Fairy Meadows – The Gateway to Nanga Parbat in Gilgit-Baltistan!
Fairy Meadows, known locally as Joot, is a lush alpine meadow at the foot of Nanga Parbat, located in the Diamer District of Gilgit-Baltistan. It’s named by German climbers who believed the area was so beautiful, it could only be home to fairies. With a breathtaking panorama of the “Killer Mountain,” deep pine forests, and starry skies, Fairy Meadows has become a must-visit for trekkers, nature lovers, photographers, and camping enthusiasts from around the world.
Why Visit Fairy Meadows?
| Feature | Highlights |
|---|---|
| 🏔️ Unmatched View of Nanga Parbat | The best ground-level view of the 8,126m peak |
| 🌿 Lush Meadows & Forests | Perfect for camping and nature photography |
| ✨ Starry Night Skies | Ideal for Milky Way & nightscape photography |
| 🥾 Hiking & Trekking | Trails to Beyal Camp and base camp |
| 🔥 Camping with Bonfire | Magical evenings with music, stories & mountain silence |
| 📸 Ultimate Instagram Spot | Wooden cabins, green pastures, snowy peaks — all in one frame |
Routes to Golaghmuli (shandur) VAlley
Location & Accessibility
📍 Region: Diamer District, Gilgit-Baltistan
🛣️ Nearest City: Chilas
🚗 By Road:
Islamabad → Chilas via Babusar Pass (June–Oct): ~10–12 hrs
Islamabad → Chilas via Besham/Kohistan (All year): ~13–14 hrs
🚙 From Chilas to Raikot Bridge: 1 hour
🚙 Raikot Bridge → Tattu Village (Jeep Ride): 1.5–2 hours (rough road, 4×4 only)
🥾 Trek from Tattu to Fairy Meadows: 3–4 hours moderate uphill hike
⚠️ The jeep track to Tattu is considered one of the most dangerous roads in the world — thrilling but not for the faint-hearted. Jeep drivers are experienced and certified.
Best Time to Visit
| Season | Highlights |
|---|---|
| 🌸 May – June | Flowers bloom, snow melts, fresh greenery |
| ☀️ July – August | Peak tourist season, warm days, best visibility |
| 🍁 September – October | Golden trees, fewer tourists, crisp air |
| ❄️ Winter (Nov – Mar) | Closed due to heavy snow |
Top Things to Do in Fairy Meadows
| Activity | Experience |
|---|---|
| 🥾 Trek to Beyal Camp (1.5–2 hrs) | Closer view of Nanga Parbat from a quiet alpine site |
| 🏕️ Stay Overnight in Camps or Huts | Cozy wooden huts or tented camps with mountain views |
| 🔭 Stargazing & Milky Way Photography | Perfect light pollution-free skies |
| 🍽️ Enjoy Traditional Meals | Local food cooked by villagers — fresh and organic |
| 📷 Photography | Sunrise and sunset shots with golden mountain glow |
| 🧘 Relax and Meditate | A natural therapy away from technology and traffic |
Local Food
Try local dishes like:
Chapshuro (meat-filled bread)
Sharbat (dried apricot juice)
Trout Fish (fresh from local rivers)
Butter tea & organic yogurt
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.
Traveler Tips
Fuel Up in Gupis or Gilgit – no petrol stations in Golaghmuli
Mobile Network: Limited; only SCOM works in some areas
Permits: No NOC needed for Pakistani tourists. Foreigners might need NOC from Gilgit.
Weather Gear: Even in summer, nights are cold – bring layers
Altitude Sickness: Stay hydrated, ascend gradually