# Baltistan

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Not to be confused with [Baltic states](/source/Baltic_states).

**Baltistan** (ˌbɔːltɪˈstɑːn, bəlt̪ɪst̪aːn);[2] also known as **Baltiyul** or **Little Tibet**, is a mountainous region in the [Pakistani](/source/Pakistan)-administered territory of [Gilgit-Baltistan](/source/Gilgit-Baltistan) and constitutes a northern portion of the larger [Kashmir](/source/Kashmir) region that has been the subject of a dispute between [India](/source/India) and Pakistan since 1947. It is located southwest of the [Karakoram](/source/Karakoram) and borders [Gilgit](/source/Gilgit) to the west, [Xinjiang](/source/Xinjiang) of [China](/source/China) to the north, [Indian](/source/India)-administered [Ladakh](/source/Ladakh) to the southeast, and the Indian-administered [Kashmir Valley](/source/Kashmir_Valley) to the southwest.[3][4] The average altitude of the region is over 3,350 metres (10,990 ft). Baltistan is mainly administered under the [Baltistan Division](/source/Baltistan_Division).

Prior to the [partition of British India](/source/Partition_of_India) in 1947, Baltistan was part of the [princely state](/source/Princely_state) of [Jammu and Kashmir](/source/Jammu_and_Kashmir_(princely_state)), having [been conquered](/source/Dogra_invasion_of_Baltistan) by [Gulab Singh](/source/Gulab_Singh)'s armies in 1840.[5] Baltistan and Ladakh were administered jointly under one *wazarat* or district ([Ladakh Wazarat](/source/Ladakh_Wazarat)) of the state. The region retained its identity in this setup as the [Skardu](/source/Skardu_District) *tehsil*, with [Kargil](/source/Kargil_district) and [Leh](/source/Leh_district) being the other two *tehsils* of the district.[6] After [Hari Singh](/source/Hari_Singh), the last *[maharaja](/source/Maharaja)* of Jammu and Kashmir, acceded to the [Dominion of India](/source/Dominion_of_India) in 1947, his local governor in Gilgit was overthrown by the [Gilgit Scouts](/source/Gilgit_Scouts). Rebel groups later took the entire region for Pakistan during the [Indo-Pakistani War of 1947–1948](/source/Indo-Pakistani_War_of_1947%E2%80%931948). The region is inhabited primarily by the [Balti people](/source/Balti_people), a predominantly [Muslim](/source/Muslims) ethnic group of [Tibetan](/source/Tibetan_people) descent. Baltistan is strategically significant to both Pakistan and India; the [Siachen conflict](/source/Siachen_conflict) and the [Kargil War](/source/Kargil_War) took place in this region alongside others.

## Etymology

Originally, Ladakh was an umbrella term for both Maryul and Baltiyul. Today, however, it commonly refers only to Maryul, which is administered by India, while the term Baltistan is now used for Baltiyul, which is administered by Pakistan.

Like other Muslim regions near the Indian subcontinent, the name "Baltistan" is created by adding the [Persian](/source/Persian_language) suffix *-stan* to the name of the [Balti people](/source/Balti_people). The Balti people themselves call their homeland as *Baltiyul*.[7]

## Geography

The 1911 [Encyclopaedia Britannica](/source/Encyclopaedia_Britannica_Eleventh_Edition) characterises Baltistan as the western extremity of [Tibet](/source/Tibet),[8] whose natural limits are the [Indus River](/source/Indus_River) from its abrupt southward bend around the map point [35.86°N 74.72°E](https://geohack.toolforge.org/geohack.php?params=35.86_N_74.72_E&title=Bend%20in%20the%20Indus%20course) and the mountains to the north and west. These features separate a comparatively peaceful Tibetan population from the [Indo-Aryan](/source/Indo-Aryan_peoples) tribes to the west. [Muslim](/source/Muslim) writers around the 16th century speak of Baltistan as the "Little Tibet", and of [Ladakh](/source/Ladakh) as the "Great Tibet", emphasising their [ethnological](/source/Ethnological) similarity.[8] According to [Ahmad Hassan Dani](/source/Ahmad_Hassan_Dani), Baltistan spreads upwards from the Indus river and is separated from Ladakh by the [Siachen Glacier](/source/Siachen_Glacier).[9] It includes the Indus Valley and the lower valley of the [Shyok River](/source/Shyok_River)[34.925°N 76.68°E](https://geohack.toolforge.org/geohack.php?params=34.925_N_76.68_E&title=Shyok%20river).[10]

Baltistan is a rocky mass of lofty mountains, the prevailing formation being [gneiss](/source/Gneiss). In the north is the 56 km (35 miles) long [Baltoro Glacier](/source/Baltoro_Glacier)[35°44′11″N 76°22′51″E](https://geohack.toolforge.org/geohack.php?params=35_44_11_N_76_22_51_E&title=Baltoro%20glacier), one of the longest glaciers outside of the polar regions, contained between two ridges whose highest peaks to the south are 7,600 m (25,000 ft) and to the north 8,615 m (28,265 ft).[8]

