Gilgit-Baltistan is formerly known as Northern areas and it is located in the northern-most of Pakistan territory. It covers an area of 72,971 km² which is mostly mountainous. It borders Azad Kashmir to the south, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan in the west. Bordering the wakhan corridor of Afghanistan to the north, China in the north-eastnorth. Gilgit-Baltistan is now self-governing region under Pakistan.
Gilgit-Baltistan is home to some of world highest mountains, of which five are eight-thousanders. The mighty mountains range The Himalayas, Karakoram, and the Hindu Kush are the main attention of the travelers. There are many peaks above seven thousand and having the largest glaciers outside the polar region.
The beautiful lakes, along with beautiful landscapes are one of the tourists attractions. wild rivers and with a wide range of flora and fauna make this mountainous region a paradise for mountaineers, trekkers, and tourists.
There are some mighty glaciers in Gilgit-Baltistan. For instance, Batura is one of the largest glaciers outside the polar region.
Culture
Gilgit-Baltistan is the home to diversify culture and many ethnic and linguistic communities. The five major languages spoken are Shina, Balti, Burushaski, Wakhi, and Khowar. They have unique music and it has significant importance in their life. The people are very simple and peaceful. The guests are treated with great regard and respect. Polo freestyle is a popular sport and many tourists visit here to enjoy the game. In short, winters are harsh and certainly, therefore, football, cricket, and volleyball are also common.
Climate.
The climate of Gilgit-Baltistan is cool, and varies rapidly. Gilgit city and Chilas are hot in summers and yet cold at night. On the other hand, the rest of the valleys like Astore, Hunza, shigar, Naltar and Nagar have cold temperature even in summers.
How to get there
From Islamabad, there are 20 to 24 hours drive to Gilgit city via Karakoram High way. To Skardu, it’s about 10 hours drive from Gilgit. The Pakistan International Airlines operates daily flights to Gilgit and Skardo cities. (weather dependent).
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