Minimarg
Minimarg is a beautiful village located in the Astore District of Gilgit-Baltistan. It lies close to Taobat in Azad Jammu & Kashmir, on the right bank of the river. Before the partition of the subcontinent, it served as an ancient trade route between Gilgit and Srinagar. Today, Minimarg stands as one of Pakistan’s most stunning valleys, offering visitors a mix of natural beauty, calm surroundings, and glimpses of local culture.
The valley is surrounded by green meadows, flowing streams, and snow-covered mountains. The famous Burzil Pass (or Burzil Top) lies on the way to Minimarg and is considered one of the most breathtaking mountain passes in the region.
Burzil Top – The Gateway to Minimarg
Burzil Top is located at an altitude of 13,808 feet, and it truly feels like nature’s artwork. On the way to Minimarg, travelers often stop here to admire the view of flying snow and the wide, open mountains. The pass is covered in snow for most of the year, giving it a milky-white appearance that looks magical.
Due to military presence, cameras are not allowed at Burzil Top, and there is also a military post at the top. Despite the restrictions, the view from this point is something you’ll never forget — vast, calm, and full of wonder.
Beauty of Minimarg Valley
Once you pass Burzil Top, Minimarg welcomes you with its pure and untouched charm. The valley is quiet, full of greenery, and surrounded by tall mountains. The weather remains cold even in summer, with an average temperature around 10°C.
You’ll see freshwater springs, rolling clouds, and animals grazing in the open meadows. The area is home to small wooden huts and friendly locals dressed in warm, traditional wool shawls — giving you a feel of Kashmiri culture.
Minimarg’s calmness and simplicity make it a perfect spot for anyone who loves nature and peaceful surroundings.
Domail Valley – The Heart of Minimarg
Just 12 kilometers ahead of the Minimarg check post lies Domail Valley, another scenic gem of this region. As you drive toward Domail, tall trees line the road and colorful landscapes surround you. The journey feels quiet and dreamlike, as if time has slowed down.
In Domail, you’ll find the famous Rainbow Lake and Crystal Lake — both surrounded by lush green fields and mountain peaks. There’s also an Army Mess called “Sun Room”, where you can sit and enjoy tea and pakoras prepared by army cooks while admiring the lake’s view.
Rainbow Lake Minimarg
Rainbow Lake is about 55 kilometers from Chillam Check Post. It’s one of the most beautiful and well-maintained lakes in the region, managed under army supervision. The lake is surrounded by cedar trees, green fields, and snow-covered mountains.
The lake’s water is crystal clear and changes color depending on the light — from deep green to light blue. Boating is also available here, costing 200 rupees for children and 300 rupees for adults. It’s a peaceful experience to float on the calm waters with mountains all around.
The area is very clean, with dustbins placed everywhere, proper washrooms, and no litter at all — something rare in most tourist spots.
Crystal Lake
From Rainbow Lake, a 30 to 35-minute trek uphill leads to Crystal Lake. The name fits perfectly because the water is so clear that you can see the stones at the bottom. The path to the lake is filled with flowers and greenery, making the short hike enjoyable and refreshing.
Once you reach, you’ll see a fountain flowing down from the mountain, created by melting glaciers. The sight and sound of the water are incredibly peaceful. The fountain’s water looks white like milk, creating a magical scene that words can hardly describe.
Travel Route and Conditions
Minimarg is about 540 kilometers from Islamabad, and the journey takes around 17 hours by road. From Astore, you travel through Gorikot and Gadayi before reaching the Chillam Check Post. From there, the road divides — one side goes to Burzil Top and the other to Minimarg and Domail.
Because the valley is close to the Line of Control (LOC), it remains under army supervision. Until 2022, only army personnel were allowed to visit Minimarg, but it is now open for civilians. However, there are still some conditions for entry:
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Carry your original CNIC
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Only 4×4 jeeps are allowed (no motorbikes or small cars)
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Entry is not allowed after 4:00 PM
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For overnight stays, visitors must get permission from the Deputy Commissioner of Astore
Jeeps for rent are available at Chillam Check Post for 15,000 to 20,000 rupees, and you can share the ride with other tourists to reduce costs.
For accommodation, small guesthouses near Chillam offer rooms for 2,000 to 3,000 rupees per night. The distance from Chillam Check Post to Minimarg is about 48 kilometers, which usually takes 2 to 3 hours.
Personal Experience
Traveling through Minimarg feels like entering another world. The winding roads, pine trees, and peaceful atmosphere create memories that stay forever. The beauty here is simple yet deep — not crowded, not commercialized, just pure nature.
As one army plaque near the lake says:
“What is a lifetime adventure for you, is a daily routine for us.”
This perfectly describes the feeling you get while standing in this valley — a mix of respect, calm, and wonder.
Best Time to Visit Minimarg
The best time to visit Minimarg and Domail Valley is from June to August, when the snow melts and roads are open. The weather remains cool and pleasant, making it the perfect season to explore the area’s lakes, meadows, and mountain views.
Contact Us to Visit the Place
We at Repeatrip Tours organize tours to Minimarg Valley, Domail Valley, and Rainbow Lake with complete transport, 4×4 arrangements, and local guides.
Contact us to visit Minimarg and experience one of the most peaceful and naturally beautiful places in Gilgit-Baltistan.