The Indus River runs in a narrow gorge, widening after receiving the Shyok River at [35.23°N 75.92°E](https://geohack.toolforge.org/geohack.php?params=35.23_N_75.92_E&title=Shyok%20joins%20Indus). It then forms a 32-kilometre (20-mile) crescent-shaped plain varying between 2 and 8 km (1 and 5 miles) in width.[11] The three main inhabitable sections of Indus River Valley in Baltistan, namely [Kharmang](/source/Kharmang_Valley), [Skardu](/source/Skardu_Valley), and [Roundu](/source/Roundu_Valley), are located along this route. The final section of Shyok River Valley, known as [Chorbat](/source/Chorbat_Valley) or Khaplu, joins Indus Valley at Skardu while the [Shigar Valley](/source/Shigar_Valley) opens into it at Roundu.

The village of [Chalunkha](/source/Chalunkha) in Chorbat, now in [Leh District](/source/Leh_district), is traditionally considered the southernmost settlement of Baltistan, delimiting it from the [Nubra](/source/Nubra_valley) region of Ladakh.[12] The traditional boundary of Baltistan with Ladakh along Nubra Valley was finalised in the early 19th century by the ruler of Khaplu,[13] while that of along [Suru Valley](/source/Suru_Valley) was demarcated at Ghargurdo, between [Ganokh](/source/Ganokh) and [Garkon](/source/Garkon), in the 17th century following a battle between Balti Gyalfo [Ali Senge Anchan](/source/Ali_Sher_Khan_Anchan) and Ladakhi Gyalpo [Jamyang Namgyal](/source/Jamyang_Namgyal). Ruins of a series of watchtowers, which were jointly guarded by the both kingdoms, are still found here.[14] A few villages of the [Kharmang](/source/Kharmang_District) *ilaqa*, such as [Hardas](/source/Hardas) and Karkichu in the Suru River Valley, remained part of Kargil after the [First Kashmir War](/source/First_Kashmir_War).[15] They mark the former southern boundary of Baltistan, and are populated by ethnic Baltis till today.[12]

The [Gilgit Agency](/source/Gilgit_Agency) and Skardu *tehsil*, as well as a portion of Kargil *tehsil*,[a] have been under Pakistani governance since 1947[16] with the Kashmir Valley as well as Leh *tehsil* and most of the Kargil *tehsil* being under Indian governance. The Chorbat Valley, a section of the Shyok River Valley, was divided when its four villages (with one [Bogdang](/source/Bogdang) already under Indian control since 1947) were [captured by India](/source/Battle_of_Turtuk) during the [Indo-Pakistani War of 1971](/source/Indo-Pakistani_War_of_1971), and were incorporated into the erstwhile [state of Jammu and Kashmir](/source/Jammu_and_Kashmir_(state)) (now in Ladakh).[17][18]

## Administration

The Baltistan is one of three divisions of Gilgit-Baltistan. It is administed under a BPS-20 Commissioner of [Pakistan Administrative Service](/source/Pakistan_Administrative_Service) group of [Central Superior Services of Pakistan](/source/Central_Superior_Services).

### Valleys and districts

Valley District District Area (km2)[19] Population (2023)[19] Capital Chorbat° 35°9′N 76°19′E Ghanche and Leh 8,531 (in Ghanche) 883 (in Leh) 157,822 (in Ghanche) Khaplu (in Ghanche) Turtuk (in Leh) Skardu 35°17′N 75°38′E Skardu 10,168 278,885 Skardu Shigar 35°25′N 75°44′E Shigar 4,173 84,608 Shigar Kharmang 34°44′N 76°10′E Kharmang 6,144 61,304 Tolti Total 29,889 582,619

°Although considered part of Baltistan, Chorbat Valley has been divided between Pakistan and India, after territorial exchanges during [1972 Simla treaty.](/source/Simla_Agreement)

## History

### Origins

Tibetan [Khampa](/source/Kham) entered in [Khaplu](/source/Khaplu) through [Chorbat Valley](/source/Chorbat_Valley) and [Dardic](/source/Dardic_people) tribes came to Baltistan through [Roundu Valley](/source/Roundu_Valley) from [Gilgit](/source/Gilgit) prior to civilization, and these groups eventually settled down, resulting in the genesis of the Balti people.[20]

Today, the people of [Kharmang](/source/Kharmang) and [Eastern Khaplu](/source/Chorbat_Valley) have Tibetan features while those in Skardu, [Shigar](/source/Shigar) and the western villages of Khaplu have [Dardic](/source/Dard_people).[21] It was believed that the Balti people were in the sphere of influence of [Zhangzhung](/source/Zhangzhung). Baltistan was controlled by the Tibetan king in 686. Culturally influenced by Tibet, the [Bon](/source/Bon) and [animist](/source/Animism) Baltis began to adopt [Tibetan Buddhism](/source/Tibetan_Buddhism). Religious artifacts such as *[gompas](/source/Gompa)* and *[stupas](/source/Stupa)* were built, and [lamas](/source/Lama) played an important role in Balti life.[22][23][24]

