Day 01:

Islamabad Sightseeing

Upon your arrival at Islamabad International Airport, the Indus Holidays team will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel in Islamabad. If you arrive in the morning, you’ll have ample time to embark on a half-day city tour to explore the highlights of the city. The tour includes visits to prominent attractions such as the Pakistan Monument, a symbol of the nation’s heritage, and the magnificent Faisal Mosque, a stunning example of Islamic architecture. The Margalla Hills offer panoramic views of the cityscape, while the bustling Islamabad Market is perfect for shopping and immersing yourself in the local culture. The Saidpur Old Village provides a glimpse into the region’s traditional lifestyle, and the nearby city of Rawalpindi adds a touch of history and charm to your experience. This city tour allows you to appreciate the beauty, cultural diversity, and historical significance of Islamabad, providing an excellent introduction to Pakistan’s capital city. Overnight Islamabad.

Day 02:

Islamabad – Besham

Our journey towards North Pakistan begins as we embark on the Karakoram Highway, an ancient silk route that winds through breathtaking landscapes. En route, we have the opportunity to visit Taxila Museum, located in the modern town of Taxila, a treasure trove of archaeological sites dating back to 600 B.C. to 500 A.D. Taxila was a renowned center of learning, Gandhara art, education, and Buddhism during its peak. Within a 30 km radius, Taxila boasts over 50 archaeological sites, including the impressive Dharmarajika Stupa and Monastery, Bhir Mound, Sirkap, Jundial Temple, and Julian Monastery. These sites showcase the rich cultural and historical heritage of the region. After our enriching visit, we continue our drive, taking a moment to pause and enjoy a refreshing cup of Pakistani tea, immersing ourselves in the warmth and hospitality of the local culture. Overnight Besham.

Day 03:

Besham – Gilgit

As we embark on our drive towards Gilgit, the scenic beauty that surrounds us makes the journey truly captivating. Along the way, we make several interesting stops that add to the allure of the trip. The prehistoric rock carvings at Shatial fascinate us with their ancient artistry, while the ancient graffiti on the rocks at Chilas offer a glimpse into the region’s historical significance. The awe-inspiring Nanga Parbat, with its majestic presence, leaves us in awe as we capture its beauty from a viewpoint. The convergence of the Karakoram, Himalayas, and Hindu Kush mountain ranges creates a stunning panorama, symbolizing the grandeur of nature. Finally, the confluence of the Indus and Gilgit rivers, two mighty forces of nature, showcases the power and magnificence of these water bodies. These stops along our journey enrich our experience and remind us of the remarkable wonders that await us in Gilgit. Overnight Gilgit.

Day 04:

Gilgit – Phandar

Upon reaching Gilgit, we immerse ourselves in the vibrant atmosphere of the city. We explore its iconic suspension bridges, marveling at the engineering marvels that connect different parts of the town. The lively local bazaar captivates us with its array of colorful stalls and bustling activity. The ancient Karga Buddha statue, with its historical significance, provides a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage. Continuing our journey, we drive towards Phandar, a picturesque destination that beckons with its natural beauty. Along the way, we make stops to capture the breathtaking landscapes and panoramic views, allowing us to create lasting memories. Phandar welcomes us with its tranquil lakes, Rolling Meadows, and snow-capped peaks, inviting us to immerse ourselves in the serene ambiance and explore the wonders of this enchanting place. Overnight Phandar

Day 05:

Phandar – Shandur Pass – Phandar

In the morning, we embark on a scenic drive to Shandur Pass, located at an elevation of 3,700 meters. As we reach the pass, we are greeted by the stunning sight of the world’s highest polo ground, where thrilling matches take place against the backdrop of snow-capped mountains. The panoramic vistas from Shandur Pass leave us in awe of nature’s grandeur. Later in the day, we continue our journey to the picturesque Phandar Valley. Here, we have the opportunity to explore the charming village, immersing ourselves in the local culture and traditions. Alternatively, we can take a leisurely walk around the tranquil Phandar Lake, surrounded by lush green meadows and offering breathtaking views. Our time in Phandar is filled with unforgettable experiences and the serenity of nature’s beauty. Overnight Phandar

