Excursions from Gilgit
Exciting Escapes from Gilgit: Exploring Majestic Mountain Valleys Excursions from Gilgit encompass all the prime attractions located in the vicinity of Gilgit. Strategically nestled amidst awe-inspiring landscapes, Gilgit opens doors to a host of thrilling journeys into the neighboring valleys and mountainous territories. Each of these destinations unveils a harmonious fusion of natural grandeur, cultural legacy, and adventurous prospects, casting a spellbinding allure for globetrotters and adventurers alike. Adding to the region’s allure is its linguistic diversity, with over ten languages spoken in Gilgit and its neighboring valleys. Gilgit being the melting pot houses people of all colors and creeds. Gilgit City, perched at the confluence of the Gilgit and Hunza Rivers, proudly claims its title as the capital of Gilgit-Baltistan. Rich in historic and manmade landmarks, the Gilgit tourist attractions range from ancient Buddhist heritage to modern edifices making it a preferred choice for travelers. The territory of Gilgit-Baltistan is bordered by China to the east, the Wakhan corridor to the north, Chitral to the west, and Kashmir to the south. This mountainous territory encompasses three divisions – Gilgit, Baltistan, and Diamer. These divisions, in turn, are split into ten districts: Gilgit, Ghizer, Hunza, and Nagar form the Gilgit division; Skardu, Ghanche, Shigar, and Kharmang collectively make Baltistan division while Diamer and Astor constitute the Diamer division. Each of these ten districts boasts a distinctive charm, presenting a picture drawn with natural beauty, cultural diversity, and human endeavor. Gilgit city has direct access to all the attractions in these districts. Below, we explore the thrilling options for Excursions from Gilgit. Day Excursion to Naltar Valley – A blissful Escape The Naltar Valley, an enchanting pine-carpeted expanse, sits majestically located at an elevation of 15,000 ft. At 47 km away from Gilgit, Naltar Valley undoubtedly makes a perfect summer retreat. It serves as an internationally acclaimed ski resort and a launching point for two enthralling treks. Naltar beckons adventurers with the Naltar Pakora Trek, winding through a 4,600-meter pass to the Ishkoman Valley. Likewise, Naltar also serves as a base for the 4,636-meter Daintar Pass, leading to the Karakoram Highway via Chalt Valley. Upper Naltar hosts three picturesque lakes: Bashkiri Lake – I or Chimo Bari (Fish Lake), Bashkiri Lake – II or Chakar Bari (Multi-Ends Lake), and Bashkiri Lake – III or Bodolok Bari (Turbid Lake). Nestled close to each other at the end of the gorge, these three lakes craft an ideal picnic spot. Naltar Valley is currently accessible only by a 4WD, although a metal road from Gilgit is under construction. Day Excursion to Phunder Valley – Explore the Hindukush charms Phander Valley, nestled along the main Gilgit-Chitral road within the Gupis Valley of the Ghizer district in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan, unfurls its breathtaking beauty before your eyes. With turquoise waters cradling pristine lakes and trout aplenty, this valley is a jewel awaiting discovery. Presently, a full day’s journey of 170 km or 4.5 hours from Gilgit takes you to Phunder. But take note, road reconstruction is underway, promising a shorter distance and more time to immerse in the valley’s wonders. In Phander Valley, attractions abound, from the vibrant Gahkuch Bazar to the stately Gupis Fort, the tranquil Khalti Lake, the enchanting Phunder Lake, and the mesmerizing Gulaqmoli. Moreover, the valley opens gates to explore the captivating realms of the Shandur Pass. You may also be interested in: Excursions from Islamabad Day Excursion to Yasin Valley – Unveiling the Enigma Yasin Valley, often referred to as Baba-i-Yasin or Worshigum, remains a hidden gem on the tourist map. Situated approximately 130 km northwest of Gilgit amidst the Hindukush Mountains, this valley extends from Thawoos to the final hamlet of Darkut Valley, meandering through the valleys of Sandhi and Barkulti to the Darkut hot springs, nestled close to the Afghanistan border. The Darkut hot springs, adjacent to the Darkut Pass leading to the Wakhan Corridor, entice trekkers with one of the most celebrated alpine routes. The trek from Yarkhun Valley over Zagar & Nazbar to Yasin Valley also unveils another picturesque route connecting Chitral and Yasin. The prime time to relish Yasin Valley’s beauty is between April and October when nature paints the landscape with blooming blossoms and a kaleidoscope of summer and autumn hues. The valley also offers a plethora of seasonal fruits in summer and excellent fishing opportunities. Junction Point of Three Mountain Ranges – Where the Mighty Mountains Converge The junction point of the three mountain ranges stands as an extraordinary spectacle near Jaglot on the Karakoram Highway, about 40 km southeast of Gilgit, Pakistan. This unique convergence is where the world’s three renowned mountain ranges – the Karakoram, the Himalaya, and the Hindukush – intersect, creating the knot known as the “Junction Point of the world’s three mountain ranges.” Additionally, this exclusive spot serves as the confluence of the Gilgit and Indus Rivers, with the Skardu Road branching out from the KKH nearby. Other historic sites worth exploring include Partab Pul, Bhoop Singh Pari, and Nanga Parbat View Point. Partab Pul, an ancient bridge spanning the Indus River, once served as the primary link between Gilgit and Bunji, Astore, and Kashmir before the advent of the Karakoram Highway. Bhoop Singh Pari stands as a historical landmark along the main Karakoram Highway (KKH), where Raja Gohar Aman of Yasin vanquished a Sikh invader named Bhoop Singh in 1852, securing Gilgit’s liberation. Further south on the Karakoram Highway, the Nanga Parbat View Point treats you to awe-inspiring vistas of Nanga Parbat (8126m), Pakistan’s second-tallest mountain and the world’s ninth tallest. Day Excursion to Bagrot Valley: Best in all Seasons Situated approximately 38 km northeast of Gilgit, the Bagrot Valley stretches along the Gilgit River across the Karakoram Highway. Nestled south of the Karakoram Range, the Bagrot Valley ranks as one of the perfect half-day excursions from Gilgit. This concealed paradise is renowned for its picturesque beauty, verdant meadows, fertile fields, towering peaks, and sprawling glaciers. The local Shina-speaking populace takes pride in preserving a distinctive cultural heritage. Bagrot