Golaghmuli (Shandur) Valley - A Hidden Paradise in Gilgit-Baltistan!
Golaghmuli Valley, located in the upper reaches of the Ghizer District in Gilgit-Baltistan, is a pristine, lush valley known for its serene landscapes, alpine meadows, and warm-hearted Wakhi and Shina-speaking locals. Often overshadowed by more popular destinations like Hunza or Skardu, Golaghmuli offers unspoiled beauty and a gateway to the famous Shandur Pass, home to the world’s highest polo ground.
This valley is an ideal destination for travelers seeking tranquility, culture, hiking, and authentic mountain experiences away from crowds.
Why Visit Golaghmuli?
If you want to escape tourist crowds, dive into authentic mountain culture, and experience vast, open landscapes with deep blue lakes, then Golaghmuli Valley is your next travel story waiting to be written.
Routes to Golaghmuli (shandur) VAlley
Location & Access
Region: Ghizer District, Gilgit-Baltistan
Altitude: Approx. 3,500 meters (Shandur Pass)
Access Points:
From Gilgit City via Gupis → Phander → Golaghmuli
From Chitral via Laspur Valley → Shandur Pass → Golaghmuli
Road Route from Gilgit (Approx. 6-8 hours)
Gilgit to Gupis: 2.5–3 hours on a well-maintained road alongside the Gilgit River.
Gupis to Phander: 1.5 hours – Phander Lake is a stunning stop.
Phander to Golaghmuli: 1.5–2 hours – Unpaved but drivable, best in summer.
Tip: 4×4 vehicle is recommended for the final stretch.
Nearest Airport
Gilgit Airport (Domestic flights from Islamabad)
From Gilgit, travel by road to Golaghmuli.
Top Attractions in Golaghmuli & Nearby
| Spot | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Shandur Pass | Polo festival in July, panoramic views, hiking |
| Phander Lake | Crystal-clear waters, trout fishing, photography |
| Langar & Teru Villages | Wakhi culture, hospitable locals |
| Handrap Lake | Off-the-beaten-path glacier-fed lake |
| Shandur Polo Ground | Highest polo ground on Earth (3,700m) |
| Khukush Lake | Untouched and peaceful alpine lake |
Best Time to Visit
| Season | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Summer (May–September) | Ideal for travel, trekking, camping, polo festival |
| Autumn (October) | Golden hues, cold nights, fewer tourists |
| Winter (Nov–April) | Not recommended due to snowfall and road closures |
Things to Do in Golaghmuli Valley
Attend Shandur Polo Festival (Early July)
Trout Fishing in Phander River & Lake
Trekking to Shandur Top or nearby alpine meadows
Photography – Landscapes, starry nights, village life
Camping – Near lakes or open meadows
Horse Riding (offered by locals during festivals)
Cultural Experience – Interact with Wakhi-speaking villagers and enjoy local food like chapshuro, qeymaq, and shelanchay (butter tea)
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