For centuries, Baltistan consisted of small, independent valley states connected by the blood relationships of its rulers (*[rajas](/source/Raja)*), trade, common beliefs and cultural and linguistic bonds.[25] Baltistan was known as Little Tibet, and the name was extended to include Ladakh.[8] Ladakh later became known as Great Tibet. Locally, Baltistan is known as *Baltiyul* and Ladakh and Baltistan are known as Maryul ("red country").[26]

### Medieval and Early Modern History

Medieval Baltistan was divided into three main kingdoms: Skardu, Shigar, and Khaplu. The [Maqpon dynasty](/source/Maqpon_dynasty), which ruled from Skardu, also later established side branches at [Kartaksho](/source/Kartaksho) and Roundu.[27]: 243

During the 14th century, Muslim scholars from Kashmir crossed Baltistan's mountainous terrain to spread Islam.[28] The [Noorbakshia](/source/Noorbakshia_Islam) Sufi order further propagated the faith in Baltistan and Islam became dominant by the end of the 17th century. With the passage of time a large number also converted to [Shia Islam](/source/Shia_Islam) and a few converted to [Sunni](/source/Sunni) Islam.[29]

In 1190, Maqpon dynasty of Skardu was founded by Ibrahim Shah (1190-1220), who was born in Skardu. This royal family ruled over Baltistan for approximately 700 years.[30] The kings of the Maqpon dynasty extended the frontiers of Baltistan to Gilgit Agency,[31] [Chitral](/source/Chitral), and Ladakh.[32] In the late 1500s/early 1600s, the Maqpon rulers of Skardu expanded their kingdom to include Shigar, Astor, Rondu, and Karataksha. The greatest ruler during this period was Alī Sher Khān, known as "Anchan", or "the Great". After the Mughal conquest of Kashmir in 1586, during the reign of Anchan's grandfather Ghāzī Mīr, diplomatic relations developed between the Mughals and the Maqpon rulers of Baltistan. A Balti princess was sent to the Mughal court, and according to local tradition, a Mughal princess was also sent to Skardu and built a [Mughal-style](/source/Mughal_architecture) fort at [Mandok](/source/Mandok,_Baltistan), although Dani describes her as a Ladakhi princess, [Mandok Gyalmo](/source/Mandok_Gyalmo), instead. Around 1595, the Mughal historian [Abu'l-Fazl](/source/Abul_Fazl) wrote that Kashmir was then importing [silkworm](/source/Bombyx_mori) eggs (for [sericulture](/source/Sericulture)) from Gilgit and Baltistan.[27]: 243-4

The Kharmang came under the control of the [Namgyal royal family](/source/Namgyal_dynasty_of_Ladakh) and developed a close relationship with Ladakh when the *raja* of Ladakh, Jamyang Mangyal, attacked the principalities in Kargil. Mangyal annihilated the Skardu garrison at Kharbu and put to the sword a number of petty Muslim rulers in the principalities of Purik (Kargil). [Ali Sher Khan Anchan](/source/Ali_Sher_Khan_Anchan), *raja* of [Khaplu](/source/Khaplu) and [Shigar](/source/Shigar), left with a strong army via [Marol](/source/Marol). Passing the Ladakhi army, he occupied [Leh](/source/Leh) (the capital of Ladakh) and the *raja* of Ladakh was taken prisoner.[33][34][35] A marital alliance was subsequently established, resulting in Anchan marrying Jamyang's daughter [Mandok Gyalmo](/source/Mandok_Gyalmo) while Jamyang marrying a Balti princess, [Gyal Khatun](/source/Gyal_Khatun).

Ali Sher Khan Anchan included Gilgit and [Chitral](/source/Chitral) in his kingdom of Baltistan,[36] reportedly a flourishing country. The valley from Khepchne to Kachura was flat and fertile, with abundant fruit trees; the sandy desert now extending from Sundus to [Skardu Airport](/source/Skardu_Airport) was a prosperous town. Skardu had hardly recovered from the shock of the death of Anchan when it was flooded.

