Gilgit (گلگت)

Gilgit is the capital of Pakistan's Gilgit-Baltistan region. Apart from the bazaar, there is little of interest for travellers, but it is a good place to stay if you want to explore the numerous historical ruins that dot the surrounding countryside, or the nearby mountains. Gilgit serves as a hub for trekking and mountaineering expeditions in the Karakoram mountain range.

Accommodation is available in Gilgit. The city is not far from the confluence of the Gilgit and the Hunza rivers in the disputed region of Kashmir, some 275 km north of Islamabad.

It is possible to fly there depending on the weather conditions. The flight over the mountainous area is spectacular. It is also possible to get to Gilgit by bus, minibus or jeep. Gilgit is an important junction on the Karakoram Highway, as it has road connections with China, as well as the Pakistani cities of Skardu, Chitral, Peshawar and Islamabad.