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Gilgit-Baltistan, formerly known as the Northern Areas, is a region administered by Pakistan as an administrative territory. It constitutes the northern portion of the larger Kashmir region, which has been a subject of dispute between India and Pakistan since 1947 and between India and China since 1959. Here are some key points about this captivating region:
Geography and Borders:
Gilgit-Baltistan shares borders with:
Azad Kashmir to the south.
The province of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to the west.
The Wakhan Corridor of Afghanistan to the north.
The Xinjiang region of China to the east and northeast.
The Indian-administered union territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh to the southeast.
Together with Azad Kashmir, it is referred to by international organizations as "Pakistan-administered Kashmir"1.
In terms of geographical area, Gilgit-Baltistan is six times larger than Azad Kashmir1.
History and Autonomy:
The region became a separate administrative unit in 1970 under the name “Northern Areas”.
It was formed by merging the former Gilgit Agency, the Baltistan district, and several small former princely states (including Hunza and Nagar).
In 2009, it was renamed “Gilgit-Baltistan” and granted limited autonomy through the Self-Governance Order. However, real power remains with the governor rather than the chief minister or elected assembly.
The population of Gilgit-Baltistan has expressed a desire for integration with Pakistan proper as a fifth province, distinct from the rest of the Kashmir region1.
Natural Beauty:
Gilgit-Baltistan is a capital of tourism in Pakistan.
Its landscape features majestic mountains, serene lakes, sprawling glaciers, and picturesque valleys.
Notably, it is home to some of the highest peaks in the world, including K2, the second-highest peak globally12.
Languages and Culture:
The region boasts a rich linguistic diversity, with languages such as Balti, Shina, Wakhi, Burushaski, Khowar, and more.
Its cultural heritage is a blend of ancient traditions, folklore, and vibrant festivals.
Gilgit-Baltistan-a land of rugged beauty, where mountains touch the sky and adventure awaits at every turn.

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