Things to do in Nagar Valley Gilgit Baltistan – A Complete Travel Guide to Visit Nagar Valley Pakistan
Explore the Wonders of Nagar Valley: A Guide to the Best Tourist Spots
Nagar Valley (“Things to do in Nagar Valley Gilgit Baltistan”) boasts majestic mountain peaks, breathtaking lakes, and stunning glaciers that will leave you in awe. Situated along the Karakoram Highway in the northern part of Gilgit, Nagar is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. In this article, we will share the top things to do in Nagar Valley and uncover its rich historical background, vibrant culture, and captivating tourist areas brimming with picturesque landscapes.
Discover the Hidden Treasures of Nagar Valley
As a traveller, you might have visited Hunza and explored its renowned attractions, such as Karim Abad and Eagle Nests. However, if you venture further, you will discover a mesmerizing beauty opposite Hunza-Nagar Valley. The valley is blessed with awe-inspiring views of the Rakaposhi and Diran Peaks, which beckons you to look closer. You can trek to Rakaposhi base camp or Diran base camp to witness their shimmering beauty up close.
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Unravel the History and Culture of Nagar Valley
Nagar Valley has a rich historical background that dates back to ancient times. The valley was ruled by the Trakhàn Dynasty, which left behind a legacy of magnificent forts and palaces. You can visit the 700-year-old Nagar Fort, a testament to the valley’s rich heritage. The fort has been beautifully preserved, and you can marvel at its intricate carvings, wooden balconies, and spacious courtyards.
The valley is also known for its vibrant culture, a unique blend of ancient traditions and modern influences. Attending festivals or visiting a traditional market, you can witness the locals’ daily life and immerse yourself in their customs. The Hunza and Nagar valleys are also famous for their apricot orchards, where you can taste the delectable dried apricots or apricot jam, the valley’s speciality.
Experience the Natural Beauty of Nagar Valley
Nagar Valley is a nature lover’s paradise, with its lush green meadows, glistening lakes, and majestic mountains. You can hike to the stunning Hopper Glacier, a breathtaking sight. Verdant forests surround the glacier and offer a serene escape from the bustling city life.
Another must-visit attraction in Hunza Nagar Valley is the beautiful Borith Lake. Surrounded by towering mountains, it offers a serene atmosphere. You can also take a boat ride on the lake and witness its beauty up close.
Nagar Valley is a hidden gem that is waiting to be explored. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty, it is a destination that should be on every traveller’s bucket list. By embarking on a journey to Nagar Valley, you will discover a world of hidden treasures and create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.
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Why do I feel like writing on Things to do in Nagar Valley Gilgit Baltistan?
I searched Google for things to do in Nagar Valley. I could not find any content that gave any information on the said locations, so I thought I would write an informative travel guide for Nagar Valley. The irony is that most people come for just fun at public places. They neither go to the unexplored areas of northern Pakistan nor visit some uphill stations, which plentifully exist in Nagar Valley and Hunza Valley. If we do, it will give us motivation and pride in having such blessings of Almighty ALLAH.
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In this article, I will share all the important aspects of this tourist valley by sharing a few of my travel experiences, places to visit Nagar Valley, the best tourist points, and top things to do in Nagar Valley Gilgit Baltistan, Pakistan. This complete travel guide to visiting Nagar Valley will help tourists and visitors plan the trip to Nagar Valley as a hustle-free trip.
Although this valley has not been properly settled to facilitate tourists for the last few years since 2017, people tend to provide professional tourism services, i.e., hoteling, tour operators, tour guides, etc. You may also find some experienced trekkers there who have climbed many peaks. Still, due to the lack of social media awareness and network availability, they didn’t have access to get introduced to the world about their outstanding trekking.
Read More: places to Visit in Hunza
Things to do in Nagar Valley Gilgit Baltistan, Pakistan
Nagar Valley is a valley of breathtaking villages and gigantic mountains. District Nagar is divided into two divisions. Nagar 1(Lower Nagar) and Nagar 2(upper Nagar). The whole district is being controlled by the district Administration Nagar from the district secretariat and Capital area of Harespo Das.
