Travel Guide to Gilgit-Baltistan

Gilgit-Baltistan is one of the most spectacular regions of Pakistan. Located in the far north of the country, this mountainous territory is home to some of the highest peaks on Earth, ancient villages, glaciers, turquoise lakes, cold deserts and incredibly diverse cultures.

From the legendary Passu Cones in Hunza to the immense Nanga Parbat, the lakes and deserts around Skardu, and the remote valleys of Gojal, Gilgit-Baltistan offers an extraordinary diversity of landscapes and experiences.

This guide was written by three people from very different backgrounds who share the same deep passion for this extraordinary region: Viri, a Hungarian woman married to a man from Hunza; Jafar, a Pakistani traveler; and Manon, a French traveler and photographer.
Our connection to Gilgit-Baltistan is different for each of us, but we are united by the same fascination for its mountains, its landscapes, its people and its cultures. We wanted to bring our experiences together to share the places we love, including both the famous destinations and the lesser-known valleys that deserve to be discovered.

In this travel guide, you will find:

• Practical information for travelling in Gilgit-Baltistan
• Hunza Valley
• Central Hunza
• Upper Hunza / Gojal
• Side valleys of Upper Hunza / Gojal
• Skardu and Baltistan
• Fairy Meadows and Nanga Parbat
• Gilgit and surrounding areas
• FAQ

Having a private driver or local guide is the easiest way to explore, especially if you want to visit several locations in a short amount of time. Public transportation exists but can be limited, and reaching remote valleys independently can be complicated.

Hitchhiking is also relatively easy along the main routes for experienced travellers, although it becomes more time consuming as you travel into remote valleys.

The main travel season in Gilgit-Baltistan generally runs from spring to autumn, although the ideal period depends heavily on where you are going and what you want to do. Skardu's main tourist season is generally April to October, while Fairy Meadows has a shorter season because of its altitude and winter conditions.

• Spring is particularly beautiful for blossoms,
• Summer and early autumn are the best periods for high-altitude trekking.
• Winters are cold, particularly in Upper Hunza, and some roads and many trekking routes may become inaccessible.

The Hunza Valley is probably one of the most iconic destinations in northern Pakistan. Surrounded by some of the highest mountains on Earth, this region has something truly special.

I spoke with many travellers who had explored Pakistan, and we all agreed on one thing: Hunza has an almost magical atmosphere. There's an energy in these mountains that's incredibly difficult to put into words. Whether it's the immense peaks, the silence, or the feeling of being completely surrounded by nature, something about this place stays with you long after you've left. One thing is certain: it is one of the most breathtaking and awe-inspiring places in the world.

Understanding Hunza

For travellers, Hunza can broadly be divided into Central Hunza and Upper Hunza, also known as Gojal.

• Central Hunza is the area around Aliabad and Karimabad. This is where you will find some of the valley's best-known historical sites, including Altit Fort and Baltit Fort, as well as most of the region's established tourist infrastructure.
• Upper Hunza, or Gojal, begins north of Attabad Lake and stretches towards the Chinese border. It includes Gulmit, Ghulkin, Passu, Sost and several smaller villages. The side valleys of Shimshal, Chipursan and Misgar are also part of the wider Gojal region.

The further north you travel, the more remote the valley becomes.


From Gilgit to Upper Hunza
Most travellers enter Hunza from Gilgit.

The road first reaches Aliabad, the main town of central Hunza, before continuing towards Karimabad, the historic and tourist centre of the valley.
One of the first worthwhile stops along the way is the Rakaposhi viewpoint. On a clear day, the enormous Rakaposhi rises dramatically above the Karakoram Highway, offering an impressive introduction to the scale of the mountains before you even reach Karimabad.

From Karimabad, the road continues north through the valley towards Attabad Lake. From there, you enter Upper Hunza and continue towards Gulmit, Ghulkin, Passu and eventually Sost and the Khunjerab Pass.

This makes it easy to understand Hunza as a journey rather than a single destination: the further you travel from Karimabad, the more remote and mountainous the landscape becomes.