After the death of Anchan in 1633, the Maqpon polity declined as his three sons fought among themselves. One of them, Adam Khān, had fled to Kashmir and then sought refuge with the Mughal emperor [Jahāngīr](/source/Jahangir) while Anchan was still alive. In 1637, Adam accompanied a Mughal expedition into Baltistan led by [Zafar Khān](/source/Zafar_Khan_(Mughal_general)). Adam's elder brother (and rival) Abdāl was captured, and Zafar Khān announced Mughal [suzerainty](/source/Suzerainty) over Baltistan. However, with winter coming, Zafar hastily withdrew his troops from Baltistan and appointed one of Abdāl's partisans to govern the territory on his behalf, which upset the Mughal emperor [Shāh Jahān](/source/Shah_Jahan). Ultimately, though, Adam Khān ended up taking control of Baltistan. Both he and his successor, Murād Khān, acknowledged Mughal suzerainty.[27]: 243-4

The Kingdom of Khaplu probably came into existence around the 10th century following the breakup of the [Tibetan Empire](/source/Tibetan_Empire). Its ruling dynasty was known as the Yabgu dynasty, after the Turkish title of [yabghu](/source/Yabghu). The local population was Buddhist up until around the 14th century, when Sayyid Alī Hamadānī is credited with spreading Islam to the region. Khaplu was conquered by Skardu under Alī Sher Khān Anchan in the early 1600s. From then on, it was administered by a governor, or *kharpon*, appointed by the ruler in Skardu. The last kharpon was Yulehing Karīm, who governed Khaplu from 1820 to 1840, when the Dogra commander [Zorāwar Singh](/source/Zorawar_Singh_(Dogra_general)) conquered it.[27]: 246

The official Mughal historian [Abdul Hamid Lahori](/source/Abdul_Hamid_Lahori) left an account of Baltistan in his entry for the year 1638. He wrote that Baltistan had 22 *[pargana](/source/Pargana)*s and 37 forts. Its narrow mountain valleys could support limited cultivation, primarily of wheat and barley; certain fruits also thrived in the local climate. Rather poor-quality gold was collected from river sands in small amounts – only about 2,000 *[tola](/source/Tola_(unit))*s (about 9.5 kg) was collected per year.[27]: 244

In 1840, the region was subjugated by the [Dogra](/source/Dogra_dynasty) rulers of [Jammu](/source/Jammu) under the suzerainty of the [Sikh Empire](/source/Sikh_Empire).[37][38] In the first Indo-Pakistan War, Baltistan become part of Pakistan following [Gilgit Rebellion](/source/1947_Gilgit_rebellion). On 29 August 2009 the government of [Pakistan](/source/Pakistan) announced the creation of Gilgit–Baltistan, a provincial autonomous region with [Gilgit](/source/Gilgit) as its capital and [Skardu](/source/Skardu) its largest city.[citation needed]

## Tourism

Skardu has several tourist resorts and many natural features, including plains, mountains and mountain-valley lakes. The [Deosai plain](/source/Deosai_National_Park), [Satpara Lake](/source/Satpara_Lake) and Basho also host tourists. North of Skardu, the Shigar Valley offers plains, hiking tracks, peaks and campsites. Other valleys in Baltistan region are [Khaplu](/source/Khaplu), [Rondu](/source/Roundu_Baltistan), [Kachura Lake](/source/Kachura_Lake) and [Kharmang](/source/Kharmang).

### Glaciers

Baltistan is a rocky wilderness of around 70,000 km2 (27,000 square miles),[39] with the largest cluster of mountains in the world and the biggest [glaciers](/source/Glacier) outside the polar regions. The [Himalayas](/source/Himalayas) advance into this region from India, Tibet and Nepal, and north of them are the Karakoram range. Both ranges run northwest, separated by the [Indus River](/source/Indus_River). Along the Indus and its tributaries are many valleys. Glaciers include [Baltoro Glacier](/source/Baltoro_Glacier), [Biafo Glacier](/source/Biafo_Glacier), [Siachen Glacier](/source/Siachen_Glacier), [Trango Glacier](/source/Trango_Glacier) and [Godwin-Austen Glacier](/source/Godwin-Austen_Glacier).

### Mountaineering

Baltistan is home to more than 20 peaks of over 6,100 m (20,000 feet), including [K2](/source/K2) (the second-highest mountain on earth.[22] Other well-known peaks include [Masherbrum](/source/Masherbrum) (also known as K1), [Broad Peak](/source/Broad_Peak), [Hidden Peak](/source/Hidden_Peak), [Gasherbrum II](/source/Gasherbrum_II), [Gasherbrum IV](/source/Gasherbrum_IV) and [Chogolisa](/source/Chogolisa) (in the [Khaplu Valley](/source/Khaplu_Valley)). The following peaks have been scaled:

Name Height Date climbed Location K2 28,250 ft (8,610 m) 31 July 1954 Shigar District Gasherbrum I 26,360 ft (8,030 m) 7 July 1956 Ghanche District Broad Peak 26,550 ft (8,090 m) 9 June 1957 Ghanche District Muztagh Tower 23,800 ft (7,300 m) 6 August 1956 Ghanche District Gasherbrum II 26,120 ft (7,960 m) 4 July 1958 Ghanche District Hidden Peak 26,470 ft (8,070 m) 4 July 1957 Ghanche District Khunyang Chhish 25,761 ft (7,852 m) 4 July 1971 Skardu District Masherbrum 25,659 ft (7,821 m) 4 August 1960 Ghanche District Saltoro Kangri 25,400 ft (7,700 m) 4 June 1962 Ghanche District Chogolisa 25,148 ft (7,665 m) 4 August 1963 Ghanche District

## Demographics

The Baltistan Division has a population of about 582,619 as of 2023.[19] It is a blend of ethnic groups, predominantly [Baltis](/source/Balti_people),[40] and [Tibetans](/source/Tibetan_people). A few [Kashmiris](/source/Kashmiris) are settled in Skardu, practicing agriculture and woodcraft.

