Gilgit Baltistan Cultural Tour 2024/2025: In-depth Sightseeing and Cultural Tour

• Departure: Set off from Islamabad, passing through the historic towns of Taxila (famous for its archaeological sites) and Hasan Abdal (noted for Sikh heritage).
• Scenic Drive: Travel through Abbottabad and Haripur, enjoying the lush landscapes and picturesque views.
• Kaghan Valley: Drive alongside the Naran River, experiencing the verdant beauty of the Kaghan Valley.
• ­Naran Arrival: Check into your hotel in Naran, a popular spot in the lush Kaghan Valley known for its cool climate and stunning vistas.
• If Babusar Top is closed due to Snowfall, we will use the Karakoram Highway to travel directly to Chilas

• Journey Through Babussar Pass: Travel over Babussar Pass, offering panoramic views of the rugged terrain.
• Chilas Stop: Stop in Chilas, a gateway to Nanga Parbat and Fairy Meadows, with dramatic views of the Karakoram, Himalayas, and Hindu Kush ranges.
• Drive to Gilgit: Continue your journey along the Karakoram Highway to Gilgit, the administrative center of Gilgit-Baltistan. Visit the Kargah Buddha Rock and Kargah Nala in Gilgit

Travel to Karimabad: Drive from Gilgit to Karimabad, situated in the breathtaking Hunza Valley. Check-In: Arrive and check into your hotel in Karimabad. Explore Local Bazaars: Visit the local bazaars to experience Hunza’s vibrant culture and shop for traditional crafts. Historical Forts: Tour the UNESCO-listed Baltit Fort, a 700-year-old fortress, and the Altit Fort, both offering panoramic views and historical insights.

• Visit Ganish Old Settlements and Heldikish Rocks before driving to Upper Hunza. First sop in Upper Hunza will be the Attabad Lake.  Explore Ondra Pogah Gulmit, Ghulkin Village and Hussaini Suspension Bridge. Drive to your hotel for overnight stay

• Excursion to Khunjerab Pass: Drive to Khunjerab Pass, the highest point on the Karakoram Highway, and take in the breathtaking views at the border with China.
• Visit Passu Glacier and Passu Cones view point. Visit Borith lake before driving back to your hotel
• Return to Gulmit: Return to Gulmit for the evening, reflecting on the day’s majestic landscapes.

• Travel to Skardu: Journey from Karimabad to Skardu, the gateway to some of the world's highest peaks.
• Arrival and Check-In: Arrive in Skardu and check into your hotel.
• Exploration: Begin exploring Skardu, known for its dramatic mountain scenery and cultural significance. Visit Lower Kachura lake and Upper Kachura Lake.

• Local Bazaars: Visit Skardu’s bazaars for local crafts and traditional products.
• Kharpocho Fort: Explore Kharpocho Fort, perched above the town and offering panoramic views.
• Manthal Buddha Rock: Discover Buddha Rock, an ancient petroglyph site with historical significance.
• Traditional Polo Match: Experience a traditional Polo match, a popular sport in the region

• Drive to Khaplu: Head to Khaplu, a picturesque town along the Shyok River. Short stop at the confluence point of Shyok river and Indus River.
• Local Exploration: Explore Khaplu’s bazaar and visit the Chaqchan Mosque, known for its blend of Tibetan, Mughal, and Persian architectural styles.
• Ex-Royal Palace Stay: Check into the ex-royal palace, now a museum and hotel, offering a unique cultural experience.

• Cultural Exploration: Continue to explore Khaplu, immersing yourself in local traditions and the serene environment.
• Ex-Royal Palace: Enjoy the historical and cultural insights provided by the ex-royal palace, which operates as a museum and hotel.
• Visit Sailing fish farm and enjoy famous Trout fish of Skardu.

• Travel Through Shigar Valley: Drive to Shigar Valley, enroute visit Blind Lake Shigar and Masjid Amburiq.
• Lunch at Shigar Fort: Enjoy lunch at Shigar Fort, a beautifully restored fort now operating as a luxury hotel.
• Overnight Stay at Shigar.

• Journey to Astore: Travel from Shigar to Astore, known for its stunning landscapes and unique wildlife.
• Deosai Plain: Traverse the Deosai Plain, the second-highest plateau in the world, renowned for its vast expanses and Himalayan brown bears.
• Arrival in Astore: Check into your accommodation in Astore and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

• After Breakfast drive from Astore to Naran. Enroute short stops at Babusar top, luusar lake and Batakundi.
• Upon arrival at Naran Transfer to your Hotel for overnight stay.

• Return to Islamabad: Begin your journey back to Islamabad, traveling through the picturesque landscapes you’ve come to know.
• Lunch En Route: Stop for lunch at Balakot along the way.
• Arrival in Islamabad: Arrive in Islamabad and check into your hotel for your final night in Pakistan.