Hunza, Skardu & Fairy Meadows Premium
Expedition

13 Days – 12 Nights | Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan

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

Fitness Level 1: 3 of 5 | Fitness/Skill Level: 2 (Expect 3–4 hours of physical activity per day, altitudes between 1,500–4,693 m).

$4000-$5000/person

Introduction

Embark on a 13-day premium expedition through the breathtaking landscapes of Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. This journey combines culture, heritage, and adventure, taking you from the bustling capital of Islamabad to the serene lakes, towering peaks, and alpine meadows of Skardu, Fairy Meadows, Hunza Valley, and Khunjerab Pass.

Experience majestic mountain vistas, historic forts, traditional villages, and pristine natural wonders, all while traveling in comfort with premium accommodations, private transport, and expert guides. Whether it’s trekking to Nanga Parbat Base Camp, crossing the iconic Hussaini Suspension Bridge, or cruising on the turquoise waters of Attabad Lake, each day promises unforgettable memories and immersive cultural encounters.

Perfect for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and cultural explorers, this expedition showcases the best of Northern Pakistan in style and comfort.

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.

Scenic flight over the Himalayas to Skardu and explore Katpana Cold Desert & Lower Kachura Lake.

Trek to Fairy Meadows and Nanga Parbat Base Camp for stunning alpine views.

Discover Naltar Valley and explore Karimabad Hunza with Baltit & Altit Forts.

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

Itinerary

Day 1 – Arrival in Islamabad

Altitude: 540 m | Temperature: 25–35°C | Drive: 1–2 hrs

Arrive at Islamabad International Airport where the Crossroads Adventure team warmly welcomes you. Transfer to your hotel in nearby Rawalpindi to rest after your journey. Evening briefing about the expedition.

Hotel: Pearl Continental (PC) Rawalpindi or equivalent

Day 2 – Islamabad - Skardu

Altitude: 2,230 m | Flight: 1 hr | Drive: 1–2 hrs | Temperature: 15–25°C

Board a scenic flight to Skardu, flying past Nanga Parbat and the Karakoram peaks. On arrival, explore Upper & Lower Kachura Lakes, visit the Skardu Cold Desert, and enjoy the lakeside views at your resort.

Hotel: Shangri-La Resort / Himal by Lexus or equivalent

Day 3 – Skardu → Fairy Meadows (via Raikot & Chilas)

Altitude: 3,300 m | Drive: 6–7 hrs + Trek: 2.5 hrs | Temperature: 15–20°C

Drive along the Indus River via Chilas, stopping at Thalichi viewpoint for panoramic Nanga Parbat views. Continue to Raikot Bridge, transfer to 4×4 jeeps to Tato, then trek ~3 hours to Fairy Meadows. Enjoy alpine views and settle in for the evening.

Hotel: Raikot Sarai or Greenland Guesthouse

Day 4 – Nanga Parbat Base Camp or Fairy Meadows Leisure

Altitude: 3,300–4,100 m | Trek: 4–6 hrs optional | Temperature: 10–20°C

Wake up to sunrise over Nanga Parbat. Optional guided trek to Base Camp via Beyal Camp, or enjoy a relaxed day in Fairy Meadows, soaking in breathtaking scenery. Evening campfire with local shepherds.

Hotel: Raikot Sarai or Greenland Guesthouse

Day 5 – Fairy Meadows → Gilgit (via Raikot & Jaglot)

Altitude: 1,500 m | Drive: 6–7 hrs | Temperature: 15–30°C

Descend to Raikot Bridge and rejoin the Karakoram Highway. Stop at Jaglot, the confluence of Indus & Gilgit Rivers, and visit Kargah Buddha rock carving. Evening leisure in Gilgit.

Hotel: Ramada Gilgit / Serena Gilgit

Day 6 – Gilgit → Karimabad (Hunza)

Altitude: 2,500 m | Drive: 3–4 hrs | Temperature: 20–25°C

Drive north along the Karakoram Highway. Stop at Rakaposhi Viewpoint and Naltar Valley viewpoint. Arrive in Karimabad, explore Baltit Fort, and enjoy a relaxed evening in the cultural heart of Hunza.

