Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan? If you're planning to go to Gilgit-Baltistan, I've got some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan

Based on the climate and weather in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan, the best time to go is July. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Gilgit-Baltistan, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan by month

January

January in Gilgit-Baltistan can be extremely cold. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 10s F (10+ below zero C). There is frost nearly every day this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Pakistan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gilgit-Baltistan. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and D. Make sure to pick the necessary type. The majority of adapters currently sold are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most places.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

February

Traveling to Gilgit-Baltistan in February, you will notice that it is freezing. Expect it to rain or snow once in a while. Daytime temperatures are in the low 30s F (single digits C). There is frost most days.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Pakistan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gilgit-Baltistan. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and D. Be sure to pick the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are just plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

March

March in Gilgit-Baltistan can be brisk. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 20s F (single digits below 0 C). There is frost about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Pakistan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gilgit-Baltistan. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and D. Make sure to pick the correct kind. Most adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

April

April for Gilgit-Baltistan can be very chilly. Temperatures average in the low 50s F (low 10s C) during the day. There is frost about a third of the time. It rains or snows 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Pakistan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gilgit-Baltistan. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and D. Be sure to choose the correct type. Many adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

May

May is cool. Temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day. There is frost occasionally. It rains sometimes.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Pakistan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gilgit-Baltistan. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and D. Make sure to choose the necessary type. Most adapters available online are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most places.

June

Traveling to Gilgit-Baltistan in June, you will notice that it is mild. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. Daytime temperatures are in the 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Pakistan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gilgit-Baltistan. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and D. Be careful to find the right type. The majority of adapters available online are simply plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

July

July in Gilgit-Baltistan is balmy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 50s F (mid 10s C) to low 60s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Pakistan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gilgit-Baltistan. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and D. It's important that you pick the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

August

August in Gilgit-Baltistan is mild. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C) to high 60s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Pakistan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gilgit-Baltistan. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and D. Take care to find the right kind. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

September

September in Gilgit-Baltistan is crisp. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Pakistan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gilgit-Baltistan. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and D. Check that you pick the right kind. The majority of adapters currently sold are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

October

If you visit Gilgit-Baltistan during October, you might see that it is relatively cool. Temperatures tend to hover around the 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 30s F (single digits C). There is frost about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Pakistan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gilgit-Baltistan. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and D. Make sure to pick the correct type. Most adapters on sale are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most areas.

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

November

November in Gilgit-Baltistan is cold. Temperatures average in the 40s F (single digits C) during the day. There is frost about two thirds of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Pakistan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gilgit-Baltistan. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and D. It's important that you pick the necessary type. The majority of adapters available online are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

December

Traveling to Gilgit-Baltistan in December, you will notice that it is frigid. Daytime temperatures are in the high 30s F (single digits C). There is frost most days.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Pakistan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Gilgit-Baltistan. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and D. Be careful to pick the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters available online are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most places.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

What to do in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan

Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan is a region that is blessed with natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. It is also an area with a diverse landscape, ranging from the snow-capped peaks of the Karakoram Mountains to the lush green valleys, vast deserts, and crystal-clear lakes. This region is becoming increasingly popular among tourists because of its unique culture and breathtaking natural scenery. In this article, we will explore the top tourist attractions in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan.

1. Hunza Valley

Hunza Valley is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places in Gilgit-Baltistan. It is famous for its stunning views of the Rakaposhi and Ultar peaks. The valley is also known for its lush green terraced fields, crystal-clear streams, and fruit orchards. It is a paradise for nature lovers and offers plenty of activities like trekking, photography, and exploring the unique culture of the Hunza people.

2. Khunjerab Pass

Khunjerab Pass is one of the highest paved borders in the world, connecting Pakistan and China. It offers stunning views of the Karakoram Mountain range and the vast Khunjerab National Park. The pass is also surrounded by several recreational activities like hiking, camping, and wildlife spotting.

3. Skardu Valley

Skardu Valley is another gem of Gilgit-Baltistan. It is a region that offers picturesque sceneries of the Indus river, towering mountains, and serene lakes. Skardu Valley is also home to several high-altitude lakes like Satpara, Sheosar, and Kachura that attract tourists from all over the world. The valley is also a launching point for expeditions to the mighty K2.

4. Shigar Valley

Shigar Valley is a historical and cultural center of Gilgit-Baltistan. It is home to ancient forts, palaces, and historic mosques. The valley is also famous for its scenic trails, as well as Shigar Fort, which has been converted into a hotel.

5. Deosai National Park

Deosai National Park is a vast land of meadows and mountains at an elevation of over 4,000 meters above sea level. It is a region that boasts of diverse flora and fauna, including the endangered Himalayan Brown Bear. Additionally, the park offers stunning views of the Karakoram and Himalayas, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers.

6. Naltar Valley

Naltar Valley is a picturesque region that offers scenic views of crystal-clear waterfalls and streams, towering mountains, and lush green terraced fields. The valley is famous for its skiing slopes and chairlifts, which offer an unforgettable experience of viewing the surrounding landscape.

7. Karakoram Highway

The Karakoram Highway is a road that connects Pakistan and China, crossing several mountain ranges and high-altitude passes. It is one of the world's highest roads and offers stunning views of the Karakoram and Himalayas. The highway is also surrounded by several tourist destinations like Khunjerab Pass, Hunza Valley, and Gilgit city.

Conclusion

Gilgit-Baltistan is an emerging tourist destination in Pakistan that boasts of stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage. It is a destination that offers a unique experience to travelers, from exploring the ancient forts to trekking in the Karakoram Mountains. So, if you're planning your next vacation, be sure to put Gilgit-Baltistan on your list of must-visit places.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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