GILGIT-BALTISTAN: A place of captivating valleys, high mountains, frigid deserts, singing brooks, and enchanted lakes, Gilgit-Baltistan welcomes tourists from all over the nation and beyond with boundless natural riches.
This region is home to the second-largest glacier in the world, Siachen, the magnificent Deosai plain at 14,000 feet above sea level, and Pakistan’s pride, the K-2 and Nanga Parbat. It also boasts the world’s greatest mountain ranges, the Karakoram, Hindukash, and Himalayan.
In Gilgit-Baltistan, winter comes with an additional chance to relish the untainted beauty of nature via activities. These activities include skiing, snowboarding, trekking, and others. As a result, it contributes to generating revenue for the local community.
Read More: Snowfall Expected in Punjab Amid Cold Wave?
Most people in this remote and challenging region rely on their income from dry fruits, handicrafts, and tourism. It provides them with a steady stream of income.
According to GB Asif Ullah Khan, the secretary for sports and tourism, around two million domestic and foreign backpackers enjoyed the region’s winter and summer celebrations last year. Over 155 climbers reached the summit of K2, the second-tallest peak in the world.
“We hope to see more tourists visiting GB in the winter. These activities offer the locals and the government of GB ample opportunity to earn money,” he stated.
Read More: Pakistan’s Best Winter Travel Destinations in 2024
“Therefore, we emphasize winter activities and strive to keep this area accessible for tourists throughout the year to experience the special traditions and culture of the local people,” Asif Ullah added.
Even though winter travel is difficult and thrilling, those who love the outdoors seize the chance to see snow-capped mountains and frozen lakes when the temperature drops to approximately minus ten.
Thus, experts and locals want the government to fulfill its responsibility by supporting cultural events and festivals. Also, it is crucial to encourage winter activities. These activities involve skiing, ice hockey, and mountaineering in difficult terrains.
Local tour guide Alam Khan said, “Gilgit-Baltistan, though still in its infancy, has hosted several winter festivals. Some of them include Shyok Winter Festival and winter games at Khalti Lake, Naltar Valley, and other places.”
Read More: Gilgit-Baltistan to Host Winter Festival in January 2024 to Boost Tourism
“But, there is an urgent demand for properly advertising these events. It is crucial as it will assist in improving infrastructure to boost winter tourism,” Alam added.
In Gilgit-Baltistan, ice hockey is a particularly well-liked winter sport, with district championships contested. Skiing is particularly well-known in the Naltar and Rattu regions, where international competitors compete in the National Ski Championship. More finance and marketing could lead to establishment of new ski resorts around Gilgit-Baltistan.
Trekking is typically associated with the summer. Winter trekking in Great Britain has its own charms and immense possibilities, according to Ali Akbar, a member and trekker of an adventure tourism company in the United Kingdom.
“Challenging hikes like Gondogoro La Pass and Biafo Hisper Snow Lake Trek are always attracting adventure seekers,” Ali stated. The high-altitude mountains of Great Britain present an intriguing prospect for winter mountaineering despite it being a bit riskier. Wintertime mountain climbing can make for an exciting adventure.
He said that Naltar has already produced skiers that compete internationally. It demonstrates the talent in the area. Pakistan might aim to achieve success at international competitions such as the Olympics by investing in winter sports at the grassroots level.
A winter journey to Gilgit-Baltistan requires careful planning. Considering the availability of heated accommodations, restaurants, hotels, and transportation is crucial. The Kachura Lakes, Naltar Valley, Hunza Valley, and Khalti Lake in the Ghizer Khaplu district are all accessible in the winter, with Khunjarab being the ideal location for snow enthusiasts.
“Winter trekking expert Imtiaz Ahmad stated that the beautiful Naltar and Hunza valleys are unmatched in their beauty and adventure, while the Kachura Lakes in the Baltistan region offer a picturesque winter experience.” “The valleys around the area offer opportunities for locals to make money and provide tourists with a place to relax.”
Al Sadat Marketing please contact 0331 1110005 or visit https://alsadatmarketing.com/
