One of Pakistan’s most well-liked and stunning hiking destinations is Fairy Meadows and with good reason. It is regarded as one of the most accessible treks that can enable you to witness an 8,000 m high mountain without going on a multi-day journey because of the uninterrupted view of the 8,125 m high beast known as Nanga Parbat, among of the highest mountains in Pakistan, just after K2. The Fairy Meadows must be visited if you are traveling in Pakistan, but as with everything else connected to backpacking in Pakistan, current information is hard to come by. That is why I am here today with a detailed guide on how to walk the Fairy Meadows and reach the Nanga Parbat.
Where To Stay In Fairy Meadows
The best perspective of Nanga Parbat, with a clear vista across the glacier and towards the summit, is provided by Greenland Resort. The space is well-built and spotless. The cost of the food ranges from 150 to 500 PKR. Additionally, the owner is very helpful, helping with all the reservations, transportation, and meals. This is the spot in Fairy Meadows with the best view if you’re looking for one. Remember that the cost of accommodation varies depending on the time of year.
The Fairy Meadows Hiking Trails
Fairy Meadows to Beyal Camp
Out of Fairy Meadows, the first trail begins with a level path that travels through a dense forest and along a ridge with views of Nanga Parbat and the Raikot glacier on your left. The trail continues through the forest on a flat terrain for almost an hour, past various streams, until you come to an opening where you can see a village that is distantly shaded by Nanga Parbat.
You have successfully entered the Beyal camp. You can stop for coffee or continue walking for another 30 minutes or so until you reach a viewpoint at 3,667 meters, where you can get a close-up glimpse of the Raikot Glacier and Nanga Parbat. For those who don’t want to go far, this section of the trail is ideal because it is just a short stroll; however, if you want to hike farther, you can continue the route to Nanga Parbat Base Camp.
Beyal Camp to Nanga Parbat Base Camp
You must climb up a ridge for a further 30 minutes and traverse the treacherous glacier to reach the base camp from the viewpoint 30 minutes past Beyal camp. At this point, the terrain gets steeper and rockier while also getting more scenic, so go with caution. You must trek up once again onto a glass plain after leaving the glacier to reach the Nanga Parbat base camp, which is located at a height of more than 3,900m.
When to Visit
April through May or September through October are the best months to walk Fairy Meadows, preferably on weekdays. These are regarded as the shoulder seasons, and although the temperature may be a little chilly compared to midsummer, you are more likely to find the region to yourself. Avoid visiting Fairy Meadows during busy periods, such as the summer or on holidays, as it is a particularly popular tourist destination among locals.
