You must already have started preparing your holiday sojourn since winter vacation approaches. Even as it may appear pleasant to be at home or spend time with friends, the months of December and January mark the best season to visit some of Pakistan’s breathtaking tourist hotspots. A variety of tourist destinations in Pakistan turn into snowy wonderlands, from the picturesque Murree Hills to the charming Kalam Valley.
Best Places to Visit in Pakistan During Winter.
These tourist attractions are visited through the year. However, their beauty grows manifold during winters. Let us move on some magical places that they have store for us.
1. Murree – The Complete Winter Getaway
The very first place that comes to mind when winter vacations in Pakistan are mentioned is Murree. It is a highly beautiful hill station, situated near Islamabad, at an altitude of about 7,000 feet, with lush pine forests and majestic mountains.
Why Visit Murree in Winter?
- Snow-Covered Landscape: This town resembles a winter wonderland as it is consumed by blanket-like snow on its colonial-era buildings and towering oak trees.
- Accessibility: Murree has much milder bitter weather compared with the rest of the northern areas which makes it well accessible during winter months.
- Top Attractions: Mall Road -A marketable street perfect to have shopped and enjoyed meals.
- Points: Pindi Point as well as Kashmir Point both giving great panoramic vistas of the Mountains. Ayubia as well as Patriata known for the chairlift rides as well as scenery.
- Food and Accommodation: From economy guest houses to world-class resorts, Murree is for one and all. Famous restaurants of Murree are Des Pardes Murree, Usmania Restaurant and worldwide chains, like Pizza Hut.
2. Nathia Gali – Heaven on Earth End
- Nathia Gali is the Galyat range, an altitude of about 7,900 ft above sea level. Nathia Gali, the place for the scenic beauty by trekking trail and peaceful, must visit on winter.
- Nathia Gali Highlights: Covered Under Snow:Â Â The area receives heavy snowfall, in this region snow white wonderland, full of fairytale tales.
- Historical Places: Visit St. Matthew’s Church, built of wood-beautifully structured with huge history.
- Adventure: Hiking here is quite problematic in winters though; the trails become so charming after snow.
Government has provided Modern Camping Pods as an attraction here.
Visit Nathia Gali Bazaar and get some souvenirs and the local handicrafts.
3. Malam Jabba – The Paradise of Skiing Fanatics
Malam Jabba is a hill station of Swat Valley located in the mountains of Hindu Kush. One of the premier ski resorts in Pakistan is hosted by this hill station.
Why Malam Jabba?
- Skiing and Snowboarding: Here are slopes meant for winter sport fans.
- Chairlifts and Ice-Skating: From chairlifts, panoramic views of the valley full of snow or can go for ice-skating.
- Trekking trails: Two paths pass from top Shangla via the Sabonev Valley which takes panoramic view passes.
- Modernized facilities: being more in tourist and Malam, Jabba with the accommodation hubs alongside restaurants too at its peak position.
Kalam Valley – Heaven on Earth
4. Kalam is a locality or tehsil within an upper part of Swat that is teeming to be replete with glorious glistening lake facets to snow-laded peaks.
Why Visit Kalam During Winter Vacations?
- The valley boasts unmatched scenic beauty, which comprises dense forests and the soothing Swat River.
- Nearby attractions include Usho, Matiltan, Utror, Mahodand Lake, and Kundol Lake.
- Fewer crowds as compared to Murree or Nathia Gali. In winter, Kalam remains a little peaceful.
- Warmth weather is also caused by a fall in temperatures as low as 1°C; it is still more tolerable than any other northern place.
- Hospitality: The people are hospitable, and the locals happily oblige your wishes, which makes the stay more worthwhile.
5. Chitral – A Mix of Culture and Natural Beauty
Chitral is in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and bordered by the magnificent Hindu Kush range. Thanks to the Lowari Tunnel, one can visit this place at all times.
What to See in Chitral?
- Ancient Monuments
- Chitral Fort
- Chitral Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology
- Old Royal Fort of Mastuj
- Natural Wonders: Chitral Gol National Park and the River Chitral are just some of the main attractions in this area.
- Cultural Events: Chances are; you’ll experience the Kalash Winter Festival by mid-December.
- Winter Sports: Skiing is one of the most popular sports played during winter in Chitral.
- Accommodation and Dining: Hotels and restaurants offering very delectable local food line the town’s streets.
6. Cholistan Desert – Stargazer’s Dream
The underexplored place in Cholistan desert during winters and it is appropriate for those persons who like old place visiting or love to stay amidst starlight.
Cholistan Places
Why Travel Cholistan?
- Old Forts:
- The fantastic 9th-century work, Derawar Fort
- Another site, is Dodhla Forest and Shrink of Chanon Pir,
- Desert safari
- Have camping under star light.
- Local Sightseeing: Spend the whole day in Noor Mahal, a beautiful palace that was built way back in 1872 at Bahawalpur.
- Local Handicrafts: Visit the local bazaars to view local handicrafts and shopping souvenirs
- Stay at Bahawalpur and plan local day excursion to the desert.
Frequently Asked Questions on Winter Tour in Pakistan
1. Which is the ideal time to visit these places during winters?
Northern destinations are best to visit during winter, that is from December to February. During this time, the snowfall and winter celebrations reach their peak.
2. Are these places family-friendly?
Almost all the places offer family-friendly facilities and attractions.
3. What to pack for a winter trip to northern areas?
Warming clothes, waterproof shoes, gloves, and thermal wear.
4. Are these places safe to travel in winter?
Generally, these places are pretty safe, though do check on the weather conditions and road travel before planning any such trip.
5. How can I book accommodations in these districts?
You could book hotels in advance, or try and contact local guesthouses. There is also space for a camp at the destination.
6. Do they have winter festivals too in these districts?
Yes. Apart from other cultural festivals, Kalash Winter Festival at Chitral will make your season colorful.
7. Is Transportation easily available?
Public transport and private vehicles are available but hiring a personal vehicle is preferably required to take the visitor up to the unknown places.
Winter in Pakistan brings a charm to its breathtaking landscapes. Adventure, serenity, or cultural experiences are offered by destinations such as Murree, Nathia Gali, Malam Jabba, Kalam, Chitral, and the Cholistan Desert. Plan your trip, pack your bags, and get ready to create unforgettable memories in the winter wonderlands of Pakistan!
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