10 Best Places to Visit in Gilgit Baltistan 

Pakistan is a very diverse land and Gilgit is a place in this country that is a must-visit on your list. If you are traveling in Pakistan and looking to explore and have an adventure of a lifetime, then make sure to take a week out and visit Gilgit, Baltistan. Tucked at the tip of the Karakoram mountain ranges and surrounded by snowcapped mountains, Giligit is located in the North of Pakistan. It is also home to the mighty K2 mountain and some of the rarest glacier reserves in the world. 

Gilgit Baltistan’s famous places will absolutely amaze you. The landscape of Gilgit will amaze you with such beautifully painted sceneries of nature with lush green meadows, rocky mountains, sandy river plains, winding Indus River waterways, and natural life that is hard to spot in urban centers. So, pack up your gear and start your adventure in this article we are going to take you into the 10 best places to visit in Gilgit Baltistan. 

Places to Visit in Gilgit – Getting there 

Before you can hop on to your hitchhiking in Gilgit, you have to get there first, naturally. Take a flight to Islamabad International Airport and stay in the beautiful city. A couple of days spent in Islamabad is also an exciting element of your adventure trip to Gilgit. Yes, Islamabad is where your journey into the unknown world commences. Then, you can pack up your mountaineering and winter clothing gear. It’s time to go to Gilgit. 

You could either take a flight to Gilgit or you could go there by road. It is an international tourist destination, so you will not find a dearth of transportation avenues to Gilgit. But do bear in mind that the best weather to visit Gilgit is spring and early fall. Any other time than this, you’ll face harsh weather conditions and travel disruptions, and if you are not accustomed to sub-zero temperatures, you’ll just freeze. There are plenty of hotels, resorts, and cottages that you could stay in during your visit to Gilgit. Now, without further ado, let’s just dive into the world of the 10 best places to visit in Gilgit Baltistan. 

Rainbow Lake

This lake is truly the prismatic trinity of nature. Why do we say that? Well, it’s because this lake literally changes colors during the day and the night. The waters of this lake are crystal clear and you can see the lakebed from its surface. The waters turn from turquoise to crystal green with the movement of the sun and it turns blue at night with the movement of the full moon. The landscape also takes on these shades and the color of everything you see around you changes with this lake illuminating prismatic photons across its energy that will basically just consume you in utter awe. This is one of the most famous places in Gilgit Baltistan. 

Rakaposhi View Point

After enjoying the lake, gear up for a trek to Rakaposhi View Point, situated about 100 km north of Gilgit between Bagrote Valley, Nagar Valley, and Danyor. Rakaposhi, rising over 8,000 meters, is one of the highest mountains globally, famous for its year-round mist. The trek offers stunning landscapes, wildlife, and ancient forts, ensuring a day full of exploration and adventure.

On your way to the Rakaposhi View Point, you’ll get an opportunity to climb an amazing trek that takes you to the base of this mountain. Rakaposhi View Point is located between the Bagrote Valley, Nagar Valley, and Danyor, approximately 100 Km north of Gilgit. The picturesque landscape and wildlife as well as ancient forts will definitely keep you busy all day, if the trek hasn’t. 

Manthoka Waterfall

From the trek and the mammoth peak of Rakaposhi, take a day trip with friends and family to the Manthoka Waterfall which is 80 feet high and located in Kharmang Valley, Skardu, Gilgit-Baltistan. This waterfall moves as much water volume as a full-fledged dam and the gushing sounds and shockwaves of the heavy waterfall are amazing.

On a clear day, you can see a rainbow immersing through the water vapor spread across the landscape. This is a great place to spend time with friends and family over a picnic with hearty food and spend a day near of the Gilgit Baltistan beautiful places. 

Rama Lake

The Rama Lake is panoramically located near Astore, Gilgit Baltistan. The special thing about this lake is that it is covered with dark green oak trees. The entire natural ambiance of this lake is jaw-dropping. This is again a great spot to spend your day fishing, paddle-boating, or a great meal with family and friends. You can also take very scenic and memorable pictures here or go on a serene and romantic walk with your spouse or partner. All in all a Gilgit Baltistan tourist place. 