A culturally and linguistically diverse region

Hunza is also remarkably diverse culturally and linguistically.

Central Hunza is predominantly Burushaski-speaking, while Wakhi is the main language across much of Upper Hunza. However, the distinction is not absolute. Burushaski-speaking communities can also be found within Gojal, including Misgar and the village of Raminj in Chipursan. This makes the cultural landscape much more complex than a simple division between “Burushaski Hunza” and “Wakhi Upper Hunza”.

As you travel through the valley, you encounter different communities, traditions, languages and ways of life. Taking the time to experience these places beyond the main tourist centres is one of the most rewarding parts of travelling through Hunza.

Don't stop at Karimabad

Karimabad is an excellent base for exploring Central Hunza, and it is worth spending time there. But Hunza is much more than Karimabad. Within a relatively small region, you can find ancient forts, traditional villages, turquoise lakes, glaciers, orchards and some of the world's highest mountains.

Some of the most spectacular landscapes are actually further north, around Gulmit, Ghulkin, Passu, Borith and Sost, while the side valleys of Shimshal, Chipursan and Misgar offer a much more remote experience.

Hunza has also become increasingly popular. Places such as Karimabad and Attabad are noticeably more developed and tourist-oriented than they were in the past.
This is not necessarily a bad thing. Tourism provides important income and employment for local communities. But if you are looking for a quieter and more authentic experience, I strongly recommend allowing enough time to get away from the main tourist circuit.

If you have extra days, consider adding Nagar, Shimshal, Chipursan, Misgar, Yasin or Ishkoman to your itinerary rather than simply spending more time in Karimabad.

One of the first stops is Altit Fort, located near Karimabad. This centuries-old fort offers incredible views over the valley and provides a glimpse into the history of the former Hunza Kingdom.

Baltit Fort, above Karimabad, is another important stop. The former residence of the rulers of Hunza sits beneath the surrounding peaks, and the guided tours provide plenty of information on the region's past.

Karimabad is worth spending some time exploring on foot. The narrow streets, old houses, small shops, local handicrafts and mountain views make it much more interesting than simply using the town as a hotel base.

This is also a good place to try local Hunza dishes and dried fruits.

There are also several women-owned restaurants where travellers can experience local food and support local women directly. For me, these kinds of places are often more interesting than conventional tourist restaurants.

Hunza's traditional settlements are built around an ingenious system of water channels bringing glacier water to fields, orchards and houses, and it is a peaceful experience walking by them.

The Hopper Glacier, located in the nearby Nagar Valley, offers a completely different atmosphere from the main Hunza route. The surrounding landscapes, with glaciers surrounded by high peaks, are absolutely breathtaking.

The region is filled with opportunities to explore smaller villages, viewpoints and hidden valleys where you can experience a quieter side of northern Pakistan.

North of Attabad Lake begins Upper Hunza, known as Gojal. This is a mountainous region stretching all the way to the Khunjerab Pass and the Chinese border.

It is predominantly Wakhi-speaking and has a strong Wakhi cultural identity, but it also contains Burushaski-speaking communities such as Misgar and Raminj.

No trip to Hunza is complete without visiting Attabad Lake, a stunning turquoise lake created after a massive landslide in 2010.

Today, it has become one of the most famous sights in the region, with opportunities for boating and enjoying the incredible mountain scenery.
Some of the best views are from the surrounding hills, for example Baskochi Meadows. It shows a completely different perspective of the lake. It is worth doing the 2–3 hour hike for the panoramic views.

Gulmit is the main town and the administrative centre of Upper Hunza. The village is surrounded by enormous peaks, but its cultural attractions are also interesting.

One of the places worth visiting is the Carpet Centre, run by women for decades. They make carpets out of wool and sell handicrafts too, like the famous Hunza hats.

Gulmit Heritage Museum, where visitors can learn more about traditional Wakhi household life, is set in an old Pamiri house. Next to it is an atmospheric café, run by a local family, which serves a hearty breakfast before a busy day of exploring.

