Khaplu

Khaplu is a cultural gem in the Gilgit-Baltistan region, retaining the charm of a bygone era. Once the capital of the second-largest kingdom in Baltistan, the town is steeped in history. Its centerpiece is the Khaplu Palace, a 19th-century architectural masterpiece that blends Tibetan, Kashmiri, and Persian influences, now serving as a heritage boutique hotel. Visitors can explore the narrow alleys of the old town and visit the Chaqchan Mosque, one of the oldest wooden mosques in the world, dating back centuries. The town is surrounded by terraced fields and provides impressive views of the Masherbrum peak. Khaplu is significantly quieter than Skardu, providing an authentic glimpse into the Balti way of life. The local cuisine is simple yet hearty, with a focus on barley-based dishes and dried fruits. The residents are known for their extreme kindness and deep religious traditions. Handicrafts, especially intricate woodwork, are a long-standing tradition here and can be observed in small local workshops. The best time to visit is from May to October when the weather is mild and the landscape is lush. Khaplu is accessible by a scenic drive from Skardu along the Shyok River. It is a destination for history buffs and those looking for a peaceful mountain retreat away from the main tourist trails.

Nearby cities

Rawalpindi

The bustling 'Twin City' of Islamabad with rich military history and vibrant bazaars.

Muzaffarabad

The capital city of Azad Kashmir, nestled at the scenic confluence of the Jhelum and Neelum rivers.

Islamabad

The modern, green capital of Pakistan nestled at the foot of the Margalla Hills.

Mingora

Mingora is the largest city in the Swat Valley of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, an area renowned for its natural beauty and archaeological sites.

Abbottabad

Abbottabad is a charming hill city known for its mild climate and as a gateway to the northern areas of Pakistan.

Skardu

The capital of Baltistan and the main gateway to the world's highest peaks, including K2.

Gilgit

A historic Silk Road hub and the gateway to the Karakoram's highest peaks.

Kohat

Kohat is a city in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, known for its strategic location and guava production.

Charsadda

Charsadda is a city in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, located near the ancient capital of Gandhara, Pushkalavati.

Nowshera

Nowshera is a city on the Kabul River in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, an important industrial and communications hub.

Mansehra

Mansehra is a city in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, serving as a gateway to northern areas like the Kaghan Valley.

Chitral

An isolated city in the Hindu Kush, known for its majestic fort and proximity to Trich Mir.

Rawalakot

The capital of Poonch district, known as the 'Pearl Valley' for its natural beauty.

Murree

Pakistan's most popular hill station, known for its colonial architecture and dense pine forests.

Neelum Valley (Sharda)

A historical and scenic town on the banks of the Neelum River, famous for the ruins of Sharda Peeth.

History & landmarks

Peshawar

One of the oldest living cities in South Asia, famous for its history and bazaars.

Mardan

The historical heart of Gandhara, home to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Takht-i-Bahi.

Nature

Lulusar Lake

A group of mountain peaks and a lake in the Kaghan Valley, the main source of the Kunhar River.

Saif-ul-Maluk Lake

A stunning alpine lake located in the Kaghan Valley, surrounded by snow-capped peaks.

More places

Kaghan Valley

The Kaghan Valley is a picture-postcard alpine landscape in the Mansehra district.

Ayubia National Park

A forest park in the foothills of the Himalayas, known for its hiking trails and monkeys.

Tarbela Dam

A massive earth-filled dam on the Indus River, one of the largest in the world.