Things to Do in Gilgit, پاکستان

Gilgit, the capital of Gilgit-Baltistan, serves as the gateway to some of Pakistan's most spectacular mountain ranges, including the Karakoram, Himalayas, and Hindu Kush. This vibrant city sits at an elevation of 1,500 meters and is strategically positioned along the ancient Silk Road, making it a crucial hub for travelers heading to remote valleys like Hunza, Skardu, and the Karakoram Highway. The city offers a unique blend of diverse cultures, with Balti, Shina, and Brushaski-speaking communities coexisting harmoniously. Beyond its role as a transit point, Gilgit itself offers fascinating attractions including ancient rock carvings, bustling bazaars, and stunning views of Rakaposhi peak. The city provides essential services and amenities that make it an ideal base for acclimatization before venturing into higher altitudes. With its rich history, cultural diversity, and proximity to some of the world's highest peaks, Gilgit offers travelers an authentic taste of northern Pakistan's mountain culture and serves as the perfect launching point for adventures in the region's pristine wilderness.

Top Things to Do in Gilgit

Karakoram Highway Journey

Experience one of the world's most spectacular mountain roads, connecting Pakistan and China through breathtaking landscapes. The highway offers stunning views of snow-capped peaks, deep gorges, and traditional villages. This engineering marvel reaches altitudes of over 4,600 meters and provides access to remote communities and incredible photographic opportunities.

Booking Tip: Book through reputable local tour operators for 3-7 day packages ranging from $200-500 per person. Best visited May-October when passes are open. Look for operators with experienced drivers familiar with high-altitude conditions and proper vehicle maintenance records.

Ancient Rock Carvings and Petroglyphs

Explore thousands of ancient Buddhist and pre-Islamic rock carvings scattered throughout the Gilgit region, particularly at sites like Kargah Buddha and various locations along the Indus River. These petroglyphs date back over 1,000 years and provide insight into the region's rich cultural and religious history. The carvings depict Buddhist stupas, hunting scenes, and various inscriptions in multiple ancient scripts.

Booking Tip: Hire local guides for $20-30 per day who can explain historical significance and locate lesser-known sites. Best visited during morning or late afternoon for optimal lighting. Combine multiple sites in day trips costing around $50-80 including transportation.

Naltar Valley Excursion

Visit the stunning Naltar Valley, famous for its pristine lakes, dense pine forests, and Pakistan's only ski resort. The valley features three beautiful lakes with crystal-clear waters reflecting surrounding peaks, and offers excellent hiking opportunities through alpine meadows. During winter, it transforms into a skiing destination, while summer brings wildflower blooms and perfect trekking conditions.

Booking Tip: Day trips cost $80-120 per person including transportation and guide. Best visited June-September for lakes, December-February for skiing. Book accommodations in advance during peak season. Look for packages including meals and equipment rental for skiing.

Hunza Valley Tour

Discover the legendary Hunza Valley, known for its dramatic landscapes, ancient forts, and the longevity of its inhabitants. Visit Baltit and Altit forts, explore traditional villages, and enjoy spectacular views of Rakaposhi and other towering peaks. The valley offers insights into unique local culture, traditional architecture, and organic farming practices that have sustained the community for centuries.

Booking Tip: 2-3 day tours range from $150-300 per person. Best visited April-October for clear mountain views. Choose operators offering cultural experiences and local homestays. Book early during apricot blossom season (March-April) when demand is highest.

Fairy Meadows and Nanga Parbat Base Camp Trek

Embark on a trek to Fairy Meadows, offering close-up views of Nanga Parbat, the world's ninth-highest mountain known as the 'Killer Mountain.' The trek involves a thrilling jeep ride followed by a 3-4 hour hike through pristine alpine meadows. The campsite provides spectacular sunset and sunrise views of the massive Nanga Parbat massif.

Booking Tip: 3-4 day packages cost $200-400 per person including camping equipment and meals. Best visited June-September when weather is stable. Choose operators with proper safety equipment and experienced guides. Book accommodations in wooden huts in advance during peak season.

Getting There

Gilgit is accessible by air via Gilgit Airport, with regular flights from Islamabad (1.5 hours) operated by Pakistan International Airlines, though flights are weather-dependent and often cancelled due to mountain conditions. By road, the journey from Islamabad takes 18-20 hours via the Karakoram Highway, passing through scenic but challenging mountain terrain. Many travelers opt for overnight stops in Chilas or other towns along the route. During winter months, the road can be closed due to snow and landslides, making air travel the only reliable option.

Getting Around

Local transportation in Gilgit includes suzuki vans, auto-rickshaws, and taxis for getting around the city, with fares typically ranging from 50-200 PKR for short distances. For exploring surrounding valleys and attractions, hiring a 4WD vehicle with driver is recommended, costing around 8,000-15,000 PKR per day depending on destination and vehicle type. Many hotels and tour operators can arrange transportation, and shared jeeps operate on popular routes to Hunza and Skardu, though schedules can be irregular and depend on passenger numbers and weather conditions.

Where to Stay

Jutial

City Center near Yadgar Chowk

Airport Road

Danyore

Kashrote

Danyor

Food & Dining

Gilgit's dining scene reflects its cultural diversity, with restaurants serving traditional Pakistani cuisine alongside Balti, Chinese, and Continental dishes. Local specialties include chapshuro (meat-filled bread), yak meat dishes, and various types of bread like gyal (buckwheat bread). The main bazaar area offers numerous small restaurants and tea houses serving affordable local food, while hotels typically provide more upscale dining options. Don't miss trying local apricots, walnuts, and dried fruits, which are regional specialties. Most restaurants are halal, and vegetarian options are available though somewhat limited.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Gilgit is from April to October, when weather conditions are most favorable and mountain passes remain open. Late spring (April-May) offers mild temperatures and blooming apricot orchards, while summer months (June-August) provide the warmest weather and best access to high-altitude destinations. September-October brings clear skies with excellent mountain visibility, though temperatures begin to drop. Winter visits (November-March) are challenging due to harsh weather, road closures, and limited flight schedules, though the region takes on a stark, beautiful character under snow.

Insider Tips

Carry cash as ATMs are limited and card payments aren't widely accepted outside major hotels

Acclimatize properly in Gilgit before heading to higher altitudes to avoid altitude sickness

Keep multiple copies of your passport and permits as checkpoints are frequent throughout the region

Things to Do in Gilgit