Things To Do
in Gilgit
Gilgit is a highland town at the confluence of the Gilgit and Hunza rivers, acting as the gateway to the Karakoram range. Surrounded by towering peaks and glacier-fed valleys, it offers a rugged yet welcoming backdrop for trekkers, photographers, and culture lovers. The city blends a long history of trade and hill culture with modern markets, mosques, and teahouses.
With access to some of the world’s most dramatic landscapes, Gilgit serves as a practical base for alpine adventures and authentic northern Pakistan hospitality.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Gilgit Airport and enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Check into your hotel and refresh after your journey. After settling in, take a leisurely stroll around the city to get your bearings.
Visit the local market where you can experience the vibrant culture of Gilgit. Sample the local cuisine at a nearby restaurant, where the flavors of Northern Pakistan come to life. Engage with local artisans and shop for unique handicrafts.
Relax at your hotel and enjoy the sunset over the stunning Hunza Valley. Consider dining at a rooftop restaurant with panoramic views of the majestic peaks. Reflect on your first day in this beautiful region while sipping on traditional chai.
Drive to the enchanting Hunza Valley, known for its incredible landscapes and rich culture. Start your day at Karimabad, the capital of Hunza, where you can visit the historic Baltit Fort. Take time to soak in the panoramic views of the surrounding valleys.
Explore the Altit Fort, which offers deeper insights into the history and heritage of the region. Enjoy a local lunch at a family-run eatery, where you can savor dishes made from organic ingredients sourced from local farms. Take a short hike to the base of the Ultar Sar mountain for some photography opportunities.
Return to Karimabad as the sun sets, illuminating the valley in beautiful hues. Visit a local bazaar to shop for traditional crafts and souvenirs. Wind down your day with a cozy dinner at your hotel.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| 💧Bottle of water (0.5L) | $0.5-1 |
| ☕Coffee/Tea at cafe | $1-2 |
| 🚗Local taxi ride (short distance) | $2-5 |
| 🏨Budget hotel room (per night) | $20-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning mountainous scenery and alpine landscapes.
- Genuine northern hospitality and cultural richness.
- Limited nightlife and some services can be basic.
- Road travel can be slow due to terrain and weather.
- "سلام علیکم" - Hello / Peace be upon you
- "شکریہ" - Thank you
- "براہ مہربانی" - Please
- "کیا آپ انگریزی بولتے ہیں؟" - Do you speak English?
- "یہ کتنا ہے؟" - How much is this?
- "میں ... کی طرف جانا چاہتا ہوں" - I would like to go to ...
Places to Visit in Gilgit
Visit one of these nice places.
Riverside outlooks along the Gilgit River provide golden-hour reflections and mountain silhouettes, perfect for wide landscape shots.
Historic-style streets, mosques, and bustling markets offer candid street photography and architectural interest.
High-altitude meadow panoramas and turquoise lakes with dramatic backdrops of the Karakoram.
Food in Gilgit
Gilgit Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty curry made with tender yak meat and regional spices, commonly found in higher valley towns and guesthouses.
Must-Try!
Steamed dumplings filled with meat or vegetables, served with chutney; popular in mountain towns and roadside eateries.
Dried apricots, apricot juice, or apricot-based desserts that showcase the region’s famed fruit.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Main market area where you can sample fresh fruit, nuts, local bread, and household staples; great for street snacks and conversation with locals.
A smaller lane with tea stalls, chaat-style snacks, and quick bites ideal for a quick lunch or tea break.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly, especially in religious sites; shoulders and knees should be covered in most public spaces.
Greet with a polite 'Assalamu Alaikum' or a simple 'Hello' and smile; avoid loud public displays of anger.
Ask permission before photographing people or private spaces; some places may forbid photography inside mosques or homes.
Safety
Tipping in Gilgit
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected; round up bills in cafes or tip 5-10% in nicer restaurants if service was good. Guides and drivers commonly receive a small daily tip.
Cash (PKR) is widely preferred; some larger hotels and tourist services accept base-level card payments, but ATMs are more common in towns. Carry some local currency for small purchases.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Meltwater and fresh greenery begin to appear; temperatures are mild during the day but can be chilly at night. Flowers bloom in valley floors, making it good for sunrise photography.
Warm days and cool nights; expect clear skies and excellent trekking conditions, though occasional monsoon-related showers can occur in lower valleys.
Golden alpine meadows and clear mountain air; days are comfortable, nights are crisp, and skies are typically deep blue.
Very cold with possible snowfall; some roads can be closed or require 4x4 transport. Great for snow scenery but plan for shorter days and higher altitude acclimatization.
Gilgit at Night
Hiking in Gilgit
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A renowned hike offering dramatic views of Rakaposhi and surrounding peaks; suitable for experienced hikers.
Forest and lake-side trails near Naltar, offering scenic alpine viewpoints and photographic opportunities.
A tranquil lakeside hike with patchwork meadows and mountain vistas, ideal for a relaxed day in nature.
Airports
How to reach Gilgit by plane.
Domestic airport serving flights to Islamabad and other major Pakistani cities; expect limited international options and variable weather-related delays.
Another major regional airport further to the east, offering domestic connections and serving as a gateway to the Baltistan region and surrounding valleys.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A major linguistic group in Gilgit-Baltistan, contributing distinct cultural traditions and dress.
Other regional groups present in the broader area, each with unique customs, crafts, and cuisines.
A diverse mix of travelers, merchants, and locals shaping daily life in Gilgit.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The Karakoram region is renowned for high-altitude trekking, with routes suitable for experienced trekkers and supported by local guides.
A traditional sport in some northern towns; spectators can watch matches in local grounds when schedules allow.
In places like Naltar, winter sports enthusiasts can enjoy skiing and snow activities when conditions permit.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Gilgit.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes can be adapted to vegetarian preferences; ask for lentil or chickpea curries and vegetable stews. In larger towns, restaurants may offer paneer or veggie-only options; carry snacks for alpine trips as backup.