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00:00:14Do you believe there is a place on earth where the highest mountains in the world
00:00:19cast their reflections onto deserts covered in white sand?
00:00:32Where glaciers stretch for tens of kilometers flowing alongside green meadows blanketed in wildflowers.
00:00:50Or if you cross a fragile bridge as thin as a thread between two gorges, you'll find yourself
00:00:56in a land seemingly frozen in time since the last century?
00:01:07That land is northern Pakistan, where the beauty of nature, culture and people reaches a surreal
00:01:14level.
00:01:24Not only that, this place was once the heart of the legendary Silk Road and the site of
00:01:31ancient empires contending for power.
00:01:44In Hunza Valley, among villages nestled between snow-capped peaks, you may encounter the Hunza
00:01:51people, a tribe renowned as the longest living people in the world.
00:02:08Northern Pakistan is also a living museum of history.
00:02:12There are ancient forts like Baltic Fort, or the ruins of Sharda, once the largest Buddhist
00:02:20academic center in ancient South Asia.
00:02:34northern Pakistan is a place where opposites coexist harmoniously, cold and hot, ancient and modern,
00:02:43tranquil and adventurous, real and mythical.
00:02:50Join us on this journey to immerse yourself in the beauty of northern Pakistan.
00:03:06Karakorum Highway
00:03:23Karakorum Highway
00:03:25The journey to explore northern Pakistan begins with the famous Karakorum Highway, known as
00:03:30the highest road in the world.
00:03:41Karakorum Highway
00:03:43Karakorum Highway connects Kashgar in China with Thakot in Pakistan, spanning over 1,300 kilometers
00:03:51and crossing the Kunjirab Pass, where the sky and earth seem to touch.
00:04:07On both sides are towering cliffs and dizzying abysses, where every turn opens up a new horizon.
00:04:25The sound of tires crunching on gravel echoes through the valley, blending with the cold,
00:04:31howling wind that sweeps along clouds of dust.
00:04:42At times, clouds descend right in front of your windshield, making you feel as if you've stepped into another world.
00:04:59On this barren and elevated land, the ecosystem isn't highly diverse, but bears distinct and unique traits.
00:05:11There are no dense forests, only drought-tolerant shrubs like tamarisk and oleander, clinging to the rocky ground to survive.
00:05:34Among the layers of rock lies a silent world of desert snakes, mountain foxes,
00:05:45and herds of markhor goats, hiding on towering peaks.
00:06:02Karakorum Highway
00:06:03Karakorum Highway
00:06:18Karakorum Highway
00:06:20Dubbed the eighth wonder of the world, the Karakorum Highway is seen as a symbol of friendship between Pakistan and
00:06:29China.
00:06:45It traces the path of the ancient Silk Road, once echoing with the hoofbeats of merchants, scholars, and pilgrims in
00:06:53search of spiritual enlightenment.
00:07:08Karakorum Highway
00:07:08This land is also home to ethnic groups like the Waki, Burusho, and Shina.
00:07:21Each community is a world of its own, with its language, rituals, and traditional lifestyle preserved for generations.
00:07:44In the seventh century, it was the monk Xuanzang of the Tang dynasty who journeyed through these treacherous mountains in
00:07:52his quest for sacred scriptures.
00:08:00All these elements converge to form the soul of the Karakorum Highway, where the past and present coexist.
00:08:17When you set foot on the Karakorum Highway, it feels like stepping into an airborne adventure.
00:08:29Whether you choose to drive, ride a motorbike or cycle, the raw beauty of snow-capped mountains, glaciers and valleys
00:08:41will leave you speechless.
00:08:50You can capture scenes of pristine snow among layers of clouds with your phone or camera.
00:09:02You can walk along irrigation canals that are an essential part of Hunza life, and pause at Damaniko to quietly
00:09:15watch the blazing sunset behind the peaks.
00:09:25Don't forget to stop at the Rakoposhi viewpoint to admire the majestic mountains soaring into the blue sky.
00:09:49The Karakorum Range
00:09:52The Karakorum Range
00:10:06As you travel along the Karakorum Highway, you can stop at a roadside viewpoint, open the car door, and admire
00:10:15the majestic Karakorum Range.
00:10:29The Karakorum Range
00:10:30Stretching like a colossal natural fortress, the Karakorum boasts snow-covered peaks that pierce the sky,
00:10:41shimmering with icy blue hues under the sunlight.
00:10:54At the mountain's foot, jagged rocks are split by glaciers that resemble enormous white ribbons.
00:11:06Light filters through the cracks in the ice, reflecting into sparkling blue streaks.
00:11:23Farther down the slopes, you'll find forests of pine and juniper stretching out, painting vibrant green strokes across the cold
00:11:33landscape.
00:11:39Each time the wind blows, the forest stirs, rustling like a living entity, trying to converse with passing travelers.
00:12:00At night, the Karakorum takes on an utterly mystical aura.