Day 06:

Phandar – Hunza Karimabad

In the morning, we indulge in a peaceful stroll around the captivating Phandar Lake, savoring the tranquility of the surroundings and immersing ourselves in the beauty of nature’s masterpiece. With every step, we capture the serene ambiance and breathtaking vistas, preserving the memories of this idyllic location. Afterward, we commence our return journey to Gilgit, a scenic drive of 5-6 hours, followed by an additional 2-3 hours to reach the charming town of Karimabad. Along the way, we make several photography stops, including the mesmerizing collision point of the River Erosion and Indian Plates, as well as the Silk Route and Rakaposhi View Points. These stops offer captivating views of the landscape, allowing us to capture the majestic beauty and historical significance of the region. Our journey is filled with awe-inspiring moments and unforgettable memories that will stay with us for a lifetime. Overnight Hunza Karimabad

Day 07:

Hunza Valley Sightseeing

Our day begins with an exhilarating 4×4 jeep drive to Hopar, traversing through the picturesque Nagir Valley. Along the way, we pause at various scenic spots, allowing us to capture the beauty of the landscapes through our lenses and create unforgettable photographs. By midday, we return to Karimabad and venture into the historic Baltit Fort, immersing ourselves in the rich cultural heritage and architectural marvels it holds. We then explore the bustling bazaar, where we can engage with the local community, experience their vibrant traditions, and capture the essence of Hunza Valley’s lively atmosphere. As the day progresses, we drive up to Duikar, a viewpoint that offers unparalleled vistas of the Hunza Valley, and witness a breathtaking sunset that bathes the surroundings in captivating hues. These experiences combine the wonders of nature, cultural exploration, and the art of photography, leaving us with cherished memories of the central Hunza Valley. Overnight Hunza Karimabad

Day 08:

Karimabad – Hunjerab Pass – Karimabad

Our day begins with a thrilling excursion to Khunjerab Pass, the majestic gateway between Pakistan and China. We prioritize reaching the summit before noon to ensure optimal weather conditions. Along the way, we make fewer stops, focusing on a smooth and efficient journey. Once at the top, we are rewarded with awe-inspiring panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and vast landscapes, creating an unforgettable experience. On our return, we take the opportunity to pause at scenic points, capturing the majestic beauty of the towering mountains. We might even be fortunate enough to spot the magnificent Ibex, the iconic mountain sheep, adding to the excitement of the day. In the late afternoon, we arrive in Sost, where we take a leisurely stroll through the village and bazaar, immersing ourselves in the local culture and soaking up the vibrant atmosphere. This full-day excursion is a blend of natural wonders, cultural immersion, and unforgettable moments at the Khunjerab Pass and in Sost village. Overnight Hunza Karimabad

Day 09:

Karimabad – Gilgit

As we begin our return journey to Gilgit, we are treated to breathtaking sights along the way. The magnificent Batura Glacier, with its icy expanse, leaves us in awe of nature’s grandeur. The Pass Cathedrals stand tall and proud, showcasing the might of the surrounding mountains. Walking on the Hussani suspension bridge, we are rewarded with panoramic views of the picturesque landscape. A boat ride on Atabad Lake allows us to appreciate the tranquility and the stunning turquoise waters. At the Rock Carving site, we are transported back in time, admiring the ancient artwork etched into the rocks. In Gilgit, we delve into the cultural charm, immersing ourselves in the vibrant bazaar and paying homage to the remarkable Karga Buddha. This day is a blend of natural wonders, cultural exploration, and historical significance, leaving us with unforgettable memories of the journey. Overnight gilgit

Day 10:

Gilgit – Skardu

As we embark on our journey towards Skardu, we are captivated by the breathtaking beauty of the region. The scenic canyon of the River Indus presents a majestic sight, with its rugged landscape and flowing waters. The hanging bridges along the way offer picturesque views, inviting us to capture their charm. We make stops at charming villages, where we can immerse ourselves in the local culture and document the vibrant way of life. Each photo stop becomes an opportunity to capture the natural and cultural wonders of the region, preserving the memories of our journey to Skardu. The landscapes, bridges, and villages provide a rich tapestry of photographic moments, ensuring our experience is visually captivating and memorable. Overnight Skardu

