Mountain town in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan
Healthcare in Gilgit: hospitals, costs and insurance
Healthcare in Gilgit
Basic care only. Serious cases need an army helicopter or a long flight or drive to Islamabad or Rawalpindi. Travel insurance with air evacuation is essential. Call 1122.
Hospitals for foreigners in Gilgit
| Hospital | Good to know |
|---|---|
| Aga Khan Medical Centre Gilgit | Private; the best option in town |
| Combined Military Hospital (CMH) Gilgit | Military hospital; also treats emergencies |
| District Headquarters (DHQ) Hospital Gilgit | Public hospital; crowded and basic |
Key facts
- Doctor's visit: Rs1,000–3,000 ($3.6–10.8) at a private clinic without insurance.
- In Pakistan: Good private hospitals in Karachi (Aga Khan University Hospital), Islamabad (Shifa International) and Lahore; public hospitals are crowded. Mountain areas have basic care and slow evacuation.
- Pharmacies: Pharmacies are common in cities and sell most drugs over the counter; carry essentials in the mountains.
- Health spending: US$30 per person a year (2023); 1.2 doctors per 1,000 people (2021), World Bank.
- Emergency: Police 15 · Ambulance 1122 · Fire 16.
Travel and health insurance
Travel insurance isn't required to enter Pakistan, but treatment for visitors is paid upfront.
| Insurer | Good for |
|---|---|
| SafetyWing Nomad Insurance | Monthly subscription for nomads and long trips; cancel anytime. |
| Genki | Health insurance for nomads, from a European insurer. |
| World Nomads | Trip insurance that covers many adventure activities. |
| Heymondo | Single-trip, annual and long-stay plans with a medical app. |
| IMG Global | Travel medical and long-term international health plans. |
Quick answers
What is the best hospital in Gilgit for foreigners?
Aga Khan Medical Centre Gilgit: Private; the best option in town
How much does a doctor's visit cost in Gilgit?
About Rs1,000–3,000 ($3.6–10.8) at a private clinic.
Do I need travel insurance for Pakistan?
It isn't required for entry, but recommended: hospitals in Pakistan expect visitors to pay or show insurance.
More about Gilgit
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Sources
- World Bank: health expenditure per capita
- CDC Travelers' Health: Pakistan
- UK FCDO travel advice: Pakistan regional risks
- Aga Khan Development Network: Gilgit-Baltistan health facilities
- Zong: 4G in Gilgit-Baltistan
- National Highway Authority (KKH)
SoloSquare has no commercial relationship with the insurers listed. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.