Have you ever visited Gilgit Baltistan Capital? Prepare for an unforgettable adventure! Gilgit is not only the gateway to the great Karakoram Range but is surrounded by various excellent destinations that can’t be visited within a day. From glaciers to ancient rock carvings, the capital is your hub to explore the breathtaking landscapes of Pakistan. The best part? You can enjoy these riches during the day, and in the evening, enjoy the warmth of Gilgit. Are you ready to see the capitals of Gilgit Baltistan? Let’s explore the must-visit place!
Why Visit Gilgit, The Baltistan’s Capital?
You’re missing nature’s purest form if you haven’t explored Gilgit, the capital of Gilgit Baltistan. This city provides access to some of the world’s most significant tourist destinations. This place can be easily accessed from breathtaking lakes and valleys to glaciers, ancient forts, and much more. In Addition, Gilgit stands out from the rest of the destinations as it offers untold varieties of natural beauty to you at one point in time under the same trip.
From crystal-clear lakes to towering glaciers, from centuries-old forts and rock carvings to palm trees and walking paths, nothing is running out of wonder. Moreover, if you are an adventurer, you would be excited to see the city offering access to the base camps of the world’s highest mountains not doable on a day trip from Gilgit.
Gilgit- The Perfect Hub for Exploring
Another reason to visit? Gilgit is just the hub for your Gilgit Baltistan adventures. From here, you can easily set off to explore other astounding regions like Skardu, Hunza, Astore, Ghizer, and Diamer. It is also the best place of departure for unforgettable journeys.
Annual Festivals in Gilgit
Gilgit organizes many vibrant annual festivals that express the delicacy of its culture and traditions. Amongst the most well-known events is Jashn-e-Nowruz, held in March, as a Persian New Year celebration. Traditional music, dance, and sports activities unite the communities here. The other important event is also the Shandur Polo Festival, held every July at the world’s highest polo ground where Gilgit and Chitral teams play with matchless motivation. In detail, the festival is a blend of sportsmanship and culture with the local handicrafts, music, and food stalls available in the fest.
Sports Activities in Gilgit
This town, Gilgit, is full of sports spirits, especially in polo, which is deeply rooted in the historical region. The Shandur Polo Festival is the most breathtaking, where local teams clash with each other in thrill-seeker matches. Besides polo, mountain trekking, hiking, and rock climbing are popular because the rugged terrain and scenic vistas invite numerous visitors. In winter, skiing in Naltar Valley attracts the adventure seeker, making it one of the major sources of winter sports.
Cultural Activities in Gilgit
Gilgit’s culture is rich with local music, local dance, and tales. The people of the region enjoy their ceremonies with local dances as in Alghani Dance and Old Man Dance – a very funny and active dance. Music played at gatherings includes rabab and sitar, which are the traditional instruments. Handicrafts such as woolen shawls, embroidered caps, and wood carvings also possess skillful displays from local people.
Hospitality forms the core of the culture in Gilgit where visitors are treated with love and respect. Moreover, such traditions trace back centuries, and the very ease of communication is flavored up by the variety of languages spoken, including Shina, Burushaski, and Wakhi.
Discover the Best of Gilgit
If you are planning a holiday in Gilgit, trips can be made around the city to nearby interesting places. There are quite a few breathtaking sightseeing places that can be covered around the city within the day. Whether one is interested in nature, history, or culture, these destinations will make your journey unforgettable. Meanwhile, you can return to your comfortable stay in Gilgit by evening.
Here’s a list of spectacular destinations you could visit on a round trip from Gilgit. Therefore, click the titles to get more details about each destination!
Read More: Districts of Gilgit Baltistan-Exploration
1. Naltar Valley
The Nalttar Valley is a hidden paradise, just two hours away from Gilgit. Famous for its crystal-clear lakes and greenery, Naltar is a paradise for nature lovers. The valley is especially famous for its Ski Resort in winter and color-changing lakes in summer.
2. Rakaposhi Viewpoint
An hour’s drive from Gilgit one has a wonderful look at Rakaposhi, one of the highest peaks in the world. It is simply breathtaking, and there are also small local restaurants where you can relax and try traditional snacks.
3. Kargah Buddha
Kargah Buddha is one of the most prominent rock carvings from the 7th century, just 10 km from the city center. It also offers a rapid stop to take in the history of Buddhism within the region and the wonderful gorge it stands within.
