Tourism in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan - K2, Deosai Plains, Naltar Valley, Forts, Rakaposhi
Gilgit-Baltistan, located in the northernmost region of Pakistan, is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning natural beauty, rich culture and history, and adventure opportunities. The region, often referred to as the "Roof of the World", is home to some of the highest peaks in the world, including K2, the second highest mountain in the world.
One of the main attractions in Gilgit-Baltistan is its natural beauty, which includes snow-capped peaks, glaciers, lush green valleys, and sparkling rivers. The region is also home to several national parks and protected areas, including the Deosai National Park, which is known for its unique alpine ecosystem and is home to the Himalayan brown bear, the Asiatic ibex, and the snow leopard.
The culture and history of Gilgit-Baltistan is also a major draw for tourists. The region has a diverse population, with influences from various ethnic groups, including the Hunza, Wakhi, and Shina. Visitors can explore the traditional villages, witness the local customs and traditions, and learn about the region's rich history and heritage.
One of the most popular historical sites in Gilgit-Baltistan is the Altit and Baltit Fort, located in the Hunza Valley. These forts, dating back to the 8th and 9th centuries, offer a glimpse into the region's past and have been well-preserved over the centuries. Visitors can also explore the nearby ancient rock carvings, which are considered to be one of the oldest examples of rock art in the region.
For adventure enthusiasts, Gilgit-Baltistan offers a wide range of activities, including trekking, mountaineering, rock climbing, paragliding, and white-water rafting. The region is also known for its challenging and scenic trekking routes, including the famous K2 Base Camp Trek, which takes trekkers to the base of the world's second-highest mountain.
In addition to its natural beauty and adventure opportunities, Gilgit-Baltistan is also known for its delicious local cuisine, which is heavily influenced by Central Asian, Chinese, and Tibetan cuisine. Visitors can try traditional dishes like "Dumplings", "Momo" and "Thukpa" which are very famous in this region.
Overall, Gilgit-Baltistan is a destination that offers something for everyone, from nature lovers and adventure seekers to history buffs and foodies. With its stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and history, and wide range of activities, it is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for an unforgettable and unique experience.
However, it is important to note that the region is relatively remote and infrastructure is limited, so visitors should plan accordingly and be prepared for a more rugged and adventurous travel experience. It's also recommended to check with local authorities and tour operators for the latest information on the safety and accessibility of the region before planning a trip.
Hospitality of people in Gilgit-Baltistan:
The people of Gilgit-Baltistan, located in the northernmost region of Pakistan, are known for their warm and welcoming hospitality. The tradition of hospitality is deeply ingrained in the culture and customs of the region, and it is considered a sacred duty to extend a warm welcome to guests and visitors.The locals in Gilgit-Baltistan are known for their generosity and kindness towards visitors. They often go out of their way to make sure that their guests are comfortable and well taken care of. They are known to offer food and drink, a comfortable place to stay, and a warm welcome to guests.
The hospitality of the people of Gilgit-Baltistan is often cited as one of the reasons why visitors return to the region. The locals are friendly, and they enjoy sharing their culture and traditions with visitors. They are also happy to help visitors navigate the area and to provide advice on local customs and etiquette.
The hospitality of the people of Gilgit-Baltistan is particularly evident in the local homestays, which are a popular option for travelers to the region. These homestays offer a unique and authentic experience and provide visitors with the opportunity to learn more about the local culture and customs. The families that run these homestays often go out of their way to make sure that their guests are comfortable and well taken care of.
In conclusion, the hospitality of the people of Gilgit-Baltistan is a major factor in creating a positive and memorable experience for visitors. The locals are known for their warm and welcoming attitude, and for their generosity and kindness towards guests. Their hospitality is a reflection of the culture, customs and traditions of the region, and it is an important aspect of the tourism industry.
District wise tourist attractions are:
Skardu:- K-2: Known as the "Savage Mountain," K-2 is the second highest peak in the world and is located in the Karakoram range in Skardu. It is one of the most challenging and dangerous mountains to climb and is considered the ultimate test for mountaineers.
