Exploring Northern Pakistan: Essential Guide to Hunza, Skardu & Deosai Plains

Pakistan is home to five of the world's fourteen 8,000-meter peaks, and the northern territories of Gilgit-Baltistan boast alpine landscapes that rival Switzerland, New Zealand, and Patagonia combined.

1. Hunza Valley — The Valley of Eternal Youth

• Key Attractions: Altit Fort (900 years old), Baltit Fort, Attabad Lake boat cruises, Hussaini Suspension Bridge, and the towering Passu Cones.
• Best Time to Visit:
• Cherry Blossom (April): Valleys turn into a sea of pink and white blossoms.
• Autumn Foliage (October – November): Golden poplars and fiery apricot leaves create a photographer's paradise.
• Local Cuisine: Try traditional Chapshuro (meat-filled flatbread), Hunza walnut cake, and fresh organic apricots.

2. Skardu & Baltistan — Gateway to K2 & Hidden Gems

• Shangrila Resort (Lower Kachura Lake): Famous heart-shaped lake surrounded by red pagoda chalets.
• Upper Kachura Lake: Untouched crystalline waters ideal for trout fishing and boating.
• Cold Desert of Sarfaranga: The world's highest cold desert with majestic sand dunes surrounded by snow-capped mountains.
• Shigar Fort (Serena): 400-year-old Raja palace converted into a luxury heritage hotel.

3. Deosai National Park — The Land of Giants

• Situated at an average elevation of 4,114 meters (13,497 feet), Deosai is the second-highest alpine plateau on earth.
• Sheosar Lake: A pristine heart-shaped alpine lake reflecting Mount Nanga Parbat on clear days.
• Himalayan Wildlife: Habitat of the endangered Himalayan Brown Bear, golden marmots, and snow leopards.
• Travel Window: Deosai is accessible only from July to mid-September via 4x4 Prado jeeps before winter snowfall closes the passes.

Important Travel Tips

• Flights vs Road: Flights to Skardu and Gilgit are weather-dependent. Papa Travels arranges guaranteed luxury coasters or Prado jeeps as road backups via the Karakoram Highway (KKH).
• Altitude Acclimatization: Drink plenty of water and rest on your first night in Skardu before ascending to Deosai.