Top 10 Hotels in Gilgit-Baltistan: Where to Stay in 2026

What to Know Before Choosing a Hotel in GB

Gilgit-Baltistan's hotel scene ranges from international-standard chains like Serena and Pearl Continental (Hotel One) to characterful heritage properties and simple family-run guesthouses. Below is a spread across the region's main hubs — Hunza, Skardu, and Gilgit — covering a range of budgets.

1. Hunza Serena Inn (Karimabad, Hunza)

A heritage property on six acres of gardens with views of Rakaposhi and Baltit Fort, widely regarded as one of Hunza's premier stays, with 80 rooms, a spa, and a lap pool.

2. Serena Shigar Fort (Shigar, Skardu)

A converted 17th-century royal fort turned luxury heritage hotel, with rooms set within original medieval architecture and a restaurant sourcing from its own orchard.

3. Shangrila Resort (Skardu)

One of the north's most iconic resorts, set beside Lower Kachura Lake with lakefront cottages, gardens, and boating facilities — a long-time favorite for families and couples alike.

4. Gilgit Serena Hotel (Gilgit)

A reliable, well-reviewed 4-star property in Jutial, Gilgit, popular with both business and leisure travelers for its consistent service and mountain views.

5. Eagle's Nest (Karimabad, Hunza)

A high-altitude lodge above Karimabad offering some of the most expansive mountain views in the valley, reached by a short drive or scenic hike.

6. Hotel Mashabrum (Skardu)

A large, well-known Skardu classic with spacious balcony views and easy walking access to the town's market and shops — a favorite among trekkers and expedition groups.

7. Serena Altit Fort Residence (Hunza)

One of Hunza's more distinctive stays, housed in the former royal residence connected to Altit Fort, blending historic architecture with modern comfort.

8. Ramada Resort by Wyndham (Gilgit)

A modern international-standard resort option in Gilgit, offering amenities like a pool and spa alongside reliable service standards.

9. Hotel Himalaya Skardu (Skardu)

A well-equipped 3-star option geared toward both leisure and business travelers, with meeting facilities and a comfortable, contemporary design.

10. Riverdale Resort (Gilgit)

A characterful resort option convenient for travelers needing to stay close to Gilgit Airport before continuing on to Hunza or Skardu.

Local Tips

• Book heritage properties (Serena brand hotels, Shangrila) well in advance during peak season (June–August), as they sell out quickly.
• Confirm current rates directly with the property rather than relying on older listed prices, as these shift seasonally.
• Consider location relative to your itinerary — a Gilgit hotel near the airport suits a transit night, while Hunza/Skardu properties suit longer stays.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best hotel brand to look for in Gilgit-Baltistan? Serena Hotels operates several of the region's most consistently well-reviewed properties (Hunza, Gilgit, Shigar Fort), making it a reliable choice across multiple stops.

Are budget guesthouses available alongside these hotels? Yes — every major town in the region has a range of simpler, family-run guesthouses at lower price points alongside the properties listed here.

Should I book directly or through a travel agent? Both work well; a local travel agent can be useful for bundling multi-city stays across a single trip.

Conclusion

Whichever budget or style you're traveling with, Gilgit-Baltistan's hotel scene has matured considerably in recent years — from converted royal forts to modern international resorts — making it easier than ever to pair spectacular scenery with a genuinely comfortable stay.