Every summer, Pakistan’s stunning northern areas come alive with the buzz of excited travelers. From families escaping the heat to groups of friends chasing adventures, the pull of places like Hunza, Skardu, and Fairy Meadows is hard to resist.
And why not? Snow-draped mountains, mirror-like lakes, pine forests, and cool breezes—it’s the kind of escape many of us dream about all year.
But in all the excitement, safety often takes a backseat.
Just days ago, a tragic incident near Skardu claimed the lives of four tourists from Punjab. Their car went off a mountain road, and after days of searching, both the vehicle and bodies were finally recovered. It’s a painful reminder that while the north is breathtaking, it demands respect—and preparation.
So, if you’re planning a trip up north this season, here are some practical, expert-backed tips to help you stay safe and make the most of your journey.
1. Let the Experts Drive
Mountain roads aren’t your average city routes. They’re narrow, unpredictable, and at times, downright dangerous. Unless you’ve driven in such terrain before, it’s better to hire a local or experienced driver who knows how to handle sharp curves, sudden drops, and tricky road conditions.
“It’s not just about confidence—it’s about knowing how the road behaves,” says Ahmed Jan, a transport safety consultant in Gilgit.
2. Weather Can Flip in Minutes—Stay Updated
A sunny morning can turn into heavy fog or rain by afternoon. That’s just how mountain weather works. Always check forecasts before heading out each day, and follow reliable sources like the Pakistan Meteorological Department, local Facebook travel groups, or even hotel staff updates.
3. Keep Someone in the Loop
Before heading out on any road trip—especially to remote areas—share your route and schedule with a friend or family member. It’s even better if you use apps like Google Maps Location Sharing or Life360, so they can track you in real time.
In areas with no mobile signals, this little step can make a big difference if something goes wrong.
4. Don’t Drive After Dark
This one’s simple: mountain driving after sunset is a gamble. Most roads aren’t well-lit, visibility drops drastically, and response time in case of an emergency is painfully slow. Try to wrap up your travel for the day by late afternoon, and get to your destination before dark.
5. Your Car Needs to Be Trip-Ready Too
Before heading north, get your car checked—brakes, tires, battery, coolant, everything. It’s not just about avoiding breakdowns; it’s about staying out of potentially dangerous situations far from help.
Also, pack essentials:
- A spare tire
- Basic tools
- Flashlight
- First-aid kit
- Snacks and drinking water
- Warm jackets or blankets (even in summer!)
And fuel up regularly—don’t rely on that “next petrol pump” that might not exist.
6. Listen to the Locals
Locals are your best guides. If your hotel manager, driver, or a local shopkeeper advises against a certain route or suggests a weather delay—take it seriously. They know the area better than Google Maps ever will.
“I’ve seen too many travelers ignore warnings just to stick to their plan,” says Sara Nazir, a mountain guide in Chilas. “Some of them never made it back.”
7. Know the Rules—and Register When Required
Some areas—especially near borders or remote valleys—require special permits or check-ins with local authorities. Don’t skip this step. It keeps you on the official radar and helps authorities respond quicker in case of emergencies.
Tourism departments or local police stations can guide you on this. It’s a minor hassle that could save your life.
8. Don’t Chase Instagram—Chase Common Sense
That hidden waterfall you saw on someone’s reel? It might be beautiful, but it could also be unsafe, off-trail, or totally inaccessible during certain seasons. Don’t risk your life for a picture. There are plenty of safe, stunning spots that are just as photogenic.
9. Travel Insurance Isn’t Just for Foreigners
If something goes wrong—a medical emergency, an evacuation, or lost belongings—travel insurance can be a lifesaver. Many local providers now offer short-term domestic travel insurance at affordable rates. It’s worth it.
10. Don’t Overload Your Car
We’ve all seen cars packed to the roof with people and luggage. On mountain roads, that’s a recipe for disaster. An overloaded car struggles to brake, turn, and handle slopes. Stick to safe passenger limits and distribute luggage properly.
The Takeaway
A trip to the north should leave you with beautiful memories—not regrets. The recent Skardu accident is a gut-wrenching reminder of how quickly joy can turn into tragedy when caution is overlooked.
So, enjoy the beauty. Breathe in the crisp air. Take the selfies. But also slow down, stay alert, and make smart choices along the way.
Because the best trips aren’t just about where you go—they’re about getting back home safe to tell the story.
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