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10-Day Northern Wonders Tour: Skardu, Hunza & Karakoram Highway

10-Day Northern Wonders Tour: Skardu, Hunza & Karakoram Highway

  • Northern Pakistan

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Tour Snapshot

Duration

10 Days / 9 Nights

Loction

Northern Pakistan

Minimum age

12+

Group Size

20

Overview

10-Day Northern Wonders Tour: Skardu, Hunza & Karakoram Highway

 

Tour Type: Group Tour or Private Customized
Travel Style: Eco-friendly, Cultural & Adventure
Start & End Point: Islamabad

Tour Route

Islamabad → Naran → Chilas → Hunza → Passu → Khunjerab Pass → Skardu → Shigar → Return to Islamabad

Tour Overview

Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime 10-day journey across Pakistan’s majestic north — from the ancient forts of Hunza to the crystal lakes and scenic valleys of Skardu. Travel along the legendary Karakoram Highway, visit UNESCO heritage forts, marvel at the Passu Cones, walk the adventurous Hussaini Suspension Bridge, and soak in the tranquil mountain landscapes.

Whether you are a nature enthusiast, history buff, adventure seeker, or simply craving a peaceful escape, this tour is designed to rediscover the beauty of nature, reconnect with rich cultural heritage, and revibe your soul through eco-friendly and responsible travel.

Inclusions

  • Airport transfers (Islamabad arrival & departure)
  • All ground transport (private AC vehicle)
  • Hotel accommodation on twin-sharing basis
  • Daily breakfast,
  • Entry tickets to forts, museums, and heritage sites
  • Professional English-speaking guide
  • First aid kit (basic)
  • Boat ride at Shangrila / Skardu Lakes (if included)
  • Visa assistance (if required)
  • Eco-friendly travel support and guidance
  • Special dietary preferences accommodated: vegetarian, vegan, halal

Exclusions

  • International flights
  • lunch, and dinner
  • Gratuities for guides and drivers
  • Personal equipment: trekking shoes, jackets, walking sticks
  • Personal expenses: shopping, minibar, phone calls, laundry, souvenirs
  • Travel insurance
  • Anything not explicitly mentioned in inclusions

Elevation

4733 / metres

Weather

Spring & Summer (April–October): Pleasant in the north (15–25°C), warm in plains (25–35°C) Autumn: Clear skies and vibrant colors; ideal for photography Winter: Cold in mountains with snow; some high-altitude roads may be closed.

Itinerary

– Arrive at Islamabad International Airport, where our team will greet you.
– Visit Faisal Mosque, one of Asia’s largest mosques with stunning modern architecture.
– Explore Pakistan Monument, representing the country’s provinces.
– Immerse in history and culture at Lok Virsa Museum, showcasing Pakistan’s diverse heritage.
– Overnight in a comfortable hotel, with a traditional Pakistani dinner.
– Start the scenic drive towards Chilas.
If Babusar Pass is open (summer months), travel through the lush Naran Valley.
– Stop at Lulusar Lake, a serene alpine lake reflecting the sky.
– Cross Babusar Top (4,173 meters), offering panoramic mountain views.
– If Babusar is closed, we’ll take the alternate route via Besham, tracing the Indus River.
– Overnight stay in Chilas.
– Travel along the Karakoram Highway, one of the world’s highest paved roads.
– Stop at Nanga Parbat Viewpoint, where the 9th highest mountain stands tall at 8,126 meters.
– Witness the Junction Point where the Karakoram, Himalayas, and Hindu Kush ranges meet.
– Catch the sunset at Rakaposhi Viewpoint before entering the magical Hunza Valley.
– Evening free to explore the local market in Karimabad.
– Overnight in a boutique eco-lodge with stunning views.
– Explore Baltit Fort, a centuries-old fort that offers stunning valley views.
– Visit Altit Fort, the oldest fort in Hunza, with rich heritage and stunning gardens.
– Wander through Karimabad Bazaar, famous for handmade crafts, gemstones, and Hunza shawls.
– Evening at Eagle’s Nest for a breathtaking panoramic sunset over Hunza’s peaks.
– Overnight in Hunza.
– Full-day road trip along the Karakoram Highway.
– Stop at Passu Cones, the iconic jagged peaks that are a photographer’s dream.
– Walk across the thrilling Hussaini Suspension Bridge, one of the most adventurous bridges in the world.
– Visit the stunning Attabad Lake, formed after a massive landslide, famous for its turquoise water.
– Reach the Khunjerab Pass (4,693 meters), the highest paved international border crossing between Pakistan & China.
– Return to Hunza for the night.
– Begin the rugged and beautiful journey to Skardu, passing through remote villages and breathtaking valleys.
– Drive along the Indus River, with raw landscapes on both sides.
– Short breaks for tea with locals along the way.
– Arrive in Skardu, the gateway to some of the world’s highest peaks, and visit the serene Upper Kachura Lake, surrounded by mountains.
– Enjoy a relaxing evening at your hotel.
– Overnight stay in Skardu.
After breakfast in Skardu, you will spend the day exploring the natural beauty and cultural highlights of this remote region. Skardu is known for its alpine lakes, towering peaks, and Balti heritage.

