Gilgit Baltistan – Pakistans Crown of the Mountains
Gilgit-Baltistan is Pakistan’s northernmost region and one of the world’s most spectacular mountain destinations. Covering approximately 72,971 square kilometers, it is home to some of the highest peaks, largest glaciers outside the polar regions, pristine alpine lakes, and breathtaking valleys on Earth.
Often referred to as the “Roof of Pakistan,” Gilgit-Baltistan is where the Karakoram, Himalaya, and Hindu Kush mountain ranges meet. The region is famous for its world-renowned trekking routes, vibrant local cultures, historic forts, crystal-clear rivers, and dramatic landscapes.
Home to five of the world’s fourteen peaks above 8,000 meters, including the legendary K2, Gilgit-Baltistan is a paradise for mountaineers, adventure travelers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts.
Gilgit-Baltistan is one of Pakistan’s most culturally diverse regions, with several ethnic communities preserving unique traditions, languages, music, festivals, and hospitality.
Languages
- Shina
- Balti
- Burushaski
- Wakhi
- Khowar
- Urdu
- English (widely spoken in tourist areas)
Cultural Highlights
- Traditional mountain hospitality
- Historic Silk Road heritage
- Folk music and dance
- Stone and wood architecture
- Polo festivals
- Traditional handicrafts
- Apricot orchards
Festivals
- Shandur Polo Festival
- Navroz
- Ginani Harvest Festival
- Independence Day
- Eid-ul-Fitr
- Eid-ul-Adha
1. Hunza Valley
One of Pakistan’s most famous valleys, known for snow-covered mountains, apricot blossoms, historic forts, and breathtaking scenery.
2. Skardu
The gateway to K2 and the Karakoram Mountains, Skardu offers beautiful lakes, deserts, forts, and world-class trekking opportunities.
3. Deosai National Park
Known as the “Land of Giants,” Deosai is one of the world’s highest plateaus and home to the endangered Himalayan Brown Bear, colorful wildflowers, and spectacular landscapes.
4. Attabad Lake
A stunning turquoise lake famous for boating, jet skiing, kayaking, and breathtaking mountain reflections.
5. Fairy Meadows
A world-famous alpine meadow offering unforgettable views of Nanga Parbat, Pakistan’s highest Himalayan peak.
6. Khunjerab Pass
The highest paved international border crossing in the world, connecting Pakistan and China through the Karakoram Highway.
7. Baltit Fort
A beautifully restored 700-year-old fort that served as the royal residence of the rulers of Hunza.
8. Shangrila Resort
Often called “Heaven on Earth,” Shangrila Resort surrounds Lower Kachura Lake and is one of Pakistan’s most iconic tourist destinations.
Gilgit-Baltistan preserves centuries of Silk Road history, Buddhist heritage, and traditional mountain architecture.
Major Heritage Sites
- Baltit Fort
- Altit Fort
- Shigar Fort
- Khaplu Palace
- Ancient Silk Road rock carvings
- Historic Buddhist archaeological sites
Gilgit-Baltistan contains some of the world’s most remarkable natural attractions.
Highlights
- K2 (8,611 m)
- Nanga Parbat (8,126 m)
- Rakaposhi
- Broad Peak
- Gasherbrum I & II
- Baltoro Glacier
- Biafo Glacier
- Hispar Glacier
- Attabad Lake
- Satpara Lake
- Sheosar Lake
Gilgit-Baltistan is Pakistan’s adventure capital.
Popular Activities
- Mountaineering
- Trekking
- Hiking
- Camping
- Jeep safaris
- Boating
- Rock climbing
- Glacier trekking
- Mountain biking
- Photography
- Wildlife watching
- Fishing
By Air
Visitors can arrive via:
- Gilgit Airport
- Skardu International Airport
Both airports offer regular flights from Islamabad, subject to weather conditions.
By Road
Gilgit-Baltistan is connected through:
- Karakoram Highway (N-35)
- Babusar Pass (seasonal)
- Skardu Road
- Deosai Road
- Shigar Road
Local Transport
- Tourist jeeps
- Rental SUVs
- Local taxis
- Guided tours
- Motorbike rentals
The official currency is the Pakistani Rupee (PKR).
Visitors can use:
- Cash (recommended in remote areas)
- Visa and Mastercard at major hotels
- Debit cards
- Mobile banking
- ATMs in Gilgit, Skardu, Hunza, and larger towns
Carry sufficient cash when traveling to villages or trekking destinations.
Gilgit-Baltistan is known for its handcrafted products and natural specialties.
Popular Shopping Areas
- Gilgit Bazaar
- Karimabad Bazaar
- Skardu Market
- Khaplu handicraft shops
- Shigar Market
What to Buy
- Pashmina shawls
- Gemstones
- Traditional Balti caps
- Handwoven carpets
- Organic apricot oil
- Dry fruits
- Walnut wood carvings
- Handmade jewelry
- Local embroidery
The region offers unique mountain cuisine prepared with fresh local ingredients.
Must-Try Dishes
- Chapshuro
- Mamtu (dumplings)
- Balay
- Diram Fitti
- Harissa
- Yak meat (seasonal)
- Trout Fish
- Buckwheat bread
Popular Drinks
- Apricot Juice
- Butter Tea
- Kehwa
- Herbal Tea
- Fresh mountain spring water
Popular Dining Areas
- Karimabad
- Gilgit City
- Skardu
- Khaplu
- Shigar
- Spend 7–10 days exploring Gilgit-Baltistan’s valleys and attractions.
- Carry layered clothing, as temperatures vary significantly with altitude.
- Acclimatize before visiting high-altitude areas above 3,000 meters.
- Book flights early, especially during the summer tourist season.
- Keep cash for remote destinations where digital payments may not be available.
- Respect local traditions and protect the region’s fragile mountain environment.
- Carry a camera—Gilgit-Baltistan offers some of the world’s most photogenic landscapes.
