Pakistan: Islamabad to Khunjerab — 14 Days

Your Adventure Pakistan guide meets you at the airport for transfer to your hotel. Depending on your flight arrival time and preference, you can rest or venture out for sightseeing in Islamabad and Rawalpindi. If you choose to wander, the optional itinerary draws from significant sites across both cities. In Islamabad, visit the striking Faisal Mosque, the Government buildings along Constitution Avenue, and the Pakistan Monument. Shakar Parian Park offers rose and jasmine gardens; the Islamabad Museum and Lok Virsa Heritage Museum provide cultural context. For panoramic views, head to Daman-e-Koh overlooking the twin cities, or spend time at Rawal Lake and the historic Saidpur village. Rawalpindi's attractions include the bustling Raja Bazaar and Nurpur Shahan village with the Bari Imam shrine. For deeper cultural insight, visit a traditional truck painting workshop to see how Pakistan's famous decorated transport vehicles are created, or visit Shah Allah Ditta village and its Buddhist caves. Those seeking respite from summer heat can venture to the Murree hillside instead. Overnight in Islamabad.

The drive to Peshawar covers approximately 185 kilometers over 2.5 to 3 hours. Upon arrival, the itinerary includes the Kanishka Stupa, Gorkhatri site, Sethi Mohallah quarter, Peshawar Museum, Islamia College, Qissa Khawani Bazaar (the Story Tellers Bazaar), and Bala Hisar Fort. The Peshawar Museum, founded in 1907, houses nearly 14,000 items drawn from Gandharan, Kushan, Parthian, and Indo-Scythian periods, with a particular emphasis on Greco-Buddhist sculpture. The building itself combines British, South Asian, Hindu, Buddhist, and Mughal Islamic architectural elements. An optional routing bypasses Peshawar to proceed directly to Swat. Overnight in Peshawar.

The drive from Peshawar to Swat covers approximately 170 kilometers over 4.5 to 5.5 hours. The valley contains multiple Buddhist archaeological sites, including Takht-i-Bahi, a Parthian-era complex originally constructed as a Zoroastrian sanctuary before conversion to a monastic site in the 1st century BCE and designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1980. Sahr-i-Bahlol, also UNESCO-listed and located near Takht-i-Bahi, is reported to contain remains associated with Buddha, though the site remains incompletely excavated. Optional extensions include additional days to wander further heritage sites and traditional villages, or a visit to Malam Jabba, Pakistan's largest ski resort, accessible year-round with activities including zip-lining. Overnight in Saidu Sharif.

The journey from Swat to Chitral spans approximately 250 kilometers over 7.5 to 8.5 hours, passing through Dir. Chitral Town's primary sites include Chitral Fort, the bazaar quarter, a polo ground, and the Shahi Masjid. Chitral Fort occupies a commanding position overlooking the river and remains the seat of the mehtar's descendants. The southeast entrance leads to residential quarters; the entrance facing Shahi Bazaar served the royal guard. The river-facing side, best viewed from Naya Bazaar or across the water, shows original stone and wood construction beneath areas where plaster has been lost. Water supply lies outside the fort walls, a strategic vulnerability that posed difficulties for British forces besieged in 1895. The Shahi Masjid, constructed by the ul-Mulks in the late 19th century, features distinctive pinkish walls and a white onion dome, its minarets framing Tirich Mir mountain in the distance. Overnight in Chitral.

A full day of travel and sightseeing in the Kalash Valleys, which comprise three distinct areas: the linked valleys of Rumbur and Brumbret forming one cultural zone, and Birir valley forming another, with Birir considered the most traditional. Kalash culture differs markedly from surrounding ethnic groups, centered on polytheistic religious practice where nature holds significant spiritual role. Seasonal festivals and ritual sacrifices mark the calendar throughout the year: Joshi (Spring Festival, approximately May 13–16), Utchal (Summer Festival, approximately August 21–23), Phoo (Autumn Festival, mid-October), and Chaumos (Winter Festival, approximately December 7–22). Optional extensions allow additional days for walking and direct engagement with local communities. Overnight in Chitral or the Kalash Valleys.

An early departure begins the 6-hour drive across 210 kilometers to the Shandur Pass, elevation approximately 3,700 meters. Here the landscape opens onto one of northern Pakistan's most dramatic high-altitude venues, surrounded by spectacular mountain scenery. From the pass, the route descends into Ghizer Valley before reaching Phandar Lake, celebrated for its trout fishing. The Shandur Polo Festival occurs annually around the first week of July, continuing a tournament tradition established in 1936. That year, British Political Agent Major Cobb, fond of playing polo under a full moon, established the tournament on what he named the 'Moony Polo Ground.' The event ranks among northern Pakistan's most significant polo tournaments, marked by the annual rivalry between teams from Gilgit and Chitral. The final match between these teams provides a colourful spectacle, with supporters traveling considerable distances from remote parts of both regions to witness the thrilling game. Beyond the polo tournament, the festival features trout fishing at nearby streams and lakes, alongside performances of folk dancing and music representing the cultural traditions of northern Pakistan. Phandar Lake itself remains a destination for those seeking quieter experiences. The surrounding area offers opportunities for additional exploration; optional extensions can venture into adjacent valleys including the Yasin Valley, which see fewer tourists and offer a sense of remoter travel. Overnight at Phandar Lake.

