Gilgit-Baltistan: A Paradise for Winter Adventure Lovers

Sultan Shoaib

Gilgit: With its towering snow-covered mountains, frozen lakes, and tranquil valleys, Gilgit-Baltistan transforms into a magical wonderland every winter, captivating adventure lovers and thrill-seekers alike.

From skiing in Naltar to trekking on icy trails, the region offers exciting opportunities for winter sports, which not only provide entertainment but also help locals earn a livelihood.

A Legacy of Winter SportsGilgit-Baltistan boasts a rich history of winter sports, particularly skiing.

Naltar Valley, known for its exceptional slopes, has produced some of Pakistan’s top winter athletes, including Muhammad Abbas, the country’s first Winter Olympian, and Muhammad Karim, who has participated in the Winter Olympics twice.

Ice hockey is also gaining rapid popularity in the region. Since 2021, the Gilgit-Baltistan Tourism Department has organized multiple ice hockey tournaments and winter festivals across all ten districts. These events have successfully attracted both players and tourists, making winters in GB more vibrant and dynamic.

Boosting Tourism and Local Economy “Ice hockey has made our winters lively. Watching young people play and enjoy this sport is amazing,” said Alam Khan, a local guide from District Ghizer. “These tournaments, organized with the help of local communities, have increased the number of tourists and improved the earnings of local people.”

Winter tourism plays a crucial role in the region’s economy. It benefits the hotel industry and provides employment opportunities for guides, porters, hotel staff, and drivers. Tourists also purchase local products such as handmade carpets, woolen shawls, and apricot-based items, further boosting business for artisans and traders.

Trekking

An Unforgettable ExperienceBesides winter sports, trekking remains a major attraction in the region. Gilgit-Baltistan is home to some of the world’s most breathtaking trekking routes, such as the Gondogoro La Pass and Biafo Hisper Snow Lake Trek.

“These icy trails offer unforgettable experiences to adventure lovers,” said trekker Imtiaz Ahmad. “Walking on snowy trails surrounded by mountains is a magical experience that one can never forget.”

Popular winter treks also include the Baltoro Glacier route leading to the K2 Base Camp and the serene Fairy Meadows.

“Trekking brings tourists in summer, but in winter, we need other attractions to keep visitors coming,” said Ali Raza, a trekking guide from Skardu. “If the government improves winter facilities and promotes events like the Snow Leopard Festival, more tourists will visit.”

Top Winter Destinations in GBSome of the most popular winter destinations in Gilgit-Baltistan include:

• Naltar Ski and Hockey Grounds – Known for professional skiing and ice hockey events.
• Khalti Lake – Famous for its stunning frozen surface, perfect for ice skating and winter photography.
• Hunza Valley – A picturesque destination offering breathtaking snowy landscapes.
• Skardu – A winter wonderland with mesmerizing frozen lakes and valleys.
• Deosai Plains – Home to rare wildlife and vast snow-covered plains, attracting nature lovers.

A Source of Revenue and International RecognitionThe increasing influx of tourists to Gilgit-Baltistan benefits both the local population and the government.

“Our government earns ample money through tourism permits and event sponsorships,” said Secretary Sports and Tourism Gilgit-Baltistan, Asif Ullah Khan. “Proper promotion of winter sports can attract more tourists from within the country and abroad.”

Winter sports and festivals also serve as a platform for international recognition. “If winter tourism attracts foreign tourists, it would be an opportunity to highlight Pakistan’s image abroad and introduce local products to international markets,” he added.

Expanding Opportunities in Winter SportsThe National Ski Championship in Naltar continues to attract international participants, while the rise of ice hockey is reshaping the winter sports landscape in Gilgit-Baltistan. “Skiing is not just a sport for us it’s a way of life,” remarked skier Zahid Hussain. “Our mountains provide the perfect training grounds, and we dream of seeing more Pakistani athletes in international competitions.”

The Need for Investment

While Gilgit-Baltistan is emerging as a winter tourism hub, there is still much to be done. Investment in infrastructure, promotion of winter festivals, and support for athletes with advanced training facilities are necessary steps to enhance winter tourism.

“If properly managed with improved roads, sustainable tourism policies, and international promotion, winter tourism can become a major economic pillar for GB,” experts suggest.

Unlocking GB’s Full Potential

Gilgit-Baltistan is not just a destination for adventure seekers—it is a land of dreams and opportunities. Despite its immense potential, the region is yet to be fully explored and promoted on a global scale. Many countries with fewer adventure and tourism opportunities earn significantly more revenue from tourism.

With the right investment and strategic planning, Pakistan can transform Gilgit-Baltistan into a premier global adventure tourism destination. The region’s winter sports, stunning landscapes, and cultural richness have the potential to captivate the world, making it a top-tier choice for adventure tourism