We know that Earth has many enchanting places and wonders throughout. If we wanted to count the number of such areas, we see the number goes up and up. But only considering Pakistan, have you ever thought what would be the top beautiful places here? You will find Fairy Meadows of Gilgit Baltistan in that list.
But how is that possible? Why is it so? What does this place have to offer that we have got it at such worth? What are its surroundings? Where is it located? Want to get all the answers to these questions?
So stick with us in this guide, as we will provide you with all the details and information about this gem lying in Gilgit Baltistan, Pakistan.
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About Fairy Meadows of Gilgit Baltistan
It’s a green plateau found below the huge Nanga Parbat Mountain. Fairy Meadows was already inhabited when it became a tourist area, but that’s when Herman Buhl and his German climbing compatriots came to Fairy Meadows in the 1950s, and it got its enchanting name. When they saw it, they named this place Märchenwiese, which translates as “Fairy Meadows.”
Lush vegetation and proximity to both the Karakoram Highway and Nanga Parbat Mountain constitute those defining it. The location is extremely pleasant climatically at 3300 meters high, making it a great base to unwind in prior to heading out to see Nanga Parbat or any of the great peaks of the area.
Location of the Fairy Meadows
The Diamer District of Gilgit-Baltistan in Pakistan is home to Fairy Meadows, a grassland along one of the base camp sites for the Nanga Parbat. The world’s ninth-highest peak, Nanga Parbat, and the verdant plateaus make it majorly known. It is found at an altitude of 3300 meters. It comprises greenish, lush meadows all over this area, making it a breathtaking sight.
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When to Visit the Fairy Meadows in Gilgit Baltistan?
It is possible to visit Fairy Meadows from April to October. However, the best months are April, May, September, and October. These are the shoulder months, and with so far fewer Pakistani tourists, prices will be much lower.
If you can visit Fairy Meadows from June to August, then by all means do it; just bear in mind that it’ll be quite crowded. The temperature is not very high in summer, but the temperature at Raikot Bridge and the valley around the bridge is quite hot.
If you do decide to visit during the shoulder months, it’ll be a lot colder, and they are likely to receive snow! There was a bit of a freak storm at Fairy Meadows in April. Be there according to your comfort.
What to do at the Fairy Meadows of Gilgit Baltistan?
We have come this far to know that it is a worth visiting place. But what should be the activities that are needed to be done when one visits Fairy Meadows? No need to worry, as the following are the recommendations for you to consider when you pay a visit to this breathtaking place.
- Enjoy at Reflection Lake
Well, this small lake should actually be called Reflection Pond. Actually, one of the most beautiful spots in Fairy Meadows. When it’s clear, you can see the Nanga Parbat reflected in the water.
Reflection Lake is found on the western side of the meadow, where the horses graze. Traverse the little river, and you’ll find it.
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- Trekking
You can also get here and walk up toward the Nanga Parbat base camp from here. The first part of the trail is even and ends at Beyal Camp. How far you walk to get there will depend on how fit you are; you’ll probably be walking for maybe two hours before you get there.
Beyal Camp is shortly after, after which you can have a view of the Raikot Glacier and Nanga Parbat. You will need to keep the weather in check, as it changes very quickly in the mountains.
- Stargazing
Fairy Meadows has mountains around and is far enough away from any major cities that you won’t have to worry about light pollution. Which means that if it’s a clear night, you can actually see the Milky Way.
The recommended moment to stargaze near Fairy Meadows would be an hour or two after the sun has gone down, and I highly recommend you do.
- Campfire
If you like campfires, then Fairy Meadows is going to be your right choice for it. In the evening, you can spend your time sitting around a campfire chatting with your companions.
Image of Wildlife at Fairy Meadows, Gilgit Baltistan, Pakistan
Wildlife is also its specialty, including endangered species: ‘Brown Bear’ musk deer, markhors, snow leapards, wolves, and some of the bird’s kind of leapards, wolves, and some species of birds. There are a lot of woody plants like Pinis wallichiana, Picea, Abies pindrow, Smithiana, juniper birch, and willow dwarf bushes. Declaring this area a national park in 1995 by the government, implementation is a challenge because the people of Tatu village hold ownership of the forests and surrounding lands.
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Accessing Fairy Meadows
A jeep-able fifteen-kilometer-long trek from Raikot Bridge on Karakoram Highway to the village of Tattu (Tato), on which is approachable to Fairy Meadows. The bridge is the only open part of the dangerous, narrow, gravel mountain road to the village, which locals use as a point of access for visitors. In 2013, it became the second deadliest road in the world, according to the World Health Organization. It is a five-kilometer trek through Miyar waterfall, then you have to hike from Tato onward, which takes about three to four hours walking. The grassland is in the Rakhiot valley at the end of the Rakhiot glacier coming off Nanga Parbat and flowing into the north.
Places to Stay Being at the Fairy Meadows of Gilgit Baltistan
Of course, visiting Fairy Meadows in Gilgit Baltistan would be of great value, but your comfort and relaxation are also what matter! For this, the following are a few stay suggestions that you may choose while being at Fairy Meadows.
- Fairymeadows Inn Hotel & Restaurant
- Greenland Resort Fairy Meadows
- Shambala Resorts fairy Meadows
- Beyal Camp
- Fairymeadows Inn Hotel & Restaurant
Fairymeadows Inn Hotel & Restaurant is located at the junctures of Gilgit-Baltistan on the famous Karakoram Highway.
Address: C4J2+H9Q, N-35, Chilās, Gilgit-Baltistan
Phone: 0344 1516756
You can check their Facebook page here as well.
- Greenland Resort Fairy Meadows
Being at Tatu, this resort offers you various services, including rooms and comfortable family rooms. Also, with beautiful views around.
Address: Nanga Parbat Base Camp Trail
Phone: (058114) 84687
You can check their Facebook page here as well.
You can check their Instagram page here as well.
- Shambala Resorts Fairy Meadows
They have 12 rooms and 100 camping tents, making it one of the top places to stay at the Fairy Meadows of Gilgit Baltistan.
Address: Nanga Parbat Fairy Meadows, Next to Reflection Lake Fairy Meadows, Gilgit Baltistan 14100
Phone: 0355 5052978
You can check their Facebook page.
- Beyal Camp
You can also sleep at Beyal Camp; the distance from Fairy Meadows is about two hourswalk. Beyal is a much, much lower profile type. Ask first if there is accommodation, and do not camp there without first asking permission.
Camping was the cheapest way to sleep at Fairy Meadows. Don’t forget, of course, you would need to pack up all your own gear.
Travel and Stay Tips
Following are some helpful tips and tricks for being at Fairy Meadows of Gilgit Baltistan.
1) High-cut hiking shoes appropriate for up to about 4 inches high.
2) food, electrolytes, and 2 liters of water to get to the base camp
3) Fleece, proper windbreaker
4) Sunscreen cream
5) Being respectful with locals
If the weather worsens, the following extra stuff will be handy.
1) Gloves
2) Extra fleece (for a warm base layer)
3) Warm hat
Final Thoughts on the Fairy Meadows of Gilgit Baltistan
In Gilgit Baltistan, Pakistan, lies Fairy Meadows, which is an enchanting combination of natural loveliness and adventure. An absolute paradise for nature enthusiasts and trekkers alike, it has lush green plateaus, breathtaking views of Nanga Parbat, and serene Reflection Lake. Fairy Meadows has something for everyone, whether you are looking for tranquility, adventure, or just breathtaking escape. The nearby trails to look out for and stargazing under the majestic night’s sky. This place promises to be a place to have an unforgettable experience. With that, pack up and head on a journey to this amazing place designed by the magic of nature.
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FAQs Regarding the Fairy Meadows Gilgit Baltistan
Where is Fairy Meadows?
Fairy Meadows is a part of the Diamer District of Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. It occupies one of the base camp sites for Nanga Parbat.
When to visit Fairy Meadows?
April, May, September, and October are the best to visit Fairy Meadows.
What ways are there for people to reach Fairy Meadows?
In order to reach Tattu and Fairy Meadows on the Karakoram Highway, you need a jeepable trek from Raikot Bridge. They then can walk all the way up to Fairy Meadows in around three to four hours.
What are the staying options in Fairy Meadows?
Some known choices include:
- Fairymeadows Inn Hotel and Restaurant.
- Fairy Meadows Greenland Resort.
- Fairy Meadows Shambala Resorts
- Beyal Camp
What do you need to be aware of if visiting Fairy Meadows?
With the right resources, respect the local culture, and camp. Feel the best of it with its natural beauty, and go wild about this enchanting destination.
