Naltar Valley, located 40km from Gilgit at elevations between 2,800m and 3,500m, is one of the most visually arresting places in all of Pakistan. The valley is famous for three things: a dense pine and spruce forest that rivals the finest in the Himalayas, a trio of spectacularly coloured alpine lakes (Satrangi, Bashkiri and Naltar Lake), and one of the few ski resorts in Pakistan — Naltar Ski Resort, operated by the Pakistan Air Force.
Best Time to Visit
June to September for the multicoloured lakes and hiking. December to February for skiing (when PAF opens the resort). The road up to the upper lakes requires jeep access from May onward.
Top Highlights
- Satrangi Lake — literally 'seven-coloured lake', changing hue with clouds and angle
- Naltar Lake (upper) — a wild, remote lake ringed by jagged peaks
- Naltar Ski Resort — one of Pakistan's few operational ski areas
- Pine and spruce forest walks with extraordinary birdlife
- Naltar village and the traditional Shina-speaking community
Essential Tips
- The road from Gilgit to Naltar village takes 1.5 hours by 4WD jeep
- To reach the upper lakes (Satrangi), another 1–2 hours of 4WD driving or hiking from Naltar village is required
- The PAF ski resort is only open when officially sanctioned — confirm dates before planning a winter visit
- Camping near the lakes is spectacular but bring all supplies from Gilgit — nothing is available in the upper valley
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get to Naltar Valley from Gilgit?
Hire a 4WD jeep in Gilgit bazaar for the 40km journey to Naltar village (1.5 hours). From Naltar village, the upper valley and lakes require a further jeep or 2–3 hour hike. Shared jeeps to Naltar run from Gilgit's main bazaar in the morning.
Why are the Naltar Lakes multicoloured?
The Naltar lakes display different colours — ranging from turquoise to deep blue to green — due to variations in mineral content, water depth, surrounding rock type, and the angle of sunlight. The most famous, Satrangi Lake, means 'seven-coloured lake' in Urdu, reflecting its extraordinary colour-changing quality.
Can you ski at Naltar?
Yes — Naltar Ski Resort is operated by the Pakistan Air Force and hosts the national skiing championships. It has beginner and intermediate slopes. The resort is open December to February, though opening is subject to PAF scheduling. Contact the resort or local Gilgit tour operators for current season information.
Is Naltar Valley suitable for day trips from Gilgit?
Yes — Naltar is an excellent day trip from Gilgit, especially for the lower valley pine forests and village. For the upper lakes (Satrangi), plan a full day or consider camping overnight. A day trip to the upper lakes is tight but achievable with an early 6am departure from Gilgit.