Gilgit is the capital city of the self governing region of Gilgit – Baltistan in Pakistan. Gilgit is famous along with Sakardu as a major hub for mountaineers planning to scale the Karakoram or other Himalayan Peaks. The area has been blessed with an abundance of natural beauty and will provide you with the ultimate in mountain scenery. Gilgit abounds with gorgeous places to see and has a host of excellent activities. The area is also rich in a large variety of diverse flora and fauna typical to this region.
Gilgit is a safe and stable town, with no security situations. It is frequented by a lot of international tourists. Good facilities, coupled with reasonable accommodation options, make Gilgit a favorite base with a lot of mountaineers. It has been described as having all one would want in Pakistan’s mountains, and is recommended by many as the best place to go the first time one visits the mountains of Pakistan. Gilgit is filled with many places rich with the startling virgin beauty typical of the unexplored world.
Places to See
Gilgit, although perfect value for money, as far as natural beauty is concerned, there are other attractions too. The City of Gilgit had a rich history and there are several historical relics and artifacts. Buddhism was prevalent in Gilgit, and the city is filled with monuments and symbols from the life and teachings of Buddha.
The Naltar Valley
Naltar Valley is one of the most heavenly locations in Gilgit. It is a two hour drive by jeep from the Gilgit Link Road. It has a range of accommodation options ranging from government rest houses to private hotels. There is a ski slope. Trekking, fishing are the various activities. The Statue of Buddha in Kargah should be visited.
Gilgit Suspension Bridge
The Gilgit Bridge over the turbulent Gilgit River is Asia’s largest suspension bridge. It is 182 meters long and 2 meters wide.
Kargah Buddha
Located about 10 kilo meters from Gilgit town, there is a rock sculpture of the Buddha. This dates back to 7th century A D.
The statue is located on a rock near the Kargah Nullah ( Kargah ravine).
Monument of Taj Mughal
The monument was built in celebration of Taj Mughal victory about 700 years ago. This is located at a 30 kilo meter drive by jeep from Gilgit town.
Sher Qilla
The Sher Qilla, meaning “Lion’s Fort”, this is a fort located 38 kilo meters from Gigit. There is a great lake to fish for some trout in Sher Qilla Nullah.
Apart from these, one can travel by jeep to the neighboring areas of Hunza Valley (incredibly beautiful), Astor and Ghizar districts, Skardu city and Ghanchy.
Mountain peaks worth of note are K 2 (Godwin Austen), the world second highest peak at 28, 250 meters, Nanga Parbat (6th highest peak), Mashaburam, Gashaburam and Rakaposhi.
Things to Do
Mountaineering, Trekking, Hiking
The above activities are obvious in Gilgit as the area is ideal. Some areas are restricted. Contact the Pakistani Ministry of Tourism for more information regarding provision of permits.
Air Safaris
The Pakistan International Airlines provide 90 minute Air safaris above the mountain ranges. This is a really amazing experience, and the ultimate thrill of seeing the majestic peaks, gorgeous valleys, glaciers and lakes from the airplane window is indescribable. It has to be experienced.
Fishing
Excellent trout is to be found in the icy waters, and fishing is a major activity. You need to get the necessary permits from the Fisheries Department.
Boating
It is possible to boat in the River Gilgit and River Indus. Rafting is also a possibility.
Camping
A majority of the hotels and inns allow camping and have a provision for facilities.
Gliding
People practice hand gliding. There is also a local association for gliding.
Mountain Biking
The Silk route is an excellent track for cyclists, and provides excellent vistas along with a taste of history and culture. Some Buddhist sites are also in existence over here.
Nature
The area is rich with a diverse variety of fauna, and is famed for Cherry Blossoms, which along with other flowers turn the valley into a riot of colors every spring. Also a large number of varieties of roses, pansies and lilies are to be found here. Willow, pine and fir trees are found in great numbers. The Almond trees which change shade in each state of growth are another attractive feature. Apart from these, apples, peaches, apricots, plums, mulberry, walnuts, persimmon, grapes and pomegranate can be found throughout this region in the period between June and October.
How to get to Gilgit
It is best that you catch a flight to Islamabad, Pakistan’s capital. Onwards, you can either travel by air to Gilgit (takes about 45 minutes) or travel by road using the bus service, or by private vehicles.
Accommodation options
As Gilgit is a popular tourist destination, there is no dearth of accommodation options throughout the city. A variety of places ranging from dirt cheap to up market hotels are to be found in Gilgit.
- Madina Guest House
- New Tourist Cottage
- Gilgit Motel
- Park Hotel
- Gilgit Serena hotel
