Summer in Pakistan can feel endless — dry heat in the south, humidity in the east. But the good news? Pakistan is a diverse country, with a variety of different topographies, allowing for plenty of places up north and in the hills where you can beat the heat without putting such a big dent in your pocket .
If you’re looking for a cool break from this never-ending heatwave and do not want to go broke in the process, here are some amazing local places across Pakistan that offer the perfect escape; fresh air, beautiful views, and a welcome escape from the chaos of the city.
1. Swat Valley (Kalam, Bahrain, Malam Jabba)
A location that has been becoming a popular tourist spot, Swat is green, peaceful, and doesn’t need a luxury budget. Kalam is cool even in peak summer, and Bahrain has cheap hotels right by the river. Malam Jabba has a chairlift if you’re into that, but just being in the mountains is enough.
Food: Try the trout!
- Hunza Valley
Hunza is magical — and yes, it’s become trendy. But if you avoid the high-end hotels and stay in smaller guesthouses, it’s still very doable. Go off-season (late May or early September) and you’ll get good prices and great weather.
️ Must-see: Passu Cones, Attabad Lake, Altit & Baltit Forts
- Shogran & Siri Paye
Shogran is small, peaceful, and surrounded by forest. You’ll need a jeep to get to Siri Paye, but the green meadows and foggy hills are worth it. This one’s great for short trips on a tight budget.
Tip: Team up with others to split the jeep fare.
- Neelum Valley
Azad Kashmir’s crown jewel. Neelum’s cool, calm, and not yet fully commercial. Keran and Kutton are nice and cheap. Arang Kel takes a bit of hiking, but once you’re there, it’s unreal.
Budget stays: Around PKR 1,500–3,000/night
- Chitral & Kalash
Chitral is a bit farther out, but totally worth it. The Kalash Valleys — especially Bumburet — are peaceful and different from anywhere else in Pakistan. You’ll find cheap homestays and welcoming locals.
Good for: Culture lovers, slow travelers
- Naran & Lake Saif-ul-Mulook
Yes, it gets crowded. But Naran still works on a budget if you avoid peak season. You can find rooms starting around PKR 2,000. Don’t miss Lake Saif-ul-Mulook — take the jeep, or hike it if you’re up for a challenge.
Best time: Early June or late August
- Murree (Off the Main Strip)
Murree’s main town is packed and pricey. But go a little off-track — places like Patriata or New Murree — and things calm down. It’s cooler, quieter, and lighter on the wallet.
☁️ Bonus: It’s close to Islamabad, so transport is cheap.
- Leepa Valley
A hidden gem in Azad Kashmir. Wooden homes, cool breezes, and barely any tourists. The road isn’t great, but the beauty makes up for it. Lodges are simple, but super affordable.
Perfect for: Nature photographers, couples
- Skardu (if planned smartly)
Skardu’s big. There’s a desert, lakes, glaciers — it’s a lot. NATCO buses from Rawalpindi are cheap. Stay in small inns or homestays, and you can keep it affordable. The views? Unreal.
Must-see: Deosai Plains, Satpara Lake, Shigar Fort
- Fairy Meadows
This one’s a bit wild. Jeep ride, then hike — and suddenly you’re staring at Nanga Parbat. If you like camping and don’t need fancy stuff, it’s cheap and unforgettable.
⛺ Camp costs: Around PKR 1,000–2,500 per night
Quick Budget Tips
- Travel in groups – cheaper rides, shared rooms.
- Eat local – skip cafés, go for dhaba food.
- Take buses – NATCO, Faisal Movers, Skyways all go up north.
- Avoid weekends – prices go up when the crowds roll in.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need a five-star hotel or a big bank account to enjoy the best of Pakistan in summer. With a little research and flexibility, you can stay cool, spend less, and come home with stories that last a lifetime.
So, pack light, plan smart, and take the road north. Summer doesn’t have to be expensive — not if you know where to go.