5 Most Beautiful Mountain Towns in Pakistan

Capped by some of the world’s tallest peaks, Pakistan boasts mountain towns that would make any landscape photographer jealous. Follow windy mountain roads or hop into crammed 4x4s to find alpine paradises untouched by modern civilization. Pakistan’s celestial mountain ranges, sleepy valleys, and hospitable villagers are a gateway to adventure for intrepid travelers. 

If not for recent instability that deterred most tourists, Pakistan would make headlines for its raw natural beauty. Tucked beneath gargantuan 7,000-meter peaks are hamlets home to some of the nicest people you’ll ever meet. Many of the gorgeous villages of Pakistan sit beside immense glaciers, rushing rivers, green pastures, and above lush valleys. 

To inspire your sense of wanderlust, show these 5 beautiful mountain towns of Pakistan to your closest travel buddies.

Passu Village

Near Gulmit in the Gilgit Baltistan region, Passu invokes images of an alpine fairytale with its dramatic landscapes. The village sits on the famous Karakoram Highway, and Passu Cones form a surreal backdrop. With the sharp peaks soaring to the heavens and the Hunza River snaking through the fertile fields, it’s impossible not to stand in disbelief. Verdant forests add sprinkles of life to the valley, while another portion rests in the shadow of the Passu Glacier. 

Standing at 6,106 meters, Tupopdan (Passu Cathedral) is one of those Pakistan sights that never leave your memories. As you veer along the winding highway, you can’t take your eyes off the serrated peaks amongst the clouds. If you have extra time in this area of Pakistan, the trek to Borith Lake is heaven for bird-watchers.

Boyun Village 

Situated in the Swat Valley of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province, Boyun Village is a slice of heaven for mountain lovers. Nicknamed Green Top, the village overlooks the fertile valley and has a 360° panorama of snow-capped peaks. Wildflowers carpet the landscape, and dense forests sit along the slopes. With the jagged peaks rising right above you, it feels like you’re near the roof of the world. And the vistas overlooking the mighty Swat River cutting through green pastures are prettier than a postcard.

If you find yourself in Kalam, it’s an easy drive to the beautiful village above the Swat Valley. The twisty mountain road crosses pristine rivers and presents jaw-dropping views vistas at every turn. Green Top Kalam View Point is the perfect vantage as you peek through evergreen trees and gaze at the turquoise river disappearing into the mountains. On balmy days, wander into the nearby Ushu forest to experience the solitude of nature. 

Phander Village 

Far off the typical Pakistan tourist trail, Phander Village presents a relaxing lakeside retreat. The crystal-clear sparkles beneath the sunlight in shades of teal that bewilder your imagination. Snow-capped peaks dominate the horizon, and light-green trees circle the shoreline. From the terrace of Phander Valley, you have an unbelievable panorama of lush foliage, steep mountain slopes, and the aqua blue Gilgit River.

Situated in the Gupis-Yasin District of the Gilgit Baltistan region, Phander is a place to get lost in Pakistan’s ethereal scenery. While there is a 4-5 hour direct route from the tourist hot spot of Gilgit, few embark on the intrepid journey to Phander. But for those who do, you’re rewarded with unbeatable hospitality, incredible hiking excursions, and some tasty trout from its untapped waterways.

Naltar Valley Village

Sticking with the Gilgit Baltistan region, Naltar Valley enchants visitors with its verdant forests and crystalline lakes. Satrangi Lake bursts a kaleidoscope of colors, while Blue Lake sparkles dreamy shades of turquoise. Alpine meadows boast green fields and colorful flowers during the warmer months once the snow clears from the valley. 

If you’re a ski fanatic, Naltar is among the premier winter destinations in Pakistan. Naltar Ski Resort is Pakistan’s first ski resort and hosts national competitions. But for avid trekkers and nature lovers, summer is when the Naltar Valley shines its brightest. The Naltar Wildlife Sanctuary protects coniferous and deciduous forests and has rare animals such as snow leopards, grey wolves, and Alpine ibex. Despite the Naltar Valley’s fame, you must use a 4×4 jeep to navigate the 34 km rough roadway from Gilgit.

Lashkargaz Village

For travelers who venture near Afghanistan’s Wakhan Corridor, the Lashkargaz Village in the Broghil Valley offers a transformational experience. It’s always uncertain if foreign tourists are allowed in the area, so you should check with local authorities for updated regulations. But if you’re in the clear, this adventure feels like you’ve entered heaven itself. Snowy mountains form an epic backdrop above fertile pastures, spacious farmlands, and alpine lakes. 

Speaking of crystal-clear lakes, a 10-day trek to Karambar Lake is a journey that invigorates the soul. Standing at the high-altitude lake’s shoreline, arid slopes and snow-capped peaks streak across the horizon. At 14,121 feet, Karambar Lake is the 2nd highest lake in Pakistan and one of the country’s most spectacular sights. And after sunset, the non-existence of light pollution allows the stars to dazzle the night sky.