Gilgit

Gilgit is considered one of the unique cities of the world due to its magnificent location, important geographical position and centuries-old history. It also played a fundamental role in giving glory and importance to the Karakoram Highway, a wonder of the world road connecting Pakistan with China.

Pre-Karakoram Highway Trade Routes

Even before the construction of the Karakoram Highway, it was an important trading center between Pakistan and China. At that time, traders used to travel along dangerous and difficult trail-like routes, clinging to the mountain slopes to reach Gilgit from both sides.

A Central Hub for Centuries

Thus, it was a major market a central hub for trade between China and India for centuries, and since India was replaced by Pakistan, this trade has grown even more, especially with the construction of the Karakoram Highway.

Historical Names and Civilizations

Evolution of the City’s Name

The ancient name of Gilgit was Sargan. Then it was called ‘Giri Garat’, which means ‘fallen from the mountains’, then the same word became Gilgit through language changes.

Civilizational Influence

This city has been under the influence of different civilizations. Ancient relics found here show that it was a Buddhist abode in 250 BC and then it was enlightened with the advent of Islam. The population of Gilgit is a collection of people of different ethnicities.

Religious and Political Transitions

From Buddhism to Islam

Gilgit was the cradle of various religions before Islam. In 250 BC, Gilgit was under the influence of Buddhism. The monuments of this period are the rock sculptures of Buddha that are still present in different places in Gilgit today.

Islamic Era and Later Rule

With the advent of Islam in the 8th century AD, Gilgit entered a civilized era. Between that beginning and this end, there were different periods. The Dogra Raj ruled first alone and then in collaboration with the British, then they were driven out by the Muslims. Now it is part of Pakistan and is an important city in the country.

Ethnic Diversity and Languages

Multicultural Population

Apart from the original inhabitants of Gilgit, there are Gojal, Chitrali, Balti, Pathan, Punjabi, Kashghari, Kyrgyz, Tajik, Uzbek, Chinese, Tibetan, Ladakhi, Wakhi, Kohistani and Balkhi communities.

Languages Spoken

The local language here is Shina. The Hunza people are also in the majority, so their languages, Broshski and Gojal, are also widely spoken. Khowar is also spoken, which is the language of the people of Chitral.

Natural Beauty and Mountaineering Base

Gateway to Mighty Mountain Ranges

Gilgit is located in the center of the world’s great mountain ranges. The world’s great peaks, K2, Nanga Parbat and Rakaposhi, etc., stand in the vicinity of Gilgit.

A Hub for Adventurers

It also serves as a base camp for mountaineers and tourists from all over the world.