Overview

Formerly known as the Northern Areas, Gilgit-Baltistan region of Pakistan, located to the north of the country bordering China to the northeast, is a spectacular region of Pakistan. Gilgit-Baltistan is a hub of mighty mountains and longest glaciers knot in four famous mountain ranges – the Himalayas, the Karakorams, the Hindukush and the Pamirs – has come to be known as a paradise for mountaineers, climbers, trekkers, hikers and holiday makers.

Gilgit, at 1500 m, is the capital and headquarter of the region accessible by air and by road. The 887 km out of 1300km Karakoram Highway, the trade artery between Pakistan and China, runs through this region till it meets Chinese portion at Khunjerab pass, the highest metalled border. Five of the world’s 8 highest mountains– K2, Broad Peak, Gasherbrum-I, Gasherbrum-II and Nanga Parbet (the Killer Mountain) – and four longest glaciers – Batura, Biafo, Baltoro and Siachin – are located in Gilgit-Baltistan. There are scores of over 7,000 m peaks in the Karakoram Range and hundreds of nameless summits below 6,000 m, mere points on the map. The region is also very well known for its four distinct seasons with contrasting colors and for the charming history it holds.

Gilgit-Baltistan Map