Hunza Cherry Blossom Tour

Day 01:

Arrival – Islamabad Sightseeing

Arrive at Islamabad International Airport and meet your Indus Holidays team for a warm welcome and transfer to your hotel. If arriving early, enjoy a half-day city tour. Visit the Pakistan Monument, Faisal Mosque, and Saidpur Village, while the Margalla Hills offer panoramic views. Explore Rawalpindi’s bustling bazaars for a taste of local life. This introduction showcases Islamabad’s history, modernity, and cultural richness. Overnight stay in Islamabad.

Day 02:

Islamabad – Besham

Journey along the legendary Karakoram Highway, once part of the Silk Route. En route, stop at the UNESCO-listed Taxila, exploring its museum and archaeological sites including Dharmarajika Stupa, Sirkap, and Julian Monastery. Discover relics from Gandharan civilization that highlight Pakistan’s Buddhist heritage. Continue north through picturesque valleys, stopping for traditional tea breaks. The dramatic landscapes set the tone for the adventure ahead. Arrive in Besham for overnight stay.

Day 03:

Besham – Gilgit

Travel deeper into the mountains toward Gilgit, with several scenic and historic stops en route. See ancient petroglyphs at Shatial and rock carvings at Chilas that reflect centuries of travelers. Pause at Nanga Parbat viewpoint, the “Killer Mountain,” for breathtaking views. Marvel at the geological meeting point of the Himalayas, Karakoram, and Hindu Kush ranges. Witness the confluence of the Indus and Gilgit rivers before reaching Gilgit. Overnight stay in Gilgit.

Day 04:

Gilgit – Phandar

Explore Gilgit’s suspension bridges, vibrant bazaar, and the Karga Buddha, reflecting its Buddhist past. Continue toward the enchanting Phandar Valley, renowned for meadows, crystal lakes, and snow-capped peaks. The drive offers awe-inspiring views and peaceful moments in nature. Capture the serenity of Phandar Lake, mirrored by surrounding mountains. The landscapes blend tranquility and grandeur, creating the perfect escape from the bustle of city life. Overnight stay in Phandar.

Day 05:

Phandar – Shandur Pass – Phandar

Drive to Shandur Pass, home to the world’s highest polo ground, where locals host an annual festival against a backdrop of snow-covered peaks. The pass offers sweeping views of rugged landscapes, epitomizing the Karakoram’s wild beauty. Return to Phandar to stroll through villages and connect with hospitable communities, or enjoy a walk around the shimmering Phandar Lake. The day combines natural wonder with cultural immersion. Overnight stay in Phandar.

Day 06:

Phandar – Hunza Karimabad

Enjoy a tranquil morning walk at Phandar Lake before returning via Gilgit toward Hunza Valley. En route, pause at stunning viewpoints of Rakaposhi, the Karakoram peaks, and the geological collision of tectonic plates. Follow the ancient Silk Route with photography stops at river gorges and glaciers. Arrive in Karimabad, the heart of Hunza, surrounded by towering mountains and historic forts. Evening at leisure to enjoy local hospitality. Overnight stay in Karimabad.

Day 07:

Hunza Valley Sightseeing

Take a jeep excursion into Nagir Valley, famed for its rugged beauty. Return to Karimabad to explore Baltit Fort, a 700-year-old architectural gem offering insights into Hunza’s royal past. Stroll through the lively bazaar for handicrafts and cultural encounters. Drive up to Duikar viewpoint for sunset, where golden light bathes Rakaposhi and Ultar peaks. Hunza’s blend of culture, history, and awe-inspiring scenery ensures unforgettable memories. Overnight stay in Karimabad.

Day 08:

Karimabad – Hunjerab Pass – Karimabad

Journey along the Karakoram Highway toward Khunjerab Pass, the world’s highest paved border crossing between Pakistan and China. Cross alpine valleys and snow-capped peaks, spotting wildlife such as ibex along the way. From the summit, marvel at the panoramic mountain vistas. On the return, stop in Sost to experience its lively bazaar and local culture. This adventurous excursion blends dramatic scenery with cross-border heritage. Overnight stay in Karimabad.

Day 09:

Karimabad – Gilgit

Travel back to Gilgit with unforgettable stops. Visit Attabad Lake for a serene boat ride across turquoise waters, formed after a landslide in 2010. Cross the thrilling Hussaini Suspension Bridge and admire the vast Batura Glacier and towering Passu Cathedrals. Pause at ancient rock carvings before reaching Gilgit. In the evening, explore Gilgit’s lively bazaar and revisit the historic Karga Buddha. A day of natural beauty and cultural discovery. Overnight stay in Gilgit.

Day 10:

Gilgit – Skardu

Embark on a breathtaking drive to Skardu, passing through dramatic Indus River canyons, hanging bridges, and mountain villages. The rugged beauty of the landscape offers endless photo opportunities, with each bend revealing a new perspective of northern Pakistan’s grandeur. Stop at picturesque villages to experience local life and capture traditional mountain culture. Arrive in Skardu, a hub of adventure and natural wonders, surrounded by peaks and valleys. Overnight stay in Skardu.

Day 11:

Skardu – Khaplo

Begin with a visit to Skardu Bazaar, filled with local crafts and colorful life. Continue to Satpara Lake, a tranquil oasis encircled by mountains. Visit the historic Khaplu Fort, a fine example of Balti architecture, offering insights into the region’s rich heritage. Enjoy views over the Shyok River Valley and surrounding peaks before settling into Khaplu village, where tradition and serenity combine. Overnight stay in Khaplu.

Day 12:

Khaplo Valley – Shigar Valley

Explore Khaplu’s vibrant bazaar before a scenic drive across dramatic landscapes. Pause at picturesque bridges and viewpoints to photograph the Shyok River’s beauty. Continue to Shigar Valley, known for its unique sand dunes nestled among mountains. The contrast of desert, river, and towering peaks makes Shigar unforgettable. This day balances cultural encounters, raw natural beauty, and moments of stillness amid Pakistan’s hidden gems. Overnight stay in Shigar.

Day 13:

Shigar – Chilas

Leave the tranquil valleys of Khaplu and Shigar, embarking on a long yet scenic drive back to Chilas. The route winds through towering mountains, glacial streams, and the mighty Indus River. Photography stops capture the essence of northern Pakistan’s wilderness, ensuring no moment is wasted. Arrive in Chilas to rest after a rewarding day of travel, reflecting on the stunning contrasts of the landscapes witnessed. Overnight stay in Chilas.

Day 14:

Chilas – Besham

Continue along the iconic Karakoram Highway, tracing the path of ancient traders. The drive offers ever-changing scenery: snow-dusted peaks, deep gorges, and terraced fields. The Indus River flows alongside, adding grandeur to the journey. Pause at selected viewpoints for photos and appreciation of the engineering marvel that connects Pakistan’s mountains to its plains. Arrive in Besham to relax before the final leg of your adventure. Overnight stay in Besham.

Day 15:

Besham – Islamabad

Bid farewell to the mountains as you drive south toward Islamabad. Along the way, admire valleys, villages, and colorful blossoms marking the season. Reflect on the memories made during this journey—ancient heritage, dramatic landscapes, and warm local encounters. Arrive in Islamabad and transfer to the airport for departure, carrying unforgettable impressions of Pakistan’s majestic north and its rich cultural tapestry. Tour ends with treasured experiences.