Hotel: Serena Hunza

Day 7 – Central Hunza Exploration

Altitude: 2,500 m | Drive: 2–3 hrs | Temperature: 20–25°C

Discover Hunza’s heritage: visit Altit Fort, stroll through traditional villages, and enjoy apricot cake at Café De Hunza. Sunset at Duikar Eagle’s Nest overlooking Ultar Sar, Ladyfinger Peak, and Rakaposhi.

Hotel: Serena Hunza

Day 8 – Leisure Day in Central Hunza

Altitude: 2,500 m | Temperature: 20–25°C

A free day to relax or take optional experiences: short hikes to Ultar Glacier, village craft workshops, or a traditional cooking class. A perfect day to immerse in local culture.

Hotel: Serena Hunza

Day 9 – Hopper Valley → Attabad Lake → Upper Hunza (Gulmit)

Altitude: 2,300–2,600 m | Drive: 3–4 hrs | Temperature: 15–20°C

Morning drive to Hopper Valley with glacier views. Continue to Attabad Lake for a scenic boat ride. Stop at Shishkat Village before reaching Gulmit in Upper Hunza.

Hotel: Lexus or equivalent in Upper Hunza

Day 10 – Ghulkin → Hussaini Bridge → Passu & Borith Lake

Altitude: 2,500 m | Drive: 3–4 hrs | Temperature: 10–18°C

Explore Upper Hunza: walk through Ghulkin Village, cross the iconic Hussaini Suspension Bridge, photograph the Passu Cones, and visit Borith Lake. Optional short hike to Ghulkin Glacier.

Hotel: Lexus or equivalent in Upper Hunza

Day 11 – Khunjerab Pass → Gilgit

Altitude: 4,693 m (Khunjerab Pass) | Drive: 8–9 hrs | Temperature: 0–12°C

Early departure for Khunjerab Pass, the world’s highest paved border. Stop at Sost, enjoy Khunjerab National Park views, and return to Gilgit overnight.

Hotel: Ramada Gilgit / Serena Gilgit

Day 12 – Gilgit - Islamabad (or drive via Karakoram Highway)

Altitude: 540 m | Flight: 1 hr | Drive: 8–10 hrs if by road | Temperature: 20–30°C

Morning flight to Islamabad (weather permitting). If canceled, drive via Jaglot, Chilas & Besham. Overnight in Bisham.

Hotel: Bisham Hilton (basic hotel not the hilton chain)

Day 13 – Islamabad City Tour & Departure

Altitude: 540 m | Drive: 1–2 hrs | Temperature: 25–35°C

Explore Islamabad: Lok Virsa Museum, Saidpur Village, Faisal Mosque, and panoramic views from Daman-e-Koh. Evening airport transfer for onward international departure.

Hotel: N/A (departure)

Services Included

Meals

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

Accomodation

Premium hotels in Islamabad, Gilgit, Hunza, Gulmit, and Skardu.
Basic guesthouses and alpine cottages in remote areas as per itinerary.
Twin-sharing basis where applicable.

Transport

Private air-conditioned vehicle throughout the entire tour.
4WD jeep transfers for Raikot → Tato (Fairy Meadows approach), Naltar Valley, Hussainabad, and other off-road areas.
Domestic flights included as per itinerary (Islamabad ↔ Skardu, Gilgit → Islamabad).
All toll taxes, permits, and parking charges included.
Airport transfers on arrival and departure.

Extras

Professional English-speaking tour guide throughout.
Entrance fees for Baltit Fort, Altit Fort, Kargah Buddha, Hussaini Bridge, Khunjerab Pass, Borith Lake.
Boat ride at Attabad Lake.
Visa support letters.
All road taxes, permits, and service charges included.

Services not Included

Personal expenses (laundry, phone calls, shopping, additional drinks/snacks).

International flights to/from Pakistan.

Tips/gratuities for drivers, guides, and hotel staff.

Any services not expressly listed under “Included”.

Travel/medical insurance (recommended).

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