Diamer and Astore, Gilgit-Baltistan
Fairy Meadows & Nanga ParbatTravel Guide: Hotels, Car Rental & Tours
Nanga Parbat (8,126 m) is the ninth-highest mountain in the world and the western anchor of the Himalaya. Fairy Meadows, at about 3,300 m, is a grassy plateau facing its Raikot Face.
There is no road to Fairy Meadows itself. Visitors take a jeep from Raikot Bridge on the Karakoram Highway and then hike for a few hours, staying in wooden cabins or camping.
Fairy Meadows & Nanga Parbat at a glance
- Nanga Parbat
- 8,126 m, ninth-highest mountain on Earth
- Fairy Meadows
- About 3,300 m
- Access
- Jeep from Raikot Bridge, then a 2–3 hour hike
- Season
- About June to September
Things to do in Fairy Meadows & Nanga Parbat
Fairy Meadows
Meadow and forest camp with direct views of the Raikot Face of Nanga Parbat.
Beyal Camp
A higher meadow about 1–2 hours beyond Fairy Meadows.
Nanga Parbat Base Camp (Raikot side)
A full-day return hike from Fairy Meadows along the Raikot Glacier.
Rupal Face
The mountain’s south face, one of the tallest mountain walls in the world, reached from Tarashing in Astore.
Best time to visit Fairy Meadows & Nanga Parbat
June to September, when the jeep track and trail are open. Expect cold nights at any time of year.
How to get to Fairy Meadows & Nanga Parbat
Drive the Karakoram Highway to Raikot Bridge, about two hours south of Gilgit. Local jeeps run the narrow track to Tato or Jhel, about an hour, followed by a 2–3 hour hike (ponies are available).
Travel tips
- Only local jeeps are allowed on the Raikot track; leave your rental car at Raikot Bridge.
- Pack light for the hike and bring warm layers.
Car rental in Fairy Meadows & Nanga Parbat
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Fairy Meadows & Nanga Parbat FAQs
Can you drive to Fairy Meadows?
No. Jeeps go from Raikot Bridge to Tato or Jhel, and the final 2–3 hours to Fairy Meadows are on foot or by pony.
What is the best time to visit Fairy Meadows?
June to September. Outside this window the trail and accommodation are usually closed by snow.
How high is Nanga Parbat?
Nanga Parbat is 8,126 m high, the ninth-highest mountain in the world.