Karakoram Hiking Tour in Skardu and Hunza Valley

Upon arrival at Islamabad International Airport, participants will be transferred to their hotel. This day will be dedicated to free time, allowing participants to relax and recuperate from their journey.

On the second day, we will begin with a flight from Islamabad airport to Skardu, which will take approximately 1 hour. From Skardu, we will drive to the Ghanche district of Baltistan. Our journey will include short stops at Thorgo Pari, the meeting point of the Shayok and Indus Rivers.

Upon reaching Yugo village, we will enjoy a delicious traditional lunch. Afterward, participants will have two optional activities to choose from. The first option is a trek to Kharfaq Lake, which will take approximately 5 hours for a round trip. Alternatively, participants can opt for a cultural walk through the village streets of Yugo.

In the late afternoon, we will proceed with a drive to Khaplu. Upon arrival, we will check into the hotel. Participants can visit the Khaplu Fort Museum and explore the organic garden. In the event of a flight cancellation due to weather conditions, an alternative plan will be implemented, and we will travel from Islamabad to Khaplu via the Karakoram Highway.

We will start the day with an early morning hike up to Toqsikhar. Afterward, we will visit the famous Chaqchan mosque.

Following the visit, we will drive to Macholo Valley, which will take approximately one hour. In Macholo Valley, participants will have some free time to soak in the view of Masherbrum Peak.

We will then drive back to Sailing. Lunch will be served at the Sailing fish farm. We will then return to Khaplu. In the afternoon, we will visit Khanqah-e Maula, a historic religious site. Later, we will move to Hanjor Broq to witness the enchanting sunset.

We'll embark on a scenic drive from Khaplu to Shigar Valley, with several brief stops at captivating points of interest for photography enthusiasts.

Upon reaching Shigar, we will visit the renowned Sarfaranga cold desert. Following that, we will proceed to Shigar Fort for a delightful lunch. As the evening approaches, we will hike up to the old fort, offering a mesmerizing vantage point to witness the sunset over the majestic Shigar River.

We will dedicate an entire day to exploring Skardu and its surrounding areas. Our first stop will be the Shangri-La resort, where participants can opt for a boating experience. From there, we will drive to upper Kachura and take a leisurely walk through the local houses, fields, and trees. After a pleasant 20-minute stroll, we will reach upper Kachura Lake, offering free time to explore the surroundings and indulge in boating activities.

Next, we will drive to Soq Valley, a beautiful valley located near upper Kachura to enjoy a fishing excursion followed by lunch. Afterward, we will return to Skardu and hike to Nansoq village, which will take approximately 50 minutes.

After bidding farewell to Nansoq village, we will hike back to Skardu, another 50-minute journey. Upon reaching Skardu, we will visit Skardu Bazaar. In the evening, we will drive back to Shigar for an overnight stay.

Our journey continues as we drive to Gilgit via the mesmerizing Deosai Plains, which are among the world's highest plateaus. En route, we will have the opportunity to visit various attractions, including Manthal Rock Budha, Sadpara Lake, Ali Malik Top, Bara Pani, and the Sheosar Lake.

Journey through the Astore Valley, passing through small villages. Continuing on the Karakoram Highway, we will make short stops, including a viewpoint to admire the majestic Nanga Parbat and the junction point of the three highest mountain ranges in the world.

Upon arrival in Gilgit, we will check into the hotel, relax and unwind. This will be an excellent opportunity to explore the city at your own pace, or simply enjoy a moment of tranquility after the day's adventures.

After enjoying breakfast, we will travel to Hunza. Our first stop will be at the Berano suspension bridge, one of the oldest suspension bridges in the region. Continuing our drive, we will pause briefly at the Danyor tunnel, another noteworthy landmark.

As we proceed, we will make quick stops at various points for some photography sessions. These include the collision point of two tectonic plates, the ancient silk route viewpoint, and the Rakaposhi viewpoint.

Passing through small villages in the Nagar and Hunza valleys, we will have the opportunity to experience the authentic village life of the region.

Upon reaching Karimabad, we will check into our hotel and have some free time to relax. In the evening, we will go on a pleasant walk for approximately 40 minutes along the Samarqand kohl water channel.

Later, we will drive to Dongo Das for an incredible stargazing experience. Finally, we will return to our hotel for a restful night's stay.

We will start with a visit to the 800-year-old Baltit Fort, a cultural treasure that can be reached with a pleasant 30-minute walk. After, we will go to the vibrant Karimabad Bazaar, a bustling marketplace with handicrafts, gemstones, and delicious dry fruits.

