Shahid Tour Guide | Lahore, Pakistan.
Travel along the legendary Karakoram Highway, one of the world’s most scenic routes, to reach the enchanting Hunza Valley.
Nestled in the Karakoram Range, Hunza is surrounded by towering peaks such as Rakaposhi and Ultar Sar, offering breathtaking vistas. The turquoise waters of the Hunza River wind through terraced fields, orchards, and blossoms, creating a picturesque setting. Known as the “Land of Apricot Blossoms,” the valley delights with its natural charm, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality.
Explore historic Baltit and Altit Forts, the stunning Attabad Lake, and the serene Hoper Glacier for an unforgettable blend of history, culture, and nature.
Arrival – Islamabad Sightseeing
Upon arrival at Islamabad airport, we’ll transfer you to your hotel before beginning a guided city tour. Highlights include the Lok Virsa Museum, showcasing Pakistan’s diverse heritage, and Daman-e-Koh for panoramic views over the capital. We’ll also explore the serene Japanese Garden, the green hills of Shakarparian, and the picturesque Rawal Dam. With cultural insights throughout, today offers a relaxing yet fascinating introduction to Pakistan’s capital. Overnight in Islamabad.
Islamabad – Taxila – Besham
After breakfast, we depart Islamabad for Besham via the historic Karakoram Highway. En route, we explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Taxila, with its Gandhara-era ruins and museums. The scenic drive passes through Abbottabad and Mansehra, following the mighty Indus River and stopping at Batagram for photographs. Surrounded by rugged landscapes and ancient history, the journey combines cultural discovery with natural beauty. Evening arrival and overnight in Besham.
Besham – Gilgit
Today’s drive to Gilgit reveals dramatic mountain scenery along the Karakoram Highway. We pause at Nanga Parbat viewpoint, admiring the world’s ninth-highest peak, and later witness the unique meeting point of the Karakoram, Himalaya, and Hindu Kush ranges. Another highlight is the confluence of the Gilgit and Indus Rivers. Ancient roadside rock carvings further enrich the route. By evening, we reach Gilgit, a historic Silk Road town framed by towering peaks. Overnight in Gilgit.
Gilgit – Hunza Karimabad
Leaving Gilgit, we follow the Hunza River into one of Pakistan’s most captivating valleys. A stop at Rakaposhi viewpoint offers breathtaking views of the snow-clad 7,788m peak. By afternoon, we arrive in Karimabad, Hunza’s cultural and historical heart, once a key stop on the ancient Silk Route. With its traditional architecture, friendly hospitality, and surrounding mountains, Karimabad provides both charm and serenity. The evening is free to relax and explore. Overnight in Hunza Karimabad.
Hunza Valley Sightseeing
We dedicate the day to exploring Hunza’s treasures. A scenic excursion to Hopper Glacier introduces us to spectacular peaks including Ultar, Spantik, and Diran. In Karimabad, we visit the historic Baltit and Altit forts, both fine examples of traditional Hunza architecture and heritage. Surrounded by orchards and framed by Rakaposhi’s towering presence, the valley’s beauty and cultural richness create an unforgettable experience. Evening at leisure in Hunza’s tranquil mountain setting. Overnight in Karimabad.
Day Excursion Khunjerab Pass
Today we journey to Khunjerab Pass, the world’s highest paved border crossing at 4,734m. En route, we pass the villages of Gulmit, Passu, and Sost, set against glaciers and towering peaks. Highlights include turquoise Attabad Lake and the adventurous Hussaini Suspension Bridge. The landscapes grow ever more dramatic until we reach the windswept pass at the Pakistan–China frontier. Returning to Karimabad, we carry memories of Hunza’s grandeur and vitality. Overnight in Hunza Karimabad.
Hunza Karimabad – Besham
Retracing our route along the Karakoram Highway, we head back to Besham. The drive offers fresh perspectives of the Indus River, cutting through gorges with timeless power, and of the rugged peaks that frame the valley. Occasional waterfalls and villages add charm to the long but scenic journey. It’s a day to reflect on the majestic landscapes of northern Pakistan while enjoying the serenity of mountain travel. Overnight in Besham.
Besham – Swat Valley – Peshawar
Today we drive to Peshawar via the enchanting Swat Valley, often called the “Switzerland of the East.” Once the cradle of the Gandhara civilization, Swat is dotted with archaeological sites and Buddhist relics. Along the way, we admire alpine scenery—snow-clad peaks, flowing streams, and terraced orchards. Its tranquility and beauty provide a refreshing contrast to the rugged Karakoram landscapes. By evening, we continue to Peshawar, rich in culture and history. Overnight in Peshawar.
Peshawar Sightseeing
A full day of cultural exploration begins at the lively Qissa Khwani Bazaar, once a hub for storytellers and traders. We continue to the Peshawar Museum, home to an impressive Gandhara art collection. A stroll through Sethi Street reveals beautifully preserved merchant houses. In the afternoon, we visit Takht-i-Bahi Monastery, a UNESCO site that reflects Peshawar’s Buddhist past. Returning to the city, the day ends with a deeper appreciation of Peshawar’s layered heritage. Overnight in Peshawar.
Peshawar – Takht Bhai – Islamabad
We begin the day with another visit to the remarkable Takht-i-Bahi ruins, a Buddhist monastic complex dating to the 1st century AD. Continuing to Islamabad, we enjoy an afternoon city tour featuring the iconic Faisal Mosque, the symbolic Pakistan Monument, and the Lok Virsa Museum, with its vibrant folk traditions. This final leg highlights Pakistan’s cultural depth, blending ancient heritage with modern landmarks. Evening at leisure. Overnight in Islamabad.