Embark on a journey to discover the wonders of Pakistan, a land adorned with captivating landscapes and rich cultural tapestries. Among the gems awaiting your exploration are the majestic Hunza Valley, where towering peaks kiss the sky, and the enchanting Swat Valley, often hailed as the ‘Switzerland of Pakistan’ for its alpine beauty.
Experience the ethereal charm of Fairy Meadows, nestled at the base of Nanga Parbat, and let the ancient whispers of Mohenjo-Daro transport you to a bygone era. In Pakistan’s beautiful places, nature unfolds its grandeur, from pristine lakes to lush valleys, offering a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and a visual feast for all. Immerse yourself in thriving cultural scenes, where traditions breathe life into every corner.
Best time to visit scenic & beautiful places in Pakistan
Visit the northern mountains and Karakoram Highway from April to October. Explore Sindh and Punjab in winter (November to March). The optimal months for both mountains and plains are October and November.
Most beautiful and scenic tourist places in Pakistan
Hunza Valley
Nestled in Gilgit Baltistan, the stunning Hunza Valley is a hidden gem surrounded by the Himalayas and Karakoram peaks. Famous for its lush farmlands and diverse wildlife, the valley offers a glorious view and warm hospitality from locals. Hunza boasts iconic sites like the Passu Cathedral, a natural marvel visible from the Karakoram Highway. The Attabad Lake, born from a tragic landslide in 2010, enchants with its unreal turquoise waters. Eagle’s Nest provides a perfect spot for breathtaking sunsets. Steeped in history, the Baltit Fort and Altit Fort showcase the region’s royal heritage. Discover the allure of Pakistan’s beautiful places in the mesmerising Hunza Valley.
How to reach:
By air: Gilgit Airport is the nearest airport, 95.5 km away
Best places to stay: Roomy Daastaan Hotel, Mulberry Hotel Hunza
Best time to explore: May to September
Book your stay at Roomy Daastaan Hotel, Karimabad Hunza via Booking.com
Book your stay at Roomy Daastaan Hotel, Karimabad Hunza via Agoda.com
Skardu
Set against the magnificent backdrop of the Karakoram Range, Skardu unfolds as a haven for nature enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike. Recognised among the best and most beautiful places to see in Pakistan, this region harmonises vast deserts, glistening lakes, and towering peaks, showcasing the nation’s diverse natural allure. The pristine Deosai National Park, aptly named the ‘Land of Giants,’ offers a surreal spectacle with its expansive plains and vivid wildflowers, a haven for wildlife aficionados, particularly the endangered Himalayan brown bear. Beyond nature’s embrace, Skardu unveils historical gems like the ancient Shey Palace and the tranquil Upper Kachura Lake, promising an unparalleled experience for every traveller.
How to reach:
By air: Skardu International Airport is the busiest airport in the city
Best places to stay: Baltistan Fort, Skardu, Tibet Hotel Kachura, Skardu
Best time to explore: September to November
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Fairy Meadows
Fairy Meadows, the heart of North Pakistan, unfolds its lush green plateaus beneath the majestic Nanga Parbat, the world’s ninth-highest peak. Located in Gilgit-Baltistan, this enchanting site earned its name from its captivating beauty, also known as “Heaven on Earth.” Accessible via a challenging jeepable trek, it offers accommodation in cabins or campsites, serving as a base for climbers tackling Nanga Parbat. The area boasts pristine pine forests, a launch point for hikes to Bayal Camp and Nanga Parbat’s Base Camp. Despite its perilous road, Fairy Meadows remains a source of wonder for backpackers, photographers, and nature lovers.
How to reach:
By air: Gilgit Airport is the nearest airport, 92.4 km away
Best places to stay: Di Ambre Fairy Meadows, Fairy Meadows Broad View Hotel & Resort
Best time to explore: April-May, September-October
Neelum valley
Tucked in northern Azad Kashmir, the picturesque Neelum Valley boasts pristine springs, and lakes, embraced by lofty mountains like Athmuqam, Kutton Jagran, and Karen. This Pakistani gem, adorned with forests and streams, boasts renowned spots like Ratti Galli, and Sharda Fort along with Kel, Surgon, and Taobut. With peaks soaring 13,000 feet, Neelum Valley is a haven for nature enthusiasts, offering pristine rivers and mirror-like lakes in a captivating landscape, making it one of Kashmir’s most beautiful places in Pakistan.
