
Crossing the Sher Qila bridge is not a piece of cake
Pakistan, asia
N/A
131 m
moderate
Year-round
Okay, picture this: you're cruising through Pakistan's stunning Ghizer Valley in Gilgit-Baltistan, right? Suddenly, you're face-to-face with the Sherqila Suspension Bridge, a total showstopper! This isn't your average bridge, folks. We're talking about a 430-foot-long wooden suspension bridge swaying over the mighty Gilgit River. And if you're up for more adventure, take the wild paved road to Karakar Pass. Be warned, though: the Braldu Valley Road is supposedly the scariest of them all. This is one trip where the views are epic, but you might just need a serious dose of courage, too!
Where is it?
Crossing the Sher Qila bridge is not a piece of cake is located in Pakistan (asia). Coordinates: 29.2913, 69.4302
Road Details
- Country
- Pakistan
- Continent
- asia
- Max Elevation
- 131 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Coordinates
- 29.2913, 69.4302
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