Country(ies): Pakistan
Tour type: Small Group
Group size: Min: 2 | Max: 16
Accommodation: 2 to 4-star hotels, guesthouses & cabins
Meals:
Transport: 4x4 jeep, domestic flight
Highlights: Karakorum Highway; Hikes to Fairy Meadows, Beyal Camp, Nanga Parbat BC (optional), Herrlikoffer BC & Passu Glacier; Deosai Plains; Shigar Valley; Khorpocho, Baltit & Altit Forts; Borith Lake; Hussaini hanging bridge; Sunset at Duikar viewpoint,
Begin your Pakistani adventure in the modern capital, Islamabad, exploring its architectural marvels and cultural treasures. Then, journey northwards into the scenic mountain landscapes. Along the way, uncover ancient history at the Jaulian Monastery and Sirkup Old City, delving into Buddhist ruins and a vibrant Kushan-era city. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Naran Bazaar, a bustling mountain town brimming with local crafts and cuisine.
Traverse the breathtaking Babusar Pass and venture onwards to the legendary Fairy Meadows, a realm of unparalleled beauty with panoramic views of Nanga Parbat. Hike to the idyllic Beyal Camp or challenge yourself with a trek to Nanga Parbat Base Camp. Discover the remote village of Tarashing and trek to Herrligkoffer Base Camp, named after the first successful Nanga Parbat mountaineer. Continue through the Deosai National Park, a haven for wildlife and a tapestry of wildflower meadows.
Journey to Skardu, the heart of the Baltistan region, and explore the fertile Shigar Valley, renowned for its fruit orchards. Continue to Gilgit, an ancient town steeped in history. Ascend into the fabled Hunza Valley, surrounded by towering peaks, and experience the thrill of crossing the Hussaini Suspension Bridge. Witness local craftsmanship at the KORGAH weaving center, and visit the Baltit Fort, an emblem of Hunza heritage. Immerse yourself in the fascinating culture of the Kalash people, who inhabit the remote valleys of Rumbur, Bumburet, and Birir. Explore their distinctive traditions, vibrant attire, and unique way of life.
Venture into the Hindu Kush mountain range, traversing the Shandur Pass, home to the world's highest polo field. Explore the charming town of Chitral and visit Garam Chashma, renowned for its therapeutic hot springs. Witness a glimpse of history in Taxila, an ancient center of learning and art, before returning to Islamabad. Conclude your journey in the Pakistani capital, filled with memories of vibrant cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and the warmth of the people you've met along the way.
Throughout the expedition, we incorporate several invigorating day hikes, tailored to accommodate varying fitness levels. Among the highlights are treks leading to the Base Camps of the legendary Nanga Parbat, offering unparalleled views of this iconic peak. Additionally, we embark on scenic hikes to crystalline mountain lakes, such as the Passu Glacier, and explore ancient forts and sacred sites, immersing ourselves in the rich tapestry of Pakistani heritage.
Accommodations range from comfortable tourist-class hotels in Islamabad to charming guesthouses nestled amidst the rugged terrain, ensuring a restful retreat after each day's adventures. Delight your palate with the diverse array of cuisines included in nearly all meals, providing a tantalizing glimpse into the culinary traditions of the region. Be sure to savor the renowned local apricots of the enchanting Hunza Valley, adding a burst of flavor to your gastronomic journey.
Expand all
Expand all
If you are looking for a tour and not finding what you are looking for, have a look at our best other related tours to check out for your travel plans. At Encounters Travel, we offer a variety of tours to suit your needs. So sit back, relax, and let us help you plan the perfect getaway.
Due to the heavy snow and poor road conditions in winter, this tour is only available in the summer months of June to October. Group departure dates are given below, with private departures also available on any other dates through the season.
The hotels and accommodations listed below are the ones we most often use on this tour. From time to time we may exchange these for similar properties at the same level. In general, specific hotels cannot be guaranteed on our group tours, but you may select your preferred options if you are booking a tailor-made trip.
Our tours are designed to include all that you need to enjoy a really special time in the destination youre visiting. However, we do also offer some extra options to complement the tour and add some additional sightseeing or activities, or some extra time at either end of the tour.
All accommodation based options (e.g. Single supplements, extra nights, cruise upgrades) should be booked and paid for in advance so that we can make the appropriate arrangements. Other options may either be booked and paid for in advance or while you are on the tour, though we recommend booking in advance to ensure there are no issues with availability.
Many options are priced the same throughout the year, but some may incur single or high season supplements - full details are given on the tour reservation form or on request.
The detailed Tour Notes below have been written to give you some more detailed information about how the tour runs, what to expect, and how to prepare for your holiday. We recommend downloading an up to date copy of these shortly before you travel in case of any changes.
Expand all