The drive from Phandar to Gilgit, capital of Gilgit-Baltistan, covers approximately 180 kilometers over 4.5 to 5.5 hours. Upon arrival, sightseeing includes Gilgit Bazaar, the suspension bridge, Chinese market, and the Kargha Buddha. Overnight in Gilgit.

Today's journey follows the Karakoram Highway from Gilgit to Karimabad, a 105-kilometer drive through approximately 2.5 hours of some of the world's most dramatic mountain scenery. As the road climbs into the ranges, the landscape shifts from Himalayan peaks to the towering summits of the Karakoram. A stop at Rakaposhi Viewpoint provides close views of Rakaposhi Peak at 7,788 meters, its presence dominating the horizon. Hunza, now fully unified with Pakistan, was semi-autonomous until recently, governed by a ruling dynasty that has endured for over 600 years. The region's appeal lies partly in its geography—a patchwork of greenery and snow-capped mountains that prompted Tibetan traders to call it "Shangri-La." During summer, apricots, peaches, pears, and grapes flourish here, products of both the fertile valleys and the unpolluted mountain air. Karimabad, the main town, has long been associated with the longevity of its residents, attributed to their simple living, natural diet, and the unspoiled environment. The area sits on the ancient trade route to Kashgar in China's Xinjiang province, a positioning that shaped its cultural and commercial history for centuries. Baltit Fort, built more than 700 years ago, stands as the day's primary historical landmark. According to local tradition, porters accompanying a Balti bride for the then-Mir of Hunza constructed it, employing Ladakhi architectural methods. Over centuries, indigenous woodwork and additional rooms were integrated into its design, creating a maze of living quarters and administrative spaces. Strategically positioned on a prospect point, the fort commands views across Hunza and into neighboring valleys. The Aga Khan Foundation Cultural Board undertook its reconstruction and restoration to original condition; it now operates as a Fort Museum, housing a collection of artifacts and musical instruments from the region. Ganish Village, an ancient settlement recognized for its strategic location on the Silk Road's passage into Xinjiang, offers another window into Hunza's layered history. What began as a single compact cluster of houses has expanded into seven residential clusters. The Aga Khan Cultural Service focused restoration efforts on three key components: Pharee, a historic water pond integral to village life; Sawab Ha, a two-story, two-room house with carved wooden elements that served as quarters for a Mir's envoy and earned UNESCO's Heritage Award in 2009; and Jataq, an open communal space used for shared community activities and gatherings. The mosque remains central to the village's spiritual life. Optionally, visitors may also visit Altit Fort, another historical structure within reach of Karimabad. As afternoon light softens, the day concludes with a drive to Duikar, where the Eagle's Nest viewpoint provides an ideal vantage for watching the sunset over the Hunza valley. The evening offers flexibility: some may choose to remain in Karimabad for the night, while others may opt for accommodation at Eagle's Nest Hotel or another property in Duikar. For those staying in Karimabad, optional activities include walking along the village's traditional water channels, visiting local homes, and learning about the secrets of longevity from residents. A dinner featuring local dishes, traditional music, and sword dancing can be arranged, offering insight into Hunza's cultural practices and hospitality.

Morning activities include a day hike to Ultar Meadows or a day trip to Hoper Glacier and Nagar Valley (both possible with an additional day). In the afternoon, the drive to Gulmit via the newly constructed road passes Attabad Lake, created by a 2010 landslide that displaced an entire village and covered the former main road; for recent years the lake had required boat crossing. The distance is approximately 54 kilometers over 1 to 1.5 hours. Gulmit, Upper Hunza's largest settlement at approximately 2,703 meters (8,871 feet), sits midway between Gilgit and Khunjerab Pass at roughly 135 kilometers from each. Located 35 kilometers from lower Hunza, Gulmit served as the former Hunza state's summer capital and offers numerous walks along irrigation channels. Kamaris, a higher village, provides views back toward the jagged Passu spires. Andra Fort, positioned on a spectacular mount above the old settlement, dates to the late 17th century and represents a collective defensive structure built during the Hunza-Nagar conflicts. Archaeological ruins visible from this mount afford views across the landscape; the site involves approximately a 30-minute detour northeast from Kamaris. Overnight in Gulmit.

