Gilgit Baltistan

Top 10 Places to Visit
in Gilgit

O

ne of the exciting regions of Pakistan is Gilgit Baltistan, a mesmerizing region in northern Pakistan, famous for its heavenly landscapes, 

towering peaks, and vibrating culture. This is where you can find some of the highest mountains in the world, pure lakes, and lush green valleys and is therefore often referred to as the “Land of Giants.” Top places to visit in Gilgit Baltistan are found to attract adventure lovers, nature lovers, cultural explorers, and many more. In this article you will not just read about the top places to visit in Gilgit rather, it will provide you with an exact look at that region and its natural beauty and historical significance.

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Top Places to visit in Gilgit

1. Hunza Valley – A Jewel of the Karakoram

Hunza is one of the best tourist sites in Gilgit Baltistan and in the top 10 places to visit. This valley nestles between snow-capped peaks, among lush valleys, and has the reputation of having very hospitable people and ancient forts. The place has been divided into three parts, namely Upper Hunza (Gojal), Central Hunza, and Lower Hunza which have their unique attractions.

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Hunza Valley

Baltit and Altit are the historic forts that give a glimpse of the valley’s rich heritage whereas the Passu Cones and Attabad Lake are a saga of nature’s beauty. Trek to Ultar Sar or the breathtaking views of Eagle’s Nest are other trekking opportunities that visitors can enjoy.

2. Skardu – Land of Lakes and Mountains

It is Skardu that makes Gilgit Baltistan a top location to visit because of the stunning landscapes, clear blue lakes, and towering mountains that it has. Skardu is a gateway to some of the highest peaks in the world including K2 and is a paradise for trekkers and mountain climbers.

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Upper Kachura Lake

Head to Shangrila Resort or “Heaven on Earth,” as everyone calls it, because it has a floating hotel at Lower Kachura Lake. Moreover, with the Skardu Fort and Satpara Lake being serene this region attracts travelers. For the adventure lover, Deosai Plains is a mesmerizing place with an amazing diversity of wildlife.

3. Fairy Meadows – A Dreamlike Destination

Fairy Meadows is a superb alpine meadow at the base of the ‘Killer Mountain’, Nanga Parbat. Located in Gilgit Baltistan, it is among the most beautiful places and must visit one of the places for nature lovers and photographers.

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Nanga Parbat

The Fairy Meadows journey itself is an adventure, such that you have to take a jeep ride on a narrow mountain track, followed by a short walk. Upon arrival, the visitors are met by lush green meadows, wooden huts, and picturesque panoramic views of Nanga Parbat. Camping here under the starry sky is like no other.

4. Attabad Lake – A Serene Beauty

The beautiful Attabad Lake is a bright blue lake that was created by a massive landslide in 2010. This lake is now one of the most iconic attractions of top places to visit in Gilgit Baltistan and includes boating, jet skiing, and fishing along with beautiful views.

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Attabad Lake

Attabad Lake is a symbol of its resilience and beauty surrounded by the captivating midst of towering mountains. Lakeside resorts and cafes are a perfect spot for relaxation and enjoying the far-off serene atmosphere. Crystal clear water in the lake, along with the reflection of the surrounding peaks, makes for picturesque surroundings for people to travel and photographers to capture.

5. Khunjerab Pass – The Highest Paved International Border

Khunjerab Pass at 4,693 meters is the world’s highest paved border crossing. This is an important stop when you are traveling from Pakistan to China and hence is one of the top 10 places to visit in Gilgit Baltistan.

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Khunjerab Pass

The route upon which you gain access to Khunjerab Pass is picturesque with snow-capped peaks, deep valleys, and unique wildlife, including rare Marco Polo sheep and snow leopards. At the border, there is the China-Pakistan Friendship Monument to honor the diplomatic relations between the two countries. It is the towering mountains that the tourists enjoy snap photographs against.

6. Deosai National Park – The Land of Giants

The Deosai National Park, also called the ‘Land of the Giants,’ is a vast plateau at an altitude of more than 4000 meters. It is as famous as the second highest plateau of Gilgit Baltistan and is a very important travel place in Gilgit Baltistan.

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Deosai National Park

The park is famous for its rich biodiversity and it is home to Himalayan brown bears, golden marmots, and many migrating birds. The rolling green plains strewed with wildflowers make it a surreal place in summer. Although not too far away from Nanga Parbat, Sheosar Lake is one of the world’s highest lakes for visitors to explore and get a majestic view of Nanga Parbat.

7. Naltar Valley – A Hidden Paradise

Naltar Valley is a hidden paradise and one of the best places in Gilgit Baltistan. It is known for its lush forests, colorful lakes, and its winter skiing resorts all year round.

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Naltar Lake

The valley is famous for its unique green, and with bright blue lakes (locally called Bashkiri Lakes), the valley is known to be one of the most beautiful in the world. In winter it becomes a skiing hub when it hosts national and international skiing competitions. There’s an adventure to the drive to Naltar as you are crossing rough land and some gorgeous landscapes up till there.

8. Rama Lake – A Peaceful Retreat

Rama Lake, situated near Astore Valley is one such spot in Gilgit Baltistan where you can have one of the most peaceful and picturesque places. The pine forest and snow-capped peaks also surround the lake so it is a great place to escape the busyness of city life.

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Rama Lake

Beautiful views of the lake make Rama Lake Hiking such an adventure! It is also suitable for camping, photography, and picnicking in the area. Visitors to Rama Lake usually head to Rupal Valley with a nice view of Nanga Parbat, and for travelers, this view of Rupal Valley with a great view of Nanga Parbat is more interesting than a regular view of Rupal Valley.

9. Phander Valley – Switzerland of Pakistan

The lush green lands, serene lakes, and picturesque meadows in Phander Valley also make it another name of the “Switzerland of Pakistan”. It’s one of the top 10 places to visit in Gilgit Baltistan that ensures a unique and off-the-beaten-track experience.

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Phander Lake

Phander Lake with crystal clear water reflecting mountains around it is the valley’s highlight. This is fun for the visiting public because there are boating, fishing and spending time by the lakeside. In addition, friendly locals inhabiting this valley also pay attention to travelers with open arms to impart an insight into their cultural traditions.

10. Shigar Valley – The Gateway to Mighty Karakoram

Trekking through Shigar Valley near Skardu begins in one of the highest valleys in the world, as well as some of the highest mountains, such as K2. A must-visit for an adventure lover as well as a history lover.

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Shigar Valley

The site is well known for the 17th-century magnificent Shigar Fort renovated into a luxury heritage hotel. The background behind this backdrop is the snow-covered peaks and the nearby Cold Desert has its stunning dunes that make for an amazing contrast. Shigar Valley could be rightfully called an outstanding destination due to its serene ambiance and rich cultural heritage.

Conclusion

This land of Gilgit Baltistan is one of the most beautiful in the region with countless attractions – beautiful landscapes, historical sites, etc. The top places to visit in Gilgit Baltistan are sure to provide you with adventure, cultural experiences, or a retreat into the natural beauty of Gilgit Baltistan that you’ve always wanted to experience. The Hunza Valley is majestic whereas the Phander Valley is serene. Get ready and plan your trip today and get familiar with the wonders of this heavenly region!

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