The region of Gilgit Baltistan is surrounded by immense natural beauty but some man-made wonders further glorified the beauty of the region making it one of the most spectacular regions not only in Pakistan but also in the world. Baltit Fort is one of the prominent names when we talk about the man made wonders in the Gilgit Baltistan region. Baltit Fort is a name given to an impressive fort standing on moraines of Ultar glacier in the heart of Hunza valley in the Gilgit-Baltistan region of Pakistan. The beautiful Balti architecture of the fort and panoramic view of the valley from the fort is exquisite. The fort was constructed at a strategic location overlooking the whole Hunza-Nagar Valley and to keep a close eye on the activities of the enemies. Although the 700 years of the fort have lost its defensive role in contemporary times it still stands as an enduring symbol of the rich history and culture of Hunza Valley.

During the 16th century, the prince of Hunza married a princess from Baltistan, she brought artisans with her as part of her dowry to renovate the fort. Baltit Fort is much greater and grander than its predecessor Altit Fort. According to the historic reference, the royal rulers of Hunza Valley first resided in Altit Fort but the power struggle between the two sons of the ruler of Hunza forced him to settle one of his sons to Baltit Fort, making it the capital of Hunza Valley. This conflict eventually resulted in the death of the younger son, after which Baltit Fort became the sole power seat of Hunza Valley.

The structure of Baltit Fort was inspired by Tibetan architecture. Renovations and modifications to the fort were made with passing times. The long line of the ruler of the Hunza region which was on the historic Silk Route made a lot of changes to the fort. It was first modified by Ayasho II, Tham.

One of the significant modifications in the structure of the fort came in 1891 when the British invaded this region. The high walls surrounding the fort were demolished, exposing its structure to the Valley hence diminishing its strategic defensive location against the attacking enemy. They demolished rooms on the third floor and constructed a few new rooms in British colonial style on the front elevation. The fort remained the royal residence till 1947.

After the partition of the sub-continent, the baltit fort came under the custody of Aga Khan Trust in Pakistan. They undertook the restoration work because the structure of the fort deteriorated and took six years to complete. In 1996 after the restoration, the fort was converted into a museum and opened to the general public. According to the estimation, around 15,000 tourists visit the Baltit Fort annually.

Wood and stone structures along with mud plaster were used in the construction of the fort. It comprises a three-story building, with granaries and some stores in the basement. Most of the stores are present on the first floor of the fort along with the main kitchen, guardrooms, a dungeon, and a winter guest room. The second floor of the fort consists of a beautiful open terrace, bay windows with balcony, living rooms, along with breath-taking scenic views.

Diwan-e-Khas is a special room inside the fort that reflects the royal lifestyle of rulers. In order, Diwan e Khas was used as a guest house, winter bedroom of the Mir of Hunza, and for private meetings. There are prominent artifacts placed inside this room including Stone Age cooking wares, imported carpets, mystic carvings, and water sets brought from China.

The architecture of the fort is so unique and eye-catching that many other buildings in Hunza were inspired by the same structure.