After taking the long and winding road up the mountain, we catch sight of the peaceful village of Ghulkin.

Ghulkin is particularly interesting if you have the opportunity to enter one of the Ghulkin is particularly interesting if you have the opportunity to enter one of the old traditional houses, visit the historic mosque and share a meal with a local family., visit the historic mosque and share a meal with a local family.

Above these two villages stands Ondra Fort, a historic fortification with spectacular views over Gulmit, the Hunza River and the surrounding mountains. The walk up is worthwhile for the panorama alone, if you have a couple of extra hours.

Further north lies Passu, one of the most beautiful villages in the region. The first thing that catches your eye is the legendary Passu Cones: a series of sharp, pyramid-shaped peaks that have become one of Pakistan’s most recognizable landscapes. I even got a tattoo of them on my left leg :D (Manon)

The village is a great base for exploring the mountains, glaciers and valleys of Upper Hunza.

Around Passu, we suggest you to check:

• Hussaini Suspension Bridge: one of the region's most famous bridges and a popular photo stop.
• Passu Bridge: another suspension bridge with excellent views and, in my experience, a less maintained and more adventurous feel than Hussaini.
• Borith Lake: a small high-altitude saline lake surrounded by an unusually stark landscape of dry mountains and glaciers.
• Passu Glacier: the glacier can be reached from the Borith Lake area.
• Patundas Meadows: one of the most popular high-altitude hikes in Upper Hunza. The Patundas trek involves crossing the glacier and hiking up to alpine meadows with spectacular views over the Passu and Batura glaciers. Because glacier conditions can change and the route has technical terrain, a local guide is essential.

Borith Lake is one of my favourite places in Upper Hunza (Viri speaking here). I take my groups there every year and also visit with my family.

Depending on the season and local conditions, visitors can go boating, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding or swimming in the lake. The water is salty and enjoyable for a swim during the warmer months. For women travellers, local dress norms should be respected. When swimming, I recommend wearing modest clothing; a Western-style swimming costume is a big NO.

Borith is also a peaceful place simply to spend time by the water, have tea and food in one of the nearby restaurants overlooking the lake, with the mountains in the background.

Just after Passu towards Sost is the short Rainbow Bridge.

Painted in bright colours, it stands out dramatically against the grey and brown mountains. It is not a major attraction and only requires a short stop on the Karakoram Highway, but if you are a beginner at crossing suspension bridges, you should start here.

It's much easier and shorter than the two main ones.

The road continues through small settlements before reaching Sost. These villages become increasingly remote as you travel towards the border.

The village of Sost is located near the Pakistan–China border and is the last settlement before the Khunjerab Pass. The surrounding landscape can make you feel as if you have arrived somewhere far away from the world.
Sost is known for its market, hotels, restaurants, shops and banks, as well as the large number of Chinese trucks travelling between Pakistan and China. Pakistani jingle trucks also arrive here after completing their journeys through Pakistan and picking up loads coming from China.

The commercial area along the Karakoram Highway is not an actual village. The older settlements lie away from the main road and give a better impression of local life.

International buses to China depart from the Sost market every weekday morning and currently, in 2026, cost 7,000 rupees to Tashkurgan, plus the compulsory National Park entry fee of 30 dollars.

This is the only way to cross the border into China, however it is possible to visit the Khunjerab Pass on the Pakistani side by your own arrangement.

Several side valleys lead away from the Karakoram Highway towards some of the most remote communities in northern Pakistan.

Three particularly interesting ones are Shimshal, Chipursan and Misgar.

How to get to Shimshal
Reaching it is already an adventure. After driving through the entire Hunza Valley to the village of Passu, a spectacular three-hour road winds through cliffs and deep gorges before finally arriving in Shimshal.

Until 2003, however, this road simply didn't exist. The road itself deserves a mention: narrow, carved into vertical cliffs and hanging above dramatic valleys. It can honestly be very scary, and for good reason: the cars are almost at the edge of the precipice for much of the journey.

