Astore!
Astore Valley lies in the southeastern part of Gilgit-Baltistan, stretching from the junction of the Karakoram Highway at Jaglot to the foothills of Nanga Parbat and the Deosai Plains. Known for its lush greenery, alpine meadows, glacial streams, and snow-covered peaks, Astore is considered one of the most scenic and peaceful regions of Pakistan.
It serves as a base for trekkers heading to Nanga Parbat (8,126 m) via the Rupal Face, and also connects to the world-famous Deosai National Park — a vast alpine plateau filled with wildflowers and rare wildlife.
Astore is inhabited by warm and hospitable people, primarily speakers of the Shina language, and is rich in traditions, seasonal festivals, and natural wonders.
Routes to astore
Astore is accessed primarily via the Karakoram Highway (KKH), with a turn-off at Jaglot, around 40 km south of Gilgit. From Jaglot, a well-paved but mountainous road leads into Astore Valley, covering a distance of approximately 120 kilometers to reach the main town of Eidgah (Astore City). The journey from Gilgit to Astore by road takes about 4 to 5 hours. Travelers from Islamabad can reach Astore in two main ways: one, by taking the KKH by road via Chilas–Jaglot, or two, by flying to Gilgit Airport and continuing to Astore by road. In summer, the Astore–Deosai–Skardu road also opens up, providing a spectacular alternative route that connects Astore to Skardu via Chilim and Sheosar Lake. This route, however, is only open from June to September, as heavy snowfall blocks the high-altitude Deosai Plains in winter. Roads to side valleys like Rama, Tarashing, and Chilim are accessible via 4×4 vehicles and offer unmatched views of snow-capped peaks, forests, and waterfalls.
PLACES TO VISIT IN astore
Here are some amazing places to explore in Astore, Gilgit‑Baltistan:
Rama Valley & Lakes
Minimarg
Burzil Pass
Deosai Plains
Must-know things!
- Sleeping Mask & Ear Plugs: Warm Shawl/Lightweight Jacket.
- Gadgets & ChargersBook & Notepad.
- Mints, Sanitizer, Wet Wipes & Tissue paper.
- Toiletries.
- Snacks.
- Hiking boots/Sturdy Joggers.
- Cargo Pants/Hiking Trouser.
- Hat, Sunglasses, Sunblock.
- Refillable Water Bottle.
- Snacking Bars/Dry Fruits.
Activities in Astore
Nature & Sightseeing
Visit Rama Meadows & Rama Lake
Iconic alpine meadows with a glacier-fed lake surrounded by pine forests and peaks.
Explore Deosai National Park (via Chilim/Astore)
Home to brown bears, Himalayan ibex, and a carpet of wildflowers (only accessible in summer).
Rupal Valley & Nanga Parbat Base Camp
Trekking base for Nanga Parbat’s southern face — an unforgettable experience.
Hike to Minimarg Valley
A hidden gem near the LOC, known for wooden homes, green slopes, and spring-fed rivers (requires NOC).
Gudai & Chilim Valleys
Beautiful and less-touristy side valleys with rivers and pastures.
Trekking & Adventure
Trekking to Nanga Parbat Base Camp (Rupal Face)
Via Tarashing village, a top trekking destination for serious hikers.
Camping at Rama, Tarashing, or Rupal
Stargazing, bonfires, and tent stays surrounded by nature.
Jeep Safaris to Deosai Plateau
An adventurous ride to one of the highest plateaus in the world.
Horse Riding
In Deosai or meadows of Rama and Rupal.
Culture & Exploration
Visit Traditional Villages
Tarashing, Eidgah, Chilim, and Rattu offer authentic village life and local architecture.
Local Food & Folk Culture
Experience traditional Shina dishes, music, and storytelling from locals.
Wildlife & Bird Watching
Spot marmots, golden eagles, and rare snow leopards (very rare) in upper areas.
Must remember!
You should take your CNIC (if nationals) to visit Kharmang district since the location is borderline of the country while a valid VISA and a passport are must-bring-along for tourists.
Please keep Kharmang clean, as the government is taking a strict stance on maintaining the hygiene standards of the area.
Where to Stay
Rama Valley Hutt
Set in Astor, Rama Valley Hutt offers a garden. Featuring a 24-hour front desk, this property also provides guests with a restaurant. Private parking can be arranged at an extra charge.
At the hotel, every room includes a wardrobe, a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom. The units at Rama Valley Hutt come with a seating area.
Guests at the accommodation can enjoy a continental breakfast.
The nearest airport is Gilgit Airport, 77 km from Rama Valley Hutt.
We speak your language!
Wazir Guest House
Set in Astor, Wazir guest house features a garden and terrace. Free WiFi is at guests’ disposal.
At the guest house, rooms have a wardrobe, a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom. The rooms are equipped with a seating area.
A continental breakfast is available every morning at Wazir guest house.
We speak your language!