What are the Best Tourist Attractions in Nagar Valley?
Before sharing the best tourist attractions and places to visit Nagar Valley, let me share the most motivating and encouraging travel quote.
“The traveller sees what he sees; the tourist sees what he has come to see.”
Nagar Valley presents itself as a tourist attraction. It is not enough to merely travel; one must become a tourist to fully immerse oneself in the demographical landscapes of Northern Pakistan’s Gilgit Baltistan region. My travel guide to Nagar Valley in Gilgit Baltistan, Pakistan, will provide a plethora of knowledge to those who heed its advice.
Several noteworthy tourist destinations and attractions exist within Nagar Valley, each offering a unique and distinct experience. From breathtaking natural landscapes to cultural and traditional diversity, visitors can expect to partake in diverse activities, including engaging with locals, sampling various cuisines, trekking through the scenic terrain, and exploring picturesque hill stations.
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Most Demanding and Beautiful Tourist Attractions in Nagar Valley
Alright, if you have gripped on the above-shared points, let me take you to the most demanding and beautiful tourist attractions in Nagar Valley.
- Rakaposhi View Point Ghulmet Nagar.
- Gappa Valley Nagar
- Shahshabaran Ghulmet Nagar
- Minapin Valley Nagar.
- Hapakun Camping Site Nagar
- Rakaposhi Basecamp Trek and Taghafari Nagar.
- Diran Basecamp Trek Nagar.
- Minapin Glacier Nagar.
- Kacheli Lake Nagar.
- Beekichang Gotum Cricket Stadium Pissan Nagar.
- Roof Top of Hunza Nagar Daman e Kho Miacher.
- Hoppar Valley and Hoppar Glacier.
- Rush Lake Nagar.
- Mamubar Camping site (Sumayar Nagar)
- Talugotum Hill station and Waterfall Qasimabad Nagar.
- Chapshuro Food Street Thole Nagar
- Royal Palace Garden Nagar Khas.
I have meticulously curated a comprehensive list of tourist points in Nagar Valley, each offering a unique and distinct experience. While some points can be accessed by vehicle, 4/4, or safari jeep, others require a trek through the rugged terrain. Additionally, some points can be comfortably covered within a single day, while others necessitate more than one day to fully explore. As such, visitors are advised to plan their itinerary accordingly to ensure they make the most of their trip.
My detailed guide will provide information on which points require a vehicle, 4/4, or a longer period to explore, as well as practical tips on arranging trips to these destinations within Nagar Valley. I have compiled this guide in response to the absence of comprehensive resources available to travellers, which often leaves them feeling uncertain and unprepared before embarking on their journey to Nagar Valley in Gilgit Baltistan.
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Rakaposhi View Point, Nagar
Rakaposhi View Nagar is the primary hub for travellers and tourists seeking accommodation. During my visits, I often spent time by the flowing stream, basking in the panoramic view of Rakaposhi Peak and listening to the tranquil sounds of the stream. The area is best suited for brief stays or overnight accommodations, with hotels and restaurants along the stream’s banks flowing from the peak. These establishments are professionally maintained and offer top-notch amenities, catering to the needs of travellers throughout the year.
A recently installed zipline is now operational at Rakaposhi Viewpoint to further promote adventure tourism in Nagar Valley. This zip line is the second longest in Pakistan and the longest in Gilgit Baltistan, adding an exciting new element to the area’s already breathtaking views. The facilities and staff are top-notch, ensuring adventure enthusiasts a safe and thrilling experience.
Watch Rakaposhi Zipline Ghulmet Nagar Vlog: Rakaposhi Zipline Nagar
I have stayed there and taken amazing nights with the long-lasting hospitality I have been provided.
You can also go shopping at the main point of Rakaposhi’s viewpoint. You may love to buy local handicrafts, the Traditional Cap of Gilgit Baltistan, Stones, and other jewelry.
