Mehdiabad – A Peaceful Cultural Retreat in Kharmang Valley!
Mehdiabad is a quaint, green village located in the Kharmang District, about 50–60 km from Skardu on the way to Manthokha Waterfall. It is known for its friendly locals, agricultural lifestyle, fruit orchards, and the surrounding dramatic Karakoram landscapes.
Though small and often quiet, Mehdiabad offers an authentic experience of rural Baltistan — perfect for travelers who want to go beyond tourist hotspots and connect with the culture and simplicity of life in the mountains.
Why Visit Mehdiabad?
| Feature | Highlights |
|---|---|
| 🌳 Lush Valley Setting | Green fields, fresh air, and mountain views |
| 🧕 Authentic Balti Culture | Experience local hospitality and traditions |
| 🍎 Fruit Orchards | Apricots, apples, walnuts — depending on season |
| 🐐 Pastoral Life | See villagers herding goats and working in fields |
| 🧘 Quiet & Peaceful | No crowds, perfect for mindfulness or writing |
| 🏞️ Gateway to Kharmang Adventures | A calm base before heading to waterfalls or hikes |
Routes to Mehdiabad
Location & Accessibility
📍 Region: Kharmang District, Gilgit-Baltistan
🚗 Distance from Skardu City: ~50–60 km (1.5–2 hours by road)
🛤️ Road Condition: Mostly paved, suitable for cars and jeeps
🕰️ Best Time to Visit: April to October (greenest in spring/summer)
💡 Easily combined with a day trip to Manthokha Waterfall, which is just ~20–30 minutes further.
Best Time to Visit
| Season | Experience |
|---|---|
| April – June | Blooming orchards, farming season begins |
| July – September | Warm, green, and full of local life |
| October | Golden light and harvest season |
| ❄️ Winter (Nov–Feb) | Very cold, quiet, and snowy — not ideal for general travel |
Top Things to Do in Mehdiabad
| Activity | Description |
|---|---|
| 🧑🌾 Visit Farms & Orchards | Walk through local fields and gardens |
| 🧕 Meet Locals & Share Tea | Enjoy Balti hospitality — tea, bread, and stories |
| 🏞️ Nature Walks | Stroll around the village or nearby hills |
| 📷 Photography | Portraits, farming scenes, and dramatic mountains |
| 📚 Cultural Exchange | Learn about local customs, language, and food |
| 🧘 Relax & Reflect | Journal or meditate surrounded by silence and nature |
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