Gilgit-Baltistan is one of the most culturally diverse corners of Asia. In a single day's drive you can hear four languages, pass mosques of different traditions and eat food that recalls Central Asia, Tibet and South Asia.
Languages
- Shina: Gilgit, Diamer and Astore.
- Burushaski: Hunza, Nagar and Yasin. A language isolate, unrelated to any other known language.
- Wakhi: upper Hunza (Gojal), including Gulmit, Passu and Shimshal.
- Balti: Baltistan (Skardu, Shigar, Khaplu), related to Tibetan.
- Khowar: Ghizer, towards Chitral.
- Urdu is understood almost everywhere, and English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
Faith
Most people are Muslim, from several traditions: Ismaili communities are prominent in Hunza and Ghizer, Shia communities in Nagar and much of Baltistan, Noorbakhshi communities around Khaplu, and Sunni communities in Diamer, Astore and parts of Gilgit. Each has its own places of worship and customs; ask before entering a mosque or jamatkhana.
Food to try
- Chapshuro: a Hunza meat-filled flatbread.
- Harissa and mamtu (dumplings) in Hunza; momos and thukpa-style soups in Baltistan.
- Apricots in every form: fresh in summer, dried, as apricot oil and in soups.
- Walnut cake and buckwheat bread (berikutz, gyal).
- Salt tea and butter tea in Baltistan and the high pastures.
Festivals
- Navroz (21 March): spring new year, widely celebrated in Hunza and Ghizer.
- Blossom season (late March to April) in Hunza and Nagar.
- Ginani: a summer harvest festival in Hunza.
- Shandur Polo Festival (early July): freestyle polo on the Shandur Pass at about 3,700 m, between Gilgit-Baltistan and Chitral teams.
Etiquette that earns a warm welcome
- Dress modestly: shoulders and knees covered; women may want a light scarf in villages.
- Ask before photographing people, especially women, and respect a no.
- Accept tea when offered if you can; refusing outright can seem cold.
- Use your right hand to give and receive, and remove shoes when entering homes.
- Alcohol is not part of local culture; do not drink in public.
- During Ramadan, avoid eating or drinking in public during daylight hours.
- Leave no trace: carry rubbish out from meadows, lakes and treks.
Frequently asked questions
What languages are spoken in Gilgit-Baltistan?+
Shina, Burushaski, Wakhi, Balti and Khowar are the main local languages. Urdu is understood almost everywhere and English is common in tourist areas.
What should tourists wear in Hunza?+
Modest clothing: long sleeves and long trousers or skirts. Women may carry a light scarf for villages and religious places. Bring warm layers, as evenings are cool even in summer.
When is the Shandur Polo Festival?+
Usually in early July on the Shandur Pass (about 3,700 m), between Gilgit and Chitral. Confirm the exact dates each year.
What is the famous food of Hunza?+
Chapshuro (a meat-filled flatbread), harissa, mamtu dumplings, walnut cake and apricot dishes. Apricot oil and dried apricots make good gifts.
