Bilamik Valley – A Hidden Crossroads of Culture and Nature in Baltistan!
Nestled in the rugged heart of Roundu, Bilamik Valley is a place of ancient trails, glacial streams, green pastures, and profound silence. Once part of a transit route between Baltistan and the Astore region, the valley carries a legacy of trade, migration, and cultural blending.
Today, it remains one of the least visited yet most awe-inspiring valleys in the region — where natural serenity meets historical depth.
Why Visit Bilamik Valley?
| Feature | Highlights |
|---|---|
| 🧭 Historic Bilamik Pass | Once a key route between Baltistan and Astore |
| 🏞️ Wild Alpine Beauty | Glaciers, green pastures, and rocky terrain |
| 🧕 Deep Culture | Old Balti traditions, untouched by tourism |
| 🏕️ Camping Heaven | Ideal spots along the valley’s rivers and ridges |
| 🥾 Hiking & Trekking | Natural trails to the pass and alpine zones |
| 🕊️ Absolute Peace | No crowds, no noise, just you and the mountains |
Routes to Bilamik Valley
Location & Accessibility
📍 Region: Roundu Subdivision, Skardu District, Gilgit-Baltistan
🏔️ Elevation: ~2,800–3,300 meters
🚗 Distance from Skardu: ~130 km (4–5 hours)
🚗 Distance from Gilgit: ~100 km
🛣️ Route:
From Skardu: Skardu → Thowar → Bilamik Road
From Gilgit: Gilgit → Jaglot → Skardu Road → Bilamik turn
🛻 Road Condition: Unpaved mountain roads; 4×4 required
💡 Remote area – travel with a local guide or experienced driver highly recommended.
Things to Do in Bilamik Valley
| Activity | Experience |
|---|---|
| 🥾 Trek to Bilamik Pass | Historic trail toward Astore side (~2–3 days round trip) |
| 🏕️ Camp by the River | Set up camp under ancient cliffs and open skies |
| 🧕 Explore Villages | Connect with locals and learn about their unique culture |
| 📷 Landscape Photography | Rocks, rivers, peaks, and village scenes |
| 🐐 Pastoral Life | Observe shepherds grazing goats and sheep in the meadows |
Best Time to Visit
| Season | Experience |
|---|---|
| June – September | Best for trekking, camping, greenery |
| October | Beautiful autumn colors, clear skies |
| Winter (Nov – March) | Access often blocked due to heavy snow |
| Spring (April–May) | Melting glaciers, fresh streams, new growth |
Local Food
Try local dishes like:
Chapshuro (meat-filled bread)
Sharbat (dried apricot juice)
Trout Fish (fresh from local rivers)
Butter tea & organic yogurt
Must-know things!
- Sleeping Mask & Ear Plugs: Warm Shawl/Lightweight Jacket.
- Gadgets & ChargersBook & Notepad.
- Mints, Sanitizer, Wet Wipes & Tissue paper.
- Toiletries.
- Snacks.
- Hiking boots/Sturdy Joggers.
- Cargo Pants/Hiking Trouser.
- Hat, Sunglasses, Sunblock.
- Refillable Water Bottle.
- Snacking Bars/Dry Fruits.
Traveler Tips
Fuel Up in Gupis or Gilgit – no petrol stations in Golaghmuli
Mobile Network: Limited; only SCOM works in some areas
Permits: No NOC needed for Pakistani tourists. Foreigners might need NOC from Gilgit.
Weather Gear: Even in summer, nights are cold – bring layers
Altitude Sickness: Stay hydrated, ascend gradually