Begin your journey in the beautiful city of Gilgit. After arriving at the Gilgit Airport, check-in at your hotel and freshen up. In the morning, head to the Kargah Buddha, a magnificent rock carving dating back to the 7th century. Enjoy the serene surroundings and learn about the region's rich history. For lunch, savor local cuisine at a traditional restaurant. In the afternoon, visit the Gilgit River Viewpoint and marvel at the crystal-clear waters. In the evening, take a leisurely walk along the Gilgit River, enjoying the cool breeze and picturesque scenery.
Local Restaurant: Cost Estimate - £10-£20, Time Spent - 1 hour
Gilgit River Viewpoint: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 30 minutes
Gilgit River Walk: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 1 hour
Restaurants
Auntie's Breakfast Corner: Start your day with a delicious traditional Gilgit breakfast at Auntie's. Enjoy freshly cooked parathas, omelettes, and chai. Average cost for a meal is about 150 PKR per person.
The Gilgit Biryani House: Indulge in a flavorful lunch at The Gilgit Biryani House. Try their mouthwatering chicken or mutton biryani, served with raita and salad. Average cost for a meal is about 300 PKR per person.
The Riverside Grill: For a memorable dinner experience, head to The Riverside Grill. Enjoy grilled specialties like tandoori chicken, seekh kebabs, and freshly baked naan, all while enjoying the scenic view of the Gilgit River. Average cost for a meal is about 500 PKR per person.
Thursday, August 17: Hunza Valley Exploration
Embark on a day trip to the mesmerizing Hunza Valley. Start your morning with a scenic drive along the Karakoram Highway, known as the Eighth Wonder of the World. Arrive in Karimabad, the capital of Hunza, and visit the Baltit Fort, an architectural marvel offering panoramic views of the valley. Explore the traditional markets, where you can purchase beautiful handicrafts and local souvenirs. Enjoy a traditional Hunza lunch at a local eatery. In the afternoon, continue your exploration by visiting the Attabad Lake, famous for its turquoise waters. Capture stunning photographs and immerse yourself in the tranquility of the surroundings. Return to Gilgit in the evening.
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café de Hunza. This cozy restaurant serves traditional Hunza cuisine with a modern twist. Indulge in their famous apricot pancakes and enjoy a cup of freshly brewed local Hunza tea. The average cost for a breakfast meal at Café de Hunza is about 500 PKR per person.
For a memorable lunch experience, head to Hunza Darbar Restaurant. Located in the heart of Karimabad, this restaurant offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Feast on their mouthwatering Hunza trout, cooked to perfection with local herbs and spices. The average cost for a lunch meal at Hunza Darbar Restaurant is about 800 PKR per person.
For a delightful dinner, visit Silk Route Restaurant. This charming establishment specializes in Silk Road cuisine, offering a fusion of flavors from Central and South Asia. Try their signature dish, the Gilgit Kebab, made with succulent marinated meat. The average cost for a dinner meal at Silk Route Restaurant is about 1000 PKR per person.
Friday, August 18: Naltar Valley Excursion
On the third day, venture into the enchanting Naltar Valley. Take an early morning drive through the scenic valleys and reach Naltar, known for its lush meadows and vibrant lakes. Spend the morning exploring the beauty of the valley, with its breathtaking landscapes and vibrant flora. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst nature's tranquility. Afternoon activities include hiking through the trails, horseback riding, and photography sessions. As the evening approaches, unwind by the lakeside, capturing the picturesque sunset. Return to Gilgit and relax at your hotel.
Naltar Valley: Cost Estimate - £10-£20 (Transportation), Time Spent - Full Day
Activities in Naltar Valley: Cost Estimate - Varies, Time Spent - 3-4 hours
Restaurants
A cozy breakfast spot near Naltar Valley is Café de Nalta, offering a variety of fresh pastries and aromatic coffees. Average cost for a meal is about 300 PKR per person.
For a delicious lunch, head to The Green Valley Restaurant known for its traditional Pakistani cuisine and panoramic views of the valley. Average cost for a meal is about 700 PKR per person.
Indulge in a fine dining experience at Serena Gilgit's restaurant, Silk Route. With its elegant ambiance and gourmet menu, it offers a memorable dinner experience. Average cost for a meal is about 2000 PKR per person.
Saturday, August 19: Gilgit City Exploration
On your final day in Gilgit, explore the charms of the city itself. Start your morning by visiting the Gilgit Central Market, where you can browse through a variety of local handicrafts, gems, and traditional clothing. Next, visit the Gilgit Serena Hotel, a historic landmark known for its architectural grandeur. Enjoy a delightful brunch at the hotel's restaurant. In the afternoon, visit the Kargah Valley and take a short hike to the Kargah Lake, surrounded by towering mountains. Spend some peaceful moments by the lake before returning to Gilgit for a farewell dinner at a local eatery.
Gilgit Central Market: Cost Estimate - Varies, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Breakfast: Cafe de Hunza - Enjoy a hearty breakfast at Cafe de Hunza, known for its delicious local cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 200 PKR per person.
Lunch: Balti Restaurant - Indulge in the flavors of Balti cuisine at this popular restaurant. Average cost for a meal is about 500 PKR per person.
Dinner: River View Restaurant - Dine by the riverside and savor delicious Pakistani and Chinese dishes at River View Restaurant. Average cost for a meal is about 800 PKR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Gilgit, don't miss out on visiting the Rakaposhi Viewpoint, offering breathtaking views of the majestic Rakaposhi Peak. Additionally, spend some time exploring the local bazaars, such as the Jutial Bazaar, to experience the vibrant atmosphere and shop for unique souvenirs. For nature enthusiasts, a visit to the Naltar Wildlife Sanctuary is highly recommended, where you can spot various species of flora and fauna in their natural habitat.