reputation keeps on rising due to its mysterious weather and colorful sceneries. It is 102 Kilometers away from the City. Only one flight is getting from Islamabad to PIA. Even though, it depends on the weather. The climate here changes now and then.
Every year, millions of foreign travelers and locals visit it. Some of the famous peaks are;
- Rakaposhi
- Golden peak
- Ultar Star 1
- Ultar Star 2
- Diran
Some of the famous places that adventurers should explore while traveling here are;
- Karimabad
- Rakaposhi viewpoint
- Attabad Lake
- Passu cones and glaciers
- Eagle Nest
- Ganesh Village
2): Skardu
It is a huge valley with several unexplored sites. It is also known as the “Little Tibet in World”. Although the people here also look like the Tibetans. However, the language is also similar to them.
This place is well known among travelers, hikers, and nature lovers. It is a piece of heaven. It has the toughest hiking routes and peaks. Some of them are;
- K2
- Board Peak
- Gasherbrum 1
- Gasherbrum2
- Snow Lake
The best time to visit this valley is during Cherry Blossom, spring, and Golden Season. During spring, people can see all parts of the valley because of the pretty weather. On the other hand, during fall time, it is mesmerizing to enjoy the view of Golden Shawl on everything.
Whereas in Blossom, the white and pink view catches the hearts of nature lovers. Moreover, the valley has the same culture as Tibetan. Dosai plane is the second-highest plateau in the world.
It is famous for its beautiful landscapes and wildlife.
3): Naran Kaghan:
In the range of the Himalayas Mountains, there lies the mesmerizing Naran Kagan. It surrounds by a dark alpine forest. It is popular for the best places to travel. Also, it is famous for the fairy tale stories lake. Moreover, it offers sightseeing with modern hotels.
On the other hand, this valley has the best hiking and jeep tracks. It remains open for 8 months from April to November. There’s heavy snowfall. Also, the weather remains cold throughout the year.
Most people like to travel here in the summertime. The most liked places here are;
- Lake Saif ul Malok
- Lulusar Lake
- Babusar Top
- Batakundi
- Dudipatsar Lake
4): Kalam (Swat) :
At the high mountains of northern Pakistan, there lies the Kalam, the valley of Swat. This was once named “Switzerland of Pakistan” by Queen Elizabeth.
It presents a rich culture, colorful traditions and, it is famous for its hospitality and history. It used to be the capital of the Buddhism religion.
There are dense forests and blue lake waters. In Blossom, the color of it changes into eye-catching views. Some favorite locations are;
- Malam Jabba
- Fizza Ghat
- Takht Bhai
- Bahrain
- Saifullah Lake
- Ushu Dense Forest
5): Chitral:
It is present near the Wakhan corridor. It is popular for festivals and unique culture. Millions of travelers come from the globe to enjoy the festivals of Kalash people. It is one of the most ancient communities.
It has beautiful sites with a Hindukush range. Chillum Joshi Festival is also known as Spring Festival comes in spring start.
- Ayun
- Shahi Qilla
- Chitral National park
- Kalash Valley