00:12:07The sky becomes thick with starlight, glittering like thousands of diamonds suspended in midair.
00:12:18The glaciers reflect the pale light of the moon, making it feel as if you are floating between two worlds,
00:12:26one above and one just beneath your feet.
00:12:42The Karakorum is a place where myth and reality intertwine.
00:12:48In the beliefs of the Balti and Shina people, the towering peaks are sacred abodes of the gods.
00:13:11They call the Karakorum, the angry mountains, as violent, sudden avalanches are seen as divine wrath.
00:13:34The harsh terrain leaves this region rarely touched by humans.
00:13:40In the early 19th century, European explorers first set foot in the Karakorum.
00:13:50Later, British expeditions arrived in 1856, marking the beginning of passionate explorations.
00:14:10The cultural heritage here is a vivid tapestry woven from great religions like Hinduism, Buddhism, and Islam.
00:14:32Every stone, rooftop, custom, and oral tale carries the imprint of diverse faiths.
00:14:48When visiting the legendary Karakorum, you'll experience both overwhelming awe and deep spirituality.
00:14:59It happens when you lift your gaze to behold peaks towering over 8,000 meters like Rakoposhi and K2.
00:15:18Or when you fall silent before the surreal beauty of endless glaciers sparkling under the sun.
00:15:37If you love trekking, the trails here will unveil a pristine, majestic world.
00:15:49As you walk amid the raw, rugged beauty of stone cliffs and breathe in the fresh, cool air of this
00:15:55wild highland, you'll feel your body merging with nature.
00:16:12Fairy meadows
00:16:13Fairy meadows
00:16:14Fairy meadows
00:16:28Bidding farewell to the Karakorum range, the Jeep continues its journey through challenging, treacherous roads.
00:16:50When it stops at the edge of an ancient pine forest, you'll disembark and trek through the woods to your
00:16:57next destination, fairy meadows.
00:17:14Fairy meadows
00:17:15Fairy meadows is a stretch of green grassland lying peacefully at the foot of Nanga Parbat, untouched by the passage
00:17:22of time.
00:17:27Tender grass blankets the ground, swaying gently whenever cold winds sweep down from the mountain peaks.
00:17:42Amidst the lush meadow, clusters of wildflowers bloom in purple, yellow and white, adding natural harmony to the scene.
00:17:59From afar, Nanga Parbat rises imposingly, its peak cloaked in white snow.
00:18:10At the mountain's base, small streams cut through the grasslands, with pebbles clearly visible beneath the crystal clear water.
00:18:32On the ground, marmots dart in and out of sight.
00:18:41Snow finches land softly on the grass before soaring back into the sky.
00:18:52Occasionally, you may glimpse a quiet musk deer in the distant forest.
00:19:01The air here is infused with the fragrance of herbs, carrying a rare sense of purity and freshness.
00:19:17In 1995, the Pakistani government declared fairy meadows a national park, a move to preserve the beauty of one of
00:19:26the world's most enchanting meadows.
00:19:36Beyond its scenery, fairy meadows is steeped in legend.
00:19:41Locals say that Lake Fantura is where fairies often gather.
00:19:45In the morning mist, they gracefully glide across the lake, leaving tiny ripples behind.
00:20:02Each summer, the Tato people, local residents, journey to fairy meadows to escape the harsh heat and sudden landslides in
00:20:10the valley.
00:20:22On the hillsides, you may spot women quietly picking mulberries, raspberries and wild strawberries to make jam.
00:20:37Boil into drinks or trade for seeds.
00:20:51For mountaineers, photographers and artists, fairy meadows is a perfect image of nature, an endless source of creative inspiration.
00:21:15The moment you step into fairy meadows, fatigue and stress seem to melt away in the face of its breathtaking,
00:21:23painting-like beauty.
00:21:31Soon comes the sense of awe as you stand before Nanga Parbat, the ninth highest peak in the world, symbol
00:21:39of fairy meadows.
00:21:47Along the trekking routes, pristine pine forests, fast-flowing streams and wild mountain birds will accompany you.
00:22:05You can choose to stay in a cozy wooden cabin or pitch a tent at the campsite to catch the
00:22:10soft glow of the day's end amid peaceful nature.
00:22:24As night falls, the Milky Way bursts into brilliance, sparkling proudly in the crystal clear sky.
00:22:35The boundary between reality and dreams seems to vanish in that moment, making you feel as if you're reaching out
00:22:43to touch the stars.
00:22:47And don't forget to meet the locals and listen to the myths of fairy meadows enriching your journey with spiritual
00:22:54and cultural depth.
00:23:03Rikot Glacier
00:23:21Rikot Glacier
00:23:23We continue trekking along narrow mountain trails.
00:23:32As we pass jagged cliffs and deep gorges, the silence and cold grow ever more intense, enveloping the entire landscape.
00:23:44That is a sign that Rikot Glacier, our next destination, is drawing near.