## Religion

Before the arrival of Islam, Tibetan Buddhism and [Bön](/source/Bon) (to a lesser extent) were the main religions in Baltistan. Buddhism can be traced back to before the formation of the [Tibetan Empire](/source/Tibetan_Empire) in the region during the seventh century. The region has a number of surviving [Buddhist](/source/Buddhist_art) archaeological sites. These include the [Manthal Buddha Rock](/source/Manthal_Buddha_Rock), a [rock relief](/source/Rock_relief) of the Buddha at the edge of the village (near [Skardu](/source/Skardu)) and the [Sacred Rock of Hunza](/source/Sacred_Rock_of_Hunza). Nearby are former sites of Buddhist shelters.

Islam was brought to Baltistan by [Sufi](/source/Sufism) missionaries during the 16th and 17th centuries, and most of the population converted to [Noorbakshia Islam](/source/Noorbakshia_Islam). The scholars were followers of the [Kubrawiya](/source/Kubrawiya) Sufi order.[41] Most Noorbakhshi Muslims live in Ghanche.[42]

## Fauna

Baltistan has been called a living museum for wildlife.[43] [Deosai National Park](/source/Deosai_National_Park), in the southern part of the region, is habitat for predators since it has an abundant prey population. Domestic animals include [yaks](/source/Yak) (including [hybrid yaks](/source/Yak#Yak_breeding_and_hybridization)), [cattle](/source/Cattle), [sheep](/source/Sheep), [goats](/source/Goat), [horses](/source/Horse) and [donkeys](/source/Donkey). Wild animals include [ibex](/source/Ibex), [markhor](/source/Markhor), [musk deer](/source/Musk_deer), [snow leopards](/source/Snow_leopard), [brown](/source/Brown_bear) and [black bears](/source/Asian_black_bear), [jackals](/source/Jackal), [foxes](/source/Fox), [wolves](/source/Gray_wolf) and [marmots](/source/Marmot).

## Culture

### Balti music and art

According to Balti folklore, a [Mughal](/source/Mughal_emperors) princess Gul Khatoon (known in Baltistan as [Mindoq Gyalmo](/source/Mandok_Gyalmo)—Flower Queen) brought musicians and artisans with her into the region and they propagated Mughal music and art under her patronage.[44] Musical instruments such as the *[surnai](/source/Zurna)*, *karnai*, *dhol* and *[chang](/source/Fangxiang)* were introduced into Baltistan.

#### Dance

Classical and other dances are classified as sword dances, *broqchhos* and [Yakkha](/source/Yakkha_people) and *[ghazal](/source/Ghazal)* dances.[45] *Chhogho Prasul* commemorates a victory by the [Maqpon *rajas*](/source/Maqpon_dynasty). As a mark of respect, the musician who plays the drum (*dang*) plays for a long time. A Maqpon princess would occasionally dance to this tune. *Gasho-Pa*, also known as *Ghbus-La-Khorba*, is a sword dance associated with the Gasho Dynasty of Purik ([Kargil](/source/Kargil)). *Sneopa*, the marriage-procession dance by *pachones* (twelve *wazirs* who accompany the bride), is performed at the marriage of a *raja*.

### Architecture

Balti architecture has Tibetan and Mughul[46] influences, and its monastic architecture reflects the Buddhist imprint left on the region. Buddhist-style [wall paintings](/source/Wall_painting) can be seen in forts and Noorbakhshi *[khanqahs](/source/Khanqah)*, including [Chaqchan Mosque](/source/Chaqchan_Mosque) in [Khaplu](/source/Khaplu), [Amburik Mosque](/source/Amburik_Mosque) in Shigar, Khanqah e Muallah Shigar, [Khaplu Fort](/source/Khaplu_Fort), [Shigar Fort](/source/Shigar_Fort) and [Skardu Fort](/source/Skardu_Fort).