- Deosai Plains: The Deosai Plains are located in the Skardu district and are known for their unique alpine ecosystem and diverse wildlife, including the Himalayan brown bear, the Asiatic ibex, and the snow leopard. The plains are accessible by a 4x4 jeep and offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
- Shangrila Resort: Often referred to as "Heaven on Earth," the Shangrila Resort is a popular tourist destination located in the Skardu district. The resort features a beautiful lake, a unique culture, and traditional architecture. It is also known for its adventurous activities like paragliding, trekking, and rock climbing.
- Satpara Lake: Satpara Lake is a beautiful glacial lake located in the Skardu district. It is a popular destination for camping, fishing, and boating, and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
- Geshebrum I and Geshebrum II: These two peaks, located in the Skardu district, are considered some of the most challenging and dangerous mountains to climb in the world. They are known for their steep and icy slopes and are considered the ultimate test for mountaineers.
- Broad Peak: Broad Peak is the 12th highest mountain in the world and is located in the Skardu district. It is known for its stunning views and challenging climbing routes.
- Sheosar Lake: Sheosar Lake is a beautiful lake located in the Skardu district. It is known for its clear water and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
- Kharpoco Fort: Kharpoco Fort is an ancient fort located in the Skardu district. It dates back to the 16th century and offers a glimpse into the region's history and culture.
- Baltaro Glacier: The Baltaro Glacier is located in the Skardu district and is one of the largest glaciers in the region. It offers a unique and rugged landscape and is a popular destination for trekking and camping.
Gilgit:
- Naltar Valley: Naltar Valley is a beautiful valley located in the Gilgit district. It is known for its stunning views of the surrounding mountains, including Naltar Peak, and for its diverse wildlife. It is also popular for trekking, rock climbing, and skiing.
- Kargah Buddaa: The Kargah Buddaa are ancient rock carvings located in the Gilgit district. They date back to the 8th century and are considered to be one of the oldest examples of rock art in the region.
- Baltit Fort: The Baltit Fort is an ancient fort located in the Hunza Valley. It dates back to the 8th century and offers a glimpse into the region's history and culture.
- Altit Fort: The Altit Fort is an ancient fort located in the Hunza Valley. It dates back to the 9th century and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.
- Rakaposhi: Rakaposhi is a beautiful peak located in the Hunza-Nagar district. It is known for its stunning views and challenging climbing routes.
- Golden Peak: Golden Peak is a mountain located in the Hunza-Nagar district. It is known for its stunning views and challenging climbing routes.
- Ultar: Ultar is a beautiful peak located in the Hunza-Nagar district. It is known for its steep and challenging climbing routes and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Ghizer:
- Phandar Valley: Phandar Valley is a beautiful valley located in the Ghizer district. It is known for its lush green landscape, clear streams and traditional way of living of locals.
- ShandurPolo Ground: ShandurPolo Ground is located in the Ghizer district and it is the highest Polo ground in the world. This ground is famous for annual Polo festival which is held on 7th and 8th of July every year.
Ghanche:
- Mashebrum Peak: Mashebrum Peak is a mountain located in the Ghanche district. It is known for its stunning views and challenging climbing routes.
- Thalay La: Thalay La is a mountain pass located in the Ghanche district. It offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and is a popular destination for trekking and hiking.
- Ghondoghoro Pass: Ghondoghoro Pass is a mountain pass located in the Ghanche district. It offers challenging trekking routes and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
- Chaqchan Mosque: Chaqchan Mosque is an ancient mosque located in the Ghanche district. It dates back to the 14th century and is known for its traditional architecture and intricate carvings.
Astore:
- Rupal Valley: Rupal Valley is a beautiful valley located in the Astore district. It is known for its stunning views of Nanga Parbat and Rupal Peak and for its challenging trekking routes.
- Rama Lake: Rama Lake is a beautiful lake located in the Astore district. It is known for its clear water and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
- Chilim Valley: Chilim Valley is a beautiful valley located in the Astore district. It is known for its lush green landscape and traditional way of living of locals.
Diamer:
- Nanga Parbat: Nanga Parbat is the ninth highest mountain in the world, and it is located in the Diamer district. It is known for its stunning views and challenging climbing routes.
- Fairy Meadows: Fairy Meadows is a beautiful meadow located in the Diamer district, at the base of Nanga Parbat. It is known for its stunning views of the surrounding mountains and for its camping and trekking opportunities.
- Babusar Pass: Babusar Pass is a mountain pass located in the Diamer district. It offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and is a popular destination for trekking and hiking.
