North Pakistan

Some journeys don't need a passport. In the far north of Pakistan, Gilgit-Baltistan holds some of the most dramatic landscapes on earth — the meeting point of the Karakoram, the Himalaya and the Hindu Kush.

Gilgit to Chitral, via Shandur Top

“The Gilgit–Chitral route via Shandur Top takes you through Ghizer Valley, and honestly, it's one of the most beautiful places I've ever seen. The green water, lush meadows, and golden autumn colours have a charm of their own.” — Musafar Khan

Shandur Top is the high plateau, at around 3,700 metres, that links Gilgit-Baltistan with Chitral. On the Gilgit side, the road through Ghizer follows the river past villages, poplar groves and meadows.

Watch the journey

The best way to tell this story is to show it. Press play below for moments from the road.