Hushe Valley 

Hushe Valley is a green grassland of utter beauty located in Ghanche District, Gilgit-Baltistan. This valley is carved by the tests of time by the Hushe River. The valley is overlooked by the Masherbrum Mountain (at 7,821 meters). It is at the tip of the Karakorum ranges and is surrounded by the snowcapped subranges including the cluster of Laila Peak, K6, and K7. This is a pretty majestic place where you have the option to spend a couple of days in a cottage or while camping in the campsites. The night sky view is amazing, you’ll absolutely love it. 

Blue Lake

This lake is massive and situated atop a dormant volcanic crater submerged under it. The waters are crystal clear and the mountains around it combine and present a very serene and beautiful picture. It is a day trip worth having. There are many restaurants and activities around this lake. People go there with family and friends for a picnic. There is also a mist that brushes upon the surface of this lake and people find it quite amusing and worth preserving in their cameras. 

Satrangi Lake 

Satrangi in the Urdu language means “7 Colours”.  Satrangiri Lake will present to you the seven amazing colors of nature immaculately immersed and blended with utter beauty. This lake is located in Naltar Valley, Gilgit. It is a very famous trekking point and a camping site. You have to be a little careful to venture here in winter because the weather conditions will present numerous challenges and you might stuck here until the snow clears before you could head back to Islamabad. 

Gopis Fort

Gopis Fort is a historical place in Gilgit Baltistan which is a reminder of ancient warfare and trade development between the lands of Pakistan and China where many clans fought to protect the sovereignty of this land. Gopis Fort is a large sturdy structure erected 112 kilometers to the west of Gilgit on the bank of the River Gilgit. This is also tucked amongst a very scenic landscape. There is intricate architecture and much to learn from the calligraphy that tells tales of ancient times. This is also a Gilgit Baltistan famous place.

Beyal Camp

Beyal camp is a great site for campers just a little off the Fairy Meadows which is a lush green grassland from fairy tales. Yes, this fairyland is actually in existence in Gilgit and the Beyal Camp is a great spot for mountaineers to set up camp or rent a cabin to spend the night under the open skies of this valley presenting eery and amazing views of the night sky and the moon-lit snowcapped mountains with the river stream flowing across. 

Rupal Base Camp 

In the South of Gilgit rising on the elevation of 4572m is located the Rupal Base Camp. This is the tip to the climb on the mammoth Nanga Parbat which is the purest of all the mountains with the world’s steepest and highest straight-up climb that presents a challenge of a lifetime to enthusiasts that venture to climb and conquer this mountain. If you are an expert, then venture into the glacier climb that leads to a clearer view of the breathtaking Nanga Parbat. This is a great visiting place in Gilgit Baltistan.

Conclusion 

Gilgit-Baltistan is a treasure trove of adventure and natural beauty that promises an experience of a lifetime. From pristine lakes that shimmer with changing hues to towering snowcapped mountains, this region offers breathtaking scenery at every turn. Whether you’re trekking to majestic peaks, exploring ancient forts, or camping under starlit skies, Gilgit is a must-visit destination. So, pack your gear, embrace the spirit of exploration, and let the wonders of Gilgit-Baltistan captivate your soul.

Places to Visit in Gilgit-Baltistan – FAQs 

What are the must-visit places in Gilgit-Baltistan?

Gilgit-Baltistan is home to several stunning destinations, including Rainbow Lake, Rakaposhi View Point, Rama Lake, and Manthoka Waterfall. These places to visit in Gilgit-Baltistan are perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Which are the most famous places of Gilgit-Baltistan for tourists?

Some of the Gilgit-Baltistan famous places include Fairy Meadows, Hushe Valley, and the iconic Rupal Base Camp near Nanga Parbat. These spots offer breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences.

Are there any historical places in Gilgit-Baltistan worth visiting?

Yes, Gopis Fort is one of the notable historical places in Gilgit-Baltistan. It stands as a testament to the region’s rich history, showcasing ancient architecture and tales of trade and warfare.

What makes Gilgit-Baltistan a top tourist destination?

Gilgit-Baltistan’s beautiful places, such as Blue Lake, Satrangi Lake, and the surrounding Karakoram mountain ranges, make it a paradise for travelers. Its diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage rank it among the most sought-after tourist places in Pakistan.