Things To Do
in Chilas
Chilas is a town located in the Diamer District of Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. It serves as a major hub for travelers passing through the Karakoram Highway. The town is situated along the mighty Indus River and surrounded by stunning mountain ranges.
Chilas is known for its unique rock carvings dating back thousands of years, portraying images of animals, hunters, and rituals.
- "Salam" - Hello
- "Kya haal hai?" - How are you?
- "Shukriya" - Thank you
- "Maaf kijiye" - Excuse me/Sorry
- "Khuda hafiz" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $40
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $10
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $25
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a drive to the stunning Nanga Parbat Base Camp. Enjoy breathtaking views of the mountain and take plenty of photographs.
Have a picnic lunch amidst the beautiful scenery after hiking a few trails around the area. Take this time to soak in the natural beauty and tranquility.
Return to Chilas and savor a traditional dinner at a local restaurant. Reflect on the day's adventures while enjoying the local cuisine.
Set off early for a trek to the picturesque Fairy Meadows. Experience the lush greenery and serene atmosphere as you make your way up.
Reach the meadows and relax while taking in the stunning views of Nanga Parbat. Have lunch amidst the beautiful meadows, surrounded by nature.
Make your way back to Chilas, enjoying the sunset along the way. Treat yourself to a hearty dinner at your accommodation.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty with picturesque mountains and valleys
- Rich cultural heritage and diverse traditions
- Opportunities for outdoor activities like trekking and hiking
- Warm hospitality from the local people
- Less crowded tourist destination compared to other regions
- Limited access to modern amenities and services
- Challenging weather conditions, especially in winter
- Risks associated with travel in remote areas
- Infrastructure may be underdeveloped, affecting transportation
- Limited educational and healthcare facilities
Best Activities in Chilas
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful landscapes and challenging trails in the Chilas region by embarking on a trekking adventure.
Enjoy a tranquil and rewarding fishing experience along the banks of the majestic Indus River, known for its diverse fish species.
Immerse yourself in the stunning natural beauty of the Nanga Parbat Base Camp area by camping amidst the breathtaking scenery.
Places to Visit in Chilas
Visit one of these nice places.
Fairy Meadows offers stunning views of Nanga Parbat, the world's ninth-highest mountain, and provides excellent photo opportunities.
Babusar Top offers breathtaking landscapes and panoramic views of the surrounding valleys, making it an ideal location for photography enthusiasts.
Shangrila Resort, also known as the 'Heaven on Earth,' offers picturesque views of the surrounding mountains and a beautiful lake, making it a perfect spot for capturing memorable photographs.
Food in Chilas
Chilas Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A savory pastry filled with minced meat, onions, and local herbs, then baked or fried. It's a popular snack and can be found at local bakeries and street food stalls.
Must-Try!
A slow-cooked stew made with wheat, meat, and spices, often enjoyed during special occasions and festivals. Look for it in traditional local eateries or during cultural events.
A meaty stew cooked with local herbs and spices, often served with bread or rice. It's a staple dish and can be savored at family-run restaurants and guesthouses.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore the bustling Chilas Bazaar, where you can find a variety of street food vendors offering local delicacies such as skewered kebabs, samosas, and freshly baked breads like naan and chapati.
Visit the Khaplu Road Market to experience a vibrant array of street food options, including spiced potato fritters, steamed momos, and aromatic biryanis served by street vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Chilas, it is important to show respect for elders by using polite language and gestures, and by listening attentively to their advice and guidance.
It is considered respectful to dress modestly, especially for women, by covering arms, legs, and wearing traditional clothing when visiting public places or attending social events.
Greeting people with courtesy and demonstrating hospitality, such as offering tea or food when visiting someone's home, is a common and appreciated practice in Chilas culture.
Safety
Tipping in Chilas
Ensure a smooth experience
In Chilas, Pakistan, tipping is not a common practice. However, if you receive exceptional service at a restaurant or hotel, a small tip of around 5-10% of the bill may be appreciated.
Cash is the primary method of payment in Chilas, Pakistan. Credit and debit cards may not be widely accepted, so it's advisable to carry enough cash when visiting. Foreign currency exchange options may be limited, so it's best to have local currency on hand.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit with pleasant weather, blooming flowers, and clear skies. Good for outdoor activities and enjoying the natural beauty.
Another good time to visit with warm temperatures, ideal for trekking and exploring the surrounding mountains. The Indus River also offers opportunities for water activities.
Mild weather and the changing colors of the landscape make it a beautiful time to visit. Perfect for photography and enjoying the serene atmosphere.
Can be extremely cold with heavy snowfall, making it a challenging time to visit. However, the snow-capped mountains create a stunning picturesque view.
Chilas at Night
Hiking in Chilas
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A challenging trek that offers breathtaking views of Nanga Parbat, the ninth highest mountain in the world. The base camp trek is popular among adventurous hikers.
A stunning alpine meadow located at the base of Nanga Parbat, known for its picturesque views and lush scenery. It is accessible via a trek from Raikot Bridge.
A moderate trek that takes you through beautiful landscapes and lush greenery, leading to the serene Fairy Meadows.
While it's known for its scenic drive, there are several hiking trails in the surrounding areas that provide stunning views of the Karakoram mountain range.
This lake is surrounded by mountains and provides a great hiking opportunity, although it is a bit further away from Chilas.
Aiports
How to reach Chilas by plane.
Gilgit Airport is a domestic airport located in Gilgit, Pakistan. It serves as a gateway for travelers heading to the northern areas of Pakistan.
Skardu Airport is an airport in Skardu, Pakistan. It connects the region with domestic flights and serves as a starting point for tourism in the Northern Areas.
Islamabad International Airport is the main airport serving the capital city Islamabad. It offers international and domestic flights.
Peshawar International Airport is located in Peshawar, Pakistan. It serves as an international gateway to the northwestern region.
Lahore Allama Iqbal International Airport is located in Lahore, Pakistan. It is one of the largest airports in Pakistan, handling international and domestic flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A Tibetan ethnic group predominantly found in the Baltistan region, including Chilas. They speak the Balti language and are primarily Shia Muslims.
People from the Gilgit region who are also present in Chilas. They predominantly speak the Shina language and are mostly Ismaili and Nurbakhshi Muslims.
A group of people from the Kashmir region who have settled in Chilas. They primarily speak Kashmiri and are generally Sunni Muslims.
A group of Afghan origin found in various parts of Pakistan, including Chilas. They generally speak Pashto and adhere to Sunni Islam.
An ethnic group with origins in Afghanistan, present in some numbers in Chilas. They speak Hazaragi, a dialect of Dari Persian, and are mainly Shia Muslims.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A widely followed and played sport in Chilas, with local teams and tournaments being common.
Football is a popular sport in the region, enjoyed by many and played on various local fields.
With its scenic mountains, hiking attracts many outdoor enthusiasts and is considered a sport in the area.
Often played in schools and community events, volleyball is a popular team sport among the youth.
Local traditional sports, such as wrestling, are part of cultural events and competitions in Chilas.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Chilas.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While meat-centric, some eateries in Chilas offer vegetarian dishes such as daal (lentil curry), vegetable biryani, and fresh salads using locally sourced produce.
Vegan options can be more limited, but fruits, nuts, and simple dal recipes are likely to be available. It's recommended to communicate dietary preferences clearly to local chefs and cooks.
Rice-based dishes like steamed rice, biryani without wheat ingredients, and grilled meats can be suitable for gluten-free diets. Communication with the kitchen staff regarding dietary needs is essential.