Things To Do
in Gilgit
Gilgit is a picturesque city located in northern Pakistan, surrounded by stunning mountain ranges and lush green valleys. It serves as the capital of Gilgit-Baltistan region and is a popular destination for tourists interested in trekking, mountaineering, and exploring the Karakoram Highway. The city is known for its diverse cultural heritage, with influences from various ethnic groups such as Shina, Brushaski, and Wakhi.
Visitors can also experience the vibrant bazaars, traditional handicrafts, and warm hospitality of the locals in Gilgit.
- "Salam" - Hello
- "Kya haal hai?" - How are you?
- "Shukriya" - Thank you
- "Maaf kijiye" - Excuse me/Sorry
- "Khuda hafiz" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.30 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $10 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the stunning Gilgit Valley, where breathtaking landscapes await you. Take a leisurely walk and capture the views of the surrounding mountains.
Head to the ancient Gilgit Fort, where you can learn about the rich history of the region. Enjoy a traditional lunch at a local restaurant nearby.
As the sun sets, stroll along the Gilgit River and enjoy the serene environment. Relax at a local café while sipping on Pakistani tea.
Visit Naltar Valley in the morning, known for its vibrant blue lakes and lush greenery. Enjoy a short hike to immerse yourself in nature.
Have a picnic lunch by one of the lakes and soak in the peaceful surroundings. Try some local fruits and snacks for a true taste of the region.
Return to Gilgit and unwind at your accommodation. Spend your evening enjoying traditional music or games with locals.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Breathtaking natural beauty, including mountains, rivers, and valleys.
- Rich cultural heritage with diverse ethnic groups and traditions.
- Opportunities for adventure tourism, such as trekking, mountaineering, and river rafting.
- Low pollution levels and a tranquil environment.
- Unique local cuisine with traditional food options.
- Limited infrastructure and access to basic services in remote areas.
- Harsh weather conditions, particularly in winter, which can lead to isolation.
- Political instability and security concerns in certain regions.
- Challenges in healthcare and educational facilities compared to urban centers.
- Limited job opportunities, leading to economic difficulties for residents.
Best Activities in Gilgit
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Experience breathtaking views and diverse landscapes while trekking through the stunning Naltar Valley, known for its beautiful lakes and lush green forests.
Embark on a challenging yet rewarding trek to the K2 Base Camp, witnessing some of the tallest peaks in the world and experiencing the sheer beauty of the Karakoram range.
Enjoy an exhilarating rafting experience in Hunza River, surrounded by majestic mountains and vibrant local culture.
Set up camp at Fairy Meadows for a magical outdoor experience with stunning views of Nanga Parbat, one of the highest peaks in Pakistan.
Capture the stunning landscapes and unique rock formations of Passu Cones, a photographers' paradise with its dramatic scenery.
Explore the rugged terrain and picturesque vistas of Ghizer Valley on a mountain biking adventure, suitable for various skill levels.
Travel to one of the highest international border crossings in the world at Khunjerab Pass and enjoy the unique experience of standing at such altitude.
Relax and unwind while fishing in the clear waters of the Hunza River, known for its rich aquatic life.
Places to Visit in Gilgit
Visit one of these nice places.
A stunning valley known for its breathtaking mountain landscapes, lush greenery, and charming villages. Perfect for panoramic views and photography.
Offers significant historical architecture and stunning views of Rakaposhi and the surrounding Hunza Valley. A great spot for photography at sunset.
Iconic peaks resembling pointed cones that create a dramatic backdrop, ideal for capturing striking landscape photographs.
A stunning blue lake formed after a landslide, surrounded by mountains. It provides various angles for unique photos, especially with its vibrant colors.
Famous for its colorful lakes and scenic views, ideal for nature photography and experiencing the serene beauty of the region.
The highest paved international border crossing in the world, offering stunning views of the Karakoram Range and expansive landscapes.
A grassland near Nanga Parbat, providing breathtaking views of the mountain and surrounding scenery. An excellent place for capturing the raw beauty of nature.
Known as the 'Land of Giants,' it features vast plains, diverse wildlife, and stunning mountain vistas perfect for adventure and nature photography.
Offers a unique blend of lush green scenery and river views, providing picturesque photo opportunities along the Indus River.
A thrilling sky bridge providing stunning aerial views of the valley below and perfect for unique photography with a modern touch.
Food in Gilgit
Gilgit Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A savory pastry filled with minced meat, onions, and local spices, then baked or fried. Must-try at Shahi Durbar restaurant.
Must-Try!
A nourishing and aromatic meat broth seasoned with local herbs and served with rice. Available at local eateries and dhabas across Gilgit.
A traditional dish made with meat, wheat, and local mountain roots, slow-cooked to perfection. Best found at local homes or in specialized traditional restaurants.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore the bustling Main Bazaar to find a variety of street food such as kebabs, samosas, and freshly made tandoori bread. Sample authentic flavors and immerse yourself in the local food scene.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Gilgit, it's customary to greet others warmly. Use phrases such as 'As-Salaam-Alaikum' (peace be upon you) when meeting someone. Awkwardness is avoided by showing respect to elders and asking about their well-being.
