GILGIT, May 16 — Both federal and local governments are working hard to prepare for the upcoming visit of Prince Rahim Aga Khan V, the spiritual leader of the Ismaili community. Scheduled to take place from May 21 to May 25, the visit has triggered massive logistical planning across the Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) region. Prince Rahim will be treated as an official state guest during his trip, which includes attending major public gatherings, meeting his followers, and speaking at special ceremonies.
Ahead of the Didar visit of Prince Rahim Aga Khan, the #Ismaili Regional Council delegation met Maulana Qazi Nisar Ahmad & discussed peace, harmony, and cooperation for the benefit of all communities @pamirtimes
👇🏽https://t.co/cHVaQLUcRU pic.twitter.com/5egrGLJDp3— M Chatur (@chaturmahebub) May 10, 2026
Quick Facts
- Prince Rahim Aga Khan V will visit Gilgit-Baltistan as a state guest from May 21 to May 25.
- This is his first official visit to Pakistan since becoming the 50th hereditary Imam of the Ismaili Muslims.
- Huge crowds are expected in Hunza (Passu Cones), Gilgit City, Gahkuch Bala, and Taus Yasin.
- The government has requested bulletproof vehicles and tight security for his travel.
- Authorities are rushing to open Babusar Road as an alternative route for visitors.
- Special steps are being taken to ensure steady electricity and smooth traffic on the Karakoram Highway.
The Minister for Kashmir Affairs and Gilgit-Baltistan, Amir Muqam, led a high-level meeting on Friday to review the final arrangements. Because tens of thousands of followers are expected to travel from nearby valleys, the local administration is planning multiple sessions at some venues to avoid overcrowding. To make travel safer and easier, the Frontier Works Organization (FWO) and the police are upgrading roads and monitoring sensitive spots along the Karakoram Highway. Local power companies have also been told to keep the electricity running without interruption in Upper Hunza
This journey holds immense spiritual meaning for the region’s Ismaili community. Prince Rahim formally assumed the leadership role last year following the passing of his father, Prince Karim Aga Khan IV, who had served as the community’s guide for decades. The local Ismaili Regional Council expressed its satisfaction with the government’s intense preparations. With helipads ready and local volunteers decorating towns, the entire region is working together to ensure a warm and historic welcome for their spiritual leader.