For centuries, the only way in or out was on foot. Residents had to cross three mountain passes above 5,000 metres just to reach the Karakoram Highway before continuing their journey elsewhere in Pakistan.

Its isolation even gave the village an unusual place in history: under the former Raja of Hunza, people who were exiled were reportedly sent to Shimshal because escaping was nearly impossible. In many ways, it was the “Australia” of the Hunza Kingdom.


A Land of Extraordinary Mountaineers

Few places have a stronger connection to the mountains.
Many families have at least one member who has summited an 8,000-metre peak, making this tiny community home to some of Pakistan's toughest and most accomplished mountaineers.

From Shimshal it is possible to climb Minglik Sar, around 6,000 metres. One of our friends did it with Majid, a local guide who now runs his own expedition company. Spending time with him offered a glimpse into the remarkable resilience and mountain culture that define Shimshal.
Local guide / expedition company: Majid — +92 344 5289842

Shimshal also marks the end of the legendary Snow Lake Trek, considered one of Pakistan's most demanding expeditions.

The route begins near Skardu, crosses the immense Biafo Glacier, traverses the spectacular Snow Lake and finally descends into Shimshal after days spent in complete wilderness.

If you're hoping to continue to Shimshal Pass, don't expect an easy hike. Local guides often ask whether you've already completed the K2 Base Camp Trek before agreeing to take you.
The reason is simple: the terrain is extremely challenging, and previous experience on high-altitude expeditions is almost essential.


Where Yaks Cross International Borders

One of the most fascinating traditions takes place high above the village at Shimshal Pass, where vast herds of yaks spend the summer grazing.
Seeing more than a thousand yaks scattered across the alpine meadows is unforgettable.
Even more surprising is what happens when winter arrives. Rather than bringing the animals back down, herders sometimes move them across the nearby Chinese border.

Communities on the Chinese side, who share the same Wakhi language and culture, help guide the herds before they eventually return to Pakistan. It's a centuries-old tradition that reflects how mountain life often transcends political borders.

For travellers who have more time, Chipursan Valley is one of the places we would most strongly recommend adding to a Hunza itinerary. The valley begins near Sost and the bumpy road leads towards the Afghan border. The journey itself is part of the experience: the road becomes rougher and the settlements increasingly remote as you travel deeper into the valley.

The remote villages of Chipursan are particularly interesting for travellers who want to experience Wakhi culture away from the main tourist routes. Here, staying with local families, sharing a meal or simply walking through the villages can be the most rewarding experience.

Chipursan is predominantly Wakhi-speaking, but there is a fascinating exception: Raminj, a small village in the valley where the local language is Burushaski. This is a wonderful example of how the linguistic landscape of Hunza does not follow simple geographical boundaries.

The most significant place in the valley is Baba Ghundi, a shrine located in the mountains close to the Afghan border. The site has an important place in the spiritual traditions of local communities and is surrounded by a beautiful mountain landscape. The journey to Baba Ghundi is as much about the surrounding landscape and remote settlements as the shrine itself. The area feels dramatically different from the developed tourist centres of central Hunza.

It is possible to visit Chipursan with a public passenger van that runs daily in the afternoon and comes back to Sost early in the morning. We recommend spending at least a few days in Chipursan.

Misgar is another remote side valley of Gojal and one of the most interesting examples of the cultural diversity of Upper Hunza.

Unlike most of Gojal, Misgar is Burushaski-speaking. Its language makes it particularly interesting for travellers interested in the linguistic diversity of the region.

The valley is also home to Misgar Fort, a historic fortification associated with the strategic importance of this border region.

Misgar is close to the historic routes towards the Kilik and Mintaka passes and the Chinese border, making it an especially interesting destination for travellers interested in the history of the Karakoram and the old Silk Road routes.

Misgar is remote and receives far fewer tourists than Passu or Sost, so travelling there is more about the journey, the landscape and meeting local people than ticking off a list of attractions.

