- GILGIT-BALTISTAN · KARAKORAM MOUNTAINS
Gilgit | A Land of Mountains and Valleys
The capital of Gilgit-Baltistan and the gateway to some of the most dramatic valleys, lakes, and glaciers in Northern Pakistan.
Where the Karakoram begins
Gilgit, the capital of Gilgit-Baltistan, sits at the heart of the Karakoram Mountains. Tall peaks, clear lakes, and green valleys surround the city, offering fresh air, sweeping views, and a peaceful pace of life. The local language is Shina, and most residents also understand Urdu and English, so travellers will find it easy to get around.
How to Reach Gilgit
Gilgit Airport is roughly a one-hour flight from Islamabad, weather permitting, making it the fastest way in.
The Karakoram Highway connects Gilgit to Islamabad in about 10–12 hours. Skardu Airport is another regional option.
Quick Facts
Beautiful valleys around Gilgit
Each valley near Gilgit has its own character, from ski slopes to orchard-lined trails to remote, little-visited communities.
Naltar
Pine forests, alpine meadows, and one of Pakistan’s few ski destinations in winter.
Bagrote
Fruit orchards and clear views of Rakaposhi, one of the world’s highest peaks.
Haramosh
Home to Kutwal Lake, set beneath the dramatic Haramosh Peak.
Shimshal & Chapursan
Remote valleys with a distinct culture, far from the usual tourist trail.
Thally, Khaltru & Hopper
Green meadows, wildflowers, and glacier views within easy reach of the city.
Shimshal
Hopar Glacier
Bagrote Valley
Lakes and glaciers
From turquoise alpine lakes to glacier trails, the terrain around Gilgit rewards travellers who venture a little further.
Attabad Lake
A striking blue-water lake formed after a 2010 landslide, now one of the region’s most photographed spots.
Phander
A clear trout lake surrounded by green slopes, popular for boating and quiet walks.
Rush Lake
A high-altitude alpine lake for travellers looking for a more remote trekking experience.
Naltar Rainbow Lakes
A cluster of colourful lakes near Naltar Valley, known for their unusual mineral-tinted water.
Passu & Hopper Glaciers
Two of the most accessible glaciers in the region, great for trekking and photography alike.
Attabad Lake
Passu Cones
Phander Lake
Bridges & local experiences
Danyore Bridge
A handmade wooden bridge, one of the more traditional crossings near the city.
Bagrote Bridge
Connects Bagrote Valley to Gilgit, a scenic route in its own right.
Hussaini Bridge
One of the more exciting suspension bridges in the region, a memorable walk over the river.
“Gilgit is a place of beauty and calm. Every valley, lake, and trail has its own story.”
Best time to visit Gilgit
Most valleys and mountain routes around Gilgit are at their most accessible between May and October. Outside this window, higher passes and remote valleys may be snowbound or difficult to reach.
Gilgit on the map
Questions about visiting Gilgit
How do I reach Gilgit?
By air, Gilgit Airport is about a one-hour flight from Islamabad, weather permitting. By road, the Karakoram Highway takes roughly 10 to 12 hours from Islamabad. Skardu Airport is another regional option.