Swat Valley, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
Hunza Valley, Gilgit-Baltistan
Parachinar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
As the mercury will soon start to drop and winter’s magic will begin to take hold, a whole new world awakens in the coldest places in Pakistan. The winter lover in you needs to take notes and bundle up to embark on an exhilarating journey into the heart of Pakistan’s frostiest destinations!
Pakistan, with its diverse geography and varying altitudes, is a land of contrasts. From the scorching deserts of Sindh to the towering peaks of the Himalayas, the country offers an array of climates and landscapes. Among its remarkable features are its coldest destinations, where temperatures plummet and snow blankets the ground, creating a breathtaking winter wonderland.
From the ice-capped wonders of nature to the warmth of the people, hearing about these amazing places will give you a brand-new appreciation for the cold. In this blog, we will set forth on a journey to explore some of the coldest places in Pakistan.
So get ready to plan your next snow-frosted escapade.
Top 7 Coldest Places in Pakistan
Prepare to uncover Pakistan’s chilliest spots as we delve into the list of its coldest places.
Skardu: Mesmerizing Winterland
First on the list of coldest places in Pakistan is none other than Skardu in Gilgit-Baltistan. Also known as ‘Climbers Paradise’, it is a popular tourist destination, for both international and local tourists. The place is famous for its extreme beauty with majestic mountains, serene lakes, trekking, and adventure spots. This is the perfect place for someone looking for an authentic cold experience.
With temperatures dancing around -10 degrees Celsius, Skardu transforms into a snowy wonderland, perfect for both serene beauty admirers and adventure enthusiasts. Skiing, snowboarding, frozen lakes – it’s a winter sports paradise! Whether you’re here for the peace or the thrill, Skardu delivers an unforgettable winter experience. Plus, it’s a hotspot for global travellers, nestled near K2, with a consistent temperature range of -10 to -20 degrees Celsius.
Astore: Hidden Cold Paradise
Another beautiful and cold place in Gilgit-Baltistan is Astore, which is known to have snow-clad peaks, rugged landscapes, and chilling winds. Not many people know about Astore since it is not publicized. This city is on the list because it is among the coldest places in summer too. During winters, the city gets covered in extremely thick snow, recorded up to 2-3 feet and the temperature goes down to -16.
In recent times, the city has gained a lot of attention. It is a gateway to the famous Deosai Plains, which are among the highest plateaus in the world and stay covered in snow for most of the year. What’s more? Astore is a haven for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts who can indulge in snow trekking, camping, and skiing.
Kalat: A Frozen Gem
Next on the list of cold places in Pakistan is Kalat – a small historical town in Balochistan. The town is also known as Kalat-e-Sewa and Kalat-e-Brahui. Having a unique geography with high altitude, it experiences harsh winter conditions with temperatures dropping to -14 degrees Celsius.
This town has garnered attention over the past decades for its beautiful views and freezing-cold temperatures. Having a cold deserted climate, the town stays cold throughout the year. The historical charm and frosty beauty of Kalat await those who dare to explore its frozen embrace.
Swat Valley: Switzerland of Pakistan
When we talk about the coldest places in Pakistan, we are sure not to miss Swat — the Switzerland of Pakistan. This place lives up to its nickname during the winter months. The valley is located in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and is surrounded by lush hills and mountains, transforms into a winter wonderland, with glistening snow covering its landscapes. It is one of the most visited tourist destinations in the northern valleys.
The temperature of this valley goes down to 4 degrees Celsius in winter, which adds an element of adventure to exploring Swat’s historic sites, shimmering lakes, and picturesque villages.
Hunza Valley: Majestic Beauty in the North
Known as ‘Heaven on Earth’, Hunza Valley stands as a precious gem in Gilgit-Baltistan’s treasure trove. Nestled amid the grandeur of the Himalayas and the majestic Karakoram mountain range, this serene and magical destination exudes the sheer beauty that Pakistan boasts. Enriched by its culture, warm-hearted inhabitants, and awe-inspiring landscapes, the valley is a testament to nature’s artistry.
During winter, the valley undergoes a remarkable transformation. The temperature in the valley drops to as low as -11 degrees Celsius in winter. The beauty of its terraced fields, ancient forts, and the Hunza River is amplified by a layer of snow. Hunza has attracted many local and international tourists for its historical presence and breathtaking views.
Kalash Valley: A Cold Cultural Gem
Kalash Valley is another name on the list of coldest places in Pakistan. Tucked away in Chitral, it’s not merely another icy expanse; it’s a cultural trove waiting to be unearthed. As winter unfolds its magic, the valley transforms into a pristine snowy wonderland, inviting exploration and enchantment. From its rich cultural tapestry to the mesmerizing winter scenery, the valley’s allure promises an unforgettable experience.
The people of Kalash people inhabit three remote valleys that turn into a snowy wonderland during the winter season, with temperatures dipping to a chilly -5 degrees Celsius. A realm of frozen beauty and living traditions awaits in the captivating Kalash Valley.
Parachinar – Frozen Beauty and Beyond
Up next on the list of coldest places in Pakistan is Parachinar, a small town on the outskirts of the Khurram district in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Renowned for scenic vistas, lush landscapes, and pleasant weather; however, the winters in the city are harsh as they turn into a snowball by dropping the temperature to -10 degrees Celsius and even lower. The entire area dons a snowy blanket, casting a magical aura over the landscape, while frosty mornings become the norm.
Parachinar is an unexplored treasure with a setting nothing less than awe-inspiring, enveloped by Afghan terrain on three edges. The encircling mountains offer an array of thrilling trekking escapades for adventure enthusiasts, inviting them to soak in the spellbinding allure of the natural world.
Make Memories Frozen In Time by Visiting Coldest Places in Pakistan
As you set out on your icy escapades, keep in mind the necessity of preparing for the frigid conditions. Cloak yourself in snug apparel, stow away must-haves like gloves and sturdy boots, and ensure your camera is at the ready to immortalize the breathtaking panoramas. Whether you’re relishing a steaming cup of tea within a charming cottage or marvelling at crystalline lakes suspended in freeze, the coldest destinations in Pakistan pledge moments that shall etch themselves into your memories.
Stay tuned to Zameen Blog – Pakistan’s premier real estate blog – for the latest updates concerning the property industry. Which is your favourite coldest place in Pakistan? Share your thoughts by leaving a comment in the section below.
