Is northern Pakistan safe for tourists?

Gilgit-Baltistan is one of the safest regions in Pakistan for travellers, including solo women. We travel with local drivers and guides, register groups where required, and stay in constant contact with our office in Gilgit.

When is the best time to visit northern Pakistan?

April to June for blossom and green valleys, July to August for Deosai, Shandur and the K2 trek window, and late September to October for the famous Hunza autumn colour. Winter tours to Hunza run December to February.

Do I need permits or a visa?

Most nationalities can obtain a Pakistan e-visa online. Open valleys need no permit; restricted zones such as Baltoro, Khunjerab and some border areas do — we arrange all of them, including the liaison officer for expeditions.

Can you build a private custom itinerary?

Yes. Around half our travellers book privately. Send us your dates, interests and pace and we return a costed day-by-day itinerary, usually within 24 hours.

What does a tour include?

Transport with driver, accommodation, listed meals, guides, permits and park fees. International flights, personal gear, insurance and tips are not included.

8 min read · 2026-05-04

The best time to visit northern Pakistan — a month-by-month guide

Blossom, glacier melt, festival season, autumn colour and snow: what each month actually looks like in Gilgit-Baltistan.

Northern Pakistan has four genuinely distinct seasons, and the difference between them is far larger than the difference between two countries. April brings cherry and apricot blossom to Hunza. June opens the high passes. July and August are the only window for Deosai, Shandur and the Baltoro. Late September into October is the autumn that photographers plan whole years around.

Deosai is open roughly 1 July to 15 September; before that the Ali Malik pass is under snow. The K2 base camp window runs late June to the end of August. Khunjerab Pass is usually driveable from May to November.

Our shorthand: April for blossom, July for high plateau and festivals, October for colour, and January for a very quiet, very cold Hunza.