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Rakaposhi, also called the “Mother of Mist” due to its snow-covered peaks, is widely recognized for its stunning beauty. Standing at 27th place globally and 12th highest in Pakistan, Rakaposhi’s rank pales compared to its breathtakingly enchanting ice walls that can be witnessed during favourable weather conditions.
Gappa Valley Nagar
Gappa Valley is a stunning tourist destination in the Nagar District of Gilgit-Baltistan. This valley is nothing short of a paradise for trekking enthusiasts and those who seek peace in nature. From a tourism perspective, Gappa Valley offers natural forests, water fountains, vast grasslands, local cuisine, friendly locals, and breathtaking views of the Rakaposhi peak.
I will proceed in this article, “Things to do in Nagar Valley Gilgit Baltistan Pakistan.” Having visited Gappa Valley twice, in 2018 and 2019, I cannot express the beauty of this blessed valley in words. My feeble and disjointed sentences cannot do justice to its magnificent green meadows and overall charm. However, I will do my best to share my experiences during my two-night stay there.
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Gappa To Naltar Valley Trekking
The trekking trail from Gappa Valley to Naltar Valley is a major tourist attraction. However, currently, it can be accessed from the District Nagar Check Post at KKH towards Chalt village. The trail is about 3 km long and can be covered with a 4/4 safari jeep or a regular vehicle.
I covered most of the distance by trekking during nighttime in 2017. It took us about 5 hours to reach Gappa Valley from Chaprote Valley, but it can be done in an hour by vehicle. While it is a one-day track, I highly recommend trekking to Shani Peak, a one-hour or less steep uphill track from Gappa Valley. The view from Shani Peak is truly breathtaking and worth the tiring trek.
During my visit, I stayed one night in Gappa Valley and another day in Shani Peak. Those two days were amazing and made me feel close to Almighty Allah. I am grateful to have been born in such an incredible place.
Shahshabaran Ghulmet Nagar
Shahshabaran Ghulmet is in the Nagar district, near Ghulmet Village. If you have visited Hunza, you may have stayed at Rakaposhi Viewpoint. Shahshabaran is located at the same point, but it takes two to three hours of steep uphill trekking.
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Shahshabaran is famous for its stunning views of western Nagar (Nagar 2) and its historical Polo ground. During the princely era in Nagar, the prince used to visit this beautiful spot, and according to sources, donkey polo games were also played here.
However, now this spot is reserved for livestock due to its lush and healthy grasslands. Tourists can camp here for a day and explore the nearby beautiful green mountains while enjoying the views of western Nagar and northern Nagar, all the way to Karimabad Hunza and Aliabad Hunza.
Minapin Village Nagar.
Minapin Valley is a popular tourist destination in Nagar, known for its excellent hotels. The hotels here offer great hospitality and services, and the owners often interact personally with the guests to ensure their stay is enjoyable. From Minapin Valley, it’s easy to plan trips to nearby destinations.
In addition to the hotels, the area has cherry and apricot gardens that visitors can enjoy. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and they often offer their fruit to guests as a sign of hospitality.
Hapakun Camping Site Nagar
Hapakun Camping Site is one of the most attractive and stunning meadows in the entire Hunza Nagar region. It takes about two hours to get there from Minapin village. This lush green meadow serves as the first stopover for those going to the Rakaposhi base camp. I have personally spent two days camping at this site and have also done the Rakaposhi Basecamp trek. In my opinion, this place is mesmerizing and worth visiting. This trek is gaining popularity every year, and many local and international travellers have completed it and shared their experiences on various travel forums, highlighting its natural beauty and historical significance.
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Hapakun Camping Site has only one camp hotel to serve tourists and travellers. However, before planning to trek to the Rakaposhi basecamp or Hapakun camping site, contact some local hotel owners in Minapin or nearby hotels at Rakaposhi View Point Nagar so they can arrange the best possible facilities for you.
The campsite owner cooperates and can help you with guides and meal plans.
Rakaposhi Basecamp Trek and Taghafari Nagar.