Day 11:

Skardu – Khaplo

Our journey begins with a pleasant drive to Skardu Town, where we have the opportunity to explore the vibrant Skardu Bazaar. The bustling market offers a chance to immerse ourselves in the local culture and indulge in some shopping. Next, we visit the historic Khapochu Fort, a testament to the region’s rich heritage and architectural prowess. The fort’s intricate design and historical significance make it a captivating site to explore. Our adventure continues as we make our way to the serene Satpara Lake, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and offering a tranquil atmosphere. Here, we can capture stunning photographs and revel in the natural beauty of the lake. In the afternoon, we embark on a scenic drive to Khaplu, where we will spend the night at Hotel Khaplo, a comfortable retreat nestled amidst the picturesque surroundings. This itinerary ensures a perfect balance of cultural exploration, natural wonders, and relaxation as we uncover the treasures of Skardu and Khaplu. Overnight Khaplu

Day 12:

Khaplu Valley – Shigar Valley

Our day begins with an exploration of the lively Khaplo Town, where we can immerse ourselves in the bustling local bazaar and experience the authentic culture of the town. Afterward, we embark on a scenic drive to a picturesque bridge, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding natural beauty. This stop provides a perfect opportunity to capture stunning photographs and appreciate the serenity of the landscape. In the afternoon, we continue our journey to Shigar, with an exciting visit to the Shigar Sand Dunes, known as the coldest desert in the Karakoram Mountains. Here, we can witness the unique landscape and experience the tranquility of this remarkable desert. This day promises a delightful blend of cultural exploration, natural wonders, and unforgettable sights as we delve into the heart of Khaplo and Shigar. Overnight Shigar

Day 13:

Shigar – Chilas

As we bid farewell to the enchanting landscapes of Khaplo and Shigar, we embark on a long but scenic journey back to Chilas, spanning approximately 8-10 hours. Along the way, we will make several stops to capture the breathtaking vistas that unfold before us. From majestic mountains to winding rivers and verdant valleys, each frame promises to be a masterpiece of nature’s artistry. These photography stops allow us to immortalize the beauty of the region, preserving the memories of this remarkable journey. The awe-inspiring landscapes serve as a constant reminder of the wonders of northern Pakistan. As we continue our drive, the beauty of the surroundings keeps us captivated, leaving a lasting impression. Finally, we reach Chilas, where we can rest and reflect on the incredible sights we have witnessed throughout the day. Overnight Chilas

Day 14:

Chilas – Besham

Today, we embark on a scenic drive from Chilas to Besham, following the iconic Karakoram Highway. This legendary highway offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes, as we traverse through towering mountains and lush valleys. The Indus River accompanies us throughout the journey, adding to the beauty of the route. Along the way, we make several stops to capture the magnificent vistas and immerse ourselves in the natural splendor of the region. The Karakoram Highway is not only a marvel of engineering but also a gateway to unforgettable adventures and encounters with the majestic scenery. Our drive to Besham is a testament to the awe-inspiring wonders that northern Pakistan has to offer. Finally, we reach Besham, where we can relax and rejuvenate for the night, cherishing the memories of the scenic drive along the Karakoram Highway. Overnight Besham

Day 15:

Besham – Islamabad – Departure

In the early morning, we bid farewell to the captivating beauty of the northern areas and embark on a drive back to Islamabad airport. The journey takes us through picturesque landscapes, offering glimpses of the changing colors of autumn. We reminisce about the unforgettable experiences and breathtaking sights we have encountered during our tour. The crisp morning air and the serenity of the surroundings create a tranquil atmosphere as we make our way towards the airport. Our hearts are filled with a sense of gratitude for the remarkable journey we have had, immersing ourselves in the natural wonders of the northern areas. As we reach Islamabad airport, we carry with us cherished memories and a deep appreciation for the incredible beauty of Pakistan’s autumn season.