Astore is one of the 10 districts of Gilgit Baltistan. Leaving Karakorum Highway near Thalichi and crossing Indus River, a 41 k.m long road winds through rough rocky mountains and takes us to Astore town, which is the capital of Astore district. Astore district is bordered by Diamar district on West, Gilgit district on North, Kashmir East & Skardu on North East.
Historically this route was a famous route between the Central Asian traders & preachers to Kashmir. Before the advent of Islam in this region this route was also used by the Buddhist missionaries who brought Buddhism in China, Japan & Korea.
The Astore valley has an area of 5,092 km² and an altitude of 2,600 metres (8,500 ft). The valley has an approximately 250 square kilometres (97 sq mi) of glacier cover. Nangaparbat mountain covers the western side of the valley . Peaks of Nangaparbat are visible from Rama Meadows, Rama Lake, Tarishing & Rupal. There are many treks around Nangaparbat, from easy to strenuous level leading including Mazeno Pass (17,579 feet). Mountaineering expeditions of Nangaparbat use this route, to climb from Rupal face.
Beside trekking options there are many other options available for the leisure travelers and they can visit Harcho Waterfall, Rama Lake, Rama Meadows, Tarishing & Deosai Plains. Tourists who will have permission from the Pak Army, can Minimurg. Minimurg is one of the most beautiful valley of Pakistan, which can rightly be said the Heaven on the Earth.
Overview
Astore, Rama Meadows, Rama Lake, Tarishing Valley, Nanga Parbat Rupal (Herrligkoffer) Base Camp, Deosai.
About Rupal (Herrligkoffer) Base Camp: