
Valleys and Mountains
- Hunza Valley: Often called a “paradise on Earth,” the Hunza Valley is a major tourist destination. It’s famous for its lush landscapes, historic forts, and friendly local communities.
- Naltar Valley: Known for its lush greenery, crystal-clear lakes, and a popular ski resort. The valley is home to beautiful alpine forests and is a great spot for fishing.
- Astore Valley: A vast valley with an area of about 5,000 sq km, Astore is a gateway to several other attractions, including Rama Lake and Deosai National Park.
- Fairy Meadows: A lush green plateau offering breathtaking views of Nanga Parbat, the ninth-highest mountain in the world. It is a popular camping and trekking destination.
- Nanga Parbat: Also known as the “Killer Mountain,” Nanga Parbat is a major attraction for mountaineers and trekkers. Its base camp is a popular trekking destination.
- Rakaposhi View Point: Located on the Karakoram Highway, this spot provides a stunning panoramic view of Rakaposhi, a prominent peak in the Karakoram Range.
Lakes and Glaciers
- Attabad Lake: A relatively new lake formed by a landslide in 2010, Attabad Lake is famous for its vibrant turquoise waters, surrounded by the majestic Karakoram mountains. Visitors can enjoy boating and other recreational activities here.
- Naltar Lakes: The Naltar Valley is home to several lakes, including the vibrant Satrangi Lake and Firoza Lake.
- Borith Lake: A saline lake located in the Gulmit valley, Borith Lake is a great spot for nature lovers and birdwatchers, especially during migration season.
- Passu Glacier: This glacier is easily visible from the Karakoram Highway and offers opportunities for hiking, though getting on the glacier itself requires a guide.
Historical and Cultural Sites
- Altit Fort & Baltit Fort: These are two ancient forts located in the Hunza Valley. Altit Fort is over 900 years old, while Baltit Fort is about 700 years old. Both are architectural gems with rich histories.
- Kargah Buddha: An ancient rock carving of a large standing Buddha, dating back to the 7th century, located in a cliff-face near Gilgit city.
- Sacred Rocks of Hunza: Located near the village of Ganish, these rocks feature ancient carvings and drawings from various historical periods, including the time of the Silk Road.
- Karakoram Highway: This legendary highway is a tourist attraction in itself, offering a mesmerizing journey through breathtaking landscapes, mountains, and valleys, and connecting Pakistan with China.

The best time to visit Gilgit is generally from May to October, when the weather is pleasant and most of the passes and roads are open