Renting a Car in Gilgit – Your Ultimate 2025 Guide to Exploring Hunza and Beyond
The first time I flew into Gilgit, I took a shared van to Hunza. The ride was cramped, rushed, and full of stops I didn’t want. The second time, I rented a 4×4 Jeep in Gilgit with a local driver. We cruised through valleys, paused at lesser-known viewpoints, stopped for apricot cake at a roadside café, and even detoured into Hopper Glacier without worrying about time.
I’ve rented cars in Lahore and Islamabad before—but there’s something unique about starting your journey from Gilgit. You’re already in the heart of Gilgit-Baltistan, and with the right car, the entire north is at your fingertips.
So, whether you’re here for Rakaposhi, Passu cones, Khunjerab Pass, or beyond, this is your complete 2025 guide to renting a car in Gilgit.
Table of Contents
Why Rent a Car in Gilgit?
Let’s be honest: relying on local transport here limits your experience. Renting a car from Gilgit gives you:
Direct access to Hunza, Nagar, and Ghizer
Day trips to hidden gems like Hopper Glacier, Gulmit, or Misgar
Freedom from tight schedules or crowded vans
A more immersive travel experience with your own stops and pacing
If you’ve already flown or bused into Gilgit, renting here makes your trip smoother, more fun, and more efficient.
Who Should Rent a Car in Gilgit?
Couples or solo travelers seeking flexibility
Families wanting privacy and comfort
Photographers/videographers chasing golden hour
Adventurers heading into remote villages
Short-term travelers who want to see more in less time
Car Rental Options in Gilgit (2025)
Gilgit now has a growing ecosystem of rental services. Some are run by professional tour operators, while others are community-based or hotel-linked.
Top Car Rental Services in Gilgit:
Karakoram Tours & Rent a Car
Offers 4x4s, SUVs, coasters
Drivers are locals and trained for GB terrain
Offers packages for Hunza, Hopper, Khunjerab
Hunza Rent a Car (Aliabad branch also available)
Known for reliability and clean cars
Provides guided driving tours if needed
GB Car Rentals
Specializes in Toyota Corolla, Hilux Revo, and Hiace
Offers both self-drive and chauffeur services (driver preferred)
Askari Car Rentals Gilgit
Offers Fortuners, Land Cruisers, and economy cars
Ideal for high-end travelers and diplomatic visits
Hotel-Linked Services
Some hotels like Serena Gilgit, Diran Guest House, or Gilgit Gateway Hotel offer rental services to their guests. Ask at reception.
| Car Type | Ideal For | Road Conditions | Price/Day (PKR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Suzuki Alto | Budget travelers, city drives | Smooth paved roads only | 3,000 – 4,000 |
| Corolla/City | Couples, small families | Gilgit to central Hunza | 4,500 – 6,500 |
| Toyota Hilux | Groups or offroad areas | Hopper, Misgar, Khunjerab Pass | 8,000 – 12,000 |
| Prado/Fortuner | Comfort + style | Luxury exploration, all terrain | 15,000 – 20,000 |
| Hiace/APV | Larger families, tour groups | All routes | 12,000 – 16,000 |
| Jeep (4×4) | Adventure travel | Steep climbs, glaciers, valleys | 6,000 – 9,000 |
Self-Drive vs. With Driver: What’s Better?
With Driver:
Local navigation & terrain knowledge
No responsibility for vehicle damage
Help with permits and checkposts
More relaxed and safer in mountain zones
Self-Drive:
Limited options
Risky without experience on GB roads
Needs strong verification and insurance
Not recommended unless you’re very confident
Verdict: In Gilgit-Baltistan, hire a driver. It’s safer, more informative, and often only PKR 2,000–3,000/day extra.
How to Book a Car in Gilgit
1. Pre-Book Before Arrival
Call or WhatsApp rental services
Get confirmation of:
Car model
Driver name and number
Pick-up location (Gilgit Airport, hotel, or bus station)
2. Walk-in Bookings
Go directly to a rental office in Gilgit city
Inspect the car yourself
Discuss your route, number of days, and driver expectations
3. Through Hotels/Guesthouses
Ask your hotel to arrange a trusted rental
Best for families and foreign tourists
Required Documents:
CNIC or Passport
Security deposit (cash or ID copy)
Rental agreement (always get one in writing)
Popular Routes You Can Explore from Gilgit by Car
Once you’re in Gilgit, these destinations are now within your easy reach:
1. Hunza Valley (Aliabad, Karimabad, Attabad)
Distance: 100 km – 2.5 hours
Ideal Car: Sedan or SUV
Cost: PKR 5,000–7,000 one-way
What to See:
Baltit and Altit Forts
Duikar viewpoint
Attabad Lake
Café culture in Karimabad
2. Passu, Gulmit, Hussaini Bridge
Distance: 145 km – 3.5 hours
Ideal Car: SUV
Cost: PKR 8,000–10,000
What to See:
Passu Glacier and Cones
Hussaini Suspension Bridge
Glacier walk near Borith Lake
3. Khunjerab Pass (China Border)
Distance: 270 km – 6 hours (one way)
Ideal Car: 4×4 or Fortuner
Cost: PKR 12,000–15,000
Tips:
Bring CNIC/passport
Leave early in the morning
Entry closed in heavy snow (Nov–Apr)
4. Hopper Glacier (Nagar Valley)
Distance: 60 km – 2 hours
Ideal Car: Jeep or SUV
Cost: PKR 6,000–8,000
Experience:
Visit Hopper Village
Explore Glacier Viewpoints
Picnic spots and apricot orchards
5. Fairy Meadows (via Raikot Bridge)
Distance to Raikot: 75 km
From Raikot: Jeep and trek only
Ideal Car: Drop at Raikot
Cost: PKR 5,000 for drop-off
Adventure:
1-hour jeep ride
3-hour trek to Fairy Meadows
| Item | Price (PKR) |
|---|---|
| Car rental w/ driver (SUV) | 8,000/day |
| Fuel (total) | 10,000 |
| Driver allowance (optional) | 1,500/day |
| Misc. (parking, snacks) | 1,000 |
| Total (4 days) | ~46,000 |
Tips for First-Time Renters in Gilgit
Always inspect the vehicle before departure
Ask if the driver speaks Urdu or English
Keep your CNIC/passport on hand for police checkposts
Confirm if the price includes fuel
Take cash—ATMs can be unreliable in Hunza
Leave early morning for long drives (Passu, Khunjerab)
Don’t rush—ask your driver for local spots worth stopping for!
