Introduction to Nagar Valley
Nagar Valley, the wonder of Pakistan, is considered one of the most beautiful valleys in North Pakistan. It lies in the Nagar district of Gilgit Baltistan, about 105 kilometers away from Gilgit city. It is 2,438 meters (7999 feet) above sea level. This beautiful valley is situated along the well-known Karakoram highway of Pakistan. Here, we will learn about the Best Places to Visit in Nagar Valley.
The Nagar District was founded by the Hunza Nagar District in 2015. The Hunza Nagar River, which borders these valleys, separates Hunza and Nagar.
In this Ultimate guide, you will not only learn about the beauty of this heaven on Earth but will also get to know about the top places that you will need to visit when it comes to Nagar Valley of Pakistan.
History of Nagar Valley
It is also known as Nagar Khas and was previously known as Broshal Valley in this district. Until 1974, it was considered one of the princely and royal states in the North of Pakistan.
The British acquired possession of Nagar during a conflict between 1889 and 1892, beating Nagarkutch owing to a shortage of arms. Azur Khan, the Tham, was banished to Kashmir. Hunza was once ruled by Nagar, but after Mayor Khan’s sons separated Buroshall into two kingdoms, Muglot became king of Nagar, and Kirkis became king of Hunza. The British maintained Nagar’s status as a principality until 1947, and the inhabitants were controlled by a local Mir for over 1200 years. Nagar and Hunza were Kashmiri vassals under Maharaja Ranbir Singh of Jammu and Kashmir. Following Pakistan’s transition to democracy in 1974, the Princely States of Nagar and Hunza were abolished and given democratic representation.
Best Places to Visit in Nagar Valley
As we all know, the north of Pakistan is full of beautiful, sight-capturing places that are worth visiting, and Nagar Valley is definitely one of them.
Now, the complication that arises in one’s mind is what place should be visited first and what criteria for visiting that place should be followed so that we don’t regret our visits.
That, my friend, is the reason why I have listed here the best places that you should visit when you come to this breathtaking valley so you don’t miss out on any chance and don’t stay deprived of some beautiful and calming places.
Following are some Best Places to Visit in Nagar Valley:
- Rush lake.
- Hispar glacier.
- Hopar glacier (Bualtar glacier).
- Diran base camp trek.
- Pisan Cricket Stadium.
- Rakaposhi base camp trek.
- Hapakun valley.
- Minapin village.
Rush Lake
- Rush Lake
Rush Lake is a high-altitude lake next to Rush Peak in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan’s Nagar Valley. At 4,694 meters (15,400 feet), Rush is one of the world’s highest alpine lakes. In the Nagar Valley, it is situated around 15 kilometers to the north of Spantik (Golden Peak) and Miar Peak. Situated in Gilgit Baltistan, the 27th highest point on the planet, this lake is among the highest in Pakistan.
Hopar Glacier and Miar Glacier originate from Miar and Phuparash peaks; Rush Lake and Rush Peak may be accessed via Nagar and Hopar Valley.
Hispar Glacier
- Hispar Glacier
Hispar Glacier is a 49-kilometer-long glacier situated in Pakistan’s Northern Areas that extends and connects with the Biafo Glaciers 63 kilometers long. It rises to 5,128m above sea the Hispar La Pass (mountain Pass) forming the longest glacial system in the world outside the polar regions. This glacial swathe of over a hundred kilometers joins two age-old mountain states of Nagar lying to the west of Hunza and Baltistan to the east.
This becomes an upper portion of this route, which is the most challenging and difficult of the Biafo-Hispar crossing because of the extreme verticality of the slopes and the tedious task of boulder hopping on the lateral moraine ridges and hillsides.
Hopar glacier (Bualtar glacier)
- Hopar glacier (Bualtar glacier)
Hopar Glacier is a beautiful Glacier in Nagar Valley, also known as the Bualtar Glacier for its gorgeous sights and views in Gilgit Baltistan. It is located in the Hopar Valley, approximately 10 kilometers away from Nagar Khas, which was the District of Nagar.
Aside from this glacier, Hopar Valley has two other glaciers: Mier Glacier and Barpu Glacier.
The towering landscape of this glacier, calming peaks, and satisfying ice formations are a must-see, especially for those who seek peace and calm in nature and its mesmerizing wonders on planet Earth.
Diran Base Camp Trek
- Diran Base Camp Trek
Diran Peak is one of the most difficult summits to conquer. However, the Diran Base Camp is rather straightforward to visit. It is located in Minapin Valley Nagar. The trek to Rakaposhi Base Camp begins at Minapin and continues to Hapakun before reaching Diran Base Camp.
You will traverse the Minapin Glacier (which is not advised without a guide) to reach Diran Base Camp. Kachtelly Lake is a glacier lake situated near Diran Base Camp. A steep incline leads you to the ice glacier lake.