Next, we will venture to the Altit Fort, which boasts a remarkable history spanning over 900 years. We will explore its fascinating architecture and cultural significance. For a traditional lunch experience, we will visit the Kha Basi Café, a charming establishment owned by Serena Hotels and run by local women.

After lunch, we will visit the music school in Altit, where talented local children learn and play traditional music. You too, will be welcome to join in and practice playing regional musical instruments.

In the afternoon, we will visit Ganish village, the oldest settlement in Hunza. As the day progresses, we will drive to Duikar, situated at an elevation of 2,800 meters. A 15-minute hike will lead us to one of the world's most breathtaking sunset viewpoints. Enjoy a bird's-eye view of the entire Hunza and Nagar valleys, along with splendid vistas of seven magnificent mountain peaks towering above 7,000 meters.

Finally, we will drive back to our hotel in Karimabad.

Today's itinerary takes us on an exciting drive to Passu, traversing through several small villages in upper Hunza. Our first stop will be at Atabad Lake, where we will have the opportunity to enjoy an engaging boating experience.

Continuing our journey, we will reach Gulmit village, where we will walk through the orchids. We will also visit an old house and a music school.

A short hike awaits us to the Ondra Fort. Known as Pakistan's highest and longest stairs, this community-based tourism initiative in Gulmit village offers panoramic views and insights into the local traditions and history. You will then have some free time to see the Passu cones and the beauty of upper Hunza.

Later in the afternoon, we will drive to Borith Lake, a captivating lake in upper Hunza known for its abundant birdlife. Our journey then takes us to Passu, where we will stop and relax for the afternoon. For those seeking an extra adventure, an optional evening trek to the Passu Glacier beside the stream awaits. This approximately 2-hour trek offers an opportunity to get up close to the glacier and be enchanted by its grandeur. We will conclude our trek at the Glacier Breeze Restaurant, where we can savor a cup of tea or coffee and indulge in the famous apricot cake.

If time permits, we may also have the opportunity to participate in a cultural event or witness a spring festival in upper Hunza.

Finally, we will drive back to our hotel in Karimabad, where we will spend the night.

After a hearty breakfast, we'll go towards to Hoper Valley. Along the way, we will make a stop at Nagar Khas, a village in Nagar Valley. We will also explore Nagar Fort.

Continuing our expedition, we will proceed to Hoper Village. From there we will hike to Hoper Glacier, which will take approximately two hours.

Following our glacier adventure, we will drive to Minapin Village. Here, we will savor a delectable traditional lunch known as Gurkun Karahi. While we enjoy our meal, a local historian will provide a brief but fascinating account of the region's rich history.

Afterward, we will embark on an exciting journey in local jeeps to reach KHO. As the evening approaches, we will begin our return journey, driving back to Karimabad, where we will conclude our eventful day.

Our next destination will be Khanabad village, situated in lower Hunza.We will be warmly welcomed by a host family who will graciously guide us through the daily routines and activities of the village people.

During our time in Khanabad, we will have the opportunity to explore fruit orchards, stroll along the charming streets, and engage with the locals, including talented artisans and knowledgeable historians. As part of the village experience, we will also be treated to a delightful traditional lunch, prepared and shared by our hospitable host family.

Additionally, we will have the chance to partake in meditation or yoga sessions amidst the serene surroundings of the village.

In the afternoon, we will bid farewell to Khanabad village and return to Gilgit. Before reaching our destination, we will make a stop to visit Kargah Budha, a renowned site that houses a Buddha statue dating back to the 7th century.

With our visit to Kargah Budha complete, we will continue our drive back to Gilgit.

Depart from Gilgit on a 1-hour flight to Islamabad. Upon arrival, we'll transfer to the hotel and enjoy lunch before embarking on a sightseeing tour.

In case of flight cancellation, journey from Gilgit to Islamabad by road via the Karakoram Highway. Take advantage of short stops along the way to explore and appreciate the stunning landscapes.

Day 13 serves as a contingency day to account for any potential delays. In the event that weather conditions prevent us from flying, we will make our way to Islamabad by road. However, if we are able to proceed with the scheduled flight from Gilgit to Islamabad, we will have the opportunity to explore the capital city and its attractions. Your leader will provide guidance on the available options for the day, which may include a captivating visit to the Taxila museum and its archaeological sites.

After breakfast, we will arrange for your transfer from the hotel to the airport, ensuring a smooth journey as you prepare to board your international flights.