Your first stop will be Upper Kachura Lake, a crystal-clear alpine lake surrounded by pine trees and rugged mountains. The lake is peaceful and ideal for boating or simply walking along its edge. It’s a favorite spot for nature lovers and photographers.

Next, you will explore the beautiful Sok Valley, a lesser-known valley with green meadows, fresh water streams, and small farms. It is a quiet area perfect for connecting with nature and experiencing local life.

You will also visit an Organic Village, where locals grow their own food without chemicals. This village showcases sustainable living and traditional farming techniques passed down for generations. You may have the chance to taste fresh fruits, homemade bread, or herbal teas prepared by the villagers.

The rest of the afternoon can be spent either relaxing at your hotel or walking through the Skardu town area, depending on your energy level.

Overnight stay in Skardu.
After breakfast, you will begin a full-day excursion to the surrounding areas of Skardu, focusing on the Shigar Valley, which offers a unique mix of history, culture, and surreal landscapes.

Your first stop will be the beautiful Manthoka Waterfall, located in a hidden valley surrounded by lush greenery and mountains. The water rushes down from high rocks into a cool, clear stream. You can walk near the waterfall or sit and enjoy the refreshing breeze.

Next, you will visit the Shigar Fort, also known as “The Fort on Rock.” Originally built in the 17th century by the Raja of Shigar, this historic fort has been beautifully restored and now serves as a museum and heritage hotel. You’ll walk through its stone halls, wooden balconies, and courtyards, learning about the Balti culture and royal history.

After that, you will head to the Cold Desert of Sarfaranga, one of the highest deserts in the world. This white sand desert lies at the foot of snow-covered mountains and is a truly magical place. You can walk across the dunes or simply enjoy the peaceful silence that surrounds the landscape.

To end the day, you will visit the Skardu Bazaar, where you can shop for handmade Balti crafts, semi-precious stones, traditional caps, dry fruits, and woolen items. It’s a good place to pick up souvenirs and interact with local shopkeepers.
You will return to your hotel in the evening.

Overnight stay in Skardu.
Option 1: Take a domestic flight from Skardu to Islamabad (weather dependent).
Option 2: Overland journey back to Chilas, with photo stops and rest breaks.
Overnight in Islamabad.
Note: If flights from Gilgit to Islamabad are canceled due to weather or any other reason, we will continue the journey overland via either Babusar Pass (if open) or the Besham route, ensuring a smooth and comfortable return to Islamabad.
Relaxed breakfast followed by drop-off at Islamabad Airport for departure.
Optional: Short shopping visit to Centaurus Mall if time allows.
Say goodbye to new friends and unforgettable memories.

Plan your own tour according to your preferences!

Create a tour that fits your style. Choose destinations, adjust duration, pick activities, and personalize every detail. Our experts design a journey perfectly matched to your comfort, interests, and travel goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes! The tour is designed for all travelers, including beginners. Activities are easy to moderate, and the itinerary includes comfortable drives, guided tours, and plenty of rest stops.
You will stay in eco-friendly hotels, boutique lodges, and traditional guesthouses in Hunza, Skardu, and Islamabad. All accommodations offer clean rooms, heating, and stunning mountain views.
Some locations—like Babusar Top (4,173 m), Khunjerab Pass (4,693 m), and Deosai Plains (4,114 m)—are high-altitude areas. Most travelers handle it well, but staying hydrated and avoiding overexertion is recommended.
Pack warm clothing, thermals, hiking shoes, gloves, sunglasses, power bank, sunblock, and a reusable water bottle. Even in summer, nights can be cold in Hunza, Skardu, and Deosai.
Flights depend on weather. If canceled, you will travel overland via Babusar Pass (summer) or the Besham route (winter) with all arrangements handled smoothly by the tour operator.

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