T R AV E L
W E L C O M E T O PA R A D I S E : M I N I M A R G
W hen I saw Minimarg valley for
the first time, I gazed deeply
into the most bewitching part of
Gilgit Baltistan, it dawned at me as if
it is the quintessence of heaven on
earth.
Certainly not an overstatement - one
should visit and see for themselves.
My journey started from Gilgit and
few friends also joined me on this
trip. it took 4 hours to reach Chillam
Chowki from Gilgit and the 5th hour
we reached the top of Burzil pass
which is located at elevation of
13,450ft and after crossing the Burzill
pass it took one more hour to reach
Minimerg Valley.
Minimarg ser ved as the per fect
prelude to the spectacular lakes and
roving green mountains of Domel
Valley which is just on 1 hour drive
from Minimerg. The valley has an
extraordinary strategic significance
because of its location, The village
served as a historic commerce route
connecting Gilgit and Srinagar. it
86 offers an experience like no other,
with views as far as the eye can see. Its
tranquil mountains, sparkling
streams, and serene meadows make it
an excellent destination for those
looking for peace. Due to Minimarg's
proximity near to LOC there are also
few restrictions, a special permit
issued by local government is
required for anyone travelling to
Minimerg, also visitors must have to
follow SOPs.
Our reservation was done already in
Army's guest house so we took a short
break in our room and decided do a
short walk to adjacent towns. what we
noticed the most is their houses
which are built completely from
wood. From their houses to shops
everything was planned according to
winter time when the whole region is
covered with snow. During our walk
we found a per fect spot with
360-degree view so we decided to stay
there for some time and watch the
sun setting behind the mountains, it
was truly such a peaceful time can
not be expressed in words. The next
day morning we left for Domel it was
the most beautiful one hour drive
that took us to to most beautiful part
of Pakistan.When we first saw
glimpses of Domel valley we
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were very happy as if we found a
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treasure.
Domel Valley: where the mountains bathed in the
glory of the rising sun receiving messages directly
from the heavens, soothing air rejuvenating the
entire soul and the beautiful snow swathed
landscapes displaying God’s objets d’art, contribute
making it the best natural attraction in Gilgit
Baltistan. It is hard to believe that this place exists
in Pakistan. The area is famous for its scenic and
unspoiled natural beauty, with lush green hills and
forests giving way to a breathtaking view of the
river below. There are abundant examples of
nature’s artistry all over this stunning valley.
There are two lake in Domel Valley 'Rainbow Lake'
and ' Crystal Lake'. The Rainbow lake is a unique
natural wonder in the area and worth visiting if you
ever pass through the valley. The lake is beautiful
with its sky blue water and white ripples created by
the breeze and some magnificent plants around it.
The best time to visit this place would be during
the summer when the water level goes up, and one
can easily walk around. Another breathtaking
place to visit is Crystal Lake. The lake is surrounded
by hills and greenery, creating an air of splendour.
It’s a perfect spot for picnics and meditation!
Domel also offers an abundance of forests, rivers,
and streams for fishing and other outdoor
activities.
The winter snow on the mountain slopes provides
the water for these lakes. One cannot help but feel
completely overwhelmed with serenity when
visiting this incredible natural valley with jaw-
dropping scenery. We spent a complete day in
Domel and explored it the best way we can and
then travelled back to Minimerg. This is one of the
best trip i have ever had in my life. In short, this
part of Gilgit Balistan is like heaven on earth. In
addition to the stunning views, it is worthwhile to
visit for the calm and tranquility of the place. It is a
beautiful place to visit and to experience something
spectacular in the middle of nowhere.
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PHOTOS & TEXT: BASIT ALI