Adventure activities in Northern Pakistan

Adventure sports have gained significance in Pakistan in the last couple of years, with a large number of people travelling overseas and increased access to information on various adventure sports in the online space.

Increased exposure to media has developed a keen interest in various outdoor activities for which the rough terrain and mountains of Northern Pakistan offer an ideal setting. 

A number of adventure clubs have been formed in Pakistan, which has made it easier for people to explore the exciting spots and adventure sports in Pakistan. Historically, these clubs have been limited to memberships providing access to only a select few. However, with increased awareness and higher spending power of people, similar clubs have started initiatives across various cities of Pakistan. 

Other high-end adventure activities, like a trek to K-2 base camp and mountaineering expeditions, are organised by local companies in conjunction with international travel groups. Their activities are more specialised and catered towards international travellers due to the high cost and skill level involved.

Adventure activities in Northern Pakistan

Local adventure clubs and tourism businesses have introduced skiing, scuba diving, paragliding, trekking, camping, and snowmobiling. People from all over the world now have the opportunity to make their summer and winter holidays more adventurous and memorable. The beautiful valleys, rivers, deserts, and plains in Pakistan are now becoming famous on the international level because of the adventures being offered there.

If you are planning a trip to northern Pakistan, you will experience the majestic peaks of karakoram and the serene views of greenery.

Hiking and Trekking in Pakistan

Northern areas have always attracted people interested in hiking, trekking, and mountaineering. In recent years, a number of universities set up in Abbottabad, Mansehra, and other areas of Northern Pakistan have attracted some young people from all over the country. With easy access to the internet, there is an increased interest in exploring northern areas. 

The road’s health has improved in the last 5 years, providing easy access to more destinations, which were not easy to explore in the past.

Trekking Adventure

Trekking in Pakistan is also gaining fame day by day. The Karakoram and Himalayas, Pakistan’s ever-ruling mountain ranges, offer a wide range of trekking opportunities to tourists. K2 Gondogoro La Trek is one of the world’s classic treks. From the top of this trek, one can see all the prominent mountains of Shigar Valley and Hushey Valley.

The Gondogoro glacier, Baltoro Glacier, and Hispar Pass trek made a great Karakoram traverse trek. Also this trek is located in the heart of the Karakoram. Another renowned trek in the Karakoram Mountains is the Laila trek. This trek gives you stunning views of Haramosh Peak, Karakoram. Shimshal Manglik Sar Trek and Khurdopin Pass Shimshal Trek are also among the world’s most challenging treks. You can also enjoy four hours of trekking on fairy meadows.

Skiing in Northern Pakistan 

Skiing in Pakistan is promoted by two main ski resorts. Skiing is one of the top Northern Pakistan adventures. For tourists, there are many skiing spots in the Gilgit-Baltistan region, but the most famous skiing spot is Malam Jabba Ski Resort. This resort is the largest and oldest resort in Pakistan. 

This resort offers you two 800-meter ski runs. Nathiagali in the Himalayas also offers you this adventurous sport. Naltar Ski Resort is another famous ski resort in Pakistan. It belongs to the Pakistan Air Force, so before going there, permission may be required.

Camping in Northern Pakistan 

Camping is one of the other things to do in Northern Pakistan. Because of the stunning campsites, camping is one of the thrilling adventures you can do in northern Pakistan. From Muzaffarabad in Azad Kashmir, pir chanasi is situated 30 kilometres away. It is an easily accessible spot through public transport and private vehicles due to the paved road built in this region. June to September is an ideal time to camp here.

 Arang Kel is another beautiful spot in Azad Kashmir to camp. A hike or chairlift trip is required to reach there from Kel. The best time to camp here is from June to August.

Arang Kel and Pir Chansai are beautiful places to visit in northern Pakistan.

Paragliding 

The major paragliding site in Pakistan is Mung, Khanpur. Sky Hawk Paragliding and Adventure Club, Khanpur, offers you decent paragliding packages. You can also enjoy paragliding in the northern areas of Pakistan. In Gilgit-Baltistan, Adventure Tours will let you experience the bird’s-eye view of the stunning scenery present in the Karakoram, the Himalayas, and the Hindukush Mountains.

Conclusion

Travellers who love to do adventure activities, Northern Pakistan is the best place for them. Northern Pakistan has so much to offer, from beauty to thrilling hiking and trekking activities. You can also go camping with your loved ones and experience the mesmerising stargazing at night. In the north of Pakistan, you can enjoy paragliding.