Northern Pakistan , a region of snow-capped peaks, emerald lakes, and timeless valleys is the jewel of South Asia. From the serene waters of Hunza’s Attabad Lake to the ancient charm of Shigar Fort, Gilgit-Baltistan offers an enchanting blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.
To make your journey truly memorable, choosing the right place to stay is essential. Whether you’re seeking lakeside luxury, a cozy mountain lodge, or heritage elegance, this guide explores the 8 most famous hotels in Gilgit-Baltistan , and other notable stays across the North.
🌟 Top 8 Most Famous Hotels in Gilgit-Baltistan
1. Gilgit Serena Hotel (Gilgit)
A premium hotel located in the heart of Gilgit, combining world-class hospitality with traditional touches of Northern Pakistan.
Location & Views: Surrounded by manicured gardens and snow-capped peaks, it offers a serene oasis in the city center.
Rooms: Stylish rooms and suites with modern decor, satellite TV, mini-bars, and private balconies.
Dining: Multi-cuisine restaurant offering Pakistani, Chinese, and Continental dishes, with indoor and outdoor seating.
Nearby Attractions: Kargah Buddha, Gilgit Bazaar, and the confluence of Indus and Gilgit Rivers.
Photography Points: Garden views, hotel terrace with mountain backdrop, and the scenic drive to Naltar Valley.
Special Food: Local trout and traditional apricot pudding.
Why Stay in Serena Gilgit: Ideal for families and professionals who value comfort, safety, and top-tier service.
2. Serena Shigar Fort (Shigar, Skardu)
A 400-year-old heritage fort turned luxury hotel, Serena Shigar Fort is a masterpiece of cultural restoration , offering an immersive experience that blends royal history with modern comfort
Location & Views: Nestled in the peaceful Shigar Valley near Skardu, surrounded by apricot orchards and mountains.
Rooms: Each room is unique, featuring antique furnishings, carved wood details, and a royal ambiance.
Dining: Serves traditional Balti and Continental dishes in historic courtyards and garden terraces.
Nearby Attractions: Shigar Valley, Amburiq Mosque, and scenic drives to Satpara Lake and Cold Desert of Skardu.
Photography Points: Fort courtyard, vintage wooden balconies, and sunrise over the valley.
Special Food: Balti-style trout and organic apricot jam breakfast.
Why Stay Here: Perfect for history lovers and culture seekers who want to live like royalty in a preserved 17th-century fort.
3. Luxus Hunza Attabad Lake Resort (Hunza)
A lakeside haven perched directly above the turquoise waters of Attabad Lake, Luxus Hunza offers overwater luxury and unmatched tranquility , a blend of elegance, serenity, and breathtaking views
Location & Views: Right on the shores of Attabad Lake with mesmerizing mountain reflections and stunning sunrise and sunset panoramas.
Rooms: Modern overwater villas and lake-view suites with private balconies, glass panels over the water, and luxurious furnishings.
Dining: Fine dining with a focus on local Hunza and international cuisines. Guests can enjoy lakeside dinners and open-air breakfasts.
Nearby Attractions: Attabad Lake boating, Passu Cones, Hussaini Suspension Bridge, and Khunjerab Pass excursions.
Photography Points: Sunrise over the lake, drone shots of turquoise waters, and reflections of the Karakoram peaks.
Special Food: Hunza walnut cake, apricot desserts, and fresh trout.
Why Stay Here: Perfect for honeymooners, photographers, and luxury travelers seeking a one-of-a-kind stay in Hunza Valley.
4. Darbar Hotel Karimabad (Hunza)
A cozy and culturally rich hotel that captures the heart of Hunza’s hospitality. The Darbar Hotel offers a mix of comfort, tradition, and accessibility to local attractions.
Location & Views: Centrally located in Karimabad with panoramic views of Rakaposhi and Ultar Peak.
Rooms: Comfortable rooms with local woodwork, terraces, and valley views.
Dining: Known for serving authentic Hunza cuisine made with fresh, local ingredients.
Nearby Attractions: Baltit Fort, Altit Fort, and Hunza Bazaar.
Photography Points: Hotel terrace, sunset over Rakaposhi, and the historic forts.
Special Food: Chapshuro, Diram Phitti, and walnut cake.
Why Stay Here: Perfect for backpackers and travelers who want local flavor and easy access to Hunza’s main sights.
5. Ramada by Wyndham Gilgit (Gilgit)
An international-standard hotel that brings global hospitality excellence to Gilgit-Baltistan.
Location & Views: Located near the airport with easy access to Gilgit’s main landmarks and stunning mountain backdrops.
