District Gilgit
Latitude: 35.92020000 Longitude: 74.30800000
LAND OF DIVERSITY
District Gilgit, capital of Gilgit-Baltistan, is strategically the most important territory in the Karakorum Range as it has been the trade center of the area for centuries. The historical Silk Route that promoted religious and cultural diversity to expand across borders adds to the significance of the district.
Languages:
Shina is the local language while English and Urdu are widely spoken.
Famous Tourist Spots:
Naltar valley is a beautiful region of Alpine Forests with lush green landscape, mesmerizing flora, snow peaked mountains, milky glacial cover and rich diversity. Moreover, Kargah Valley offers an ancient site with a Buddha statue carved on a rock dating back to 4th - 7th Century A.D along with the ruins of Buddhist monastery and Hainzal Stuppa. Danyore Valley with its Beranu Suspension Bridge & Tunnel and Chinese Graveyard, Bagrot and Heramosh Valleys with their bewildering pastures, bewitching lakes and towering peaks capture touristic gaze.
Popular Activities:
During winters, Naltar Valley offers a lifetime experience of skiing. On the other hand Bagrote Valley is a perfect place for trekkers. Danyore Beranu Suspension Bridge, built by locals without any civil engineering equipment, is also site worth seeing.
Approach:
Gilgit can be accessed via Air & road. Direct flights from Islamabad to Gilgit is approximate 52 minutes to 1 hour duration are available from Islamabad for while Public Transport and private taxi via Karakoram Highway can take 10 to 12 hours. International airport at Skardu near Gilgit has also started operations for international visitors.
Top Tips:
Learn a few words of Shina the local language
- Hello : Assalam-o-Alaikum
- Goodbye : Khuda Yar
- Thank you: Ju Nu
- How much is it? Anu Kachak Kay Han