Cheap beds, expensive views.

Most backpackers on the Karakoram Highway sleep in Karimabad, then day trip up to Passu and back. Staying in Ghulkin instead puts you an hour further north and a great deal closer to the things people actually come to Gojal for: the Passu Cones, the suspension bridges, Borith Lake and the glaciers.

The hostel is part of the same family setup as the homestay. That means it is small and it is quiet, and the trade-off is honest: you are not getting a hostel bar, you are getting Sitara's cooking and a family who will sit down and plan your week with you.

Good for the Karakoram Highway run

Ghulkin sits between Gulmit and Passu, so it works as a stop whether you are heading north toward Sost and the Khunjerab Pass or coming back down toward Gilgit. Plenty of guests break the journey here for a night and then stay four.

Trekking from the door

This is the real reason to base yourself in the village. Baskochi meadow is a short climb from the house. The Ghulkin glacier crossing to Borith Lake is a day. The Patundas trek starts near enough that you can leave in the morning. If you want a guide, Ali grew up here and takes small groups, which usually works out cheaper split between a few people from the hostel.

Before you come

Two practical things. First, the season: the valley is at its best roughly May to October, and the high treks are closed in winter. Second, your visa. Pakistan changed its entry rules at the start of 2026 and visa on arrival is no longer the reliable route it was, so apply for your tourist eVisa well before you fly and use the official NADRA portal rather than any agent site. Check the current rules yourself close to your travel date, because they have moved more than once.

Staying longer than a holiday? There is a volunteering programme in the village.