Gilgit – Gateway to the Mountains of Pakistan
Gilgit is the capital city of Gilgit-Baltistan and one of the oldest continuously inhabited settlements in northern Pakistan. Situated at an elevation of approximately 1,500 meters (4,900 feet), the city lies where the Gilgit River joins the Hunza River before flowing into the mighty Indus. Surrounded by the spectacular Karakoram, Himalaya, and Hindu Kush mountain ranges, Gilgit serves as the main gateway for travelers exploring the northern areas of Pakistan.
Every year thousands of tourists, trekkers, mountaineers, photographers, and adventure enthusiasts begin their journey from Gilgit to famous destinations including Hunza Valley, Skardu, Fairy Meadows, Naltar Valley, Phander, Ghizer, and the legendary Karakoram Highway. The city combines modern facilities with a rich history stretching back more than two thousand years.
Gilgit is famous for its friendly people, colorful bazaars, fruit orchards, mountain scenery, historical monuments, and strategic location on the ancient Silk Road.
History of Gilgit
Gilgit has been an important crossroads for civilizations for over two millennia. Located along the ancient Silk Road, it connected South Asia with Central Asia and western China. Traders, pilgrims, explorers, and armies passed through Gilgit carrying silk, spices, precious stones, and religious ideas.
Buddhism flourished in the region between the first and seventh centuries, leaving behind rock carvings, inscriptions, and monuments that can still be seen today. The famous Kargah Buddha is one of the most impressive reminders of this period.
During medieval times, Gilgit became an important center for regional kingdoms and later attracted the attention of the British Empire during the nineteenth-century “Great Game” because of its strategic position near the borders of China, Afghanistan, and Central Asia.
Following the independence of Pakistan in 1947, Gilgit became part of Pakistan after local forces ended Dogra rule. Today the city serves as the administrative capital of Gilgit-Baltistan and is the commercial, educational, and transportation hub of the region.
The completion of the Karakoram Highway in the late twentieth century transformed Gilgit into one of Pakistan’s leading tourism destinations and an important stop for travelers heading toward Hunza, Skardu, and China.
Sights to See in Gilgit
Kargah Buddha
Carved into a massive cliff approximately fifteen minutes from Gilgit city, the Kargah Buddha is one of Pakistan’s most important Buddhist archaeological monuments and dates back more than 1,400 years.
Gilgit Suspension Bridge
This traditional suspension bridge crossing the Gilgit River provides excellent views of the valley and remains a favorite attraction for photographers.
Naltar Valley
Located around 40 kilometers from Gilgit, Naltar Valley is famous for its colorful alpine lakes, pine forests, skiing facilities during winter, and beautiful mountain scenery.
Naltar Lakes
The crystal-clear lakes of Naltar are among the most beautiful alpine lakes in Pakistan and change color depending on the sunlight and season.
Gilgit Bazaar
The lively bazaar offers gemstones, traditional handicrafts, carpets, embroidered caps, dry fruits, local food, and souvenirs from across Gilgit-Baltistan.
Chinese Memorial Monument
Built in memory of the Chinese and Pakistani workers who lost their lives constructing the Karakoram Highway, this monument symbolizes the friendship between Pakistan and China.
Rakaposhi View Point
Located along the Karakoram Highway south of Gilgit, this viewpoint offers magnificent views of the 7,788-meter Rakaposhi, one of the world’s most beautiful mountains.
Bagrote Valley
A scenic valley famous for glaciers, orchards, forests, hiking trails, and traditional mountain villages.
Danyor Valley
Located across the river from Gilgit, Danyor is known for its historic rock carvings, irrigation channels, and panoramic mountain scenery.
Karakoram Highway
Gilgit serves as the central hub of the famous Karakoram Highway, considered one of the world’s greatest engineering achievements and among the most scenic mountain roads on Earth.
How to Plan Your Tour from Islamabad
Option 1 – By Air
Pakistan International Airlines operates flights between Islamabad and Gilgit, weather permitting. The journey takes approximately one hour and offers breathtaking views of Nanga Parbat and the surrounding mountain ranges.
Option 2 – By Road
The drive from Islamabad to Gilgit follows the famous Karakoram Highway through Abbottabad, Besham, Chilas, and several spectacular mountain valleys. The road journey usually takes between 12 and 15 hours depending on weather and road conditions.
Suggested 5-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Islamabad to Gilgit
Day 2: Kargah Buddha, Gilgit Bazaar, Suspension Bridge
Day 3: Naltar Valley excursion
Day 4: Bagrote Valley and Rakaposhi View Point
Day 5: Return to Islamabad or continue to Hunza Valley
Best Time to Visit
- March-April: Spring blossoms
- May-September: Excellent weather for sightseeing
- October: Beautiful autumn colors
- November-February: Snow in surrounding mountains with colder temperatures
Major Hotels in Gilgit
- Serena Gilgit
- Riverdale Resort
- Madina Hotel Gilgit
- Hotel Park Gilgit
- Gilgit Serena Lodge
- Ramada by Wyndham Gilgit
- Canopy Nexus Hotel
- Destination Hotel Gilgit
- Duroyou Inn
- Avari Xpress Gilgit
- Alpine Pastures Hotel
- River View Hotel Gilgit
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Gilgit safe for tourists?
Yes. Gilgit is considered one of Pakistan’s safest tourist destinations and serves as the main tourism hub of Gilgit-Baltistan.
How many days should I spend in Gilgit?
Three to five days are sufficient for exploring Gilgit city and nearby attractions. Additional days are recommended if you plan to visit Hunza, Naltar, or Ghizer.
Can I fly directly from Islamabad to Gilgit?
Yes. Regular flights operate between Islamabad and Gilgit, although schedules depend on weather conditions.
What is Gilgit famous for?
Gilgit is famous for the Karakoram Highway, Kargah Buddha, Naltar Valley, mountain scenery, and as the gateway to Hunza, Skardu, and the Karakoram Mountains.
When is the best time to visit Gilgit?
May through September provides the best weather for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Can foreign tourists visit Gilgit?
Yes. Foreign visitors are welcome after obtaining a valid Pakistani visa. Travelers should always check the latest visa and travel requirements before departure.