Pakistan is surely one of those blessed countries with spectacular landscapes, lakes, deserts, waterfalls, rivers, glaciers, and spring that we get to see in abundance in Gilgit Baltistan. This city is the number one tourist site in Pakistan, unveiling the charismatic sceneries of Gilgit Baltistan. This area is surrounded by the world’s greatest number of mountains. Gilgit is the land where three of the outrageous mountains Hindu-Kush, Karakoram, and Himalaya join together, home to rare flora and fauna, stunning valleys glimmering lakes; yet another Pakistani eye-catching region and a famous tourist destination.
The friendly people, celestial landscapes, and captivating cascades make this area a favorite destination for visitors from all over the globe. Additionally, for the mind and soul, the beauty and peace of the province is a treat. After all these praises, we leave here a list of places that one must not miss to visit while traveling to Gilgit Baltistan.
Hunza Valley.
The Valley of Hunza is around three hours’ drive from Gilgit. It is a mountainous valley in Pakistan’s province Gilgit Baltistan. This valley is in Pakistan’s extreme north. It has many mountains buried in snow. This valley comprises three regions, i.e., Hunza Lower, Upper Hunza Gojal, and Hunza Middle. Hunza Valley has great tourist attractions. Tourists visit Hunza Valley from all over the world all year round, but May to October is the best time to visit Hunza Valley. When we speak about the temperature of the Hunza Valley, the maximum temperature is 26 ° C in May, the minimum is 15 ° C and the maximum temperature is 10 ° C in October, and the minimum temperature is 0 ° C. You can also explore Fort Altit & Baltit.
Skardu Valley.
In the absolute north of Pakistan, Skardu is the epitome of grace, serenity, and nature in the central Valley of Gilgit-Baltistan. Paths to some of the highest peaks of the world, including K2, K3, and Gasherbrum, are interconnected via this valley. Each year, these towering mountains draw thousands of climbers from all over the globe; some have even lost their lives attempting to scale these steep climbs. One is welcomed by many streams, springs, and the local people’s generosity throughout the seven-hour trip. Of course, some of Skardu’s notable places are its Satpara and Kachura lakes, so the Shigar and Skardu Fort are the most popular places in all.
Khaplu Valley.
Khaplu is the territorial capital of the Pakistani Gilgit-Baltistan’s Ghanche District. It is one of the most ancient and historic towns in Gilgit. Khaplu is the path to Masherbrum Peak, 103 km east of Skardu; it was the Yabgo dynasty’s second-largest kingdom. It protected the trading route to Ladakh across the Shyok River. There are many historical sites in Khaplu, such as the beautiful Chaqchan Mosque and plenty of others. One can reach Khaplu only by road. Because of its panoramic views, Khaplu Valley is very popular among tourists from all over the world and provides a mountaineering and trekking facility as well.
Shigar Valley.
One of the marvelous wonders of Gilgit Baltistan is the Shigar Valley, along with the Shigar River. It is approximately 170 km from Skardu. It is a perfect gateway through Shigar to the Karakoram Mountains. The largest settlement in the Valley, Shigar Fort, along with Amburiq Mosque and Khilingrong Mosque, is the town of Shigar. Khanqah-e-Muallah Shigar, Hashoo pi Bhag, Marapi Ranga, Ree masjid, Astana Syed Mir Yahya, and K2 Basecamp are Shigar Valley’s most popular locations. There are numerous villages in the valley. The area is very fertile and abundant in apples, apricots, cherries, pears, fruits, and walnuts. The wonderment of the valley increases if one visits the mighty cold desert in the valley. The cold environment is indeed one of its own kind. The hanging clouds provide an unforgettable lifelong experience.
Gupis Valley.
A valley widely known as Gupis is about 70 miles west of Gilgit along with the river. In Ghizer district, Gupis valley is full of stunning landscapes and spectacular views. The turquoise water flowing along the road in the river and the surrounding forests and fields is a sight of great charm for visitors. Another few kilometers from the Gupis Valley lies Khalti Lake. It is known for being the motherland of trout fish. The lake is created by a stretch of river near the town of Khalti. The lakes turn dark blue in summer, bringing more beauty to the scene. During winter, the lake normally freezes, and one can easily walk on it. There is a lovely restaurant near Lake Khalti as well.
Astore Valley.
Astore Valley is located in Gilgit-Baltistan in the Astore District. The gateway of the valley is a courtyard, situated about 60 km southeast of Gilgit. Astore is a perfect location for the travelers and gives the enthusiastic nature and photographers a spell-bounding view. The weather of the valley varies as per the season. The summer is mild, and the winters are harsh. Astore town is an outstanding base for activities such as hiking, jeep riding, and trekking. A vast area from Nanga Parbat to Deosai and Kamri has plenty of attraction for visitors and adventure enthusiasts.
Because of security, tourism in Gilgit Baltistan is increasing day by day, and tourists want to experience Pakistan’s other side, which is definitely not a profile in the press. Pakistan is a secure and safe country like others in the world. Tourists want to discover the country’s beauties. There are many places to visit that are worth visiting.