Gupis Valley – The Gateway to Ghizer's Hidden Wonders!
Gupis Valley, located about 112 km from Gilgit city, is a beautiful and peaceful valley in Ghizer District, Gilgit-Baltistan. It lies along the route to Shandur Pass and serves as a base for visiting many of the region’s natural wonders like Phander Valley, Khalti Lake, and Handarap Lake.
Famous for its turquoise river, historic Gupis Fort, green meadows, and vibrant local life, Gupis Valley is ideal for slow travelers, families, cultural explorers, and nature photographers.
Why Visit Gupis Valley?
Gupis Valley is the perfect combination of nature, history, culture, and comfort. Whether you’re just passing through on your way to Shandur or spending a few days exploring its rivers and villages, the valley offers peaceful beauty and deep human connection.
From its ancient fort to crystal-clear lakes, from highland shepherd trails to riverside cafes — Gupis is a gem hiding in plain sight.
Routes to Gupis VAlley
Location & Access
Region: Ghizer District, Gilgit-Baltistan
Altitude: ~2,170 meters (7,119 ft)
Distance from Gilgit: ~112 km (3–4 hours by road)
Route to Gupis
Gilgit → Sher Qilla → Gahkuch → Gupis
Road: Mostly paved and scenic alongside the Ghizer River
Public transport, vans, and shared jeeps available from Gilgit
The journey offers stunning views of river gorges, apricot orchards, and alpine peaks.
Cultural Experience
Languages Spoken: Khowar, Shina, Burushaski
Traditional Music: Rabab and dadang (drum) played at local festivals
Crafts: Handwoven wool shawls and rugs
Hospitality: Known for being one of the warmest and most welcoming communities in GB
Top Attractions in Gupis Valley
| Place | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Gupis Fort | 18th-century stone fort with panoramic views |
| Khalti Lake | Famous trout lake just 15 mins from Gupis Bazaar |
| Stone Circle Site | Ancient burial site with megalithic stones |
| Shingal | Beautiful riverside village known for organic farming |
| Peyeen Village | Traditional Wakhi village with wooden houses |
| Gupis River Beach | Great spot for picnics, fishing, and photography |
Best Time to Visit
| Season | Features |
|---|---|
| April – June | Spring blossoms, ideal for walking and sightseeing |
| July – September | Perfect for fishing, camping, and lake visits |
| October | Autumn colors and quieter atmosphere |
| Winter (Nov–Feb) | Cold and snowy; good for solitude seekers, but roads may be slippery |
Activities in Gupis Valley
Fishing – Especially in Khalti and Gupis river spots (trout fishing)
Photography – Traditional architecture, turquoise water, old wooden bridges
Village Walks – Interact with locals, explore apricot farms and shepherd trails
Visit Gupis Fort – Learn about the region’s historical battles and rulers
Base for Further Exploration – Phander, Yasin, and Shandur Pass are nearby
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