How to reach:
By air: Bacha Khan International Airport is the nearest airport, 359 km away
Best places to stay: Walnut Creek Hotel, Neelum View Hotel
Best time to explore: March and October
Book your stay at The Walnut Creek via Booking.com
Book your stay at THE WALNUT CREEK via Agoda.com
Swat Valley
In the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province lies Swat Valley, often dubbed the Mini Switzerland of Pakistan. A fairytale-like haven, Swat offers vibrant green fields, picturesque villages, and crystal-clear rivers. Key attractions include Mahodand Valley, Malam Jabba’s ski resort, Madyan, Der, Boyun Village’s panoramic views, the alpine Kandol and Spindhor Lakes, and the enchanting Ushu Forest. Beyond its natural beauty, Swat embraces visitors with warm hospitality, local traditions, and cultural festivities, creating an enriching experience in one of the most beautiful places in Pakistan.
How to reach:
By air: Bacha Khan International Airport is the nearest airport, 273.3 km away
Best places to stay: Pearl Continental Hotel, Malam Jabba, Swat Serena Hotel
Best time to explore: April to October
Book your stay at Swat Serena Hotel via Booking.com
Book your stay at Swat Serena Hotel via Agoda.com
Multan
Multan, Pakistan, a city steeped in history since 3300 BCE, unfolds tales of Hindu occupation, Greek invasions, and a profound Muslim era influenced by Sufism. Known as the ‘City of Saints,’ it boasts shrines, tombs, and mosques drawing devotees worldwide. The Tomb of Shah Rukne Alam, a marvel of Tughlaq architecture, and the red-brick Tomb of Bahauddin Zakariya are must-visit sites. Shah Yusuf Gardezi’s shrine, credited with saving Multan in the 11th century, adds to the mystical allure. Explore the remnants of Fort Kohna, standing since 1000 BC, guarding Multan against invaders. A journey through Multan is a captivating exploration of the beautiful historical places in Pakistan.
How to reach:
By air: Multan International Airport is the busiest airport in the city
Best places to stay: Pearl Continental Hotel, Multan, Avari Xpress Hotel, Multan
Best time to explore: November to March
Book your stay at Avari Xpress Multan via Booking.com
Book your stay at Avari Xpress Multan via Agoda.com
Mohenjo-Daro
Mohenjo-daro in Sindh, Pakistan, is a captivating site dating back to 2500 BCE, part of the ancient Indus Valley civilisation. A marvel for history lovers, its grid plan, advanced water management, and public baths reveal a civilisation ahead of its time. Abandoned around 1900 BCE, it gained UNESCO recognition in 1980. Despite weather-inflicted damage, Mohenjo-daro’s ruins stand as a testament to human ingenuity. This archaeological gem, with its well-preserved streets and Great Bath, is among the most beautiful historical places in Pakistan, offering a journey through time for scholars, researchers, and curious travellers.
How to reach:
By air: Sehwan Sharif Airport is the nearest airport, 132 km away
Best places to stay: Hotel Hyatt Sukkur, Hotel One Sukkur
Best time to explore: November to March
Also read – Explore The Indus Valley Civilisation: Must-See Sites In South Asia
Book your stay at Hotel One Sukkur via Booking.com
Book your stay at Hotel One Sukkur via Agoda.com
Kalash Valleys
Kalash Valleys, nestled in Chitral, Pakistan, are a treasure of natural beauty and cultural richness. Inhabited by the Kalash people, this Greek-civilised tribe boasts unique traditions and a distinct language. The largest valley, Mumuret, along with Rumbur and Birir, offers stunning landscapes. Accessible by road from Ayun in Kunar Valley, these valleys showcase the Kalash with their vibrant attire. Rumbur, especially, captivates with its riverside charm and colourful Kalash homes. Just 2.5 hours from Chitral City, these valleys in the Hindu Kush mountains preserve ethnic diversity, making them a must-visit among beautiful tourist places in Pakistan.
