This Gilgit travel guide covers the capital of Gilgit-Baltistan and the valleys around it. Gilgit sits at about 1,500 metres where the Gilgit and Hunza rivers meet, surrounded by peaks of the Karakoram, Himalaya and Hindu Kush. Most visitors use it as a base for Hunza, Naltar, Fairy Meadows and the drive along the Karakoram Highway to the Chinese border at Khunjerab.
April brings apricot and cherry blossom to Hunza, summer (June–August) is the main season for high valleys and lakes, and October to early November paints the poplars gold. Winters are cold and some high roads close.
Getting to Gilgit
The quickest way is a flight from Islamabad to Gilgit Airport (GIL), about one hour on a clear day with spectacular views of Nanga Parbat. Flights depend on visibility and are often delayed or cancelled, so keep a spare day and consider a flexible ticket.
By road, Gilgit is roughly 14–18 hours from Islamabad on the Karakoram Highway (KKH), or around 10–12 hours in summer via Naran and the Babusar Pass (open about June to September). Long-distance coaches run daily, and many travellers hire a car with a driver and stop overnight in Chilas or Naran. Foreign visitors need a Pakistani visa or online travel authorisation — check official Pakistani sources before you go.
| Islamabad to Gilgit | Time | Typical cost |
|---|---|---|
| Flight (weather-dependent) | about 1 hour | PKR 15,000–35,000 one way |
| Long-distance coach (KKH) | 14–18 hours | PKR 5,000–8,000 |
| Private car with driver | 10–16 hours | PKR 50,000–90,000 one way |
Popular flights: Islamabad → GilgitIslamabad → Skardu
Top sights around Gilgit
Gilgit itself is a busy market town; the real highlights are the valleys within a few hours' drive.
A 7th-century Buddha carved high into a cliff face, a short drive from town.
1 hour · 10 kmA long footbridge over the Hunza River with views of Rakaposhi on clear days.
30 minutesHunza's main town with centuries-old forts, orchards and views of Ultar and Rakaposhi.
2.5 hours from Gilgit · full dayA turquoise lake formed by a 2010 landslide, with boat and jet-ski rides.
3 hours from GilgitSaw-tooth peaks above Upper Hunza and a thrilling rope suspension bridge.
4 hours from GilgitPine forests and the colourful Satrangi and Blue lakes; a 4x4 is needed for the last stretch.
2–3 hours from GilgitThe Pakistan–China border at about 4,700 m, one of the highest paved border crossings in the world.
Full day · May–NovemberAlpine meadows facing Nanga Parbat, reached by jeep and a 2–3 hour hike from Raikot Bridge.
Overnight tripFood to try in Gilgit and Hunza
Try chapshuro (bread stuffed with spiced minced meat), diram fitti (a wheat bread soaked in apricot oil), mantu dumplings and hearty soups. Hunza is famous for apricots, cherries and mulberries in summer and for walnut cake and dried fruit all year — the cafés of Karimabad are perfect for an afternoon tea with a view.
Gilgit's bazaar has plenty of local restaurants serving karahi, daal and fresh naan. A simple meal costs about PKR 600–1,800 and a hotel restaurant PKR 2,000–4,500 per person. Food is halal; meals are simple and filling.
Getting around Gilgit-Baltistan
In town, shared minibuses and local taxis cover short trips cheaply. For valleys and lakes, most visitors hire a car or jeep with a local driver — around PKR 12,000–25,000 per day depending on distance — and a 4x4 is essential for Naltar, Fairy Meadows and other rough tracks. Public minibuses also run along the Karakoram Highway to Hunza.
Self-driving is possible for experienced mountain drivers, but roads can be blocked by landslides, fuel stations are spread out and mobile signal is patchy. Local drivers know the roads and conditions, which makes a big difference.
Safety and local tips
Gilgit-Baltistan is welcoming and generally safe for visitors. The main risks are natural: landslides on the KKH after rain, cold nights and altitude at Khunjerab or Fairy Meadows. Avoid driving at night, carry warm layers and stay flexible with your plans.
Carry enough cash — ATMs exist in Gilgit and Karimabad but can run out, and cards are rarely accepted in villages. Emergency numbers: Rescue 1122 and police 15. Dress modestly, ask before photographing people, and respect local customs during Ramadan and religious events.
Where to stay
Combine a night in Gilgit with two or three nights in Hunza for the best experience.
Hotels and guesthouses close to the bazaar and transport.
Budget to midHotels with balcony views of the peaks, near the forts and cafés.
Mid to highLakeside and mountain lodges in Upper Hunza.
Mid-rangeA 3-day plan for Gilgit and Hunza
Day 1: arrive in Gilgit, visit the Kargah Buddha and Danyore Bridge, then drive to Karimabad. Day 2: Baltit and Altit forts, the Eagle's Nest viewpoint at sunset. Day 3: Attabad Lake, Hussaini Bridge and Passu Cones, returning via Karimabad. With more time, add Naltar or Khunjerab Pass. Our full Gilgit guide has timings and costs.
Frequently asked questions
How do I get from Islamabad to Gilgit?
Fly in about one hour (weather permitting) or travel by road in 14–18 hours on the Karakoram Highway, or 10–12 hours via the Babusar Pass in summer.
Is Hunza far from Gilgit?
Karimabad, Hunza's main town, is about 2.5 hours by road from Gilgit; Attabad Lake is about 3 hours.
When is the best time to visit Gilgit and Hunza?
April for blossom, June to August for high valleys, and October to early November for autumn colours.
Do I need a jeep?
For Naltar, Fairy Meadows and other rough tracks, yes — hire a 4x4 with an experienced local driver.
Is Gilgit safe to visit?
Yes, it is welcoming and generally safe. Take care with mountain roads, weather and altitude, and avoid night driving.
Prices and transport details were checked 8 October 2026. Travel information changes — please confirm entry rules and prices with official sources before you go.