When the heat of summer hits the plains of
Pakistan, escapism becomes the order of the day. The northern mountainous
regions offer a refreshing contrast: cool breezes, emerald meadows, glacier fed
lakes and high-altitude vistas. In fact, one of the best places to visit
Pakistan during summer is up north, where the air is crisp and the scenery
truly spectacular. Travelers from across the country and abroad flock to these
highlands each year seeking relief from scorching cities and craving nature’s
grandeur. If you’re planning your summer journey, here are the most memorable escapes
ranging from lush valleys to remote lakes to include in your itinerary for the
best places to visit Pakistan during summer.
Imagine sipping hot
chai on a wooden balcony while snow-tipped peaks glint in the evening sun, the
scent of alpine flowers in the air and a cool breeze on your face. Whether
you’re travelling with family, friends or seeking a solo adventure, these
destinations deliver more than a change of scenery: they deliver a change of
pace. From accessible hill stations near Islamabad to remote high-altitude
passes in Gilgit-Baltistan, this list of the most beautiful places to visit
Pakistan during summer will inspire your next trip.
1. Hunza Valley — Summer Retreat in
Gilgit-Baltistan
Nestled in
Pakistan’s far north, the Hunza Valley offers one of the most scenic escapes in
the country. With its dramatic mountains, terraced fields and colourful apricot
orchards, Hunza becomes a vibrant summer haven where temperatures remain
comfortable while the lowlands sizzle. Summer travelers enjoy visits to Altit
and Baltit Forts, boat rides on Attabad Lake and scenic drives up to the
Khunjerab Pass. The hospitality of the local people and the vivid contrast
between green valleys and rugged peaks make it a top pick among the best places
to visit Pakistan during summer.
2. Skardu &
Shigar Valley — the Karakoram in Summer
The Skardu region,
gateway to some of the world’s tallest peaks, is a dream for mountain lovers.
In summer, Skardu transforms into a base for trekking, boating on Satpara Lake
and exploring the verdant meadows of Shigar Valley. Unlike the lower-altitude heat, this area
stays cool and inviting. It’s one of the best places to visit Pakistan during
summer when you want adventure, high-altitude landscapes and the kind of views
you’ll remember for a lifetime.
3. Naran &
Kaghan Valley — Alpine Lakes and Meadows
The Naran and
Kaghan Valley in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are well-known summer escapes, offering
lush meadows, crystal lakes like Saif-ul-Malook and access to Babusar Pass. In
summer the weather is mild, the skies are clear and the roads are open. Whether
you’re boating on Lulusar Lake or just enjoying the ride up to Babusar Top,
this region delivers a memorable summer experience.
4. Fairy Meadows
(Base of Nanga Parbat)
For hikers and
nature lovers, Fairy Meadows — beneath the towering Nanga Parbat — is
unbeatable. While the trek has its challenges, in summer you’ll be rewarded
with lush green fields, panoramic mountain views and comfortable temperatures. This
destination ranks among the best places to visit Pakistan during summer thanks
to its unique location, relative remoteness and stunning scenery. It’s perfect
if you want to get away from the crowds and explore nature.
5. Murree &
Nathia Gali — Easy Hill-Station Getaway
Just a short drive
from the Islamabad‐Rawalpindi region, Murree and Nathia Gali provide an
accessible summer break. These hill stations have pine-forests, cool breezes,
and the charm of colonial-era walks on Mall Road. Families and casual travelers
especially appreciate these spots when searching for the best places to visit
Pakistan during summer without venturing too far from the city base.
6. Swat Valley —
“Switzerland of the East” for Summer
The Swat Valley is
often called the “Switzerland of Pakistan” thanks to its lush meadows, river
valleys and mountains. In summer its green hills and flowing streams are a
welcome contrast to the heat elsewhere. Whether you explore Kalam, Mahodand
Lake or Ushu Forest, you’ll find why this valley belongs on the list of best
places to visit Pakistan during summer.
7. Neelum Valley
(Azad Kashmir)
The Neelum Valley
in Azad Kashmir is a river-lined paradise during summer months. Clear, cold
water, forested slopes and tranquil villages make it a peaceful escape. It ranks among the best places to visit
Pakistan during summer for those who want nature, fewer crowds and a serene
environment.
8. Deosai National
Park
Deosai National
Park, also known as the “Land of Giants”, sits at high altitude in
Gilgit-Baltistan. In the summer the plains blossom with wildflowers and you
might spot the elusive markhor or Himalayan brown bear. This remote destination
earns its place on the best places to visit Pakistan during summer list thanks
to its open skies, high-altitude meadows and sense of adventure.
9. Chitral &
The Kalash Valleys — Cultural Summer
The remote Chitral
region and the colorful Kalash Valley invite travelers looking for unique
culture and mountain vistas. In summer, the valleys are accessible and clear,
offering a rich mix of nature and tradition. As part of the best places to visit Pakistan
during summer, Chitral & Kalash provide a twist: you get both nature and a
cultural experience.
10. Naltar Valley
& Lakes
The Naltar Valley
is a hidden gem not far from Gilgit City. In summer the forests are green, the
lakes unfrozen and the wildflowers in bloom. This valley is perfect for hiking,
photography and nature lovers and stands out on the list of best places to
visit Pakistan during summer.
11. Siri Paye
& Shogran Meadows
Siri Paye and
Shogran are beautiful plateaus in the Kaghan region where you can picnic, enjoy
fresh air and stay in wooden huts. The summer weather is gentle and views
wide-open.
They offer a relaxing alternative for those among the best places to visit
Pakistan during summer who want a less strenuous nature break.
