16-Day Premium North Pakistan Expedition

16 Days – 15 Nights | Premium Expedition Across North Pakistan

Departure : Group Trips | October – November | Private tours available on request

Fitness Level 1: Moderate activity – up to 6–8 hours of travel/exploration per day | 500–4,693 m (1,500–15,400 ft) above sea level.

$3500-$4200/person

Introduction

This 16-day journey combines the dramatic landscapes of Skardu and Husainabad, the legendary Fairy Meadows, and the timeless beauty of Hunza Valley. Starting with a spectacular flight over the Himalayas, you’ll explore Skardu’s high-altitude lakes, cold deserts, and remote villages, before venturing to Husainabad and Marsur Rock for sweeping views of the Karakoram. From there, the adventure continues to Fairy Meadows and Nanga Parbat Base Camp, one of the most iconic treks in the world. The expedition concludes in the Hunza region, with visits to historic forts, serene valleys, glaciers, suspension bridges, and the shimmering Attabad Lake. Along the way, experience local hospitality, cultural interactions, and some of the most breathtaking landscapes on Earth.

Highlights

Karachi Exploration

Discover the blend of modernity and tradition in Ancient Indus heritage travel Pakistan’s largest city.
Visit the museum and pay homage at Jinnah’s Mausoleum.

Karachi Exploration

Discover the blend of modernity and tradition in Ancient Indus heritage travel Pakistan’s largest city.
Visit the museum and pay homage at Jinnah’s Mausoleum.

Historical Thatta Experience

Immerse yourself in Pakistan historical site tours Thatta’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the
Chaukundi Tombs, Makli Necropolis, and Shah Jehan Mosque.

Larkana Exploration

Visit Cultural tours of ancient Pakistan Larkana, birthplace of Benazir Bhutto, and pay respects at her
shrine before returning to Karachi.

Larkana Exploration

Visit Cultural tours of ancient Pakistan Larkana, birthplace of Benazir Bhutto, and pay respects at her
shrine before returning to Karachi.

Scenic flight over the Himalayas to Skardu

Explore the Cold Desert of Katpana and Lower Kachura Lake (Shangrila)

Stay in Husainabad village and hike to Marsur Rock

Trek to the legendary Fairy Meadows and continue to Nanga Parbat Base Camp

Discover Naltar Valley, known for its alpine lakes and forests

Explore Karimabad Hunza and its Baltit & Altit Forts

Journey through Hopar Valley, Attabad Lake, Passu Cones, Ghulkin Glacier and
Hussaini Suspension Bridge

A balance of remote adventures and cultural immersion

Itinerary

Day 1 - Arrival in Islamabad

Altitude: 1,770 ft | Temperature: 12–28°C | Drive Time: Airport Transfer

Arrive in Islamabad, where a Crossroads Adventure representative will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. Depending on arrival time, you may rest or enjoy a brief city orientation. Overnight in Islamabad. 108 hotel or similar

Day 2 - Scenic Flight to Skardu – Cold Desert & Lower Kachura Lake

Altitude: 7,500 ft | Temperature: 5–18°C | Flight Time: 1 hr | Drive/Excursions: 2–3 hrs

Board a stunning flight over the mighty Himalayas (weather permitting) to reach Skardu. After hotel check-in, explore the Cold Desert (Katpana), with surreal dunes framed by snowy mountains, and Lower Kachura Lake (Shangrila), a serene lake surrounded by orchards and peaks. Return to the hotel for dinner and overnight in Skardu. Shangrilla Resort or similar

Day 3 - Drive to Hussainabad

Altitude: 8,200 ft | Temperature: 2–16°C | Drive Time: 2–3 hrs

Depart Skardu for the remote village of Hussainabad, set amid dramatic mountains. After settling into your guesthouse, take a short village walk, meeting locals and experiencing rural life. Overnight in Hussainabad. Basic guest house

Day 4 - Hike to Marsur Rock – Return to Hussainabad

Altitude: 9,800 ft | Temperature: 0–14°C | Trek Time: 5–6 hrs (moderate)

Embark on a rewarding hike to Marsur Rock, often compared to Norway’s Trolltunga, offering panoramic views of the Skardu Valley. Spend time soaking in the scenery before descending back to Hussainabad. Dinner and overnight at the guesthouse. Basic guest house

Day 5 - Drive to Raikot Bridge

Altitude: 4,000 ft | Temperature: 8–20°C | Drive Time: 6–7 hrs

Journey west along the Indus, passing stark gorges and rugged terrain en route to Raikot Bridge, the gateway to Fairy Meadows. Overnight at a roadside lodge, Shangrilla Raikot (basic).

Day 6 - Raikot – Jeep to Tato – Trek to Fairy Meadows

Altitude: 10,800 ft | Temperature: –2 to 10°C | Drive/Trek Time: 2 hrs jeep + 3 hrs trek

From Raikot, take a thrilling jeep ride on one of the most adventurous tracks in the world to Tato Village. From here, begin a moderate trek through pine forests to reach the legendary Fairy Meadows, offering your first close views of Nanga Parbat (8,126m). Overnight in wooden cottage (Greenland).

Day 7 - Trek to Nanga Parbat Base Camp – Return to Fairy Meadows

Altitude: 13,950 ft | Temperature: –5 to 8°C | Trek Time: 6–7 hrs round trip

A full day trek through alpine pastures and rocky trails to Nanga Parbat Base Camp, standing beneath the world’s ninth-highest mountain. Enjoy breathtaking views before returning to Fairy Meadows. Overnight in wooden cottage (Greenland).

