Summer time is the time when the opening of the high mountain passes such as the Babusar Pass and Khunjerab Pass, Deosai Plateau in the mountain ranges allow for activities such as trekking, hiking, jeep safaris and climbing to take place.At Deosai Plateau, wide flowers bloom and crystal-clear waters from the glaciers add a refreshing touch to your journey. Peaches, cherries and apricots ripen at this time of the year; the orchards are not just a feast for the mouth but for the eyes too.
Autumn – the period of time that precedes winter. It is the season when leaves turn red, orange and yellow – a colourful sight to behold. The beauty of autumn is best seen in Gilgit-Baltistan. Travelling along the Karakoram Highway brings you to the mountains of Rakaposhi, Nanga Parbat, Golden Peak and Ultar Peaks, the valleys and the lakes. With the majestic mountains in the background, the serenity of the blue lake and the orange colour of the foliage, where else can one find peace and tranquility other than the Shangri-la of Northern Pakistan?
Visiting Hunza in spring is recommended. Situated at the northern part of Pakistan, Hunza is a mountainous valley in the Gilgit-Baltistan region. The valley provides spectacular views of several high mountains, such as the Rakaposhi 7,788m, UltarSar 7,388 m, Diran Peak 7265M, Golden Peak 7028M, Mulobiating 7549M, Hunza Peak 6,270 m and Darmyani Peak 6,090 m. It is believed that the Hunza Valley is the inspiration behind James Hilton’s 1933 novel Lost Horizon in which Shangri-lawas born. The best time to visit the valley is during spring; here one will see fruit-laden gardens and friendly locals welcoming you to the valley. Apricot, apple, peach and cherry orchards can be seen everywhere in the valley. Some people have likened this place to Heaven on Earth.
Winter tours include visits to southern cities such as Karachi and Lahore. One can see historical monuments Indus valley civilization and evidence of the Mughal (or Mogul) Empire in Lahore. The Mughal Empire ruled most of Pakistan in the 16th and 17th centuries. Visitors will also get to see the ancient cities of Mohenjo-Daro and Harappa of the Indus civilization. No holiday is complete without good food. Popular food enjoyed by Pakistanis during winter time include SarsonKaSaag (Mustard Leaf Curry), grilled or fried fish, GajarKaHalwa (Saffron flavoured Carrot Pudding), Kashmiri Chai (Pink Tea) and various types of nuts and raisins.