00:23:56Rikot Glacier
00:23:57Upon reaching the glacier, the surreal scene of nature will leave you speechless in awe.
00:24:18Rikot Glacier
00:24:20Above trails, lies a stretch of grayish-white ice.
00:24:23Within ice triangles, the surface is rugged.
00:24:25With broken ice blocks stacked upon one another.
00:24:29Cracks wind across the glacier's surface like the imprints of time.
00:24:42When sunlight strikes, a bluish glow radiates from the ice, sending a chill that touches
00:24:49every sense of the traveler.
00:25:05The space around Rikot Glacier is nearly absolutely silent, occasionally the sound of cracking
00:25:12ice echoes, then dissolves into the dense air of mist and wind.
00:25:18Amidst this scene, humans appear as tiny dots within the grandeur of nature.
00:25:38To the native Balti people, Rikot Glacier is the river of the spirits.
00:25:44They believe it holds the soul of the earth and sky, and the memory of their ancestors.
00:25:58Elders still say that when the wind sweeps through Rikot, at dusk, it is the moment when
00:26:04the spirits of their forebears return to visit their origins.
00:26:21Standing at Rikot Glacier, you'll sense nature's beauty in its most pristine form.
00:26:27The feeling of adventure is tangible as you face vast ice fields and icy walls like eternal
00:26:35fortresses.
00:26:51In summer, you may hear the pure sound of water quietly flowing beneath the ice.
00:27:09The air at over 3,500 meters is crisp and cool, making every breath feel deeper and clearer.
00:27:19In that moment, it feels like you are momentarily escaping reality, becoming one with the spirit
00:27:27of nature.
00:27:30That is the most precious experience when visiting Rikot Glacier.
00:27:36Those moments of stillness that allow you to connect with your true self.
00:27:47Hansa Valley.
00:27:53Hansa Valley.
00:28:12The jeep continues rolling along the Karakoram Highway.
00:28:17The landscape begins to change.
00:28:20The green of trees and wildflowers starts to emerge and stretch out to the horizon.
00:28:29Welcome to Hansa Valley.
00:28:41Hansa Valley lies near the Chinese border.
00:28:45At an altitude of over 2,400 meters above sea level.
00:28:57From above, Hunza Valley looks like a green carpet spread between the towering stone walls of
00:29:05the Karakoram Range.
00:29:16This is where the Hunza River winds through terraced fields, apricot orchards, plum gardens,
00:29:27and leafless winter forests.
00:29:39The river is crystal clear, shimmering silver in the sunlight, winding around moss-covered
00:29:47boulders, forming soft curves through the grey, rocky mountains.
00:30:03On clear days, you can see snow-covered peaks like Rakoposhi, Ultrasar, and Ladyfinger Peak.
00:30:20Covered in snow year-round, they shine in shades of white and blue as the sun shifts, making
00:30:27the whole valley feel like a fairytale land of the highlands.
00:30:37Atop a high hill stands the Baltic fort, majestic and weathered.
00:30:43Dark brown stone walls, tiny wooden windows, all evoke the era when traders pass through here,
00:30:52on the ancient Silk Road.
00:31:10Vegetation in Hunza varies by elevation.
00:31:15In the lower valley grow fruit trees like apricot, apple, pear, and pomegranate.
00:31:34Higher up are pine forests, and in the snowy mountains are shrubs and lichens.
00:31:44Himalayan goats climb rocky slopes.
00:31:49Red foxes hide in the bushes, and mountain eagles soar with wide wings across the sky.
00:32:07The village of Karimabad is the cultural heart of Hunza.
00:32:13White stone houses with flat roofs sit among carefully tended orchards through every season.
00:32:30Children play by the stream, adults tend the gardens, and elders sit by the porch looking down
00:32:43over the valley.
00:32:50Near Ganesh village, you'll find cliffs covered in ancient inscriptions in Karosti, Brahmi, Gupta, Sogdian, and Tibetan.
00:33:01A testament to the deep cultural layers of this land.
00:33:13The Hunza people live simply, eating a healthy diet of vegetables and fresh fruits.
00:33:23They use wild honey, drink herbal teas, and strongly believe in the connection between humans and nature.
00:33:44Perhaps that's why the average life expectancy here is much higher than in many other regions.
00:33:58When you set foot in Hunza valley, you step into a space where nature and culture harmonize in every rhythm
00:34:07of life.
00:34:14In Karimabad town, you can truly feel the heartbeat of Hunza life in each narrow alley, old stone house, or
00:34:28handicraft shop.
00:34:33A visit to Baltit and Altit forts will take you back hundreds of years, to a time when a mountain
00:34:40kingdom still existed.
00:34:51The trails to Alter Base Camp or Rush Lake will take you above the clouds, to places of breathtaking grandeur.
00:35:13And then, you may join a local festival.
00:35:22Listening to the traditional music of the Borucho people echo in the late afternoon.