Baltistan is a historical and cultural region in the eastern part of Gilgit-Baltistan, in northern Pakistan. It is home to the Balti people, who have their own language, culture, traditions and cuisine. Today, Baltistan is divided into several administrative districts, including Skardu, Shigar, Kharmang and Ghanche.

The Skardu District is one of the main gateways to the Karakoram mountains and some of Pakistan’s most spectacular landscapes. Surrounded by high peaks, turquoise lakes and cold deserts, it offers an incredible diversity of scenery within a relatively small area. Skardu city is the main city of Baltistan and the administrative centre of the region.

Unlike some destinations in northern Pakistan, however, Skardu is quite spread out. Many of the most interesting places are located well outside the town, so it is better to think of Skardu District as a collection of different landscapes and communities rather than a single destination.

One of the best ways to experience Skardu is to spend time walking through the town and surrounding villages. While many travellers use Skardu simply as a base for visiting the famous lakes and deserts, the area around the town has several interesting historical and cultural sites.

Back in town, it is also worth spending some time wandering through the local markets. Skardu is famous for its stones and minerals, and the markets are a good place to see the region's everyday commercial life. The town itself is not particularly touristy compared with places such as Karimabad, which makes it interesting for travellers who want to experience a more ordinary side of Gilgit-Baltistan.

Above Skardu town stands Kharpocho Fort, a historic fortress dramatically positioned on a rocky hill overlooking the town and the Indus River.

The climb is steep, but the views from the top make it worthwhile. It is one of the best places to understand the geography of Skardu and see how the town sits between the surrounding mountains and the river.

Near Skardu is Nansoq, often described as Pakistan's first organic village.

The village offers a chance to see traditional agricultural practices and experience a more rural side of Balti life. A visit can be combined with a traditional meal and an opportunity to learn about local farming and food.

One of the most interesting historical sights around Skardu is Manthal Buddha Rock, a large rock carved with Buddhist figures.

The carvings are a reminder that the region was connected to Buddhist cultural and trading networks long before the arrival of Islam.

For hikers, Marsur Rock is one of the most spectacular viewpoints around Skardu.

The hike leads to a dramatic rocky outcrop overlooking the valley and surrounding mountains. It is particularly rewarding for travellers who want something more active than simply visiting viewpoints by car.

Some of Skardu's most famous landscapes are located south of the town, around the Kachura area and the Katpana Desert.

Lower Kachura Lake, also known as Shangrila Lake, is one of the most famous tourist attractions around Skardu.

The lake is surrounded by mountains and pine forests, creating a dramatic contrast with the clear blue water. It is more developed and tourist-oriented than some of the other lakes in the region, but the setting is still beautiful.

Further into the Kachura area lies Upper Kachura Lake, which is quieter and feels considerably more natural. The turquoise water, surrounding mountains and peaceful atmosphere make it one of the most beautiful places around Skardu. If you have time for only one lake in the area, I would personally prioritise Upper Kachura.

The journey through the Kachura area can also be combined with Soq Valley and Kachura Village. These areas offer a different perspective on the region, with traditional villages, agricultural land and mountain scenery away from the main tourist attractions.

The day can then continue towards the Katpana Cold Desert, one of the most unusual landscapes around Skardu: golden sand dunes surrounded by snow-covered mountains create a landscape that feels almost surreal. The combination of desert and high-altitude mountains is one of the things that makes Skardu so distinctive.

Sarfaranga is another high-altitude desert surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery.
The landscape is similar to Katpana in that you can see sand dunes against a backdrop of enormous mountains, but the setting and surrounding villages make the experience different.
It is worth visiting both if you have enough time, rather than choosing one over the other.

The surrounding villages provide an opportunity to experience everyday Balti life away from the main tourist attractions. Singar Village is one place where you can explore local life and traditional architecture before continuing further into the valley.

Depending on the local spelling, Borin or Bron Lake is another peaceful stop in the area, surrounded by mountain scenery.
It is much less famous than the Kachura Lakes, making it a good option if you are looking for quieter landscapes away from the main tourist circuit.

