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Field guides / Gilgit Division / Gilgit / Naltar Valley
Field guide · Nature
Gilgit Division
Gilgit District · Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan
Mountain valley known for forest scenery, lakes, winter sport, and seasonal travel.
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 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.
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.
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
Best Time to Visit, 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.
Straight-line distance from Naltar Valley, within 30 km.