Day 8 - Fairy Meadows – Trek Down – Drive to Gilgit

Altitude: 4,900 ft | Temperature: 6–18°C | Drive/Trek Time: 3 hrs trek + 3 hrs drive

Descend from Fairy Meadows to Tato, take jeeps back to Raikot, and continue the drive to Gilgit. Evening at leisure to explore Gilgit Bazaar. Overnight in Gilgit. Serena Gilgit or Ramada Gilgit.

Day 9 - Gilgit to Naltar Valley

Altitude: 10,000 ft | Temperature: –1 to 12°C | Drive Time: 2–3 hrs

Drive to Naltar Valley, famed for its alpine forests, meadows, and glacial lakes. Visit Naltar Lakes (accessible by jeep) and enjoy short walks in the valley. Overnight in a basic guesthouse. Guest house/Hotel the best available at the time of booking.

Day 10 - Naltar to Karimabad (Hunza)

Altitude: 8,200 ft | Temperature: 2–14°C | Drive Time: 4–5 hrs

Descend from Naltar and continue along the Karakoram Highway to Karimabad Hunza, surrounded by the iconic Rakaposhi, Ultar Sar, and Diran peaks. Overnight in Karimabad. Serena Hunza.

Day 11 - Central Hunza Exploration

Altitude: 8,200 ft | Temperature: 2–14°C | Drive Time: Local touring

Spend the day exploring Baltit Fort and Altit Fort, historic gems of Hunza. Walk through Karimabad bazaar and terraced fields, with an optional cultural evening featuring local music. Overnight in Karimabad. Serena Hunza.

Day 12 - Hopar Valley – Attabad Lake – Gulmit

Altitude: 9,200 ft | Temperature: 0–12°C | Drive Time: 5–6 hrs

Morning excursion to Hopar Valley, overlooking Bualtar Glacier. Continue north to Attabad Lake, a turquoise marvel formed by a landslide, before reaching Gulmit village for overnight stay. Luxus or similar.

Day 13 - Passu, Ghulkin & White Glacier

Altitude: 9,500 ft | Temperature: –1 to 10°C | Drive/Walks: 4–5 hrs

Explore upper Hunza with stops at the Hussaini Suspension Bridge (one of the world’s longest), Ghulkin village and Ghulkin Glacier walk, Passu Cones viewpoint, and White Glacier. Overnight in Gulmit. Luxus or similar.

Day 14 - Drive Back to Gilgit

Altitude: 4,900 ft | Temperature: 6–18°C | Drive Time: 4–5 hrs

Return to Gilgit, stopping for photography along the Karakoram Highway. Free time in Gilgit. Overnight stay. Serena Gilgit or Ramada Gilgit.

Day 15 - Flight to Islamabad

Altitude: 4,900 ft | Temperature: 6–18°C | Drive Time: 4–5 hrs

Morning flight from Gilgit to Islamabad (weather permitting). Upon arrival, transfer to hotel. Afternoon free for rest or optional city sightseeing. Overnight in Islamabad. 108 hotel or similar.

Day 16 - Departure from Islamabad

Altitude: 1,770 ft | Temperature: 12–28°C | Drive Time: Airport Transfer

Transfer to Islamabad International Airport for your onward flight.

Services Included

Meals

Daily breakfast included at hotels.
Mineral water and basic refreshments provided during travel.

Accomodation

Premium hotels in Islamabad, Gilgit, Hunza, Gulmit, and Skardu.
Basic guesthouses and mountain cottages in remote regions (as per itinerary).
Twin-sharing basis where possible.

Transport

Private air-conditioned vehicle throughout the entire tour.
Jeep transfers for Fairy Meadows, Naltar Valley, Hussainabad, and other off-road areas.
Domestic flights included as per itinerary.
All toll taxes, permits, and parking charges included.
Airport transfers on arrival and departure.

Extras

Professional English-speaking Tour Specialist from Crossroads Adventure.
Entrance fees for all included sites and attractions.
All road taxes, permits, and service charges included.

Services not Included

Personal expenses (shopping, souvenirs, additional meals, drinks).

Lunches and dinners (except daily breakfast).

International flights to/from Pakistan.

Tips for drivers, guides, porters, and hotel staff.

Any additional costs due to unforeseen circumstances (landslides, weather, political issues).

Travel/medical insurance of any kind.

Optional adventure activities (e.g., paragliding).

Additional Details

Who Can Join Us?

This immersive Experience of the ancient Indus civilization is ideal for travelers with a keen interest in archaeology, history, and cultural exploration. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a curious explorer, this Experience welcomes individuals, couples, families, and small groups seeking to uncover the secrets of Pakistan’s rich archaeological heritage. Join us on this extraordinary journey as we unravel the mysteries of the past and discover the fascinating history of southeastern Pakistan.

Packing Essentials for the Expedition

CLOTHING
Breathable clothing for hot weather
Long-sleeved shirts and pants for protection against sunburn and insects
Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots
Swimsuit and beachwear for beach outings
Hat or cap for sun protection
Jacket or sweater for cooler evenings
Rain jacket or poncho for unexpected rain showers

GEAR
Backpack for day trips
Water bottle or hydration pack to stay hydrated
Binoculars for wildlife viewing
Portable camping gear if camping is included in the itinerary (tent,sleeping bag,etc.)
Water bottles or hydration system
Lightweight and quick-drying towel