If you have additional time in Skardu, a trip to Shigar Valley adds an important cultural dimension to the journey.
The valley is home to traditional Balti villages, historic architecture and agricultural landscapes. It is also one of the best places around Skardu to experience Balti culture beyond the main tourist sites.

The best-known attraction in the valley is Shigar Fort, a beautifully restored historic fort surrounded by the mountains of Baltistan.
But the fort is only part of the experience. I would recommend taking time to explore the surrounding villages rather than visiting the fort as a quick stop.

The traditional villages of Shigar are particularly interesting for travellers who want to see how people still live and farm in the valley.
Walking through the villages, looking at the traditional houses and agricultural fields, and stopping to speak with local people can be more rewarding than simply ticking off the main attractions.

The Khilingrong Mosque and other historic village buildings are worth seeking out, particularly for travellers interested in traditional Balti architecture and religious heritage.

Although Deosai has become one of the region's most popular destinations, many people still describe it as a place that photos and videos simply cannot capture. The plateau is immense, and during the short flowering season, from mid-July until around mid-August, the landscape is covered with flowers of every color.

For hikers looking for something more adventurous, one highly recommended route is the Burji La Pass Trek. Starting near one of the military weather stations on the Deosai Plateau, the trail crosses Burji La Pass (around 4,800 m) before descending over two to three days to Sadpara Village, near Skardu.
On exceptionally clear days, trekkers have reported distant views of K2 and other peaks of the Karakoram Range from the pass. It remains one of the lesser-known multi-day treks in the region and offers a rewarding alternative to the more popular routes.

However, increasing tourism is also changing the area. Wildlife such as marmots and even bears are becoming increasingly accustomed to people, as many visitors feed them despite this being harmful to the animals.

While Skardu is the main gateway to Baltistan, the region extends far beyond the city and its surrounding valleys. Travelling further east takes you into quieter areas where Balti culture, traditional villages and dramatic mountain landscapes become even more prominent.

Near the Indian border lies the town of Khaplu, a place where history is still deeply felt. According to local stories, some villages in the area were divided by the border, with glaciers separating communities that once belonged together. Families who had lived in the same village suddenly found themselves in different countries, with relatives remaining on opposite sides of the border. Many locals still speak about cousins and family members they have never been able to visit since the partition.

Nangma Valley is one of the newest destinations gaining popularity among hikers and photographers. Sometimes referred to as the "Yosemite of Pakistan," it is attracting increasing attention on social media thanks to its dramatic granite towers and spectacular scenery.

Note: as more travelers discover the valley, tourism is gradually expanding into increasingly remote areas close to the border.

Fairy Meadows is probably one of the most famous destinations in Gilgit-Baltistan, and for good reason.

Located at the foot of Nanga Parbat (8,126 m), the ninth-highest mountain in the world, this peaceful alpine meadow offers one of the most impressive mountain views in Pakistan.

From Islamabad, I took a shared taxi to Raikot Bridge, a journey of around 12 hours. At the time of my visit (2023), the shared taxi cost me 8,000 PKR.

From Raikot Bridge, the only way to continue is by jeep. The ride takes around 1.5 hours and costs approximately 12,000 PKR one way or 16,000 PKR for a return trip (prices can vary depending on the season and negotiations). 20000 rupees in 2026.

The road itself is an experience. Narrow, unpaved, and carved into the mountainside above deep valleys, it was honestly one of the most intense roads I have ever taken (Manon). Reaching Fairy Meadows is already an adventure before you even start hiking.

To be super honest, some local had fall down the road a couple of days ago (november 2023), and didn’t make it alive. So we decided on the way back to walk down (20kms for -2000m), my knees almost didn’t make it and I coldnt walk normally for 4 or 5 days, but it was way to scare to go up already.

Once there, several hikes allow you to explore the area and enjoy different views of Nanga Parbat.

