The Bar Valley, a collective name for the Dainter and Garamsai River Valleys, originates west of the Batura mountain (7,785 m) in the Karakoram Mountain Range, and slopes down to the Barkot Village, a few kilometers upstream the Bola Das River.
Bar is one of the many narrow, steep mountain valleys in the heart of the Karakorams. On its South-East side, the majestic Rakaposhi towers at 7789 m and in the North, the Batura overlooks the valley from 7785m. Over a dozen other equally impressive peaks around the Bar area are over 7600 m. high.
To reach the Bar Valley one has to fly or drive in to Gilgit from Islamabad. From Gilgit traveling North up the Karakoram Highway (KKH) for 49kms, you turn off onto a jeepable road from Chalt driving another 22kms to arrive at Barkot, the main village in the valley.
Get a glimpse of ancient customs, as well as cultural and historical events, through traditional dances and songs. Watch a thrilling game of traditional Polo, played with extraordinary stamina and skill, given the high altitude of the playground.
Scenic spots are reserved for camping, and tents are accessible on rent. Clean, basic accommodation is also made available by the villagers in their traditional homes.
Varying high and medium altitude treks lead to adjoining valleys and glaciers. One is treated to spectacular views of the valley at every point.
The World Wide Fund for Nature, Pakistan has been involved in a Sustainable Wildlife use Project based on utilization and management of the Siberian Ibex (Capra ibex sibirica) population, in collaboration with the local community. Benefits from income generating activities of this project go to the community that promotes development activities in the region.
Main Tree Species: Juniper (Juniperus excelsa), Birch (Betula utilis). Willow (Salix acmophylla), Ash (Fraxinus hookeri).
Important Animal Species: Siberian Ibex (Capra ibex siberica) Snow Leopard (Panthera uncia), Brown Bear (Ursus arctos).
Important Bird Species: Chukar / Snow Partridge (Alectoris Chukar), Ram chukar / Snowcock (Tetraogallus Himalayensis), Owl (Bubo bubo), Grey Heron Ardea cinerea).