00:35:28In that moment, you are no longer a stranger.
00:35:32You've become a part of Hunza.
00:35:45Atabad Lake
00:35:58Atabad Lake
00:36:02From the center of Hunza Valley, after about a 30-minute drive, Atabad Lake comes into view.
00:36:17The still turquoise water lies between steep limestone mountains, reflecting the sky and peaks like an ancient mirror.
00:36:35The air here is noticeably colder than in the valley center.
00:36:41Just touching the lake's surface will send a numbing chill through your entire hand.
00:36:59Surrounding the lake are silver-gray rocky slopes, almost barren of greenery.
00:37:10Only a few scraggly bushes and wild plants cling to the arid ground.
00:37:23The turquoise hue of the water becomes even more striking against the dry, cold-toned rock.
00:37:40At the boat dock, vividly painted boats, in red, yellow and blue, rest silently.
00:38:01Below the surface, freshwater fish swim in schools.
00:38:07Overhead, the occasional cry of birds pierces the stillness as they cut through the wind.
00:38:28Atabad's beauty is mesmerizing, yet tinged with sorrow for the villages that once lay buried beneath the lake.
00:38:37Atabad Lake was formed in 2010 after a massive landslide blocked the flow of the Hunza River.
00:38:49The disaster claimed 20 lives and left thousands homeless.
00:39:02Out of that tragedy, a natural lake over 20 kilometers long and around 100 meters deep emerged.
00:39:13Now one of the most famous destinations in Gilgit, Baltistan.
00:39:30At Atabad Lake, you can ride a boat gently across the surface.
00:39:37Marvelling at the majestic mountains and sheer cliffs on all sides.
00:39:49While kayaking or fishing in the calm waters, you may feel yourself reaching a meditative state from the profound stillness.
00:40:14It is also a perfect spot for capturing stunning photographs as the light and landscape continuously shift with time.
00:40:34And don't forget to visit the new Karakoram Highway Tunnels, a 7 kilometer engineering marvel that runs along the lake's
00:40:44edge.
00:40:51Amid this majestic natural setting, every experience seems to carry a special beauty, peaceful, profound and unforgettable.
00:41:10Hussaini Suspension Bridge
00:41:27Hussaini Suspension Bridge
00:41:47The bridge stretches across the Hunza River, suspended between two sheer rock cliffs where turbulent waters roar ceaselessly below.
00:42:06Hussaini Suspension Bridge
00:42:06From a distance, it appears like a fragile thread connecting two giant masses of stone.
00:42:21Hussaini Suspension Bridge
00:42:25The bridge is made of small wooden planks, spaced far enough apart that a whole foot could slip through.
00:42:34Hussaini Suspension Bridge
00:42:35Each plank is tied to coarse, weathered ropes stretched tightly across the gray slopes.
00:42:44Hussaini Suspension Bridge
00:42:46There are no sturdy railings, no safety nets, only cold steel cables and a trembling wooden path under each step.
00:43:00Hussaini Suspension Bridge
00:43:03Below, lies muddy frothing water, crashing against the rocks, emphasizing the fragility of the narrow bridge above.
00:43:19Hussaini Suspension Bridge
00:43:20The surroundings are eerily quiet, broken only by the creaking ropes and the sound of the wind.
00:43:25For this reason, Hussaini Suspension Bridge is dubbed one of the most dangerous bridges in the world.
00:43:44Hussaini Suspension Bridge
00:43:45To the people of Hunza, the bridge symbolizes resilience, endurance and a steadfast spirit that defies all limits.
00:44:02Hussaini Suspension Bridge
00:44:03Originally built in 1968 to connect the villages of Hussaini and Zahrabad, the bridge allowed locals to transport goods, medicine
00:44:12and necessities across the raging river.
00:44:26Hussaini Suspension Bridge
00:44:27The current version was reconstructed after the devastating floods of 2010 to 2011, when waters from Attabad Lake swept everything
00:44:37away.
00:44:44Hussaini Suspension Bridge
00:44:46Across the bridge to get to school.
00:44:58If you're seeking one of the most thrilling experiences, Hussaini Bridge is the perfect choice.
00:45:12Hussaini Suspension Bridge
00:45:13As you place your first step on the bridge, excitement quickly gives way to an instinctive fear.
00:45:31Hussaini Suspension Bridge
00:45:33Hussaini Suspension Bridge
00:45:33Making your heart pound as if it might leap from your chest.
00:45:44After crossing safely, you can rest at the small roadside stalls.
00:45:52Hussaini Suspension Bridge
00:45:53A glass of cool cherry juice or a few pieces of fragrant dried fruit from local gardens will help calm
00:45:59your nerves.
00:46:02Hussaini Suspension Bridge
00:46:03You may even chat with the locals and come to understand that risk is an inevitable part of a life
00:46:09intertwined with land, water and stone.