Dress modestly, especially in rural areas. Women often wear loose-fitting clothes that cover their arms and legs, while men should avoid shorts. Respecting local attire standards shows appreciation for cultural norms.
Gilgit people are known for their hospitality. If invited to someone's home, it's polite to accept and bring a small gift, such as sweets or fruit. When offered food or drink, it’s respectful to accept, even if only a small amount.
Safety
Tipping in Gilgit
Ensure a smooth experience
In Gilgit, tipping is a common practice, especially in the hospitality sector. People often leave tips for hotel staff, guides, and restaurant workers as a token of appreciation for good service. The amount typically varies and is influenced by the quality of service received, but small amounts are generally accepted. It is seen as a way to acknowledge the hard work and effort of service providers.
Payment practices in Gilgit often involve cash transactions, as credit and debit card facilities may not be widely available in all areas. Local markets and small shops primarily prefer cash payments. However, with the growth of tourism and improved infrastructure, some establishments are beginning to accept digital payments through mobile apps or online platforms. It is advisable for visitors to carry sufficient cash, especially in remote areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) is one of the best times to visit Gilgit. The weather is mild with blooming flowers and lush greenery. Visitors can enjoy pleasant temperatures, making it ideal for trekking and outdoor activities.
Summer (June to August) is peak tourist season in Gilgit. The weather is warm and sunny, providing perfect conditions for hiking and exploring the natural beauty of the region. However, it can get crowded at popular tourist spots.
Autumn (September to November) offers stunning views as the leaves change color. The weather is cool and crisp, making it a great time for photography and enjoying the tranquil environment. This season sees fewer tourists compared to summer.
Winter (December to February) is cold, with snowfall in higher altitudes. While it may be less popular for trekking, winter offers the chance for winter sports and experiencing a peaceful, snow-covered landscape, though some roads may be closed due to snow.
Gilgit at Night
Hiking in Gilgit
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning plateau near Nanga Parbat, offering breathtaking views and a base for trekking. It's known for its lush green grasslands and beautiful scenery.
Famous for its picturesque landscapes and various trekking routes, Hunza Valley provides access to multiple trails, including the trek to Ultar Sar.
A pristine alpine lake located in the Neelum Valley, ideal for a moderate hike and surrounded by stunning mountain views.
Known for its colorful lakes and scenic beauty, Naltar offers various hiking trails, including routes leading to the picturesque Naltar Lakes.
Located near Skardu, these lakes are perfect for hiking and offer stunning views. The trails around the lakes are surrounded by lush greenery and inspiring landscapes.
Aiports
How to reach Gilgit by plane.
The main international airport serving Islamabad, the capital city of Pakistan, located approximately 600 kilometers from Gilgit.
An international airport serving Peshawar, located around 550 kilometers from Gilgit.
An international airport in Lahore, located about 800 kilometers from Gilgit.
Located in Peshawar, around 550 kilometers from Gilgit and offers domestic and international flights.
Sialkot International Airport is located approximately 750 kilometers from Gilgit.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The Burusho people are primarily found in the Hunza Valley and speak the Burushaski language, which is unique to their community.
The Shina people mainly reside in the Gilgit district and speak the Shina language. They are one of the largest ethnic groups in the region.
The Balti people are predominantly found in the Skardu area and speak the Balti language, a Tibetic language derived from Old Tibetan.
The Khowar people, also known as Chitrali, are mainly located in the Gilgit and Chitral districts and speak the Khowar language.
The Wakhi people are found in the Upper Hunza region, and they speak the Wakhi language, which is a member of the Eastern Iranian languages.
This group includes expatriates and tourists who visit Gilgit for its breathtaking natural beauty and cultural diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is the most popular sport in Gilgit, with many local teams and tournaments. It garners attention during major cricket events, and local enthusiasts play in various grounds and open fields.
Football is widely played and watched in Gilgit, with numerous clubs and leagues organized at the local level. The sport enjoys significant popularity among the youth.
Baseball is emerging as a popular sport in some areas of Gilgit, particularly among children and youth, with an increasing number of facilities being developed.
Though not a traditional sport, hiking and mountaineering are incredibly popular in Gilgit due to its stunning mountain ranges, including Nanga Parbat and Rakaposhi. Many local competitions take place, attracting trekkers and climbers from around the region.
Basketball has been gaining popularity, especially among the younger generation. Local schools and colleges often organize tournaments, contributing to its increasing fan base.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Gilgit.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Gilgit cuisine is meat-centric, several restaurants and cafes, such as Café de Hunza, offer delicious vegetarian and vegan dishes like sabzi, lentil soups, and fresh salads.
Travelers with gluten intolerance can find suitable options at restaurants like Marco Polo, where they prioritize serving gluten-free versions of local dishes and offer rice-based meals.