As previously mentioned, the Hapakun Camping Site is an essential destination when heading towards Rakaposhi Base Camp. If you want to experience the true beauty of Nagar Valley in Gilgit Baltistan, visiting this area is a must. The mesmerizing Rakaposhi peaks will captivate you as soon as you see them from Hunza or any neighbouring location.
9 Facts about Rakaposhi
During my visit to the Hapakun Campsite, I had some of the best moments of my life and spent some unforgettable nights in the camp. At first, it was just my friend and me, but we met two local people at the Minapin dam site who joined us on the trek. With our group of four, it felt like we were going on an expedition rather than a simple trek. We discussed the historical stories of Nagar and our travel experiences and shared stories as I am a tour operator and one of the people who joined us was a hotel owner. They provided us with excellent company throughout the trek.
Arrival At Hapakun
We arrived at Hapakun just after the Maghrib prayer and brought all the necessary supplies, cooked our food, had tea, and rested. We left for Rakaposhi basecamp early in the morning, and it took us around two hours to get there. The trek was tiring due to the steep slopes, but when I first saw the Minapin glacier and the connecting boundaries of Rakaposhi and Diran peaks, I was left speechless and remained in awe for a while. It was truly the most stunning view I had ever experienced.
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The beauty of Rakaposhi and Diran peaks and the stunning Minapin glacier seem to have left you speechless! Sometimes, the breathtaking views and natural wonders we encounter during our travels are just too amazing for words.
Diran Basecamp Trek Nagar
Diran Basecamp is located further up from Rakaposhi Basecamp and requires a longer trek. To reach It, you must trek to Rakaposhi Basecamp and follow the long Minapin Glacier towards Diran Basecamp. The trek to Diran Basecamp is uphill and takes longer than the trek to Rakaposhi Basecamp.
Minapin Glacier Nagar
The Minapin glacier is a beautiful and popular spot to visit while exploring the Rakaposhi and Diran basecamps. Its snowy, white surface and deep crevasses make it an alluring sight for tourists.
During my visit to the Diran basecamp, we walked on the glacier for about three hours to reach the other end. Walking on the glacier requires caution, as slipping or falling into a crevasse is possible. It’s recommended that you have a local guide assist you while crossing the glacier.
We could hear glaciers breaking as we walked on the glacier, which was quite scary. Although we detracted from the original path three times, we stayed on track and completed our mission.
Beekichang Gotum Cricket Stadium Pissan Nagar
In the article “Things to do in Nagar Valley,” Beekichang Gotum is a unique and interesting place to visit in Nagar Valley, a popular destination for a one-day trip. The area has a famous cricket stadium where local tournaments are held annually. The stadium is located in Pissan village and can now be accessed by vehicle, which takes approximately one hour.
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Tourists are drawn to this area by the stunning view of Pissan Glacier and the circular cricket stadium. Local guides can take tourists on a short trip to explore the area for the day, but visitors should be aware that no hotels or services are available. Those who plan to visit should be prepared to self-cater.
Kacheli Lake Nagar
Kacheli (also known as Kachali) Lake in Nagar Valley is a stunning picnic and trekking spot at around 3,500 meters. It can be reached via the village of Minapin in Nagar. It takes about two hours to get to the Hapakun camping site from Minapin and two hours to reach the Rakaposhi basecamp (also known as Taghafari).
Depending on your itinerary, You can camp overnight at either Hapakun or Rakaposhi basecamp. From the Rakaposhi basecamp, it takes 2-3 hours to cross the Minapin glacier and reach the Diran basecamp. The time it takes depends on your pace.
Once you reach Diran Basecamp, you must trek uphill for around two hours to reach Kacheli Lake. I completed the nine-hour trips, starting from the Hapakun camping site and returning to the same spot.
The uphill trek from Diran Basecamp to Kacheli Lake can be exhausting and requires patience. But the stunning views are well worth the effort once you reach the lake.
Roof Top of Nagar and Hunza Miacher Kho Nagar
To reach Kacheli Lake and enjoy a bird’s eye view of Nagar Valley and Hunza, similar to what you see from Eagle Nest/Duikar in Hunza, you can visit Miacher. It is a central location and the rooftop of Hunza Nagar, offering a clear aerial view of all the villages in Hunza and Nagar.