4. Hoper Glacier
Hoper Glacier is located in the Nagar Valley, which is an hour’s and 45-minute drive from Gilgit. This great glacier provides you with a feel of nature in all its magnificently raw dignity. It is also one of the most popular Hiking destinations for those who love frozen landscapes.
5. Hunza Valley
This is a bit further out, but about two hours from Gilgit. Worth the trip to Hunza Valley for pictures as much as the fruit farms are also magnificent with apricots in season, and the culture is rich.
Round Trip Planning Tip:
Start early for each destination that you visit, so that you can avail of the best time at every place.
- Check the weather: Some areas will become inaccessible in winter.
- Taste local cuisine: You should not miss the taste of small cafes along the way!
Each of these places has its unique characteristics, and you are sure to return by nightfall with a journey full of adventure and beauty from Gilgit. You are also all set to explore even more the very next day!
Best Time to Visit Gilgit -The Gilgit Baltistan’s Capital
The best time to visit the capital of Gilgit Baltistan is April to October for a first-hand feel and experience. Gilgit Baltistan’s climate, during these months, is perfect for outdoor adventure activities such as hiking and trekking besides sightseeing. The country’s and surrounding peaks and valleys go to acquire the most magnificent and breathtaking beauty in this season. Be you also an adventure freak or you are simply enjoying the scenery, visiting at this time sure ensures a vacation never to forget!
How to Reach Gilgit?
The capital of Gilgit Baltistan is Gilgit City, you can reach there by either flight or road.
By Air
A flight from Islamabad to Gilgit would take approximately 45 minutes to an hour, it is also fast and scenic, and it takes you over many beautiful places.
Road Travel
If you want to enjoy the scenic route, by road it takes about 18-20 hours. Though time-consuming, this journey via the Karakoram Highway, often referred to as the 8th wonder of the world, is unforgettable, and there are breathtaking views of mountains, valleys, rivers, and much more that you will pass through.
If comfort is what you require, take an airplane. However, if it’s adventure and breathtaking landscapes, then the road trip is unbeatable!
Read More: How To Travel to Gilgit Baltistan from Islamabad
Gilgit Conclusion
A visit to Gilgit the capital of Gilgit Baltistan is a journey unto itself. It has a natural beauty that cannot be paralleled, a rich culture, and easy access to breathtakingly beautiful landscapes. Gilgit, being an ideal gateway for adventure-seekers and nature lovers alike, guarantees an enjoyable travel experience regardless of traveling by air for easier access or taking the scenic route on the Karakoram Highway. From crystal-clear lakes to sky-high glaciers, Gilgit has also countless attractions that would simply leave you speechless. So do not miss the chance to explore this wonderful destination—Gilgit awaits you!
Gilgit the capital city of Gilgit Baltistan with its heavenly beauty and breathtaking landscapes awaits just the right experience. So why wait? Plan your visit now, and let Gilgit’s charm sweep you off your feet.
Read More: Karakoram Range -All You Need To Know
FAQs About Gilgit The Gilgit Baltistan Capital
1. When to visit Gilgit?
The best time to visit Gilgit is from April to October as it is also very much ideal for trekking and sightseeing.
2. How do I get to Gilgit?
Gilgit is accessible by air from Islamabad, with almost 45 minutes travel time, or it is also accessible by road through the Karakoram Highway, with nearly an 18-20 hour journey.
3. Which places to see around and in Gilgit?
The main attractions are Naltar Valley, Hunza Valley, Rakaposhi Viewpoint, and Kargah Buddha. The activities vary at each location, with a completely different kind of scenery.
4. Is Gilgit safe for tourists?
Yes, Gilgit is considered to be quite safe for tourists. The tourist places overall are mostly fine, one must keep oneself abreast of local information and heed travel advisories.
5. What are some fun things I can do in Gilgit Baltistan’s Capital Gilgit?
You can go for trekking, hiking, visiting ancient forts, visiting glaciers, and experience the local culture. For the adventure lover, mountaineering is also possible.
6. Is Staying in Gilgit Baltistan’s capital Gilgit?
Yes. Gilgit houses various residences available under the label of hotels and guesthouses along with hotels staying clients from all walks of life, regardless of budget.
7. What would you recommend for local food that I must try when in Gilgit?
Take your time to taste such specialties of the local cuisine as Chapshuro, Dum Pukht, and fresh apricot products. The local food is a treat.
8. How easy it is to get around Gilgit, and explore the surrounding regions?
Completely easy! Gilgit is a convenient point from which to plan day trips to the nearby regions of Skardu, Hunza, Astore, and Diamer.