00:46:24Hussaini Suspension Bridge
00:46:26The Pasu Cones Range
00:46:41Leaving the Hussaini Suspension Bridge, you'll hop on a jeep and continue the journey along a winding road hugging the
00:46:49cliffs.
00:46:55Hussaini Suspension Bridge
00:46:56Just raise your head and you'll see the Pasu Cones range emerging against the deep blue sky.
00:47:07Hussaini Suspension Bridge
00:47:08Simply open the door, step out of the vehicle and take a deep breath.
00:47:12You'll feel overwhelmed standing before a grand natural wonder.
00:47:28Hussaini Suspension Bridge
00:47:32The Pasu Cones stretch out like a wall of silvery-gray stone, winding along the horizon, forming a majestic boundary
00:47:41between earth and sky.
00:47:48Hussaini Suspension Bridge
00:47:49This range stands out with its sharply pointed peaks that rise decisively in the northern valleys of Pakistan.
00:48:02Hussaini Suspension Bridge
00:48:03Sunlight slants through the mountain crevices, dividing the light into distinct patches.
00:48:10Each patch of light and shadow interweaves like intricate carvings on a giant relief sculpture.
00:48:27Hussaini Suspension Bridge
00:48:28With their striking shape and impressive height, the cones have become a familiar symbol on postcards, posters and travel brochures
00:48:37of Pakistan.
00:48:37Hussaini Suspension Bridge
00:48:45Whether seen from afar or standing at the foot of the mountains, you'll still sense the icy, pure and awe
00:48:53-inspiring beauty of these towering peaks.
00:49:05Hussaini Suspension Bridge
00:49:07At the base of the range lies the small village of Pasu, where low-roofed houses nestle among gardens and
00:49:15barley fields.
00:49:18Life here is simple, but peaceful.
00:49:22The locals farm
00:49:30Weave and live in harmony with the rhythm of the mountains and forests.
00:49:50The Hunza River winds through the village like a refreshing ribbon, bringing water, silt and life to the entire region.
00:50:07Locals call the Pasu cones a giant stone cathedral because of their pointed shapes and dark limestone formations.
00:50:17Over the decades, Pasu cones have drawn photographers, geologists and nature lovers from around the world.
00:50:35Standing before the Pasu cones at dawn or dusk, you'll witness golden light pouring diagonally across the stone surfaces.
00:50:45It's a rare moment when nature reveals its most glorious beauty.
00:51:04The trekking routes around the area offer rewarding experiences for those who love to explore.
00:51:11You can choose the trails around the mountain base or challenge yourself with steep climbing paths.
00:51:32When visiting Pasu village, you'll meet humble and kind-hearted people.
00:51:39They live simply among the mountains, preserve their traditional culture and are always willing to share stories of the land
00:51:47they call home.
00:52:05The capital, Islamabad.
00:52:22Leaving the sharp peaks of the Pasu cones behind, the return journey to the capital begins.
00:52:31The jeep travels along the Karakoram highway, passing through lush green valleys, sheer rocky roads and icy glaciers.
00:52:48After hours descending from the Gilgit-Baltistan plateau, you might take a rest in the towns of Gilgit or Chilas,
00:53:00before continuing by highway or flying directly to Islamabad.
00:53:12Islamabad, also known as the Islamic city, officially became the capital of Pakistan in 1967.
00:53:23At an elevation of about 540 meters above sea level, the climate here is cool and pleasant year-round.
00:53:40You'll be impressed by the city's orderly and structured urban planning.
00:53:46The city is designed in a grid system. Residential zones are clearly divided and interspersed with straight rows of trees
00:53:54and broad avenues.
00:54:05From above, Islamabad appears embraced by Mother Nature.
00:54:11Greenery covers 40-50% of the city's area, creating a refreshing and peaceful atmosphere.
00:54:17Something rare among capital cities worldwide.
00:54:30Modern glass buildings sit among gardens, lakes and small streams.
00:54:49Fatima Jinnah Park, Rawal Lake and the Margalla Hills Reserve all contribute to Islamabad's unique green identity.
00:55:05Especially notable, the Margalla Hills, part of the Namesake Reserve, stretch to hug the city, providing it with an abundance
00:55:12of fresh air.
00:55:21At dawn and dusk, the entire Islamabad sky is dyed a soft orange-yellow, reflected on the white domes of
00:55:30the Faisal Mosque.
00:55:39Not bustling, not hurried, Islamabad carries a tranquil, solemn and sacred rhythm of life.
00:56:01The city stands out with three cultural and historical landmarks considered symbols of Pakistan.
00:56:08Against the clear sky, the Faisal Mosque rises with its traditional Islamic architecture.
00:56:18The mosque has no dome.
00:56:20Instead, its structure resembles a Bedouin tent, forming a unique religious icon in the heart of the city.
00:56:40Not far away stands the Pakistan Monument, a national memorial shaped like four stone petals.
00:56:52Each petal represents a major province of the country, converging at the center as a symbol of unity.
00:57:07Lastly, there is the Loch Versa Museum, home to over 25,000 artifacts, from garments and musical instruments to handcrafted
00:57:21artworks, showcasing the diversity of ethnic communities across the nation.
00:57:33Exploring Islamabad is a journey through the layers of Pakistan's cultural and historical heritage.
00:57:48Exploring Islamabad is a part of Pakistan's cultural heritage.
00:57:49Standing at the Faisal Mosque and looking over the city, you will be overwhelmed and deeply moved by its natural
00:57:56beauty and architecture.
00:58:01More than that, you will find serenity and inner peace through the spiritual depth of the mosque.
00:58:18From Shakarparian Hill, the Pakistan Monument opens like a giant stone flower.
00:58:24Here, you'll have the chance to discover Pakistan's historical narratives carved into every inscription and sculpture.
00:58:46At Loch Versa Museum, you'll be guided into a world of folk melodies, traditional costumes, and exquisite handmade relics.
00:59:01As evening falls, you can visit the ancient village of Saidpur, where old architecture blends with modern life.
00:59:12Traces of major religions such as Islam, Hinduism, and Sikhism still remain in every narrow alley and on the rooftops
00:59:22of ancient houses.
00:59:36Faisal Mosque
00:59:37Faisal Mosque
00:59:53Faisal Mosque
00:59:54Leaving the city center, the taxi gently turns into the white stone courtyard of Faisal Mosque, the largest mosque in
01:00:02Pakistan.
01:00:15The moment you step out of the car, you'll feel the scent of flowers drifting through the serene and open
01:00:22space, bringing an unexpected sense of peace and tranquility.
01:00:34Unlike traditional Islamic architecture, Faisal Mosque features a flat pyramid shape, inspired by Bedouin tents of the Middle Eastern deserts.
01:00:46Four tall minarets rise proudly at each corner, sharp and majestic like watchtowers reaching for the blue sky.
01:01:05The entire structure is clad in white marble, making the mosque seem to glow under the dazzling sunlight.
01:01:16In the afternoon, when sunlight streams through the minarets, their shadows stretch across the white-tiled courtyard, like a mesmerizing
01:01:26abstract painting.
01:01:36A gentle breeze glides through the corridors, carrying the resonant chants of the Qur'an, adding to the sacred ambiance.
01:01:53Inside, a massive chandelier hanging in the main hall becomes a striking focal point against the soaring ceiling.
01:02:02Luxurious, soft red carpets line the floor, cradling every step of the visitors.
01:02:19Surrounding the mosque are neatly trimmed lawns and flower gardens, blooming vibrantly in all seasons.
01:02:37From afar, the mosque appears like a glowing gem, nestled in the heart of Islamabad.
01:02:50Faisal Mosque is a vital religious and cultural symbol of Islamabad and of Pakistan as a whole.
01:03:08The structure was completed in 1986 and designed by Turkish architect Vedat Delokai.
01:03:17In contrast to traditional domed architecture, the mosque takes the shape of a Bedouin tent in the desert.
01:03:40Locals often say, you haven't truly visited Islamabad until you've set foot in Faisal Mosque.
01:03:47This saying reflects the deep pride Pakistanis hold for this architectural masterpiece.
01:04:02Faisal Mosque also serves as a community space for the people of Islamabad.
01:04:08Elderly residents often come here to pray in silence.
01:04:14The white stone courtyard in front of the mosque is where children come to play.
01:04:31As soon as you step inside Faisal Mosque, you'll be drawn to its pure white exterior, standing out against the
01:04:38vivid blue sky.
01:04:42Within the main hall, the cool air and faint scent of incense offer an oddly soothing and refreshing sensation.
01:04:52You may stroll leisurely, admiring the intricate Arabic motifs decorating the walls and ceilings.
01:05:04In the afternoon, the number of visitors and worshippers increases, yet the space remains peaceful and solemn.
01:05:20As the sun sets behind the hills, you can sit on the lawn outside, sip tea and watch the golden
01:05:27glow of sunset bathe the mosque's roof.
01:05:37Muzaffarabad City
01:05:54Muzaffarabad City
01:05:56You can take a bus or drive about 140 kilometers northeast, following winding mountain roads to Muzaffarabad.
01:06:13Muzaffarabad sits at an altitude of about 737 meters on the Potohar Plateau, surrounded by pine-covered and oak-covered
01:06:23hills.
01:06:30Muzaffarabad City
01:06:31The city has a humid climate. Summers are mild with highs around 32 degrees Celsius, while winters bring light snow
01:06:39to the high mountain peaks.
01:06:50Muzaffarabad City
01:06:50Forests make up about 60% of the area around the city, with deodar cedar, persimmon olive, spruce, and walnut
01:07:06trees.
01:07:09One of the most striking landscapes in Muzaffarabad is where the Neelam and Jellam rivers meet.
01:07:17This confluence is called De Maile, considered the heart of the city.
