In Pakistan, tourism mostly rely on the vast region of GB, formerly known as the Northern Areas (NA). This part of the country is famous for its snowy mountains, lush green valleys, mighty rivers, plentiful wildlife and beautiful lakes. The World Wide Fund for Nature Pakistan (WWF-P) has been a pioneer in introducing sustainable ecotourism initiatives in GB.
Gilgit Baltistan is considered to be the capital of tourism in Pakistan. It has the range of some of the highest mountains in the world, including K2, which is the second highest mountain in the world. Presently, accommodation facilities in GB consist of approximately 140 hotels of various grades with an overall capacity of 2600 rooms, 30 Government Rest Houses and 3 Tourist Facilitation Centers at entry points.
The GB has very much to offer in four seasons with highest plateaus including Deosai, cultural sites including Altit and Baltit forts in Hunza, Shigar Fort and Khaplu Fort in Baltistan, Waterfalls of Skardu region, ancient rock art carvings and inscriptions along KKH in District Diamer, lush green meadows and lakes in district Ghizer and Astore, Rakaposhi, Diran Peak and Hopper glacier in Nagar, rich culture, dry fruits and hospitality of Hunza that attract tourists to Gilgit-Baltistan.
Gilgit is home to a number of diversified cultures, ethnic groups, languages and various backgrounds. It is home to people belonging to all regions of Gilgit as well as from other cities of Pakistan and aboard. This multitude of cultures is because of the strategic location of Gilgit. Being the headquarters of the Gilgit-Baltistan almost of the key offices are located in Gilgit.
Many types of sports are in currency, throughout the region, but most popular of them is Polo. Other popular sports are football, cricket, volleyball (mostly play in winters) and other minor local sports. with growing facilities and particular local geography Climbing, trekking and other similar sports are also getting popularity.
Historical and cultural sites are places that are acknowledged for their importance in nation‟s history. Historic sites provide a tangible link with the past and these sites are associated with an event, a person, a place, or the built heritage. They are part of nation‟s heritage and contribute to define its identity. Historical sites are main asset of any society which imitates their identity and an individual can have a good grasp on his past and his forefather‟s lives.