Do Rental Cars in Gilgit Have Insurance?
Short answer: Some do, but most don’t offer comprehensive mountain road insurance. That’s why:
Drivers are preferred—they’re used to rough conditions.
You’re liable for any damage in self-drive cases.
Always confirm what’s covered in your agreement.
| Season | Roads | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (Mar–May) | Clear | Blossom season, fewer crowds |
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | Busy but open | Full access to Khunjerab, Passu, Hopper |
| Autumn (Sept–Oct) | Best visibility | Foliage, harvests, photography |
| Winter (Nov–Feb) | Risky | Only rent for nearby destinations |
| Factor | Gilgit | Islamabad/Lahore |
|---|---|---|
| Road fatigue | None | Long tiring drive |
| Local expertise | Available drivers | Not always terrain-aware |
| Cost | Lower fuel costs | Higher rental + fuel |
| Convenience | Quicker start to trip | More rental options |
Renting a car in Gilgit is the difference between being taken somewhere—and discovering it yourself.
With a local driver, flexible schedule, and reliable vehicle, your journey becomes a string of spontaneous decisions—where to stop, where to eat, where to explore beyond the itinerary.
In 2025, rental options are more available, better maintained, and easier to book than ever. From short hops to Khunjerab to long stays across Hunza, renting a car from Gilgit puts the entire north in your hands.
The Takeaway
Traveling in Pakistan is both exciting and accessible because to its varied transportation system. Every type of traveler has an alternative, from the convenience of ride-hailing services to the affordability of buses and trains.
Metro busses, Careem, and Uber are the most convenient means of transportation for brief city excursions. Pakistan’s picturesque train routes and opulent bus services offer comfortable and reasonably priced long-distance travel. The quickest option to travel long distances is still by domestic flight, particularly when traveling to far-flung northern locations.
Are you prepared to travel to Pakistan? Plan your vacation now to take advantage of the amazing nation’s transportation infrastructure!
Explore carefully planned tours to see the best of this fascinating nation. Please get in touch if you would need more travel advice; we are happy to assist you in organizing your upcoming journey! Additionally, by completing this form, you can personalize your journey.
FAQs – Everything You Need to Know
1. Is Fairy Meadows safe for travelers?
Yes, Fairy Meadows is safe for tourists. However, it is always advisable to travel with a local guide and follow safety precautions on the trek.
2. How difficult is the trek to Fairy Meadows?
The trek is moderate in difficulty and takes around 3-4 hours. If you’re not used to trekking, you can hire a horse.
3. Are there hotels in Fairy Meadows?
There are wooden cottages and campsites available, but no luxury hotels. It’s best to book accommodations in advance during peak seasons.
4. Can I visit Fairy Meadows with children?
Yes, but the trek can be challenging for younger kids. Hiring a horse for them is recommended.
5. Are there food options available?
Yes, local lodges and campsites offer simple meals like rice, lentils, chicken, and tea.
6. Do I need a permit to visit Fairy Meadows?
No special permit is required, but some areas beyond Beyal Camp may require special permissions for trekking.
7. What kind of weather should I expect?
Summers are mild during the day but cold at night. Winters bring heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures.
8. Is there mobile network coverage?
Cellular signals are weak or unavailable. Some lodges offer satellite Wi-Fi at an additional cost.
9. Can I visit Fairy Meadows in winter?
It is possible but highly challenging due to snow-covered trails and extreme cold. Most facilities remain closed.
10. What should I pack for my trip?
Warm clothing, sturdy trekking shoes, power banks, a flashlight, sunscreen, and a refillable water bottle.
11. Is Fairy Meadows worth visiting?
Absolutely! It’s one of the most scenic and peaceful locations in Pakistan, offering a perfect mix of adventure and tranquility.
Daniel loves exploring off-the-beaten path destinations and making new friends. Writing blog posts since 2015, Daniel says it helps him to document his travels and cherish them. He loves the fact that what he writes might actually help someone have a better experience in Pakistan and Afghanistan. In his spare time, he loves listening to Tchaikovsky and spend time with his dog Coconut.