01:07:26The gentle waters flow between green hills, creating a scene that is both poetic and powerful.
01:07:45The road along the river leads you to Red Fort, an ancient fortress built in the 16th century, and completed
01:07:53in 1646.
01:08:04From here, you can climb a low hill to enjoy a panoramic view of the city.
01:08:10Muzaffarabad embodies a beautiful blend of nature and cultural heritage.
01:08:16To this day, it preserves many historical sites, cultural imprints, and traditional lifestyles tied to the era of Sultan Muzaffar
01:08:26Khan.
01:08:36The city is not only a place to enjoy fresh, peaceful air, but also a place to explore ancient relics
01:08:45and local cultural life.
01:08:54Muzaffarabad was founded in 1646 by Sultan Muzaffar Khan, the leader of the Bamba tribe.
01:09:05He was also the one who built the Red Fort to protect the border region.
01:09:19Muzaffarabad's culture is a diverse blend of the Pahari Potwari, Godri, and Kashmiri communities.
01:09:30Folk tales are still passed down during cozy conversations by the fireplace.
01:09:41However, the tradition of storytelling is gradually fading under the pressure of urbanization and modern technology.
01:10:00The locals are known for their hospitality and strong sense of community.
01:10:05They often gather at the bustling Medina market, or visit historic sites like the Red Fort and ancient Sikh temples,
01:10:22which preserve traces of a time of multi-faith and cultural exchange.
01:10:31When you arrive in Muzaffarabad, you will clearly feel the fusion between wild nature and profound cultural heritage.
01:10:48Start your journey with a trek up Pircinasi, a hilltop about 2,900 meters high, offering panoramic views of the
01:11:06entire city.
01:11:10Then you can go boating along the Neelam River, watching the shimmering waters reflect the majestic mountains, and savoring the
01:11:19serenity in every breath.
01:11:27Back in the city center, the Red Fort stands as a timeless relic on the hillside.
01:11:43A little farther away is Machiara National Park.
01:11:48Forest trails lead you deep into the dense vegetation.
01:11:58You might encounter flying squirrels, forest birds, and even snow leopards or Himalayan brown bears.
01:12:11To explore daily life of the locals, visit the local markets such as Bazaar or Medina market.
01:12:21You'll be drawn into the vibrant rhythm of life among colorful rows of stalls.
01:12:36Ripe, juicy fruits and exquisite handmade crafts are sold right on rustic brick floors, making the space feel both simple
01:12:46and enchanting.
01:12:58Lippa Valley
01:13:15Lippa Valley
01:13:16From the east of the west of the west, the jeep veers eastward, winding along the mountain road through Reshian
01:13:21town.
01:13:27After the final bend, Lippa Valley softly unfolds.
01:13:33Peaceful and serene, like an ink wash, painting nestled in the heart of Kashmir's mountains.
01:13:51At an altitude of over 1,900 meters, Lipa is one of the most beautiful and untouched
01:14:00valleys in Azad Kashmir.
01:14:08The entire valley is cloaked in a soothing shade of green.
01:14:14Terraced rice fields gracefully curve along the hillsides.
01:14:20Nestled between towering pine trees are apple orchards heavy with ripe fruit.
01:14:38Below, gentle streams quietly weave through wildflower-covered patches bursting in vibrant
01:14:45hues.
01:14:53Traditional Kashmiri wooden houses with sloping roofs rest peacefully amid the fields and
01:14:59gardens.
01:15:06In the afternoon, wisps of kitchen smoke drift lazily from rooftops, blending with the white
01:15:13clouds that meander over the mountaintops.
01:15:23In autumn, the entire valley blazes with the fiery orange-yellow of maple leaves and clusters
01:15:34of crimson apples.
01:15:41The shifting patches of color in the wind create a scene as vivid as an oil painting.
01:15:51In winter, snow blankets the valley, transforming Lipa into a little Switzerland of Kashmir, a name
01:16:04affectionately given to this land by travelers from afar.
01:16:15Lipa's wildlife is also diverse.
01:16:17In the forest patches, mountain goats leap across rocks, and finches chirp joyfully in the treetops.
01:16:33If you're lucky, you might spot the footprints of a Himalayan black bear imprinted in the damp
01:16:38earth at the forest's edge.
01:16:45Agriculture is the main livelihood for Lipa's residents.
01:16:50Rice, apples, and walnuts are the primary sources of income.
01:17:12In addition, locals continue traditional crafts such as wool weaving, pottery,
01:17:28and wild honey harvesting.
01:17:38Every household keeps a wooden loom where warm scarves are skillfully woven by hand.
01:17:53Lipa Valley offers a quiet, yet deeply moving journey.
01:17:58As you approach Lipa village or Chananian town, a sense of peace emanates from each traditional
01:18:05Kashmiri rooftop.
01:18:15Each step brings you closer to the local way of life.
