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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.

History & Traditions

$2500-$3000/person

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Hunza Pakistan (8)
Introduction

Experience the ultimate Gilgit-Baltistan adventure with Crossroads Adventure on this 12-day premium private journey. Traverse the serene Upper and Lower Kachura Lakes and the surreal Cold Desert of Skardu, explore the historic Shigar Fort and Baltistan villages, and marvel at Kargah Buddha in Gilgit. In Hunza, immerse yourself in the region’s rich heritage with visits to Baltit Fort, Altit Fort, and Eagle’s Nest viewpoint, while exploring the vibrant Karimabad Bazaar. Venture to Hopper Glacier, cruise across Attabad Lake, walk through Gulmit Village, cross the Hussaini Suspension Bridge, and admire the dramatic Passu Cones and Borith Lake.
Conclude your journey at the high-altitude Khunjerab Pass, the highest paved border crossing in the world, and explore the Gandharan heritage of Taxila with Dharmarajika Stupa, Jaulian Monastery, and Taxila Museum. This tour blends natural wonders, cultural heritage, and luxury accommodations for an immersive high-end experience in northern Pakistan.

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.

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.

Journey to Moen Jo Daro

Explore the UNESCO-listed ruins of Moen Jo Daro, delving into the ancient Indus River valley explorations
of Civilization’s remnants.

Larkana Exploration

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

Explore the historic Shigar Fort and Baltit & Altit Forts in Hunza

Experience Attabad Lake, Hopper Glacier, and the dramatic Passu Cones

Cross the thrilling Hussaini Suspension Bridge and visit the tranquil Borith Lake

Stand at Khunjerab Pass, the world’s highest paved border crossing

Discover Gandharan heritage in Taxila: Dharmarajika Stupa, Jaulian Monastery, and Taxila Museum

Day 1 – Arrival in Islamabad

Altitude: 540 m | Temperature: 20–30°C | Drive: Avg 2 hrs

Upon arrival at Islamabad International Airport, you will be warmly received by Crossroads Adventure representatives and transferred to your hotel to rest after your journey.

Day 2 – Islamabad → Skardu (Flight PK-451, 09:25)

Altitude: 2,228 m | Temperature: 10–20°C | Drive: Avg 3 hrs

After breakfast, board the scenic flight to Skardu, a town often called “Little Tibet” for its dramatic landscapes. Upon arrival, explore Upper Kachura Lake and Lower Kachura Lake (Shangrila Lake), both surrounded by snow-capped peaks and forests. Later, drive to the Cold Desert, a unique landscape of golden dunes and rock formations, before returning to Skardu for dinner.

Overnight at Tibet Motel Skardu.

 
Day 3 – Skardu → Shigar

Altitude: 2,230 m | Temperature: 5–15°C | Drive: Avg 4 hrs

Depart Skardu after breakfast for Shigar Valley, a town rich in heritage and natural beauty. Visit the historic Shigar Fort, fully restored, including its museum, mosque, and orchards. Enjoy a guided walk in the village and meet local artisans. The day provides an introduction to the culture and architecture of Baltistan. 

Overnight at Serena Shigar Fort.

Day 4 – Shigar → Gilgit

Altitude: 1,500 m | Temperature: 12–25°C | Drive: 6 hrs

After breakfast, drive to Gilgit, following the Indus River through dramatic gorges. Stop for scenic photography along the way. Upon arrival, visit Kargah Buddha, a 7th-century monument reflecting the region’s Buddhist heritage, and explore Gilgit Bazaar for local gemstones and handicrafts.

Overnight at Serena Gilgit or Avari Express Gilgit.

Day 5 – Gilgit → Karimabad (Hunza)

Altitude: 2,500 m | Temperature: 10–20°C | Drive: 4 hrs

Drive north along the Karakoram Highway toward Hunza Valley. En route, stop at the Ancient Silk Route remains and Rakaposhi Viewpoint for panoramic views of the 7,788 m peak. In Karimabad, explore Baltit Fort and wander Karimabad Bazaar for local crafts and semi-precious stones.

Overnight at Roomy Dastan or Eagle’s Nest Hotel Karimabad.

Day 6 – Central Hunza (Karimabad)

Altitude: 2,500 m | Temperature: 8–18°C | Drive: 2–3 hrs

Spend the day in Hunza with visits to Altit Fort, exploring its centuries-old architecture and history. Continue to Duikar / Eagle’s Nest for sunrise or sunset panoramic views of Ultar Sar, Ladyfinger Peak, and Rakaposhi. Take a guided village walk through old lanes and traditional homes, and meet locals to learn about apricot cultivation and mountain farming.

Overnight at Eagle’s Nest Hotel.

