Gilgit-Baltistan's two main valleys feel quite different. Hunza is narrow and steep, and Karimabad's guesthouses are stacked on terraces below Baltit Fort. The even older Altit Fort perches on a cliff above the river nearby. Upstream, the Karakoram Highway runs beside the turquoise water of Attabad Lake, formed when a landslide dammed the Hunza river. Baltistan, around Skardu, is wider and sandier, with the Indus spreading across a broad valley ringed by mountains. Gilgit town, between the two, is the transport hub, with a busy bazaar and flights to Islamabad.
What you can do
In Hunza, drive or walk up to the Eagle's Nest viewpoint at Duikar for sunrise on Rakaposhi and Ladyfinger Peak. Later, follow the irrigation channels between Karimabad's orchards, or head north to cross the swaying planks of the Hussaini suspension bridge. Across the river in Nagar, a short walk from Hopper village leads to the edge of the Hopper glacier. Around Skardu, you can stay in the restored fort at Shigar or the palace at Khaplu, both run as heritage hotels. A jeep road climbs past Satpara Lake onto the high grassland of Deosai, where Himalayan brown bears are sometimes seen early or late in the day. The same bases work for longer hiking routes, and for the big treks and expeditions of the Karakoram.
Booking on adventuro
Pick your base first, Karimabad for Hunza or Skardu for Baltistan. Then use the Book here tab to see live dates and prices from local centres.