A full day of activities encompassing Passu Glacier and Borith Lake, with optional half-day hiking between the two sites or walking around the lake. Village sightseeing includes Gulmit Museum, polo ground, an old house, and local carpet weaving centers. An optional hike to Kamaris village takes approximately one hour each way. Gulmit holds grazing rights up the north side of the 56-kilometer Batura Glacier, supporting herds of yaks, cattle, sheep, and goats, though agricultural land is limited. Passu Glacier, located five kilometers further along the main route, appears white, shining, and deeply creased, unlike most regional glaciers covered in rocks and gravel. The jagged Passu and Batura peaks rise above the glacier, seven summits exceeding 7,500 meters; several remain unclimbed and are identified by number rather than name on maps. Borith Lake, one of Pakistan's highest lakes within Gilgit-Baltistan's mountain zones, sits surrounded by the world's greatest mountains, largest glaciers, meadows, and wetlands. The oval-shaped glacial-fed lake lacks an outlet; fluctuations in water level result from expansion and contraction of the nearby Ghulkin and Passu Glaciers. The lake's silence and solitude create subtle landscape beauty. Ultar Peak (6,735 meters) and Borit Sar provide notable vistas. Migratory birds inhabit the lake in thousands during spring (February through June) and autumn (September through November) migrations, offering both spectacle and educational value. Upper Borith viewing points provide panoramic vistas of Passu Glacier and village. Gulmit Museum, housed in a local residence, holds a unique collection of Hunza history including wooden bowls, spoons, farm implements, embroidered hats, woolen coats, shawls, and a Last Supper mix. The Old House, an aristocratic family property at the north end of the polo ground, previously served as the Mir of Hunza's summer residence and now operates as a carpet weaving training center for women; British expedition officers were entertained here during colonial times. An optional additional day permits visits to Shimshal Valley, located northeast of Passu, where inhabitants retain traditional customs and rituals rapidly disappearing elsewhere in the region. Shimshalis combine irrigated agriculture with extensive herding; the valley is surrounded by the Hispar Muztagh range peaks (Destughil Sar 7,885m, Lupgar Sar 7,200m, Momhil Sar 7,343m, Tiliver 7,728m, Yazghil Dome 7,324m, Kunyang Chhish 7,852m, Pamiri Chhish 7,492m, Yukshin Garden 7,641m, Kanjut Sar 7,760m, and Adver Sar 6,500m). Historically, Shimshal functioned as a penal colony where Hunza's Mir exiled criminals and troublemakers. Overnight in Gulmit.

The drive from Gulmit northward to Khunjerab Pass and return to Gilgit covers approximately 415 kilometers over approximately 9 hours. The Khunjerab Pass at 4,733 meters marks the Pakistan-China border and ranks as the world's highest paved border crossing. Located in Pakistan's extreme northeastern corner, the pass has served as a crossing route for thousands of years; four main historic passes in the Khunjerab region (Kilik, Mintaka, Khunjerab, Shimshal) accommodated travelers between modern China and the subcontinent. The continental watershed at the pass divides water flow: Pakistani side water descends to the Indian Ocean; Chinese side water flows into the Taklimakan, a desert whose name means 'if you go in you don't come out.' Scenery differs markedly on either side of the pass. Signage marks the transition: a red Chinese sign instructs 'drive right'; a green Pakistani sign instructs 'drive left.' Sost, the last village in Pakistan on the Karakoram Highway at approximately 2,700 meters (206 kilometers from Gilgit), contains the Sost Dry Port and Pakistani immigration and customs facilities. The border crossing closes annually from November 30 to May 1. Overnight in Gilgit.

Departure from Gilgit-Baltistan southward follows the Indus River approximately 260 kilometers over 7 to 8 hours. Two routing options are available: the Karakoram Highway to Besham for overnight stay, or during summer months the Babusar Pass through the Kaghan Valley to Naran. Both routes present distinct landscapes as the journey descends from the high north. An alternative option involves a 1-hour domestic flight from Gilgit to Islamabad (subject to cancellation for poor weather or visibility; overland travel requires one full day or two divided days as an alternative). Dinner and overnight in Besham or Naran.

The final leg of the Karakoram Highway from Besham or Naran to Islamabad covers approximately 265 kilometers over 6 to 7 hours. An optional afternoon stop includes Taxila, an optional activity that may be skipped if preferred (Besham or Naran to Taxila approximates 5 hours driving). Taxila dates to the Gandhara period and encompasses ruins of the Gandhāran city Takṣaśilā, historically an important Hindu and Buddhist center and presently considered a place of religious and historical sanctity in both traditions. UNESCO designated Taxila a World Heritage Site in 1980 with multiple locations. Takṣaśilā lay at the crossroads of three major ancient trade routes: the uttarāpath (northern road, later the Grand Trunk or GT Road connecting Gandhara westward to Magadha's capital Pāṭaliputra in the Ganges valley eastward); the northwestern route through Bactria, Kāpiśa, and Puṣkalāvatī; and the Sindu (Indus River) route from Kashmir and Central Asia through Śrīnagara, Mansehra, and the Haripur valley across the Khunjerab Pass to the Silk Road northward and the Indian Ocean southward. Evening arrival in Islamabad includes dinner and overnight stay.

Your last morning in Pakistan. Depending on your flight schedule, we can arrange additional sightseeing in or around Islamabad if time permits. We'll transfer you to the airport 3 hours before your scheduled departure. Our services conclude here—we hope you've had a memorable journey through Pakistan.