### Polo

[Polo](/source/Polo) is popular in Baltistan, and indigenous to the Karakoram region, having been played there since at least the 15th–16th century.[47] The Maqpon ruler [Ali Sher Khan Anchan](/source/Ali_Sher_Khan_Anchan) introduced the game to other valleys during his conquests beyond Gilgit and Chitral.[48] The English word [polo](/source/Polo#Origins) derives from the [Balti](/source/Balti_language) word *polo*, meaning "the ball used in the game of polo".[49] The game of polo itself is called *Hrthapolo* means horse riding game in Balti.[50]

## Media

The [Pakistan Broadcasting Corporation](/source/Pakistan_Broadcasting_Corporation)[51] has radio and television stations in [Khaplu](/source/Khaplu) that broadcast local programs, and there are a handful of private news outlets. The *Daily K2*[52] is an [Urdu](/source/Urdu) newspaper published in [Skardu](/source/Skardu) serving [Gilgit-Baltistan](/source/Gilgit-Baltistan) for long time, and it is the pioneer of print media in Gilgit-Baltistan. *Bad-e-Shimal* claims the largest daily circulation in [Gilgit](/source/Gilgit) and Baltistan.[53]

## Notes

1. According to the [1961 Census of India](/source/1961_Census_of_India), 31 complete and 5 partial villages of Kargil came under Pakistani control and subsequently became part of Baltistan, amounting to an area of some 1,567.2 sq mi (4,059 km2).[54] However, all of these villages had belonged to the Kharmang *ilaqa* of Baltistan, which was transferred from Skardu *tehsil* to Kargil in 1901.[55][56] A few villages of the Kharmang *ilaqa*, such as [Hardas](/source/Hardas) and Karkichu, remained part of Kargil.[57]

1. ["How Many Languages Are Spoken In Pakistan"](https://www.economy.pk/how-many-languages-are-spoken-in-pakistan/). *economy.pk*. 6 September 2021. Retrieved 15 February 2023.

1. Stevenson, Angus (ed.). ["Baltistan"](https://www.oxfordreference.com/display/10.1093/acref/9780199571123.001.0001/m_en_gb0058480). *Oxford Dictionary of English*. 3rd ed. Oxford University Press. [doi:10.1093/acref/9780199571123.001.0001/m_en_gb0058480](https://doi.org/10.1093/acref/9780199571123.001.0001/m_en_gb0058480). Retrieved 2025-04-16.

1. Schofield, Victoria (2003 [First published in 2000]), [*Kashmir in Conflict*](https://books.google.com/books?id=rkTetMfI6QkC&pg=PA8), London and New York: I. B. Taurus & Co, p. 8, ISBN 1860648983

1. Cheema, Brig Amar (2015), [*The Crimson Chinar: The Kashmir Conflict: A Politico Military Perspective*](https://books.google.com/books?id=Qc25BwAAQBAJ&pg=PA30), Lancer Publishers, p. 30, ISBN 978-81-7062-301-4

1. *Proceedings - Punjab History Conference*. Punjabi University. 1968.

1. Kaul, H. N. (1998), [*Rediscovery of Ladakh*](https://books.google.com/books?id=mg8My6WaWRcC&pg=PA88), Indus Publishing, p. 88, ISBN 978-81-7387-086-6

1. Dani, Ahmad Hasan (1991 [1989]). *History of Northern Areas of Pakistan*. 2nd ed. Islamabad: National Institute of Historical and Cultural Research, Quaid-i-Azam University. pp. 6, 17, 410. ISBN 978-969-415-016-1.

1. Vol. 16. pp. 57–59.

1. Dani 1998, p. 219.

1. Pirumshoev & Dani 2003, p. 243.

1. Karim 2009, p. 62.

1. Swift, Hugh (1990). "Chapter 7 Baltistan: Glaciers and Peaked Hats". *Trekking in Pakistan and India*. London: Hodder & Stoughton. p. 191. ISBN 978-0-340-51556-3.

1. Dani 1991, pp. p. 235: "He entered into an alliance with the ruler of Ladakh and got his help by redefining territorial boundary between Ladakh and Khaplu. On the left side of Shayok river, i.e. on the side of Khaplu the boundary was fixed at Pari Khanasha, and on the right side of the river at Pari Naulakha and Zilakha. All the area above this line towards Chorbat was to be given to Ladakh.".

1. Vohra, Rohit (1982). "Ethnographic Notes on the Buddhist Dards of Ladakh: The Brog-Pā". *Zeitschrift für Ethnologie*. **107** (1): 69–94. [ISSN 0044-2666](https://www.worldcat.org/issn/0044-2666). [JSTOR 25841799](https://www.jstor.org/stable/25841799)

1. Gupta, Radhika (2023). "Living on the Edge". *Freedom in Captivity: Negotiations of Belonging along Kashmir's Frontier*. Cambridge University Press. p. 163. ISBN 978-1-009-27678-8.

1. Schofield, Victoria (2003 [First published in 2000]), [*Kashmir in Conflict*](https://books.google.com/books?id=rkTetMfI6QkC), London and New York: I. B. Taurus & Co, pp. 65–66, ISBN 1860648983

1. Atul Aneja, [A 'battle' in the snowy heights](http://www.thehindu.com/thehindu/2001/01/11/stories/0211000h.htm)[dead link], The Hindu, 11 January 2001.

