Day Tours

Day Tour

Explore More in One Day

Here’s a day trip guide around Gilgit (Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan) based around your stay at Springfield Resort, Gilgit — a scenic resort on River View Road by the Kargah River, just a short drive (≈6–7 km) from central Gilgit city.

Kargah Buddha & Ancient Rock Carvings

A short ride from your resort, the Kargah Buddha is a striking 7th-century cliff carving of Buddha — a window into the region’s ancient Buddhist heritage before the arrival of Islam.

Tips

  • Great early-morning light for photography.
  • Combine this with a walk along nearby streams and small rural paths.

Gilgit Old Bazaar

Head into town for a stroll through the vibrant bazaar. You’ll find:
• Dry fruits (apricots, walnuts, almonds)
• Gemstones (local peridot, quartz)
• Handicrafts, woolen caps, local fabrics
Good for: Buying souvenirs, tasting local snacks, and observing everyday life.

Lunch Break

  • After the bazaar, enjoy a relaxed lunch in Gilgit city or back at your resort — many local eateries serve mountain-inspired meals like chapshuro, dumplings (mantu), naan, rice dishes, and local chai.
Afternoon

Natural & Scenic Spots

Barmas Forest & Orchard Area

A pretty, shaded picnic area not far from the city. Spring and autumn are especially lovely when fruit trees bloom or change color.

Good for: Walks, birdwatching, and a quiet break by the river.

Danyore Suspension Bridge

On the edge of Gilgit, this dramatic footbridge across the Gilgit River offers:
 
  1. Great views of the river gorge
  2. A bit of adventure if you’re comfortable with heights  
Optional Short Trips

Half-Day or Extended

If you have more time or want to extend beyond Gilgit city

Bagrote Valley

About 38 km northeast — known for green meadows, towering peaks, and fruit orchards. Waterfalls and easy hill walks make this a relaxing half-day trip.

Naltar Valley

A classic day excursion from Gilgit with:
• Lakes and forests
• Alpine scenery and possible chairlift rides (seasonal)

(Note: Naltar often requires a local guide or jeep due to rugged roads.)

🎒 Tip: Leaving early (~7 AM) makes the most of the road time and views.

More Ambitious Full-Day Ideas

If you want to go farther (and start early)

Hunza Valley (Karimabad)

  • Explore Altit & Baltit Forts and hillside views
  • Stops possible at Attabad Lake and local craft villages.

Shandur Pass / Lake

Seasonal and weather-dependent, this high-mountain plateau (≈212 km away) hosts polo festivals and serene alpine lakes. 

These are full-day from Gilgit and often best done with a guide/driver.

Tips for Your Day Trip

Transport

Renting a jeep or hiring a driver for valley trips is common and much easier than public transport.

Guides & Tours

Local operators like Pakistan Packages Tour or Incredible Pakistan can organize day tours, including Naltar, Bagrot, and Hunza excursions.

Clothing

Weather can shift quickly in the mountains — layers, sunscreen, and sturdy shoes are useful.

Altitude

Most local sites aren’t extreme altitude, but give yourself time to acclimatize if you head higher (e.g., Naltar).

Sample Day Trip Itinerary

Morning

  • Breakfast at Springfield Resort
  • Visit Kargah Buddha and nearby viewpoints
  • Stroll the Old Bazaar

Midday

  • Lunch in Gilgit or picnic in Barmas Forest
  • Stroll the Old Bazaar

Afternon (Choice)

  • Return to resort & relax

– OR –

  • Head to Bagrot Valley or Naltar Valley
Springfield Resort