Pisan Cricket Stadium
- Pisan Cricket Stadium
The world’s highest natural cricket stadium is situated in Pissan Valley, District Nagar, Gilgit Baltistan, Pakistan, at an elevation of 8,500 feet above sea level. It became famous in 2021 when a local journalist tweeted an astounding stadium photograph.
Read More: Feasibility of Pissan Stadium Nagar – The next big thing in Pakistan & Gilgit-Baltistan
Rakaposhi Base Camp Trek
- Pisan Cricket Stadium
Rakaposhi is the world’s 27th tallest peak and a popular tourist destination. The summit is prominent and visible in both the Hunza and Nagar valleys. The base camp trip is one of the easiest hikes that begins in Minapin Valley. It leads to Hapakun Meadows, which is a rich green grazing place for residents. Once you pass it, you will arrive at the Rakaposhi Base Camp.
Here is the guide to Rakaposhi Basecamp Trek | Complete Guide
It is a two to three-day journey. The base camp continues towards Diran Base Camp. At 3,500 meters, the Rakaposhi base camp is accessible to every hiker who wants to ascend and see the spectacular mountain up close.
Hapakun Valley
- Hapakun Valley
This valley looks much more like a lovely glade that is ringed by steep mountains and ice glaciers. It is almost as if you are in Fairy Meadows, but this place only has a handful of people and a few cows. This picturesque valley, located in the heart of beautiful mountains, attracts people who want some leisure and thrill. The vast green meadows, fresh flowing streams, and snow-clad mountains will give you a unique experience that will leave you adding wow to everything.
Hapakun offers something for everybody, whether you are a seasoned trekker or just want to relax in beautiful surroundings. Come to the base of Rakaposhi, one of the most beautiful peaks in the world, or even the vibrant meadows, and watch the people stroll in.
Minapin Village
- Minapin Village
Make Minapin Village your headquarters for touring Nagar Valley since it is the area’s largest hotel hub. Experience warm hospitality and outstanding service at renowned hotels and restaurants in the area.
Minapin Valley is Nagar’s largest hotel center. Excellent hotels are available here, and you can arrange your holiday around local attractions. Some well-known hotels and restaurants are noted for their hospitality and exceptional hotel owner services.
Packing guide for Nagar Valley Visit
- Power bank. There are lots of places where you’ll be without electricity for a while
- Earphones for the long bus rides. Noise-cancelling headphones are even better unless you’re into tinny Bollywood soundtracks
- Sunglasses. The mountains are covered in snow, and the glare is harsh.
- Electricity adaptor to charge the camera
- Chapstick – the alpine sun and wind is abrasive
- Water bottle to fill up at mountain springs – no need to waste plastic bottles
- Deodorant – treks get sweaty, even in the mountains
- Passport and driver’s license – don’t even think about heading north without your passport
More important to have
- Passport-sized photos and copies of my passport and visa pages – security checkpoints often require them
- Motion sickness medication – long winding bus rides and a tummy full of chai don’t make good friends.
- Shalwar kameez – helps to blend in if I end up in a more conservative part of the North
- Hoodie – it’s an extra layer. The hood can be especially useful in the evenings when there is a chilly breeze
- Beanie – it’s surprising how much body heat escapes through your head
- Down jacket – it packs away compact, it’s light to carry, and ultra warm.
- Shawl – pleasant to drape over yourself if it’s a bit chilly (but not cold enough to rug up), plus it makes a great makeshift blanket/pillow for long bus rides or under-appointed hotel rooms.
Conclusion
We discussed all the best places to visit in Nagar Valley, part of Pakistan’s Gilgit Baltistan region. This region offers breathtaking views enhanced by various activities and cultural experiences. Its beauty extends from magnificent glaciers and mountains to beautiful lakes and picturesque settlements.
Nagar Valley is a place you cannot ignore, whether you want to go for thrilling hikes, pleasant camping, or just to lose yourself in beautiful sights. With its history and people’s affection for this region, one has ample reasons to make memories in this region.
FAQs best places to visit in Nagar Valley
What is the language spoken by the Nagar Residents?
The residents of Nagar Valley converse in Burushaski and Shina languages, which are integral parts of the region’s diverse cultural identity.
What is the population of Nagar Valley?
The population of Nagar Valley is almost 130,000 people.
What was Nagar Famous for?
Nagar was known for its polo squad. It is the only northern side to have played polo in New Delhi during the visit of King George VI of England and won the trophy.
How do we know the climate of Nagar?
Nagar’s climate is pleasant from mid-April to the end of September. During the summer, the maximum daytime temperature is 13 degrees Celsius. The temperature turns quite cold during the winter, primarily between October and the end of March. The coldest temperature can be as low as -14°C.
The religion of Nagar Valley?
The religion of the Nagar Valley is Islam, having a complete Shia population.
Is it hard to get to Nagar?
No, it is not difficult to access this valley as this is easily accessible through the Karakoram Highway.