01:18:24And don't forget to try the white honey, a renowned delicacy of the region.
01:18:30It's flavor is sweet and gentle, a precious gift bestowed by the forests and mountains to the people here.
01:18:54Neelam Valley
01:18:55Neelam Valley
01:19:08From Lipa Valley, the journey continues along the winding road that runs beside the Neelam River.
01:19:20The jeep glides over small wooden bridges spanning creeks, passing quiet villages nestled beneath shady trees.
01:19:36Then, Neelam Valley slowly emerges like a soft blue ribbon stretched across the land and sky of Pakistan.
01:19:52Neelam Valley
01:19:53The Neelam River flows gently and peacefully through the valley.
01:19:57The water is so clear you can see every pebble on the riverbed.
01:20:12Neelam Valley
01:20:13On both sides of the river, charming little wooden houses with dark brown plank roofs cling to the mountainsides.
01:20:28Neelam Valley
01:20:29In the distance rise towering mountains, their peaks snow-covered year-round, casting long shadows over the terraced fields below.
01:20:44Neelam Valley
01:20:45On sunny days, sunlight filtering through the trees dances on the river surface, sparkling like crystal.
01:20:58Neelam Valley
01:20:59The atmosphere here is calm and serene.
01:21:01Only birdsong echoing from the cliffs and the gentle murmur of streams break the silence.
01:21:14Neelam Valley
01:21:15Nicknamed the turquoise gem of Pakistan, Neelam Valley enchants not only with its natural beauty, but also with a rich
01:21:24cultural heritage passed down through generations.
01:21:35Each year during spring and autumn, the people of Neelam hold traditional folk festivals.
01:21:46On grassy banks along the Neelam River or at the foot of hills ablaze with golden leaves.
01:21:57They gather to sing and dance around crackling bonfires.
01:22:14Drums, flutes and laughter blend into an atmosphere both sacred and warm.
01:22:21Children huddle together, listening to elders recount Kashmir's fairy tales.
01:22:26legends of sacred mountains, dense forests, and guardian spirits of the valley.
01:22:46Neelam Valley is a place where you can momentarily set aside the rush of life and step into another world.
01:23:01The journey begins by winding through small villages scattered along the hillsides.
01:23:13In Cairan Village, you can hear the swift flow of the Neelam River echoing through rocky crevices.
01:23:24Bringing fresh air and cool mist.
01:23:32You might visit ancient sites such as Sharda Peeth, remnants of a former center of learning nestled deep in the
01:23:40forested mountains.
01:23:44As you step on moss-covered stone steps, you'll sense time's breath still lingering in the quiet air.
01:24:01And if you're fond of adventure, you can hike to majestic waterfalls like Dhani, the highest waterfall in the valley.
01:24:13Here, cascading streams create a misty white curtain amidst the lush green landscape.
01:24:26Rati Ghali Lake
01:24:44Rati Ghali Lake
01:24:46The bike demands patience and endurance.
01:24:50Jeeps can only take you to a resting point at the foot of the mountain.
01:24:55From there, you must switch to a dirt bike to traverse a narrow, rugged path, then continue trekking through the
01:25:02forest.
01:25:13Rati Ghali Lake
01:25:14But upon reaching Rati Ghali Lake, the scene before you makes all fatigue instantly disappear.
01:25:31Rati Ghali Lake
01:25:32Rati Ghali Lake appears like a sapphire gem resting quietly in the embrace of snow-capped mountains.
01:25:42The deep, icy emerald water reflects the sky and drifting layers of thin clouds.
01:25:56Surrounding the lake is a lush green meadow dotted with tiny yet radiant wildflowers.
01:26:13The snow-covered peaks silently encircle the lake, as if guarding a sacred secret in the highlands.
01:26:31At Rati Ghali, all human sounds seem to fade away.
01:26:37Only the whisper of the wind rustling through the grass or gliding softly over the lake remains.
01:26:54The locals fondly call Rati Ghali Lake, the heaven's mirror of Kashmir.
01:27:06According to ancient legend, on full moon nights, if you stand by the lake and listen closely, you might hear
01:27:14songs echoing from beneath.
01:27:16They are said to be the melodies of fairies from Kashmiri folklore.
01:27:24It is believed that they dwell in the valleys surrounding the lake, leaving behind their songs as sacred traces.
01:27:40Rati Ghali Lake is one of those places where you can touch the very edge of serenity.
01:27:52The lakeside is an ideal spot to pitch a tent, light a small fire, and enjoy a peaceful night in
01:28:00the heart of nature.
01:28:13The quiet space, star-filled sky, and gentle cold breeze make it feel as though you're living a moment that
01:28:22will never repeat.
01:28:31By day, you can stroll through meadows filled with countless species of wildflowers like primulas, potentillas, or gentians.
01:28:55If lucky, you might spot the Himalayan monal pheasant or glimpse a Kashmiri deer hiding in the bushes.
01:29:17The
01:29:18You
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