Noori Top in Kaghan Valley is a popular tourist destination for adventure enthusiasts, hikers, and nature lovers. The pass offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and glaciers. Visitors can also witness the mesmerizing sunrise and sunset from Noori Top, which is an unforgettable experience.
Altitude of Noori Top
Noori Top is a high mountain pass at an altitude of 3,949 m (12,956 ft) above sea level. It is a very beautiful and stunning area with breathtaking scenery.
Location of Noori Top
Noori Top is located in the Kaghan Valley, on the border of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province and Azad Kashmir in Pakistan.
To reach Noori Top, one has to undertake a scenic drive from the town of Naran, which is located about 80 kilometers away. The drive takes you through picturesque villages, lush green meadows, and dense forests of pine, deodar, and oak trees. The journey itself is a visual treat, and visitors can take several stops along the way to admire the beautiful scenery and take photographs.
It is located high up in the Lulusar-Dudipatsar National Park and the drive to the top is simply terrifying. It is called Jalkhad-Sharda Road. It is completely unpaved and narrow with countless turns.
Elevated at every turn. Mud, gravel, and water currents add more wilderness. In many places, the track is so narrow that only one vehicle can go, and in case a vehicle is coming from the opposite side, one has to stop on the widened patch so that the others can go first.
After rain, the road may be impassable due to mud and water flows so not recommended to travel during rain. It is strongly recommended to go in a group of at least two vehicles as there is no support system available on the way.
Tourist Attractions near Noori Top
Noori Top is also a starting point for several hiking and trekking trails that cater to all levels of difficulty. The trek from Noori Top to Taobat is particularly popular among hikers. This trek takes you through lush green valleys, sparkling streams, and high-altitude lakes, providing a unique opportunity to explore the unspoiled natural beauty of the region.
Apart from trekking and hiking, visitors can also enjoy a range of other activities at Noori Top, including camping, photography, and birdwatching. The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including brown bears, Himalayan ibex, and snow leopards.
One of the highlights of visiting Noori Top is the opportunity to witness the local culture and way of life of the people living in the surrounding villages. The local communities are known for their hospitality and warm welcome, and visitors can interact with them and learn about their traditions and customs.
There are several guesthouses and hotels near Noori Top that offer comfortable accommodation for visitors. The hotels and guesthouses offer basic amenities, including clean bedding, hot water, and meals, making them a great option for those looking to experience the beauty of the region without compromising on comfort.
Along the way, there are many sections with serious blackouts. The peak offers a magnificent view of the Karghil and Kashmir ranges on one side and the Naran Valley on the other. High clearance 4×4 vehicles only.
It takes most people 3 to 4 hours to drive on the road without stopping. The track is only open from July to September. The summit road was built by the Pakistan Army during the 1998 Kargil War and was used by the Pak Army during the war. Now this pass and peak is used as a tourist spot.
Best Time to Visit Noori’s Top
The best time to visit Noori Top is from June to September, when the weather is pleasant, and the skies are clear. Visitors should carry warm clothing and other necessary gear, as the temperatures can drop significantly at night. It is also important to hire a local guide or join a tour group when hiking or trekking in the area, as the terrain can be challenging and the weather conditions can change rapidly.
In conclusion, Noori Top is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Kaghan Valley. The pass offers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of the northern areas of Pakistan and explore the unspoiled natural landscape of the region.