1. ["In pictures: Life in Baltistan"](https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-22690692). *bbc.com*. July 2013. Retrieved 13 May 2015.

1. ["Gilgit Baltistan at a Glance 2024"](https://portal.pnd.gog.pk/Content/Files/Reports/GB%20at%20a%20Glance%202024_250354808.pdf). *Planning & Development Department Statistical & Research Cell (SRC), Government of Gilgit-Baltistan.*. June 2025. Retrieved 15 February 2026.

1. Tarar, Mustansar Hussain (1991), "Nanga Parbat" (in Urdu)

1. *Where Indus is Young*

1. Afridi, Banat Gul (1988). [*Baltistan in history*](https://books.google.com/books?id=mQFuAAAAMAAJ). Peshawar, Pakistan: Emjay Books International.

1. Tarekh e jammu, molvi hashmatullah

1. Hussainabadi, Muhammad Yousuf: *Baltistan per Aik Nazar* 1984

1. ["A Socio-Political Study of Gilgit Baltistan Province"](https://web.archive.org/web/20200926220506/https://www.bzu.edu.pk/PJSS/Vol30No12010/Final_PJSS-30-1-16.pdf). *Pakistan Journal of Social Sciences*. Archived from [the original](http://www.bzu.edu.pk/PJSS/Vol30No12010/Final_PJSS-30-1-16.pdf) on 26 September 2020. Retrieved 13 July 2013.

1. Yousaf Hussain Abadi, *A view on Baltistan*

1. Dani, Ahmad Hasan (2003). ["The Pamirs, Badakhshan and the Trans-Pamir States (Part 2: The Trans-Pamir States)"](https://books.google.com/books?id=AzG5llo3YCMC). *History of Civilizations of Central Asia, Volume V*. Paris: UNESCO Publishing. pp. 235–46. ISBN 92-3-103876-1. Retrieved 2 May 2024.

1. ["Baltistan - North Pakistan"](https://archive.today/20130615182719/http://www.marafiefoundation.org/Default.aspx?tabid=78). Archived from [the original](http://www.marafiefoundation.org/Default.aspx?tabid=78) on 15 June 2013.

1. ["Little Tibet: Renaissance and Resistance in Baltistan"](https://www.himalmag.com/little-tibet-renaissance-and-resistance-in-baltistan/). *Himal Southasian*. 30 April 1998. Retrieved 20 May 2020.

1. [*Tareekh e Baltistan*](http://www.mybaltistan.com/History/History%20of%20Emporor/Maqpon/Urdu/009.htm)

1. ["Baltis"](http://www.hindukushtrails.com/tribes-baltis.php?print). *Hindukush Trails*

1. Tikoo, Tej K. (30 June 2012). [*Kashmir: Its Aborigines and Their Exodus*](https://books.google.com/books?id=kRFvWyqGNzEC&dq=ali+sher+khan+anchan+ladakh&pg=PA109). Amber Books Limited. ISBN 9781935501343.

1. Hussainabadi, Muhammad Yousuf: *Tareekh-e-Baltistan* 2003

1. Tikoo, Tej K. (2012). [*Kashmir: Its Aborigines and Their Exodus*](https://books.google.com/books?id=kRFvWyqGNzEC&pg=PA109). Lancer International Incorporated. p. 109. ISBN 978-1-935501-34-3.

1. Stobdan, P. & Chandran, D. Suba (April 2008). [*The last colony: Muzaffarabad-Gilgit-Baltistan*](https://books.google.com/books?id=IngMAQAAMAAJ). India Research Press with Centre for Strategic and Regional Studies, University of Jammu. ISBN 9788183860673.

1. Ramble, Charles & Brauen, Martin (1993). [*Proceedings of the International Seminar on the Anthropology of Tibet and the Himalaya: September 21-28 1990 at the Ethnographic Museum of the University of Zurich*](https://books.google.com/books?id=nCRuAAAAMAAJ). Völkerkundemuseum der Universität Zürich. ISBN 978-3-909105-24-3.

1. Ali, Manzoom (12 June 2004). Archaeology of Dardistan.

1. Gertel, Jörg & Richard Le Heron (2011). *Economic Spaces of Pastoral Production and Commodity Systems*. Ashgate. p. 181. ISBN 978-1-4094-2531-1.

1. ["ABOUT GILGIT-BALTISTAN"](https://web.archive.org/web/20130714122626/http://www.mashabrum.com/gilgit_baltistan.html). Archived from [the original](http://www.mashabrum.com/gilgit_baltistan.html) on 14 July 2013. Retrieved 6 April 2013.

1. Hussain, Ejaz. ["Geography and Demography of Gilgit Baltistan"](https://web.archive.org/web/20160304202635/http://www.gilgitbaltistanscouts.gov.pk/geodemo.htm). *Gilgit Baltistan Scouts*. Archived from [the original](http://www.gilgitbaltistanscouts.gov.pk/geodemo.htm) on 4 March 2016. Retrieved 5 December 2015.

