Gilgit Baltistan is one of the most beautiful and scenic regions of Pakistan, attracting thousands of tourists every year. While planning a trip to Gilgit Baltistan, it is essential to consider how to utilize your money in the most effective way possible. The cost saving tips while your trip to Gilgit Baltistan will be discussed below.
Use Public Transport Instead of Private Cars
One of the best ways to save money while traveling to Gilgit Baltistan is to use public transport. The local buses and vans are cheap and frequent, and they offer an excellent opportunity to interact with locals and experience their way of life. Hiring a private car can be expensive, especially for long journeys.
Purchase Local Goods from Remote Areas
When it comes to purchasing souvenirs or local goods, it’s better to avoid buying them from cities or towns as they can be overpriced. Instead, buy them from local villages where the prices are lower, and the quality is often better.
Use Mid-Level Hotels Instead of Luxury ones
Accommodation can be a significant expense while traveling. To save money, it’s better to stay in mediocre hotels instead of luxury ones. There are plenty of options available, and they are often cheaper and more authentic than their luxury counterparts.
Prefer Local Foods from Mid-Level Hotels
Another way to save money is to prefer local foods from mediocre hotels instead of going to fancy restaurants. You can experience local cuisine at a much lower cost, and the food is often delicious.
Hire Local Guides from Skardu or Hunza
If you need a guide, it’s better to hire a local one from Skardu or Hunza instead of a professional one from other parts of the country. Local guides are often more knowledgeable about the region, and they can provide a more authentic experience. Skardu Tour is one of the best tour operators in Gilgit Baltistan.
Tourist Destinations in Gilgit Baltistan
There are plenty of tourist destinations to visit in Gilgit Baltistan. Here are some of the top destinations:
Hunza Valley: Hunza Valley is known for its stunning natural beauty and is a popular destination for trekkers and mountaineers.
Skardu: Skardu is the gateway to some of the most beautiful mountain ranges in the world, including the Karakoram and the Himalayas.
Fairy Meadows: Fairy Meadows is a beautiful meadow located at the base of Nanga Parbat, one of the world’s highest peaks.
Khaplu: Khaplu is a historic town located in the Shigar Valley and is known for its beautiful gardens, traditional architecture, and stunning scenery.
How we can save money while travelling to Gilgit Baltistan?
Now let’s do some basic math to compare the costs of the above conditions:
- If you use public transport instead of a private car, you can save up to 50% on transportation costs.
- By purchasing local goods from villages, you can save up to 30% on souvenirs and local goods.
- By staying in mediocre hotels instead of luxury ones, you can save up to 40% on accommodation costs.
- By eating local foods from mediocre hotels, you can save up to 50% on food expenses.
- By hiring a local guide from Skardu or Hunza instead of a professional guide, you can save up to 70% on guide fees.
In conclusion, Gilgit Baltistan is a beautiful region that attracts tourists from all over the world. By utilizing the above tips, you can save a significant amount of money while experiencing the beauty and culture of the region.
