The Mighty Karakoram Range

[Muhammad Abdullah]

Karakoram is the most magnificent and captivating area in Pakistan. A great attraction for adventure freaks and tourists and definitely a feast for the senses; Pakistan's northern mountains call for an open spirit of adventure and bring the pleasure of experiencing indeed the most picturesque mountain scenery in the world. Such is the setting of Karakoram Range, this remainder of a prehistoric ice age, "the third pole," with sizeable glacier systems and the substantial  concentration of lofty mountains in the world. 

Indeed there are some places in the great mountainous region that are the center of attention, Karimabad, a base for hikers in the Hunza Valley, is testament to this. For starters, most visitors head up to the Baltit Fort that was renovated a few years ago. To get to the Baltit Fort; well just walk in the direction of the Fort which is located at the end of Karimabad and is visible from everywhere. Nagar is on the opposite side of Hunza Valley. A trip to Hopar village to view the Thirst is a must. For those who are fit, hiking along the Hopar Glacier is highly recommended to view the beast. On the contrary, to our surprise Karimabad has a number of souvenir shops that sell very good local handicrafts objects.  Gojal, North Hunza lies between Karimabad and the Chinese border at Khunjerab Top. Don’t miss the opportunity to praise the breath-taking sight of this region. En route to Khunjerab are Gulmit, Passu and Sost. Gulmit and Passu are quaint towns located on the The Karakoram Highway. They offer respite from the crowded Karimabad and are worth staying at, if you have the time.

Shimshal Pass and Minglig Sar:
One can’t leave without paying a visit to the Shimshal Gorge in the proximity of Wakhan Corridor and high pasturelands of the mysterious Pamirs on the dividing line between South Asia and central Asia. Large herds of yaks, sheep, goats and sometimes ibex grazing on these high grasslands are found commonly. Snow leopard often visits these pastures for a goat or yak meal. 

Concordia and the K2 Base Camp:
Visiting northern area is a total waste if Concordia and the K2 Base Camp is left unexplored; the hidden beauty of these panoramic peaks. K2 is the second highest mountain in the world, yet the hardest to conquer. If the Gondogoro Pass is while returning to the base camp, you are in luck. It’s the only place in the world where you can see four 8000m-plus mountains in one view.

But Don’t miss the Fairies:
Fairy Meadows as its namesake suggests is a living paradise and fairly deserves its more ethereal name: with lush green pastures strewn around, gives a perfect views across the Raikot Glacier towards the snow-covered Nanga Parbat, Pakistan's second highest peak. At 3300m there are towering glades; home to a small seasonal population. It’s the most noteworthy location of this area and should be visited specially by those who crave for peace.

Visit TripKar's hotels in Pakistan page to book your accommodation at cheapest rates.