Explore Pakistan’s top winter destinations — from Murree and Hunza to Swat and Skardu — with stunning snow views and cozy resorts
Top Winter Destinations & Stays in Pakistan (2025 Travel Guide)
Pakistan is one of the most scenic countries to visit in winter. Between November and February, its northern regions transform into snowy heavens filled with adventure, culture, and cozy comfort.
Whether you’re planning a budget backpacking trip or a luxurious mountain retreat, this travel guide covers the best winter destinations in Pakistan, along with top hotels and resorts for every budget.
1. Hunza Valley – A Snowy Heaven in the North
Hunza becomes a dreamland during winter, with its snow-covered peaks, frozen lakes, and warm local hospitality.
Best time to visit: December to February
Best Places to Stay in Hunza:
Luxury Options:
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Luxus Hunza Attabad Lake Resort – starting from Rs. 40,000 per night
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Hard Rock Hunza Resort – Rs. 35,000 per night
Budget Options:
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Hunza View Hotel, Karimabad – Rs. 7,000–10,000 per night
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Old Hunza Inn – Rs. 5,500 per night
Must Visit: Attabad Lake, Baltit Fort, Karimabad Bazaar, Eagle’s Nest
2. Skardu – The Gateway to Serenity
Skardu is the crown jewel of Gilgit-Baltistan. Snow, frozen lakes, and breathtaking mountain views make it a top winter spot.
Best time to visit: November to February
Best Hotels & Resorts in Skardu:
Luxury:
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Shangrila Resort Skardu – Rs. 45,000–55,000 per night
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Serena Shigar Fort Hotel – Rs. 40,000 per night
Budget:
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Hotel Mashabrum – Rs. 8,000–12,000 per night
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Mountain Lodge Skardu – Rs. 6,000 per night
Must Visit: Upper Kachura Lake, Shigar Fort, Katpana Desert, Satpara Lake
3. Swat Valley – The Switzerland of Pakistan
Swat offers snowy peaks, ski slopes, and peaceful vibes — perfect for families and honeymooners alike.
Best time to visit: December to February
Recommended Hotels in Swat:
Luxury:
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Pearl Continental Hotel, Malam Jabba – Rs. 30,000–35,000 per night
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Rock City Resort Mingora – Rs. 25,000 per night
Budget:
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Swat View Hotel – Rs. 6,000–8,000 per night
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Hotel Serena Swat – Rs. 9,000–11,000 per night
Must Visit: Malam Jabba Ski Resort, Kalam Valley, Fizagat Park
4. Murree – The Winter Wonderland
Murree remains the easiest and most popular hill station for tourists. Covered in snow, it offers a cozy getaway close to Islamabad.
Best time to visit: December to February
Where to Stay in Murree:
Luxury:
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Pearl Continental Bhurban – Rs. 40,000–45,000 per night
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Lockwood Hotel Murree – Rs. 30,000 per night
Budget:
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Hotel One Murree – Rs. 9,000–11,000 per night
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Hotel Move-N-Pick Murree – Rs. 7,000 per night
Must Visit: Mall Road, Kashmir Point, Patriata Chair Lift
5. Naran & Kaghan – Frozen Beauty
Though some routes close during peak winter, the accessible areas are still worth visiting for their unmatched scenery.
Best time to visit: November–early January
Hotels in Naran & Kaghan:
Luxury:
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Pine Park Shogran Resort – Rs. 20,000–25,000 per night
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Arcadian Sprucewoods Naran – Rs. 22,000 per night
Budget:
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Rose Valley Hotel Naran – Rs. 8,000 per night
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Hotel One Naran – Rs. 10,000 per night
Must Visit: Lake Saif-ul-Malook, Shogran, Siri Paye
6. Ziarat – The Hidden Gem of Balochistan
Famous for its Juniper Forests, Ziarat turns white during winter, making it a peaceful retreat.
Best time to visit: December to February
Where to Stay:
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Ziarat Hill Resort – Rs. 7,000–9,000 per night
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PTDC Motel Ziarat – Rs. 6,000–8,000 per night
Must Visit: Quaid-e-Azam Residency, Prospect Point, Juniper Forest
7. Fairy Meadows – For the True Adventurers
A winter trek to Fairy Meadows is not for the faint-hearted but rewards you with majestic views of Nanga Parbat.
Stay Options:
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Raikot Sarai Cottages – Rs. 8,000 per night
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Fairy Meadows Cottages – Rs. 9,000 per night
Why Visit: Adventure, photography, and peace.
8. Lahore – Warm Culture & Cool Weather
If you prefer city warmth over snow, Lahore is ideal. From historic sites to delicious food, winter here is magical.
Best Hotels in Lahore:
Luxury:
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Avari Lahore – Rs. 30,000–35,000 per night
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Pearl Continental Lahore – Rs. 32,000 per night
Budget:
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Hotel One Gulberg – Rs. 9,000 per night
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Royal Palm Inn – Rs. 7,000 per night
Must Visit: Badshahi Mosque, Lahore Fort, Liberty Market, Food Street
9. Islamabad – Calm & Classy Capital
With its crisp winter air and green hills, Islamabad offers both serenity and sophistication.
Best Places to Stay:
Luxury:
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Serena Hotel Islamabad – Rs. 45,000 per night
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Islamabad Marriott Hotel – Rs. 38,000 per night
Budget:
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Shelton’s Rezidor Hotel – Rs. 9,000 per night
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Envoy Continental Hotel – Rs. 10,000 per night
Must Visit: Faisal Mosque, Daman-e-Koh, Saidpur Village
10. Gilgit – The Northern Hub
Gilgit connects all major destinations like Hunza, Skardu, and Fairy Meadows.
Recommended Hotels:
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Serena Hotel Gilgit – Rs. 28,000–30,000 per night
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Riverdale Resort Gilgit – Rs. 8,000–10,000 per night
Must Visit: Gilgit Bridge, Rakaposhi Viewpoint, Kargah Buddha
Travel Tips for Winter 2025
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Book early: Hotels fill up fast during December holidays.
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Use 4×4 transport for northern areas.
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Keep cash handy; remote regions may have limited ATMs.
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Always check road and weather updates before traveling.