1. ["NYF"](https://web.archive.org/web/20180307161508/http://nyfpk.org/Islam%20in%20Baltistan.php). Archived from [the original](http://nyfpk.org/Islam%20in%20Baltistan.php) on 7 March 2018. Retrieved 30 April 2015.

1. ["Sofia Imamia Noorbakhshia"](https://web.archive.org/web/20150518103616/http://www.noorbakhshia.com/). Archived from [the original](http://noorbakhshia.com/) on 18 May 2015.

1. ["Beautiful Gilgit Baltistan"](https://web.archive.org/web/20121018131507/http://www.visitgilgitbaltistan.gov.pk/nature.html). Archived from [the original](http://www.visitgilgitbaltistan.gov.pk/nature.html) on 18 October 2012.

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1. Hussainabadi, Muhammad Yousuf: *Balti Zaban* 1990

1. Wallace, Paul (1996). A History of Western Himalayas. Penguin Books, London.

1. Malcolm D. Whitman, *Tennis: Origins and Mysteries*, Published by Courier Dover Publications, 2004, ISBN 0-486-43357-9, p. 98.

1. Dani, Ahmad Hassan: *History of Northern Areas of Pakistan*, National Institute of Historical Research, Islamabad, 1991.

1. Skeat, Walter William (1898). [*A Concise Etymological Dictionary of the English Language*](https://books.google.com/books?id=ZV9IAAAAYAAJ). Harper. p. [629](https://books.google.com/books?id=ZV9IAAAAYAAJ&q=polo)

1. Afridi, Banat Gul (1988). [*Baltistan in history*](https://books.google.com/books?id=mQFuAAAAMAAJ). Peshawar, Pakistan: Emjay Books International. p. [135](https://books.google.com/books?id=mQFuAAAAMAAJ&q=polo+balti+origin)

1. ["Radio Pakistan"](http://www.radio.gov.pk/)

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1. Census of India 1961. Volume VI: Jammu and Kashmir. PART II-A: GENERAL POPULATION TABLES. Published 1964. pp. 23, 53, 75, 104. Quote: "Thirty-one villages of Tehsil Kargil (Serial Nos. 21–29, 33–53 and 90 of Village Tables of 1941) being on the other side of the cease-fire line."

1. CENSUS OF INDIA, 1911. Volume XX: Kashmir. PART I: REPORT. pp. 52, 63. Published 1912. Quote: "The Kharmang ilaqa from Skardu, and Zanskar from Kishtwar, were included in the newly formed tehsil."

1. ["Gazetteer of Kashmir and Ladak"](https://archive.org/details/in.ernet.dli.2015.43256), Calcutta: Superintendent of Government Printing, 1890, p. 495, – via archive.org

1. Gupta, Radhika (2023). "Living on the Edge". *Freedom in Captivity: Negotiations of Belonging along Kashmir's Frontier*. Cambridge University Press. p. 163. ISBN 978-1-009-27678-8.

## Bibliography

- Aggarwal, Ravina (2004), [*Beyond Lines of Control: Performance and Politics on the Disputed Borders of Ladakh, India*](https://books.google.com/books?id=2k3mgWCitj0C&pg=PA199), Duke University Press, pp. 199–, ISBN 0-8223-3414-3
- Dani, Ahmad Hasan (1998), ["The Western Himalayan States"](https://books.google.com/books?id=18eABeokpjEC&pg=PA221), *History of Civilizations of Central Asia, Vol. IV, Part 1 – The age of achievement: A.D. 750 to the end of the fifteenth century – The historical, social and economic setting*, M. S. Asimov & C. E. Bosworth (eds.), UNESCO, pp. 215–225, ISBN 978-92-3-103467-1
- Karim, Afsir (2009), ["Strategic dimensions of the trans-Himalayan frontiers"](https://books.google.com/books?id=w_Z8AgAAQBAJ&pg=PA42), *Himalayan Frontiers of India: Historical, Geo-Political and Strategic Perspectives*, K. Warikoo (ed.), Routledge, pp. 56–66, ISBN 978-1-134-03294-5
- Pirumshoev, H. S. & Dani, Ahmad Hasan (2003), ["The Pamirs, Badakhshan and the Trans-Pamir States"](https://books.google.com/books?id=AzG5llo3YCMC&pg=PA244), *History of Civilizations of Central Asia, Vol. V – Development in contrast: From the sixteenth to the mid-nineteenth century*, Chahryar Adle & Irfan Habib (eds.), UNESCO, pp. 225–246, ISBN 978-92-3-103876-1

## External links

- [www.pakistantoursguide.pk](http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/south_asia/1491179.stm)
- [Britannica Baltistan](http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/51055/Baltistan).

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Adapted from the Wikipedia article [Baltistan](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Baltistan) by Wikipedia contributors ([contributor history](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Baltistan?action=history)). Available under [Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/). Changes may have been made.