When most people think of traveling to the northern areas of Pakistan, they imagine lush green meadows and summer sunshine. However, visiting these mountains in winter is a completely different and magical experience. Imagine standing in a valley covered in a thick blanket of white snow, where the only sound is the crunch of your boots on the ground and the air is crisp and clean.
If you are planning to visit in northern areas of Pakistan in winter, you are in for a treat. The year 2025 promises to be a great time for winter tourism, with improved roads and better facilities in many snowy destinations. This guide will walk you through the best spots to enjoy the snow, from skiing in Swat to walking through the silent streets of Hunza.
Why Visit the North in Winter?
Before we dive into the destinations, you might wonder why you should go when it is so cold. The answer is simple: peace and beauty. In summer, these places are crowded with thousands of tourists. In winter, they are quiet and peaceful. You get to see a side of Pakistan that looks like a fairyland. The mountains turn silver, the lakes freeze into mirrors, and the hot tea tastes better than ever before.
Here are the best places you should add to your travel list for winter 2025.
1. Swat Valley:
Swat Valley is often the first choice for anyone looking to see snow. It is famous for a reason. In winter, Swat transforms into a white paradise. The journey usually starts from Mingora, but the real adventure begins as you go higher.
Malam Jabba is the star of Swat in winter. It is the most famous ski resort in Pakistan. Even if you do not know how to ski, just taking the chairlift to the top of the mountain is an unforgettable experience. You can see endless white peaks all around you. In 2025, the facilities here are expected to be even better for tourists. It is a perfect spot for families because you can enjoy snow tubing, skiing, or just sliding around in the snow.
Further up the valley is Kalam. In winter, the thick forests of Kalam are covered in heavy snow. The river flows quietly between white banks, and the wooden houses look like they belong in a storybook. If you are adventurous, you can take a jeep ride toward the Ushu Forest, where the tall pine trees create a beautiful snowy tunnel.
2. Murree and Galiyat:
For those who want a quick trip to see snowfall without traveling too far, Murree and the Galiyat region are the best options.[1] These are the most accessible places to visit in northern areas of Pakistan in winter.
Murree has a charm of its own with its colonial-style buildings and the busy Mall Road. Walking on Mall Road while snowflakes fall gently is a classic Pakistani winter memory. However, if you want more nature and less crowd, you should head to Nathia Gali.
Nathia Gali is quieter and offers breathtaking views. The hiking tracks, like the Pipeline Track, become gentle snow walks that are easy to navigate. The trees here are tall and dense, and when they are covered in snow, they look magnificent. Nearby places like Ayubia are also great for a day trip to ride the chairlift and see the monkeys playing in the snow.
3. Hunza Valley:
Many people think Hunza is only for summer, but winter in Hunza is a secret that smart travelers are starting to discover. In winter, the valley is incredibly quiet. The apricot trees, which are green in summer and orange in autumn, stand bare and beautiful against the white snow.
The highlight of a winter trip to Hunza is the contrast of colors. You will see the sparkling white snow, the rugged grey mountains, and the deep blue water of Attabad Lake. Sometimes, parts of the lake freeze near the edges, creating a stunning scene.
You can also visit the historic Altit and Baltit Forts. In winter, with snow on the roofs and the valley floor white below, these forts look majestic. The locals are very welcoming, and sitting in a traditional Hunza house near a warm stove sipping local herbal tea is a cozy experience you will never forget. Since there are fewer tourists, you can take amazing photos without anyone blocking your view.
4. Skardu Valley:
Skardu offers something you cannot find anywhere else in the world: a cold desert covered in snow. The Katpana Desert, also known as the Cold Desert, is a wonder of nature. Seeing sand dunes covered in white snow is a rare and beautiful sight.
In winter 2025, Skardu is more accessible than before due to better flights, though road travel can still be long. Once you are there, you can visit Shangrila Resort (Lower Kachura Lake). The famous red huts of the resort look striking against the white snow and the frozen lake.
Another great spot is the Shigar Fort. It is a peaceful place to stay or visit. Walking through the snowy gardens of the fort makes you feel like royalty. While the famous Deosai Plains are usually closed in winter due to heavy snow, the drive around Skardu itself offers plenty of snowy landscapes to enjoy.
5. Naltar Valley:
If you want a true winter adventure, Naltar Valley is the place to go. It is famous for its colorful lakes, but in winter, it becomes a hub for winter sports. The Pakistan Air Force manages a ski resort here, and the slopes are excellent for skiing.
Reaching Naltar in winter requires a 4×4 jeep because the road is snowy and adventurous. This adds to the thrill of the trip. The valley is filled with pine trees, and the snow here is often softer and deeper than in other places. It is a bit more remote than Swat or Murree, making it perfect for those who want to escape the city noise completely.
6. Neelum Valley:
Neelum Valley in Azad Kashmir is breathtaking in winter. While the upper parts of the valley might be closed due to heavy snow, places like Keran and Sharda are usually open and look stunning.
One of the best experiences here is the trek to Arang Kel. In winter, this small village on top of a hill looks like a wonderland. The hike can be slippery, so you need good boots, but the view from the top is worth the effort. You can see snowy peaks all around and wooden huts with smoke rising from their chimneys. It is one of the most romantic and peaceful spots to visit.
Essential Tips for Winter Travel in 2025
Visiting the north in winter requires some extra preparation compared to summer. Here is a valuable guide to keep you safe and comfortable.
What to Pack
The key to staying warm is layering. Don’t just wear one big jacket. Start with thermal underwear (warmers) as your base layer. Then wear a sweater or fleece, and finally, a waterproof jacket on top. Good quality boots are a must because sneakers will get wet and slippery in the snow. Don’t forget gloves, a warm woolen cap, and thick socks.
Road Safety and Transport
Driving on snow is tricky. If you are taking your own car, make sure your tires are in good condition. It is highly recommended to carry snow chains for your tires, especially for areas like Murree, Malam Jabba, and Nathiagali. Without chains, cars often slip and get stuck. If you are not a confident driver, it is better to hire a local jeep driver who knows the icy roads well.
Health and Comfort
The air in the north gets very dry in winter. Carry a good moisturizer and lip balm to prevent your skin from cracking. Also, drink plenty of water. You might not feel thirsty because of the cold, but staying hydrated helps your body stay warm.
Emergency Contacts
Always keep essential numbers saved in your phone. Rescue 1122 works in many of these areas. It is also smart to keep a small bag with first-aid supplies, a flashlight, and some dry snacks like biscuits and nuts in case you get stuck in a traffic jam, which can happen during heavy snowfall.
Final Thoughts
Visiting the northern areas of Pakistan in winter is an adventure that fills your heart with joy. Whether you are sliding down the slopes of Malam Jabba, walking through the pine forests of Galiyat, or gazing at the frozen beauty of Hunza, every moment is special.
The winter of 2025 is the perfect time to explore these snowy destinations. So, pack your warmest clothes, grab your camera, and get ready to witness the magical side of Pakistan. A trip to visit in northern areas of Pakistan in winter is not just a vacation; it is a memory you will cherish forever.
