Field guides / Gilgit-Baltistan / Naltar Valley
Field guide · Nature
Naltar Valley
Naltar is an alpine valley of pine forest, ski slopes, and impossibly coloured lakes tucked above Gilgit, a complete contrast to the bare rock of the surrounding Karakoram. Reached by a rough jeep track that climbs through the trees, it is famous for two things: Pakistan's premier ski resort, run by the Air Force at around 3,000 m, and the Naltar (Bashkiri) Lakes, a string of jewel-toned tarns whose waters shift from turquoise to deep blue to green.
Naltar is an alpine valley of pine forest, ski slopes, and impossibly coloured lakes tucked above Gilgit, a complete contrast to the bare rock of the surrounding Karakoram. Reached by a rough jeep track that climbs through the trees, it is famous for two things: Pakistan's premier ski resort, run by the Air Force at around 3,000 m, and the Naltar (Bashkiri) Lakes, a string of jewel-toned tarns whose waters shift from turquoise to deep blue to green. In summer it is a green trekking and trout-fishing valley; in winter, a snow-sport destination.
Why go
- ✦The turquoise Naltar (Bashkiri) Lakes
- ✦Pakistan's premier ski resort
- ✦Pine forest and alpine meadows
- ✦Trout fishing in the streams
- ✦Rough, scenic jeep approach
The Coloured Lakes
The upper valley holds a chain of small glacial lakes whose mineral-rich water glows in extraordinary shades, the most famous a vivid turquoise ringed by pine and snow peaks. Reaching them means another jeep stretch plus a short walk beyond Naltar Bala village, and the colours are most intense under bright midday sun.
Skiing in the Karakoram
Naltar is the home of skiing in Pakistan, with slopes and a chairlift maintained by the Pakistan Air Force and used for national competitions and training. The season runs through the winter months; equipment and instruction are limited and best arranged in advance through an operator. The setting, powder snow under Karakoram peaks, is spectacular.
Forest, Meadows, and Trout
In summer the valley is a green retreat of pine woods, grazing meadows, and clear streams stocked with trout, a world away from the arid valleys below. It rewards slow exploration on foot, with simple guesthouses and PTDC-style lodging in the main village and the chance to walk between the scattered hamlets.
Planning tip
When to go, June to September for the lakes, meadows, and trekking; December to March for skiing and snow. The jeep track is the limiting factor in shoulder seasons.
Getting there, About a 2-3 hour jeep ride up a rough track from Nomal, near Gilgit. The road is genuinely rough and best left to local 4x4 drivers; the journey through the pine forest is part of the appeal.
Allow, A full day from Gilgit, or one to two nights to reach the upper lakes and ski slopes properly.