To reach Miacher Kho, take a 4×4 vehicle and enjoy the track until you arrive. The journey takes around one hour.
Hopper Valley Nagar and Hopper Glacier Nagar
Hopper village in Nagar is one of the oldest walled cities in Hunza and Nagar, located about 10 km away from Nagar Khas. Due to the same ruling family, it is an ancient village that has spread to other villages in Nagar and even a few in Hunza.
Complete Tour Plan to Hoppar Valley & Hoppar Glacier Nagar
Hopper village is known for being a popular tourist destination in the whole Hunza Nagar region, thanks to the world-famous lakes, glaciers, and peaks of Nagar. It is home to the Hopper and Spantik glaciers.
Nagar Valley is a coveted destination among travelers who have explored Gilgit Baltistan. One of the highlights of my travel itinerary is a visit to Hopper Village and Glacier, an exceptional natural wonder deep within the earth’s crust. The panoramic views surrounding this majestic glacier now feature a bustling commercial landscape, with an array of tuck shops, hotels, and resting spots thoughtfully erected to cater to the comfort of brave adventurers.
Moreover, Hopper Village boasts a top-notch hospitality industry, fully equipped to cater to the diverse needs of discerning globetrotters.
Rush Lake Nagar
The awe-inspiring Rush Lake Nagar stands tall as one of the highest lakes in the world, offering a captivating sight that is second to none. Although I have always yearned to embark on an expedition to this magnificent lake, I haven’t realized my plans yet. The path to Rush Lake Nagar entails traversing the spine-chilling glaciers of Hopper, Miar Peak, and Spantik, located approximately 15 km northward from these glaciers.
The journey to Rush Lake Nagar offers an opportunity to bask in the breathtaking landscapes, snow-capped peaks, verdant meadows, and stunning views of the towering peaks that dot the Nagar region. Besides, the trek to this incredible location will impart invaluable lessons for future adventures.
Rush Lake Nagar Complete Tour Plan
Are you planning a trek to Rush Lake this year? Worry not! You can entrust Explore Nagar Travels PVT Ltd to plan a hassle-free excursion to this natural wonder. Fill out the contact form on our website or email us, and we’ll reply promptly.
While compiling this guide on the best things to do in Nagar Valley, I aimed to offer deep insights that would enable visitors to plan an unforgettable trip to this mesmerizing destination.
Mamubar Camping site (Sumayar Nagar)
My initial encounter with this splendid hamlet was through a surfing vehicle, which led me to discover a fascinating tourist spot open to all visitors. Positioned precisely on the opposite end of Aliabad and Karimabad Hunza, the village offers a captivating vista of both Nagar and Hunza regions, much like the panoramic view of Hunza.
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You can use any mode of transportation to reach Mamubar camping, where the welcoming and hospitable locals invite you to indulge in traditional and healthy cuisine. Similar to the entire Nagar village, this village’s hospitality is truly commendable.
Sumayar Village Nagar boasts an abundance of gemstone reservoirs, where the extraction of precious stones like quartz and aquamarine has proven to be a lucrative source of income for the locals, who collectively earn millions of rupees annually from the mining activity.
Talugotum Hill station and Waterfall Qasimabad Nagar
Talugotum Hill Station and Waterfall is a hidden gem in Nagar Valley with great potential to attract tourists. I stayed overnight there during the COVID-19 lockdown.
This hill station is easily accessible and offers a stunning view of Rakaposhi Peak. The green meadows and hilly landscape add to its charm. The step-by-step plan meadows are captivating and encourage you to enjoy the mesmerizing views of nearby mighty peaks, including a close-up view of Rakaposhi Peak.
Watch My Vlog From this Amazing Point
I’ll go more in “Things to do in Nagar Valley Gilgit Baltistan.” While it can be covered in one day, it is better to stay overnight to fully experience the nearby places. I also recommend visiting the nearby high-falling waterfall, another interesting attraction to spend some time at. Standing near the waterfall and feeling the drops of water touching your face adds to the enjoyment of the area despite the cold water temperature.
