Overview: Face to Face with Nanga Parbat
Fairy Meadows, known locally as Joot, is a forested meadow at around 3,300 m at the foot of Nanga Parbat, one of the highest mountains on Earth. From the meadow, the mountain’s northern face fills the skyline above the Raikot glacier. It became a national park in 1995. Getting there is part of the story, and it’s why the place still feels remote.
From Raikot Bridge on the Karakoram Highway, a local jeep climbs a narrow, steep track to Tato village. From there you walk: about 6 km uphill through pine forest, gaining roughly 1,100 m, typically in 3 to 4 hours. At the top you stay two nights in simple wooden cottages, with a full day for the walk towards Beyal and the glacier viewpoints, or for simply sitting and watching the light change on the face.
This is our most active trip, but it isn’t technical, and no mountaineering experience is needed. Accommodation at the meadow is basic, and we say so plainly. If the hike isn’t right for your group, tell us and we’ll suggest a trip that is.
Tour Highlights
- Nanga Parbat's north face above the meadow, weather permitting
- The Raikot Bridge to Tato jeep track, one of the most dramatic in the region
- A forest hike of about 6 km up to the meadow, at around 3,300 m
- Two nights at the meadow, for sunset, sunrise and a clear night sky
- An optional day walk towards Beyal and the glacier viewpoints
- Private transport and planning from the start of your trip to the end
