Naltar Valley

Naltar Valley sits about 40 km north of Gilgit, climbing from the valley floor through dense stands of pine and juniper into a high alpine world of glacial lakes and open meadows. It remains one of the least-crowded genuinely spectacular destinations in Gilgit-Baltistan — most visitors to the north pass it by in favour of Hunza, which makes Naltar feel almost privately yours.

The valley’s signature attraction is its trio of glacial lakes — known collectively as the Naltar Lakes — whose waters shift between vivid turquoise, emerald, and deep blue depending on the season and the angle of light. The upper lake sits at around 3,700 metres and involves a 4–5 hour return hike from Naltar village, passing through pine forest and open alpine terrain.

In winter, Naltar hosts Pakistan’s premier ski resort — the highest in the country — where the Pakistan Air Force operates slopes that are also used to train the national ski team. In summer and autumn, the valley draws hikers, photographers, and those simply seeking quiet, with wildflower meadows in July–August and golden forest light in October.

Best Time to Visit Naltar Valley

• Spring (April–May): Snow often lingers around the upper lakes, with access sometimes restricted in early April. Late May usually opens up valley-floor trails.
• Summer (June–September): Prime hiking and lake season. Lakes are fully accessible, wildflowers peak in July–August, and daytime temperatures are generally 10–22°C.
• Autumn (October): Quieter trails, crisp air, and beautiful golden light through the forests, with temperatures around 5–15°C.
• Winter (December–February): Ski season at Naltar Ski Resort with deep snow at altitude; suitable for those with proper winter and snow gear.

Overall: Visit June to October for trekking and lakes, and December to February for skiing.

By Road

From Gilgit, take Naltar Road north out of the city. The initial stretch is paved, turning unpaved beyond Nomal village. A 4x4 jeep is required from Nomal onwards due to rough, narrow sections. The journey from Gilgit to Naltar village typically takes 1.5–2 hours.

Private jeep hire from Gilgit to Naltar generally costs around PKR 4,000–7,000 return, including waiting time.

By Public Transport

Budget travellers can use shared jeeps that depart from the Naltar Road stand in Gilgit in the morning and return in the afternoon. Timings are limited and less flexible, so confirm departure and return times in advance.