One of the hikes I did was to the Nanga Parbat viewpoint: around 12 km with approximately 400m of elevation gain. The landscapes along the way are incredible, with forests, glaciers, and some of the most dramatic mountain scenery in Pakistan.

Other trekkers also continue further towards Beyal Camp and Nanga Parbat Base Camp, one of the most popular routes in the area. (Wikiloc | Trails of the World)

Fairy Meadows is undeniably beautiful, but it is also a place that is changing very fast.

The increase in tourism has brought many positive things for local communities: more income, more job opportunities, and better infrastructure. However, for travelers looking for untouched and wild nature, the transformation is noticeable. New hotels and guesthouses are appearing every year, and the atmosphere is becoming increasingly tourist-oriented.

If your schedule allows, consider visiting outside the peak season. During the quieter months, the trails are far less crowded, and you may even have large parts of Fairy Meadows almost entirely to yourself, making for a much more peaceful experience.

Unfortunately, the rise in visitor numbers has also led to a growing waste problem. Plastic bottles, snack wrappers, and other rubbish can often be found around the jeep parking area and along popular trails. Our friend Zafar that helped us write this guide told us that when he asked a local landowner about the litter, he was told, "The snow will take it." While this certainly does not reflect everyone's attitude, it highlights the need for greater awareness among both visitors and local stakeholders about the environmental impact of tourism. Many travelers now make a habit of carrying a small trash bag during their hikes and collecting litter along the way. It is a simple gesture that can make a real difference in helping preserve one of Pakistan's most iconic landscapes.

Personally, I think Fairy Meadows is worth experiencing once, especially for the incredible view of Nanga Parbat. But if you are searching for a more remote and authentic mountain experience, northern Pakistan still offers many valleys that receive far fewer visitors.

Gilgit is the capital and administrative centre of Gilgit-Baltistan and an important stop between the major mountain regions of northern Pakistan.

For many travellers, it is a place to pass through on the way to Hunza, Skardu or the western valleys. The city is busy and much more urban than the mountain villages in any direction. We would not recommend spending several days here, but there are a few sights to see once you are there.

The city lies at the meeting point of a few big mountain ranges, namely the Karakoram, Himalayas and Hindu Kush. This location made Gilgit an important crossroads for trade for centuries.

A few things worth stopping For

• Riverside restaurants

One of the nicest ways to spend a few hours in Gilgit is to have a meal at one of the riverside restaurants. After the traffic and noise of the city, sitting beside the river with the mountains around you can give you a pleasant break in your journey.

• Chinese Cemetery

The Chinese Cemetery commemorates Chinese workers who died while working on the construction of the Karakoram Highway.
It is a quiet and unexpected reminder of the huge human effort involved in connecting Pakistan and China through some of the world's most difficult terrain.
For travellers continuing towards Hunza and the Khunjerab Pass, it provides some context for the road they are about to travel.

• Buddhist Heritage

Gilgit has a much longer history than its modern appearance might suggest.
It has a strategic position between Central Asia, the Indian subcontinent and Tibet, and it is particularly important for its Buddhist heritage.
Rock carvings, inscriptions and archaeological discoveries show that Buddhism was practised in the wider Gilgit region.
The Kargah Buddha, a large rock carving on a cliff outside Gilgit, is one of the most visible reminders of this period.

Gilgit-Baltistan is much larger and more diverse than any single travel guide could cover.

This guide takes you through some of the region's main areas, from the villages and valleys of Hunza and Gojal to Skardu and the wider Baltistan region, as well as Fairy Meadows, Nanga Parbat and Gilgit.

But there is still much more to explore. Astore Valley, Rupal Valley, Yasin Valley, Ishkoman Valley, Ghizer and Punial are just some of the places that deserve more time if you are able to travel beyond the main routes.

If you have the time, slow down. Stay with local families, eat local food, walk through villages, talk to people and take the road that looks less obvious.

The further you move away from the main tourist routes, the more opportunities you have to discover quieter landscapes, remote communities and the incredible cultural diversity of Gilgit-Baltistan.