Gilgit Travel Guide: Best Attractions, Hotels, Transport and Nearby Valleys
As the vibrant capital city of the Gilgit-Baltistan region, Gilgit serves as the historic and strategic hub of the northern mountains. Sitting at the historic crossroads of the ancient Silk Road, Gilgit is much more than just a transit stop—it is a destination packed with cultural landmarks, dramatic mountain vistas, and access to some of the most breathtaking alpine valleys in the world.
This comprehensive Tourism Bazar travel guide covers everything you need to experience the best of Gilgit and its surroundings.
Best Attractions in & Around Gilgit City
Kargah Buddha: Located just a few kilometers outside the city center, this is a massive 7th-century archaeological site featuring a large standing Buddha figure carved directly into a steep rock cliff face alongside ancient monastery ruins.
Naltar Valley: A short drive from Gilgit city, Naltar is famous for its dense alpine forests, vibrant mountain flora, and stunning, crystal-clear high-altitude lakes (like Blue Lake and Satrangi Lake). In winter, it transforms into Pakistan’s premier skiing destination.
Danyore Suspension Bridge & Chinese Graveyard: Explore the engineering marvel of the local suspension bridge and visit the peaceful Chinese Graveyard, which honors the engineers who lost their lives building the Karakoram Highway.
Gilgit City Bazaars & Yadgar Chowk: Perfect for picking up local handicrafts, semi-precious stones, traditional caps, and dry fruits in a bustling traditional trading atmosphere.
Transport & How to Reach Gilgit
By Air: Daily direct flights operate between Islamabad and Gilgit Airport (weather permitting), offering a breathtaking 50-minute flight past towering mountain ranges like Nanga Parbat.
By Road: A 10-to-12-hour drive from Islamabad via the smooth Hazara Motorway and the legendary Karakoram Highway (KKH). Public transport services like NATCO or private cars/SUVs are widely available.
Local Transport Within Gilgit: Taxis, local vans, and 4x4 jeep rentals are easily accessible for day trips to Naltar, Bagrot, or neighboring valleys.
Where to Stay: Best Hotels in Gilgit
Luxury & Premium Hotels: Serena Hotel Gilgit, Hotel Riveria, and inar, Gilgit offer top-tier modern comforts, spacious lawns, security, and exceptional hospitality.
Mid-Family Range: Madina Hotel Gilgit (a legendary staple for travelers with great local food and reliable rooms), Park Plaza Hotel, and Gilgit Sarai provide comfortable accommodations close to the main commercial areas.
Nearby Valleys Worth Exploring
Hunza Valley: Just a 2.5 to 3-hour drive north along the KKH, offering world-famous sights like Baltit Fort, Attabad Lake, and Passu Cones.
Bagrot & Haramosh Valleys: Excellent, less-commercialized alternatives for trekkers and nature lovers seeking raw alpine pastures, glaciers, and towering peaks.
Phander & Gupis Valleys (Ghizer District): Located west of Gilgit, known for crystal-blue trout rivers, serene lakes, and peaceful green fields.
Estimated Tour Cost (Per Person)
Budget / Backpacker Style: PKR 12,000 to 22,000 (Using shared transport/vans, staying in budget city hotels or local guest houses, and taking public jeeps to Naltar).
Comfort / Family Style: PKR 35,000 to 60,000 (Traveling via private car, staying at standard 3-star hotels, and hiring dedicated jeeps for local excursions).
Luxury Style: PKR 85,000+ (Staying at upscale properties like Serena Gilgit, private SUV transport, and personalized guide services).
Pro-Tip for Travelers: Always keep a buffer day in your travel schedule if you are flying into Gilgit, as mountain flights are heavily dependent on clear weather conditions.
For booking or information contact Tourism Bazar Whatsapp: +923426111292