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Although there are some steep points in the area, the beauty of the green meadows and the overall peaceful atmosphere of Talugotum Hill Station and Waterfall Qasimabad Nagar make it worth the visit. From this point, you can also access Shahshabaran Ghulmet Nagar by crossing the hill station, which is the second route to reach Shahshabaran.
I wanted to share information about things to do in Nagar Valley to highlight the area’s tourism potential, especially lesser-known places that are still worth a visit from an international tourism perspective.
Royal Palace Garden in Nagar Khas
Nagar Khas is the former princely capital of Nagar, where the prince and his administration resided. The Royal Palace Garden is adorned with antique weapons and jewellery. However, the architecture of that time is a testament to how structures were made of mud and wood.
To fully experience the palace and its historical significance, you will need prior permission to arrange a visit with a knowledgeable guide. This visit will surely enhance your entire tour by providing insights into the rich history of the Nagar region.
Chapshuro Food Street Thole Nagar
When you visit northern Pakistan, like all others, do not miss the taste of Chapshuro Food Street Thole Nagar along the Karakorum Highway (KKH) road. You will find the diversified taste of chapshuro after one another. This Thole Bridge on KKH usually known for the chapshuro a local dish of Gilgit Baltistan. You may get the real taste here. This is in my travel guide to Nagar Valley Gilgit Baltistan in the context of “Things to do in Nagar Valley” Gilgit Baltistan.
I hope you have benefited from my content. Below are some frequent Questions and Answers which the travellers and Tourist are usually searching or asking:
Where do I get the chapshuro dish in Gilgit Baltistan?
You can get a tasty and original taste of chapshuro at Chapshuro Food Street, Thole Nagar, along the side of KKH Nagar Valley. There is a variety of tastes there.
What are the traditional Top Dishes of Nagar Valley and Hunza Valley?
Nagar Valley is enriched with organic foods. Dishes to eat in Nagar Valley are shared below:
- Chapshuro dish
- Gialing (Giyaling/Golay/golee)
- Sharbat (Shulbat)
- Shirik(Paratha)
- Phiti(Type of thin Chupati)
- Phulai (hareesa)
- Sharado(Hoi Lo Garma)
- Diram Phiti/Fitti
- Buttering Dowdo(Apricote Soup)
- Hani Dowdo(Apricot Almond)
- Tumoro Tea(Mountain Tea)
What is the main hotel area in Nagar Valley?
Top Hotels in Nagar Valley to stay in are:
- Rakaposhi View Point Ghulmet Village Nagar
- Minapin Village Nagar
- Hopper Village Nagar
- Jafferabad Villages Nagar
- Thole Village Nagar
- Qasimabad Village Nagar
What are the famous Lakes in Nagar Valley?
There are two famous lakes in the region of Nagar Valley Gilgit Baltistan.
- Rush Lake
- Kachali Lake (Kachali Lake)
How many Mountain Passes are there in Nagar Valley?
There are two mountain passes are there:
- Chaprote Village Pass
- Hispar Village Pass
What are the famous Peaks in Nagar Valley?
There are three famous peaks:
- Rakaposhi
- Diran
- Golden Peak (Spantik Peak)
What are the famous Glaciers in Nagar Valley Gilgit Baltistan?
- Hopper Glacier
- Miar Glacier
- Hisper Glacier
- Barpu Glacier
- Pissan Glacier
- Silkiyang Glacier
- Minapin Glacier
What are the famous Meadows in Nagar Valley, Gilgit Baltistan?
- Hapakun (Minapin)
- Gappa (Chalt)
- Daiter (Chalt)
- Barpu (Hopar)
- Shahshabaran(Ghulmet)
- Menamgusham (Sumayar)
- Kachali (Minapin)
- Sumayar Bar (Hopar)
- Silkiyang (Sumayar)
This is all for now. I have elaborated everything on the context of things to do in Nagar Valley Gilgit Baltistan. If still there is anything missed or anything misinterpreted, may comment. I would update accordingly and would appreciate it.
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