The Untold Kharmang Valley

The road to Kharmang Valley begins from Skardu, a drive of about two hours that takes you deeper into the eastern edges of Gilgit-Baltistan, close to the border of Ladakh. As you leave Skardu behind, the scenery changes quickly—rivers cutting through rocky cliffs, small villages tucked against mountainsides, and wide valleys where life feels calm and unhurried. The journey itself is part of the experience, each turn revealing a new layer of Gilgit-Baltistan’s beauty.

Kharmang is often called the “valley of waterfalls”, and for good reason. The most famous among them is Manthoka Waterfall, a 180-foot cascade of crystal-clear water that crashes down into a pool surrounded by lush greenery. It’s an easy-to-reach spot, perfect for families and picnics, with local restaurants nearby offering fresh trout caught from the streams. Children play in the open meadows, while travelers rest under the spray of the falls, soaking in the refreshing mountain air.

The valley is also home to the Kharmang Apple Festival, a celebration of the region’s rich orchards. The apples here are among the finest in Pakistan—crisp, sweet, and grown naturally in the clean mountain climate. During harvest season, the valley comes alive with stalls, cultural performances, and traditional food, making it an excellent time for families and cultural travelers to visit.

Unlike the busier tourist hubs of Hunza or Skardu, Kharmang retains a quiet charm. Villages are welcoming, and the pace of life is slow and peaceful. Families will find plenty of safe spaces to explore, from riverbanks and fields to cultural sites scattered across the valley.

Accommodations range from small guesthouses run by locals to comfortable hotels in Skardu, which can serve as your base for day trips into Kharmang. Evenings often end with simple meals of local bread, apricots, and tea, enjoyed under a sky full of stars.

Kharmang Valley may not be as famous as Hunza or Skardu, but that is its beauty—it feels untouched, authentic, and deeply connected to its traditions. Whether you’re coming for the waterfalls, the apple orchards, or just to experience life in a valley that still moves at its own rhythm, Kharmang leaves you with a sense of discovery and peace that stays long after you’ve returned home.

WHAT’S THE WEATHER LIKE?

When to visit Kharmang Valley