Gilgit

Gilgit,Capital of Gilgit Baltistan

Gilgit is the capital of Gilgit Baltistan. The city name used to be Sargin.Now local people call it Gilit.In Brushaski language it is pronounced as Geelt while in Khowar and Wakhi as Gilt.Gilgit is of paramount importance due to its strategic key location. Even though, it not so thickly populated region but really popular due to its some famous valleys. These include Danyore,Bagrot,Nomal and Oshikhandas.Above all, Naltar is a picturesque green land surrounded by high resorts for winter skiing. Besides these, Kargah valley is only at 10km distance for Gilgit with Kargah Buddah a rock wall carved Buddha dating back to 8th century AD and ruins of a Buddhist monastery and Stupa. It has been acting as launching point for trade and tourism activities throughout Gilgit Baltistan. Gilgit city is considered as hub for all mountaineering expeditions in Gilgit-Baltistan. Nature lovers, trekkers and adventurous people travel to Gilgit either by the air or through Karakoram Highway.

It has been a prominent city along the historical silk route. This silk route became the source for arrival of outsiders and ultimately religion’s propagation in far flung area of Gilgit Baltistan.Gilgit has cultural diversities. Majority of the people living here are Muslims. The Sunni, the Shia and the Ismaili Muslims live together with peace and harmony.They have different cultural and religious event and traditions. National events are commemorated with full zeal and zest. The people are brave, civilized and welcoming.

The prevailing season of Gilgit is winter, covering the valley eight to nine months a year. The rainfall is not so frequent and heavy. But for the purpose of irrigation of lands, water of rivers are utilized.  The snow of steep peaks gets melted to strengthen river. Varieties of crops are cultivated here. Some of fruits like Cherry is popular here. The people  adopt both the traditional and latest cultivation methods.

The summer is concise but quite enough hot. Sometime temperature goes up tremendously but become cool as well. This extremity of temperature brings about natural disasters like landslides and avalanches.The flowing river by the side of city gives charming spot for enjoyment.

Educationally, Gilgit is stable. Since prevailing educational institutes are providing quality of education that is up to the standard. The students are brilliant, hardworking and creative. Whether it is field of Education or Sports they are symbol of ‘Excellence’.