Hunza & Skardu Cherry Blossom Tour – Spring Across the Karakoram

Hunza & Skardu Cherry Blossom Tour – Spring Across the Karakoram

Estimate Price

Tour Snapshot

Duration

10 Days / 9 Nights

Loction

Gilgit baltistan

Minimum age

Suitable for all ages

Group Size

2 - 10

Overview

Tour Overview

Experience the breathtaking beauty and cultural richness of Northern Pakistan on this 10-day journey from Islamabad to Hunza and Skardu. Timed for the cherry blossom season (late March to mid-April), this tour offers travelers stunning views of blooming valleys, turquoise lakes, and snow-capped mountains. Explore historic forts, local villages, and scenic landscapes, all while enjoying relaxed travel and photography-friendly stops.

Tour Description

Discover the magic of Hunza and Baltistan in spring, when the valleys are covered in cherry blossoms and the mountains glow in soft sunlight. This tour combines natural wonders, cultural encounters, and iconic landmarks for a truly immersive experience. Drive through the dramatic Babusar Pass, explore the ancient Baltit and Altit Forts, enjoy the stunning Attabad Lake, and capture the beauty of Passu Village. In Skardu, explore Upper Kachura Lake, Shigar Fort, Khaplu Palace, and the surreal Sarfaranga Cold Desert. Along the way, engage with local communities, savor regional cuisine, and witness the living traditions of Hunza and Balti cultures.

Tour Highlights

  • Cherry blossom season in Hunza, Upper Hunza & Baltistan
  • Scenic drive via Babusar Pass
  • Baltit and Altit Forts
  • Attabad Lake & Passu Village
  • Upper Kachura Lake
  • Shigar Fort & Khaplu Palace
  • Sarfaranga Cold Desert
  • Cultural encounters in Hunza & Balti villages
  • Photography-friendly landscapes and nature experiences

Tour Route

Islamabad → Naran → Babusar Pass → Hunza → Upper Hunza → Skardu → Shigar → Khaplu → Skardu → Islamabad

Inclusions

  • Accommodation in hotels/resorts with breakfast included
  • Transportation in fully insured and well-maintained vehicles
  • Experienced English-speaking local guides throughout the tour
  • All sightseeing and entrance fees as per itinerary
  • Airport pick-up and drop-off in Islamabad
  • Visa assistance and support letters (if required)
  • 24/7 guest support during the tour

Exclusions

  • International and domestic flights to/from Pakistan
  • Lunch, dinner, and drinks unless mentioned
  • Travel insurance (recommended)
  • Personal expenses, souvenirs, and optional activities
  • Tips and gratuities

Best Season

Late March to mid-April – ideal for cherry blossom viewing and pleasant weather in Northern Pakistan.

Tour Style

Nature · Culture · Scenic · Photography · Relaxed Travel

Travel Tips

  • Carry warm clothing for higher-altitude destinations
  • Bring comfortable walking shoes and photography gear
  • Stay hydrated and follow your guide’s advice on acclimatization
  • Respect local customs and traditions during village visits

Elevation

4173 / metres

Weather

Cool spring days (10–20°C) with cherry blossoms in full bloom.

Itinerary

Depart Islamabad in the morning and drive towards Naran Valley, passing through river valleys, forests, and small mountain towns. Short stops along the way allow time for refreshments and photographs. Arrive in Naran by evening and relax amid the cool mountain atmosphere.
Overnight stay in Naran.
After an early breakfast, continue towards Hunza via the scenic Babusar Pass (4,173 m). Enjoy sweeping views of alpine meadows, snow-covered peaks, and deep valleys. Descend towards Chilas and join the Karakoram Highway, continuing north to Hunza. Arrival in the evening with first views of cherry blossoms in the valley.
Overnight stay in Hunza (Karimabad).
Explore Hunza during its most beautiful season. Take gentle walks through cherry and apricot blossom orchards around Karimabad. Visit Baltit Fort and Altit Fort & Gardens to learn about Hunza’s royal history and traditional lifestyle.
End the day at Eagle’s Nest, offering panoramic sunset views over blossom-covered villages and towering peaks.
Overnight stay in Hunza.
Travel to Upper Hunza (Gojal Valley). Visit the turquoise Attabad Lake, followed by stops in Passu village and Borith Lake, where blossoms bloom against dramatic mountain scenery. The day is relaxed, with time for photography and village interactions.
Return to Hunza by evening.
Overnight stay in Hunza.
Depart Hunza and journey towards Skardu, traveling through some of the most dramatic landscapes along the Karakoram Highway. Follow the Indus River through deep gorges, remote valleys, and changing terrain. Arrive in Skardu by evening and settle into your hotel.
Overnight stay in Skardu.
Explore Skardu in spring, when cherry and apricot blossoms transform villages and valleys. Visit Upper Kachura Lake, surrounded by calm waters and blossoming trees. Continue through nearby villages to experience Balti rural life and warm hospitality.
Overnight stay in Skardu.
Drive to Shigar Valley, known for its fertile land and rich Balti culture. Walk through blossom-filled villages and visit Shigar Fort, a beautifully restored heritage palace reflecting Balti and Tibetan architecture. Enjoy scenic views of rivers, fields, and snow-covered peaks.
Overnight stay in Skardu.
Travel to Khaplu Valley, one of Baltistan’s most picturesque regions. Visit Khaplu Palace, a historic royal residence surrounded by spring blossoms. Spend time exploring nearby villages and riverside areas before returning to Skardu.
Overnight stay in Skardu.
Visit the Sarfaranga Cold Desert, where white sand dunes contrast beautifully with blossoming trees and distant mountains. The afternoon is free for leisure, photography, or short walks along the Indus River.
Overnight stay in Skardu.
Return to Islamabad by flight (weather permitting). In case of flight cancellation, the journey continues overland via the Karakoram Highway, offering one final experience of Pakistan’s dramatic mountain scenery. Arrival in Islamabad marks the end of a memorable spring journey.

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

The best time is from late March to mid-April, when the valleys are covered in pink and white blossoms and the weather is pleasant for sightseeing and photography.
This is a relaxed tour, suitable for travelers with moderate fitness. Most sightseeing involves short walks, village visits, and light trekking, while long drives are in comfortable, fully insured vehicles.
Bring warm layers for higher altitudes, comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a good camera for the cherry blossoms and scenic landscapes.
While not mandatory, travel insurance is strongly recommended for medical emergencies, trip interruptions, or unforeseen circumstances.
Breakfast is included daily. Lunch, dinner, and drinks are generally not included, but can be arranged on request. Special dietary needs like vegetarian, vegan, or halal options can be accommodated.
Yes! You’ll visit Hunza and Balti villages, interact with locals, and learn about traditions, handicrafts, and daily life. Historical sites like Baltit & Altit Forts and Shigar Fort also offer a cultural perspective.
Safety is a top priority. Vehicles are professionally driven and insured, guides are trained and carry first aid kits, and all activities are conducted with licensed operators. We also follow hygiene and COVID-19 protocols to ensure a secure journey.

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