6-Day Astore Valley & Minimarg
6-Day Astore Valley & Minimarg Tour Itinerary
Astore Valley and Minimarg offer some of Pakistan’s most breathtaking landscapes, with lush green meadows, snow-capped peaks, and crystal-clear lakes. This trip is ideal for nature lovers, photographers, and adventure seekers.
Day 1: Islamabad to Astore Valley (Via Naran or Karakoram Highway)
🚗 Travel Time: 12-14 hours
- Drive from Islamabad to Astore Valley via Naran-Babusar Pass (if open) or Karakoram Highway.
- Enjoy scenic views of Babusar Pass (4,173m), Lulusar Lake, and Chilas.
- Arrive in Astore Valley (2,600m) and check into a hotel.
Day 2: Explore Rama Lake & Rama Meadows
- Drive or trek to Rama Meadows (3,300m), a green paradise surrounded by snow-covered peaks.
- Short hike to Rama Lake (3,507m) with stunning reflections of Nanga Parbat.
- Return to Astore for the night.
Day 3: Drive to Minimarg & Domel (Border Region – Requires NOC)
🚗 Travel Time: 4-5 hours
- Drive towards Minimarg, a hidden gem near the Line of Control (LoC).
- Pass through Chilam and Burzil Pass (4,100m) with breathtaking views.
- Reach Minimarg (2,844m), a stunning green valley only accessible with an NOC (for foreigners).
- Explore Domel Meadows & Rainbow Lake, famous for its crystal-clear blue waters.
- Overnight stay in Minimarg (Army guesthouse or camping).
Day 4: Explore Minimarg & Return to Astore
- Enjoy the serene beauty of Minimarg & Domel.
- Visit Rainbow Lake, known for its changing colors due to minerals & sunlight reflection.
- Drive back to Astore Valley for an overnight stay.
Day 5: Explore Deosai National Park & Sheosar Lake
🚗 Travel Time: 4-5 hours
- Drive towards Deosai National Park (4,114m), the “Land of Giants”.
- Visit Sheosar Lake, a high-altitude alpine lake with stunning views of Nanga Parbat.
- Spot Himalayan brown bears, marmots, and golden eagles in Deosai.
- Return to Astore or continue towards Skardu for an overnight stay.
Day 6: Return to Islamabad via Naran or KKH
🚗 Travel Time: 12-14 hours
- Depart for Islamabad with a stop at scenic locations on the way.
Best Time to Visit
✔ May to October – Best weather, lush green landscapes.
✔ Avoid winter (November-April) due to heavy snowfall & road closures.
Tour Highlights
✅ Astore Valley – Lush green valley surrounded by majestic peaks.
✅ Rama Lake & Meadows – Perfect for relaxation & photography.
✅ Minimarg & Domel – Hidden paradise near the LoC (special permit required).
✅ Rainbow Lake – Stunning blue lake that changes colors.
✅ Deosai National Park – High-altitude plateau with breathtaking scenery.
Would you like tour packages, permits, or a packing list for this trip? 🚙🏔✨