How to reach:
By air: Bacha Khan International Airport is the nearest airport, 324 km away
Best places to stay: Gahirat Castle, Roomy Hindukush Sarai Chitral
Best time to explore: May to December
Kaghan Valley
Nestled in the Mansehra District, Kaghan Valley in Pakistan is globally renowned for its natural splendour. Stretching 160 kilometres, it’s a summer haven adorned with pine forests, alpine meadows, and pristine lakes like Saiful Mulook. At 3,224 metres, Saif Ul Malook Lake, surrounded by wildflowers, reflects the snow-capped peaks. The Kunhar River, famous for trout, meanders through towns like Naran and Kaghan. The valley hosts charming sites like Shogran and Dudipat Sar. With friendly locals and nomadic Gujar herders, Kaghan Valley stands among the most beautiful places in Pakistan, offering a serene escape.
How to reach:
By air: Islamabad International Airport is the nearest airport, 168 km away
Best places to stay: Cordillera Resort, Pine Park Hotel & Resort
Best time to explore: April to August
Hingol National Park
Spanning over 6,000 square kilometres in Balochistan Province, Hingol National Park in Pakistan is an otherworldly destination just 3.5 hours from Karachi. With unique rock formations, expansive canyons, and a mud volcano, the park offers a surreal landscape. It extends across three districts, featuring ecosystems from arid subtropical forests to coastal marine zones with dolphins and sea turtles. Home to diverse wildlife like Sindh Ibex and crocodiles, the park holds cultural significance with the Hinglaj Mata Mandar pilgrimage site. Notable rock formations include the Princess of Hope and the Balochistan Sphinx, making Hingol a must-visit among the beautiful places to visit in Pakistan.
How to reach:
By air: Jinnah International Airport is the nearest airport, 260 km away
Best places to stay: Zifan Hotel & Suites
Best time to explore: November to March
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Related: Sri Lanka Uncovered: Best Places to Visit from Beaches to Ancient Cities
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
– What makes Hunza Valley a must-visit destination in Pakistan?
Hunza Valley’s allure lies in scenic landscapes, friendly locals, and cultural richness.
– Why is Skardu considered one of the most beautiful places in Pakistan?
Skardu captivates with majestic mountains, and serene lakes — a Pakistani paradise.
– What is unique about Fairy Meadows in Pakistan?
Fairy Meadows offers stunning Nanga Parbat views, a truly enchanting Pakistani experience.
– What attractions can I explore in Neelum Valley, Pakistan?
Neelum Valley boasts lush greenery, lakes, and captivating hilly landscapes in Pakistan.
– Why is Swat Valley known as the ‘Switzerland of Pakistan’?
Swat Valley, Pakistan, earns the ‘Switzerland’ nickname with its alpine scenery.
– What is the Shangrila Resort in Pakistan famous for?
Shangrila Resort in Pakistan is famed for its breathtaking lake views and tranquillity.
– Are these beautiful places in Pakistan safe for tourists to visit?
Generally safe, research local conditions; travel advisories for a secure visit.
– What is the best time to visit these beautiful places in Pakistan?
Late spring to early autumn—optimal weather for exploring Pakistani beauty.
– Do I need a visa to visit Pakistan as a tourist?
Yes, Indians need a visa to travel to Pakistan.
– Are there guided tours available for exploring these beautiful places in Pakistan?
Yes, most locations offer guided tours.
Written By
Shubhanjana Das
An English Major, Shubhanjana is an independent culture and lifestyle journalist with extensive experience in fashion and travel writing. Her bylines have appeared in Vogue, Vice, FirstPost, and Mint Lounge, among others. She is a wannabe wine-taster and given the chance, wants to travel for a living and treats true crime podcasts like her lullaby. ..Read More