Day 7 – Karimabad → Hopper → Attabad Lake → Gulmit

Altitude: 2,300–2,600 m | Temperature: 6–16°C | Drive: 3–4 hrs

Drive to Hopper Valley, visit the Hopper Glacier viewpoint, then continue to Attabad Lake, formed in 2010, for a short boat ride across its turquoise waters. Proceed to Gulmit Village to explore historic Wakhi houses and meet local artisans. Return to the lake area for dinner and overnight.

Overnight at Luxus Hunza / Attabad Lake Resort.

Day 8 – Ghulkin → Hussaini Bridge → Passu → Borith Lake

Travel north to Ghulkin, meet a local family, then cross the Hussaini Suspension Bridge under guidance for safety. Continue to view the iconic Passu Cones and glaciers. Afternoon visit to Borith Lake, a wetland that attracts migratory birds and offers a tranquil mountain setting.

Overnight at Guesthouse in Passu / Gulmit.

Day 9 – Passu → Khunjerab Pass → Gilgit

Altitude: Gilgit 1,500 m | Khunjerab 4,693 m | Temperature: Gilgit 12–25°C / Khunjerab 0–10°C | Drive: 8–9 hrs

Depart early for Sost, and continue to Khunjerab Pass (4,693 m), the highest paved international border crossing. Enjoy the stark, high-altitude landscape and take photos at the Pakistan-China border. Descend along the same route with stops for photography before returning to Gilgit.

Overnight at Serena Gilgit.

Day 10 – Gilgit → Islamabad (Flight / Road Contingency)

Altitude: 540 m | Temperature: 20–30°C | Drive: 3–4 hrs

After breakfast, transfer to Gilgit Airport for the domestic flight to Islamabad. Upon arrival, visit Taxila to explore Dharmarajika Stupa, Jaulian Monastery, and Taxila Museum, key sites of Gandharan Buddhist heritage. If the flight is canceled, drive from Gilgit to Bisham with an overnight stay en route.

Overnight at Roomy Signature Hotel Islamabad or Bisham Continental (if by road).

Day 11 – Free Day in Islamabad (or Bisham → Islamabad)

Altitude: 540 m | Temperature: 20–30°C | Drive: 2–3 hrs

Enjoy a free day in Islamabad for shopping, leisure, or optional visits to Lok Virsa Museum, Saidpur Village, and Daman-e-Koh viewpoint, coordinated by Crossroads Adventure. If the previous day required the road contingency, complete the Bisham to Islamabad drive with stops en route. Evening farewell dinner.

Overnight at Roomy Signature Hotel Islamabad.

Day 12 – Departure from Islamabad

Altitude: 540 m | Temperature: 20–30°C | Drive: 1 hr

After breakfast, transfer to Islamabad International Airport for your onward flight. Crossroads Adventure staff assist with check-in and luggage, ensuring a smooth departure. Farewell from your guides and support team.

Meals

  • Daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner included.

  • Mineral water provided in vehicles.

Accomodation

  • Comfortable premium hotels and resorts throughout the tour.

  • Twin-sharing basis.

Transport

  • Airport transfers in Islamabad, Skardu, and Gilgit.

  • Transportation with fuel and driver throughout the tour.

  • Jeep charges for Cold Desert visit.

  • All toll taxes and parking charges.

  • Domestic flights as per itinerary: Islamabad ↔ Skardu, Gilgit → Islamabad.

Extras

  • English-speaking professional tour guide.

  • Entrance fees for included attractions: Lower Kachura Lake, Baltit Fort, Altit Fort, Hussaini Suspension Bridge, Rainbow Bridge, Khunjerab Pass.

  • Invitation letters and supporting documents for visa application.

  • All taxes and service charges included.

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

International flights to/from Pakistan.

Tips for drivers, guides, and hotel staff.

Any services not explicitly mentioned in the “Included” section.

Travel insurance.

 
All Experiences are customizable: they can be converted from group to private, and can be upgraded from premium to luxury for an additional cost.
For group Experiences, prices are for twin sharing. Single rooms available for an additional cost.
  • 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
  • PERSONAL ITEMS
  • Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF
  • Insect repellent
  • Personal hygiene items (toothbrush,toothpaste,biodegradable soap,etc)
  • Prescription medications and basic first aid kit
  • Travel-sized hand sanitizer

         MISCELLANEOUS

  • Lightweight daypack to carry essentials
  • Travel documents (passport, visas, travel insurance)
  • Camera for capturing moments
  • Portable charger or power bank
  • Ziplock bags to waterproof belongings

 

       OPTIONAL EXTRAS

  • Binoculars for wildlife viewing
  • Snacks and energy bars for energy boosts
  • Portable water filter or purification tablets for refilling water on the go
  • Journal and pen to document your journey