Fairy Meadows, known locally as “Joot” and by German mountaineers as “Märchenwiese” (fairy tale meadows), is a grassland in Pakistan’s Gilgit-Baltistan region. Situated in the Diamer District, it sits at 3,300 meters (10,826 feet) above sea level and serves as a base camp for those climbing Nanga Parbat.
Fairy Meadows features grassy plains, alpine forests, and glacial streams from Nanga Parbat. It is where the Hindu Kash, Karakoram, and Himalayan mountain ranges meet. It provides views of Nanga Parbat, the world’s ninth-highest peak, also known as the “Killer Mountain.” Access involves a 15-kilometer jeep ride from Raikot Bridge on the Karakoram Highway to Tattu village, followed by a 5-kilometer hike of three to four hours. The jeep track is considered the second deadliest road in the world.
Popular activities include hiking to Bayal Camp and Nanga Parbat Base Camp, camping, and rock climbing. The tourist season runs from April to September. Visitors can stay in cabins or campsites.
The area has pine forests with diverse bird and wildlife species. Plant life includes Pinus Wallichiana, Picea Smithiana, and Abies pindrow trees, brown bears, and musk deer.