Rooms: Spacious, air-conditioned rooms with Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and modern interiors.
Dining: Offers buffet and à la carte dining with a variety of local and international dishes.
Nearby Attractions: Gilgit Bridge, Gilgit Bazaar, Naltar Valley, and Kargah Buddha.
Photography Points: Hotel terrace, Gilgit River, and surrounding hills.
Special Food: Trout fish platter and Seekh Kebabs.
Why Stay Here: Perfect for business and leisure travelers seeking reliable, modern accommodation in Gilgit.
6. Eagles Nest Hotel Hunza (Hunza Valley)
Perched high above the Hunza Valley, Eagles Nest Hotel offers one of the most breathtaking panoramic views of the mighty Karakoram peaks , including Ultar, Ladyfinger, and Rakaposhi. It’s a peaceful mountain retreat for travelers who love serenity and nature.
Location & Views: Situated at Duikar, the highest point of Hunza, providing a 360° view of Hunza Valley and surrounding snow-capped peaks.
Rooms: Comfortable, cozy rooms with large windows and private balconies offering stunning sunrise and sunset views over the valley.
Dining: The restaurant serves both traditional Hunza dishes and continental meals with ingredients sourced from local farms.
Nearby Attractions: Duikar viewpoint, Baltit Fort, Altit Fort, and Karimabad Market.
Photography Points: Duikar Sunrise Point, hotel terrace, and Rakaposhi viewpoint.
Special Food: Hunza Apricot Soup and Yak Karahi.
Why Stay Here: Ideal for travelers who want to witness one of the most spectacular views in the entire Hunza region , especially photographers and nature lovers.
7. Shangrila Resort Skardu (Skardu Valley)
Famously known as “Heaven on Earth,” Shangrila Resort is built around a heart-shaped lake, offering postcard-perfect beauty and luxurious comfort in the lap of nature.
Location & Views: Located beside Lower Kachura Lake (Shangrila Lake), surrounded by lush gardens and towering mountains.
Rooms: Elegant rooms and cottages overlooking the lake, decorated with traditional Balti wooden art and modern facilities.
Dining: Multiple dining options , including the famous airplane-turned-restaurant serving Pakistani, Chinese, and Continental cuisines.
Nearby Attractions: Upper Kachura Lake, Skardu Fort, Satpara Lake, and Manthokha Waterfall.
Photography Points: Heart-shaped lake, airplane café, and lakeside gardens.
Special Food: Balti Chicken Curry and Trout Fish.
Why Stay Here: Perfect for honeymooners and families who want a fairy-tale stay surrounded by lake, mountains, and tranquility.
8. Khaplu Palace Hotel (Khaplu – Gilgit-Baltistan)
Another gem managed by Serena Hotels, Khaplu Palace is a meticulously restored royal residence that offers guests a chance to live like kings of the past.
Location & Views: Located in the heart of Khaplu, surrounded by traditional Balti villages and stunning views of the Hushe Valley.
Rooms: Restored heritage rooms with vintage wooden interiors, handcrafted furniture, and modern amenities.
Dining: Traditional and international dishes served in the palace courtyard or under the open sky.
Nearby Attractions: Hushe Valley, Chaqchan Mosque, and Machulo La viewpoint.
Photography Points: Royal palace courtyard, mountain backdrops, and the riverside garden.
Special Food: Balti-style Mutton Curry and Apricot Pudding.
Why Stay Here: A perfect fusion of history, architecture, and tranquility , ideal for those seeking royal luxury and cultural immersion.
🏕️ Other Recommended Hotels in Northern Pakistan
| Region | Hotel Name | Highlights | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hunza | Eagle’s Nest Hotel | Best sunrise viewpoint in Hunza | Photographers & adventurers |
| Skardu | Shangrila Resort | Iconic lake resort with gardens | Families & couples |
| Hunza | Hunza Serena Hotel | Panoramic valley views, luxury service | Couples & families |
| Gilgit | Riveria Hotel | Modern comfort, great location | Business travelers |
| Fairy Meadows | Raikot Sarai | Rustic lodge at Nanga Parbat base | Trekkers & nature lovers |
| Shigar | Khaplu Palace Hotel | Royal heritage stay | History lovers |
🧭 Final Thoughts
Whether you’re gazing at Attabad Lake from your Luxus suite, enjoying heritage luxury at Shigar Fort, or sipping tea on the terraces of Hunza Serena, Gilgit-Baltistan’s hotels are experiences in themselves. Each stay brings you closer to the heart of Pakistan’s northern beauty , where comfort meets culture, and every morning begins with mountains.