12. Babusar Pass
& Lulusar Lake
The route to
Babusar Pass and Lulusar Lake is among the most scenic in Pakistan. In summer
the pass is open and you can witness sweeping vistas and turquoise water at
Lulusar. This
kind of road trip experience makes it a top choice of the best places to visit
Pakistan during summer for road-trip lovers.
13. Fort Munro
(Punjab) — Hidden Summer Hill-Station
Tucked away in
southern Punjab, Fort Munro offers a lesser-known hill-station escape. While
the plains of Punjab get scorching, Fort Munro stays amiably cool in summer. This
makes it a good pick for those looking for off-beat destinations among the best
places to visit Pakistan during summer.
14. Rawalakot
& Banjosa Lake
The Rawalakot area
and Banjosa Lake in Azad Kashmir are favorite summer retreats for families. The
cool weather, lake-side strolls and pine-forests make for a relaxing break. It
sits well on the list of best places to visit Pakistan during summer for a
relaxed nature-escape not too far from major cities.
15. Galiyat
(Ayubia etc)
The Galiyat region
(including Ayubia, Nathia Gali, Dunga Gali) is ideal for families. The pine
forests, gentle hills and accessible trails offer safe, fun summers. For families seeking
the best places to visit Pakistan during summer, this region ticks all the
boxes.
16. Attabad Lake
& Hunza Lake — Boating and Scenic Views
Attabad Lake (in
Hunza) is a striking blue lake created by a landslide. In summer you can enjoy
boating, kayaking and lakeside views. This lakeside experience makes it a
standout among the top places to visit Pakistan during summer where you can
relax by water and mountains.
17. Khunjerab Pass
& Pakistan-China Border Route
The Khunjerab Pass
is one of the highest paved border crossings in the world. In summer the route
is open, the air is crisp and the views epic. If you love adventurous driving,
this is one of the best places to visit Pakistan during summer for an
unforgettable road-trip.
18. Manthokha
Waterfall & Kharmang Valley — Summer Waterfall Getaway
The Manthokha
Waterfall in Kharmang Valley, near Skardu, flows with icy mountain water in
summer. The green pastures and rushing stream make this a good nature stop. It fits nicely among
the best places to visit Pakistan for those who love waterfalls and remote
valleys.
19. Panjal Mastan
National Park (Azad Kashmir)
Panjal Mastan
National Park in Azad Kashmir remains relatively less crowded and offers wild
scenery, pine forests and river views in summer. For travelers who seek one of
the best places to visit Pakistan during summer away from busy tourist spots,
this is a great pick.
20. Lahore &
Northern Punjab Hill Towns
While the city of
Lahore gets hot in summer, the nearby Punjab hill towns and the short drives
into hills offer great relief. Combining culture and nearby cooling escapes
makes this area interesting. It
rounds out the list of best places to visit Pakistan during summer by offering
a mix of history, culture and accessible nature.
|
Destination |
Best
Time |
Main
Attraction |
|
Hunza Valley |
June–August |
Mountain views,
apricot orchards |
|
Skardu &
Shigar |
May–September |
Lakes &
high peaks |
|
Naran &
Kaghan |
May–October |
Alpine lakes |
|
Swat Valley |
June–August |
Meadows, rivers |
|
Murree &
Galiyat |
May–September |
Hill-station
comfort |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which place is best for summer vacation in Pakistan?
Hunza Valley is the best place for summer
vacation in Pakistan because of its cool weather, snow-capped peaks, and
peaceful views.
What is the most beautiful place in Pakistan?
Skardu is one of the most beautiful places in
Pakistan, surrounded by crystal-clear lakes, mountains, and green valleys.
Which place is most visited in Pakistan?
Murree is the most visited place in Pakistan
during summer because it’s close to Islamabad and offers a refreshing
hill-station climate.
Which city is called Paris of Pakistan?
Saidu Sharif in Swat Valley is often called the
“Paris of Pakistan” because of its natural charm, cleanliness, and scenic
beauty.
Where is good for a summer holiday?
Naran and Kaghan Valleys are great for a summer
holiday with their cool weather, green meadows, and clear lakes.
What is the cheapest place to travel in summer?
Murree and Nathia Gali are budget-friendly
destinations for summer, offering affordable hotels and easy access from major
cities.
Which place is best for summer vacation?
Fairy Meadows is one of the best places for a
summer vacation if you love nature, mountains, and adventure.
What is the most beautiful place in Pakistan?
Hunza Valley again stands out as the most
beautiful, with its stunning mountain ranges, friendly people, and colorful
summer landscapes.
Final Thoughts
Pakistan in summer is a land of breathtaking
contrasts from the icy-blue lakes of Hunza to the green valleys of Swat and the
flower-filled plains of Deosai. Each destination offers its own story, inviting
travelers to escape the blazing heat and embrace the cool charm of the northern
highlands. Whether you’re a nature lover, adventure seeker, or someone simply
searching for peace, the best places to visit Pakistan promise unforgettable
experiences surrounded by majestic mountains and warm local hospitality.
What makes Pakistan truly special is its
diversity — you can wake up by a peaceful lake in Gilgit-Baltistan, enjoy a
scenic road trip to Babusar Top by noon, and spend the evening sipping chai in
a hill-station café. From luxurious resorts to cozy wooden huts, Pakistan’s
summer destinations cater to every traveler’s comfort and budget. These places
don’t just cool your body — they refresh your soul and reconnect you with
nature’s calm.
So, as the summer heat rises, pack your bags and
head north to witness the real beauty of Pakistan. Each journey to these
destinations reveals more than scenery — it reveals the heart of the country
itself: welcoming, diverse, and full of wonder. Whether you travel once or
return again and again, these best places to visit Pakistan during summer will
always leave you dreaming of the next adventure.




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