Gilgit City 

 Gilgit is situated at the foothills of the Karakoram mountain range and serves as the gateway to the famous tourist destinations in the region. Gilgit is known for its stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, and historical significance. Here are some of the popular tourist spots in and around Gilgit:

1. Karakoram Highway: The Karakoram Highway (KKH) is one of the world's highest paved international roads and connects Gilgit to China's Xinjiang region. It offers breathtaking views of the Karakoram mountain range and passes through picturesque valleys, making it a scenic and adventurous journey.

2. Naltar Valley: Located about 40 kilometers from Gilgit, Naltar Valley is renowned for its colorful lakes, lush green meadows, and magnificent mountains. It is a paradise for nature lovers and offers opportunities for hiking, skiing, and exploring the pristine surroundings.

3. Hunza Valley: Situated about 100 kilometers from Gilgit, Hunza Valley is a must-visit destination. It is famous for its stunning landscapes, terraced fields, fruit orchards, and traditional villages. The picturesque Hunza River flows through the valley, and the iconic Baltit Fort and Altit Fort are worth exploring.

4. Fairy Meadows: Although Fairy Meadows is a bit farther from Gilgit (around 150 kilometers), it is a popular tourist spot that offers breathtaking views of the Nanga Parbat, the world's ninth-highest mountain. Visitors can hike to the meadows, camp, and enjoy the serene beauty of the surroundings.

5. Gilgit City Bazaar: To experience the local culture and do some shopping, a visit to the Gilgit City Bazaar is recommended. The bustling market offers a wide range of traditional handicrafts, gemstones, dry fruits, and local cuisine.

6. Kargah Buddha: Located about 10 kilometers from Gilgit, Kargah Buddha is an ancient rock carving dating back to the 7th century. It is a significant historical site and attracts both tourists and locals.

7. Phander Valley: Situated around 90 kilometers from Gilgit, Phander Valley is known for its enchanting beauty, lush green meadows, and crystal-clear Phander Lake. The valley offers opportunities for fishing, camping, and exploring the natural surroundings.

8. Bagrot Valley: Located about 60 kilometers from Gilgit, Bagrot Valley is a picturesque valley known for its scenic beauty, freshwater streams, and terraced fields. It is a serene and less explored destination, perfect for nature enthusiasts.

These are just a few of the many tourist spots in and around Gilgit. The region is blessed with stunning natural landscapes, and each destination has its unique charm. Exploring Gilgit and its surroundings promises an unforgettable experience for travelers.

Fruits in Gilgit 

Gilgit-Baltistan, including the city of Gilgit, is known for its abundant fruit production. The region's favorable climate and fertile valleys contribute to the cultivation of a wide variety of fruits. Some of the popular fruits grown in Gilgit and its surrounding areas include:

1. Apricots: Gilgit-Baltistan is famous for its delicious apricots, known locally as "chalghoza." The region's apricots are renowned for their sweet taste and vibrant color.

2. Apples: Apples are another major fruit crop in Gilgit. The region produces a variety of apple types, including the popular Gilgit-Baltistan apples, which are known for their crispness and flavor.

3. Cherries: Gilgit-Baltistan is also known for its cherries. The region's cherry orchards produce sweet and juicy cherries, attracting visitors from different parts of Pakistan and abroad.

4. Pears: Pears are grown in the region and are enjoyed for their refreshing taste. Gilgit-Baltistan's pears are known for their quality and are often exported to other parts of the country.

5. Grapes: The region is known for its grape cultivation, with several vineyards spread across Gilgit-Baltistan. The grapes grown here are used to produce delicious juices, jams, and local wines.

6. Mulberries: Mulberry trees are common in Gilgit, and their fruits are enjoyed during the summer season. The dark-colored mulberries are used in various culinary preparations and are also eaten fresh.

7. Plums: Plums are grown in abundance in Gilgit-Baltistan. These juicy fruits come in different varieties and are a popular choice during the summer months.

These are just a few examples of the fruits grown in Gilgit and the wider Gilgit-Baltistan region. The local produce is known for its taste and quality, making it a treat for fruit enthusiasts and visitors to the area.

Gilgit, being a major city in the Gilgit-Baltistan region of Pakistan, is an important center for trade and commerce. The city serves as a hub for various economic activities and contributes to the regional and national economy. Here are some key aspects of trade in Gilgit:

Trade in Gilgit 

1. Local Markets: Gilgit has bustling local markets where a variety of goods are traded. The Gilgit City Bazaar is a prominent market where locals and visitors can find a wide range of products, including food items, clothing, handicrafts, electronics, and more.

2. Agriculture and Horticulture: Agriculture and horticulture play a significant role in Gilgit's economy. The region is known for the production of fruits such as apricots, apples, cherries, pears, and grapes, which are not only consumed locally but also exported to other parts of Pakistan.

3. Gemstones and Minerals: Gilgit-Baltistan is rich in mineral resources, including gemstones like ruby, emerald, aquamarine, and tourmaline. The city of Gilgit serves as a trading center for these precious stones, attracting buyers and collectors from within Pakistan and abroad.

4. Handicrafts: Gilgit is renowned for its traditional handicrafts, including intricate woodwork, carpets, rugs, embroidery, and pottery. These handicrafts are produced by local artisans and have a significant market demand. The trade of handicrafts contributes to the livelihoods of many skilled craftsmen in the region.

5. Tourism: With its scenic beauty and proximity to popular tourist destinations such as Hunza Valley, Naltar Valley, and Fairy Meadows, Gilgit has a growing tourism industry. Tourism-related businesses, including hotels, restaurants, tour operators, and souvenir shops, contribute to the local trade and economy.

6. Cross-Border Trade: Gilgit's strategic location near the China-Pakistan border and its connection to the Karakoram Highway facilitate cross-border trade with China. Goods and products are traded between the two countries, contributing to economic activity in Gilgit.

It's important to note that the specific details and dynamics of trade in Gilgit may vary and evolve over time. However, these areas represent some of the key sectors and activities that contribute to the trade and commercial landscape in the city.