Shahid Tour Guide | Lahore, Pakistan.
Join us for an amazing Ancient Silk Route Tour, a journey along the legendary Karakoram Highway, often called the eighth wonder of the world. Stretching over 1,200 kilometers and linking Pakistan with China’s Xinjiang province, this monumental road is a triumph of human determination, built by nearly 15,000 Pakistani and Chinese workers over two decades.
Once traveled by explorers like Marco Polo, Fa Hien, and Huen Tsang, the route revives the legacy of the historic Silk Road—an artery of trade, culture, and exchange. The adventure reaches its pinnacle at the Khunjerab Pass (4,770 m), the highest paved international border crossing in the world, where engineering brilliance meets breathtaking natural beauty.
This tour is more than a journey—it’s an encounter with history, resilience, and the awe-inspiring landscapes of the Karakoram.
Arrival – Islamabad Sightseeing
Arrive at Islamabad Airport and transfer to hotel. After refreshment, enjoy a city tour beginning with the iconic Faisal Mosque, a masterpiece of Islamic architecture. Visit the Pakistan Monument, symbolizing national unity, before ascending to Daman-e-Koh for panoramic views of the city and Margalla Hills. Capture stunning photographs and experience a serene blend of culture, history, and landscapes. A memorable introduction to Pakistan’s capital. Overnight Islamabad.
Islamabad – Besham via Taxila
Depart Islamabad for Besham, stopping en route at the ancient city of Taxila, a UNESCO site from the Gandhara civilization. Explore monasteries, stupas, and the museum, learning about Buddhist and Hindu influences in the region. Continue driving through winding mountain roads along the Indus River, with scenic valleys and dramatic landscapes. Arrive in Besham by evening after a day blending culture, archaeology, and nature’s beauty. Overnight Besham.
Besham – Chilas
Today’s journey follows the legendary Karakoram Highway, known as the “Eighth Wonder of the World.” Travel through dramatic gorges, sheer cliffs, and mountain peaks while tracing the Indus River’s path. Stop for photography at scenic viewpoints, capturing majestic landscapes of the Karakoram Range. Experience the thrill of this engineering marvel before arriving in Chilas, gateway to the Northern Areas, surrounded by rugged mountains and timeless vistas. Overnight Chilas.
Chilas – Gilgit
Depart Chilas for Gilgit, with stops at extraordinary natural landmarks. Witness Nanga Parbat, the world’s ninth highest peak, rising in snow-clad splendor. Visit the junction point of the Karakoram, Himalaya, and Hindu Kush ranges, a rare meeting of three mighty mountains. Continue to the confluence of the Indus and Gilgit Rivers, a striking natural site. Arrive in Gilgit, a vibrant valley town with rich heritage and mountain scenery. Overnight Gilgit.
Gilgit – Hunza Karimabad
Explore Gilgit city, starting with the lively bazaar and the famous Suspension Bridge. Continue along the ancient Silk Road, passing terraced villages and fertile valleys. Pause at Rakaposhi Viewpoint, gazing at the towering 7,788-meter peak in all its glory. Proceed to Hunza’s Karimabad, a picturesque town nestled among high peaks and orchards, offering breathtaking panoramas and a warm cultural atmosphere. A perfect gateway to explore Hunza. Overnight Hunza Karimabad.
Hunza Valley Sightseeing
Discover Hunza and Nagar’s highlights with visits to Baltit and Altit Forts, impressive monuments of royal heritage and traditional architecture. Wander the ancient village of Ganesh with its historic homes and apricot orchards. Continue to Hoper Glacier for dramatic ice landscapes before heading to Eagle Nest. From here, enjoy an unforgettable sunset over Ultar, Ladyfinger, and Rakaposhi peaks, painting the sky in vibrant hues. A day of history and vistas. Overnight Hunza Karimabad.
Karimabad – Passu
Drive north towards Passu with stops at natural and cultural treasures. Admire Attabad Lake’s turquoise waters framed by rugged mountains, and view centuries-old rock carvings that record ancient travelers’ presence. Explore Gulmit village, known for traditional culture, before crossing the thrilling Hussaini Suspension Bridge. End the day at Passu, surrounded by the dramatic Passu Cones, one of the Karakoram’s most iconic landscapes. A day of adventure and discovery. Overnight Passu.
Passu – Khunjerab Pass – Tashkurgan
Journey towards the China–Pakistan border through stunning Karakoram scenery. Ascend to Khunjerab Pass (4,733m), the highest paved border crossing in the world, now a national park home to rare wildlife such as Marco Polo sheep. Pause to enjoy breathtaking panoramas and capture photographs of snow-covered peaks. Cross into China and descend to Tashkurgan, a historic Silk Road town in the Pamirs, blending culture and mountain majesty. Overnight Tashkurgan.
Tashkurgan – Karakol Lake – Kashgar
Travel through the spectacular Pamirs towards Kashgar, surrounded by soaring Muztag Ata and Kongur peaks. Pause at beautiful Karakol Lake for lunch, reflecting turquoise waters and serene alpine landscapes. Continue the scenic drive past high pastures and remote valleys, capturing unforgettable views of snowcapped summits. Arrive in Kashgar, the fabled Silk Road hub, rich in history and cultural diversity, setting the stage for further exploration. Overnight Kashgar.