Gulmit – The Cultural Heart of Upper Hunza
Gulmit is one of the oldest and most beautiful villages in Upper Hunza (Gojal), located along the Karakoram Highway approximately 135 kilometres north of Gilgit and about 45 kilometres north of Karimabad. Surrounded by magnificent glaciers, snow-covered mountains, fertile orchards and traditional Wakhi villages, Gulmit offers visitors an unforgettable combination of natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Often overlooked by tourists rushing towards Khunjerab Pass, Gulmit rewards visitors with peaceful surroundings, friendly hospitality, historic buildings, spectacular trekking routes and easy access to many of the most famous attractions in northern Pakistan.
The village is an ideal base for exploring Borith Lake, Ghulkin Glacier, Hussaini Suspension Bridge, Passu, Khunjerab National Park and several alpine trekking routes.
History of Gulmit
Gulmit has served as the historic capital of the Gojal region for several centuries. The village was established by the Wakhi people, who migrated from the Wakhan Corridor in present-day Afghanistan. Today the Wakhi language, traditions and customs continue to flourish, making Gulmit one of the best places in Pakistan to experience this unique mountain culture.
For centuries Gulmit stood along one of the branches of the ancient Silk Road connecting Central Asia, China and South Asia. Traders travelling through the high mountain passes exchanged silk, jade, spices, wool and precious stones, contributing to the prosperity of the region.
Following the construction of the Karakoram Highway during the 1970s, Gulmit became more accessible and gradually developed into one of the leading tourism destinations in Upper Hunza.
Places to Visit in Gulmit and Surroundings
Borith Lake
Located a short drive above Gulmit, Borith Lake is a peaceful saline lake surrounded by mountains. It is famous for migratory birds, camping, hiking and spectacular sunset views.
Ghulkin Glacier
One of the easiest glaciers to visit in Upper Hunza, Ghulkin Glacier offers visitors an opportunity to walk close to massive ice formations and enjoy outstanding views of the surrounding Karakoram peaks.
Hussaini Suspension Bridge
Just a few kilometres from Gulmit, the famous Hussaini Suspension Bridge crosses the Hunza River and is one of Pakistan’s best-known adventure attractions.
Passu Cones
The spectacular Passu Cones (Cathedral Ridge) are visible from Gulmit and are among the most photographed mountain formations in Pakistan.
Passu Glacier
A short drive north leads to Passu Glacier, where visitors can hike to viewpoints overlooking one of the great glaciers of the Karakoram.
Batura Glacier
Beginning near Passu, the Batura Glacier is approximately 57 kilometres long and is among the world’s longest glaciers outside the polar regions.
Old Gulmit Village
Explore narrow lanes, traditional Wakhi houses, irrigation channels and orchards that preserve the character of one of Upper Hunza’s oldest settlements.
Gulmit Polo Ground
The village polo ground hosts traditional matches and local festivals throughout the summer season.
Ondra Fort
A short hike leads to the ruins of Ondra Fort, offering panoramic views over Gulmit, Passu, the Hunza River and the surrounding mountains.
Khunjerab National Park
Gulmit is an excellent overnight stop for visitors continuing to Khunjerab National Park and the Pakistan-China border.
Adventure Activities
- Trekking
- Camping
- Glacier Walks
- Photography
- Bird Watching
- Mountain Biking
- Village Walks
- Boating at Borith Lake
- Cultural Tours
- Wildlife Observation
How to Plan Your Tour from Islamabad
By Air
Fly from Islamabad to Gilgit (weather permitting), then continue by road along the Karakoram Highway to Gulmit. The drive from Gilgit takes approximately four hours.
By Road
Travel from Islamabad along the Karakoram Highway through Besham, Chilas, Gilgit, Karimabad and Attabad Lake before reaching Gulmit. Most visitors complete the journey over two days.
Suggested 7-Day Tour
Day 1: Islamabad to Gilgit
Day 2: Gilgit – Karimabad – Gulmit
Day 3: Visit Borith Lake and Ghulkin Glacier
Day 4: Explore Hussaini Suspension Bridge and Passu
Day 5: Excursion to Khunjerab Pass
Day 6: Visit Attabad Lake and Karimabad
Day 7: Return to Islamabad
Best Time to Visit
- April-May: Cherry and apricot blossom season
- June-September: Excellent weather for trekking and sightseeing
- October: Spectacular autumn colours
- November-March: Beautiful winter scenery with snow-covered peaks
Major Hotels in Gulmit
- Silk Route Lodge
- Marco Polo Hotel Gulmit
- Old House Guest House
- Gulmit Continental Hotel
- Mountain Inn Gulmit
- Family Homestays
- Local Guest Houses
- Camping Sites near Borith Lake
Local Culture
The people of Gulmit belong mainly to the Wakhi ethnic group and are known for their warm hospitality, music, poetry and traditional handicrafts. Visitors can enjoy authentic Wakhi cuisine prepared with locally grown wheat, barley, potatoes, apricots, cherries, walnuts and yak dairy products.
Traditional festivals, polo matches and cultural performances are regularly organised during the summer months, providing visitors with an opportunity to experience the rich heritage of Upper Hunza.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Gulmit famous for?
Gulmit is famous for Wakhi culture, Borith Lake, Ghulkin Glacier, Hussaini Suspension Bridge, Passu Cones and its spectacular mountain scenery.
How far is Gulmit from Karimabad?
Gulmit is approximately 45 kilometres north of Karimabad and can be reached in about one hour by road.
Can I visit Borith Lake from Gulmit?
Yes. Borith Lake is only a short drive from Gulmit and is one of the area’s most popular attractions.
When is the best time to visit Gulmit?
The best months are from April through October, with spring blossoms and colourful autumn foliage being particularly beautiful.
Is Gulmit safe for tourists?
Yes. Gulmit is one of the safest and most welcoming destinations in Gilgit-Baltistan, with a long history of hosting both domestic and international visitors.
How many days should I stay in Gulmit?
Two to three days are ideal for exploring the village and nearby attractions such as Borith Lake, Passu, Hussaini Suspension Bridge and Ghulkin Glacier.