A CROSSROADS ADVENTURE JOURNEY
Indus to Karakoram Pakistan Journey
Group Trips | 15th of each month | Private journeys available on request
YOUR JOURNEY AT A GLANCE
Pace: Road travel, sightseeing and walking adapted to your interests. Share your preferred pace and mobility before we prepare your proposal.
Premium accommodation where available. Final stays, room arrangements and the daily pace are agreed with you.
INDICATIVE JOURNEY PRICE
USD 5,000–6,300 per person
The final proposal confirms your dates, party size, room arrangements, services and price.
Group departure routes and lengths may differ from this private itinerary. If no dates are listed, enquire about a private journey.
PAKISTAN · FROM THE INDUS TO THE KARAKORAM
Discover From the Indus to the Karakoram
Follow Pakistan from the Indus heritage landscapes toward the Karakoram. The longer programme combines cultural sites and cities with the mountain valleys of northern Pakistan, giving time for the differences between each region.
Follow the complete 18-day route below. Private dates and changes to the pace are discussed after enquiry, with the final stays and services agreed before booking.
Moments along the journey
Journey highlights
Makli and Mohenjo-Daro archaeology
Bahawalpur, Multan and Lahore heritage
Skardu and Shigar in Baltistan
Hunza and the villages of Gojal
Your journey route
Explore the places along this journey. Map connections are an overview, not driving directions.
Your 18-day itinerary
A proposed sequence, adapted to your dates and interests. Weather, flight operation and local access may require changes.
DAY 1
Karachi To Makli Necropolis And Hyderabad
Altitude: 13–20 m | Drive: 6 hrs including stops
After breakfast, the journey heads to Chaukhandi to explore the Chaukhandi Tombs, and then continues to Makli Necropolis (UNESCO) near Thatta — one of the largest funerary sites in the world, covering over 10 square kilometers. Visit the Shah Jahan Mosque before proceeding to Hyderabad to explore Sindhi handicrafts, Ajrak printing, and bustling bazaars. Evening check-in at PC Legacy Hyderabad.
Travel mode: Road transfers and local visits. Distances and timings are approximate where stated in the programme.
Overnight: Hyderabad · accommodation agreed after enquiry
DAY 2
Hyderabad To Mohenjo-Daro And Sukkur
Altitude: 30–40 m | Drive: 6 hrs including stops
Guests will visit Sehwan Sharif, then continue to Mohenjo-Daro (UNESCO), an Indus Valley Civilization site (circa 2500 BCE), featuring the Great Bath, granaries, and planned streets. After visiting Mohenjo-Daro, continue to Kot Diji Fort. The journey then proceeds to Sukkur. Evening check-in at your agreed accommodation Sukkur.
Travel mode: Road transfers and local visits. Distances and timings are approximate where stated in the programme.
Overnight: Sukkur · accommodation agreed after enquiry
DAY 3
Sukkur To Bahawalpur
Altitude: ~120 m | Drive: 5-6 hrs including stops
Guests will visit the Tombs of the Seven Sisters and Sukkur Barrage, then proceed to Uch Sharif to visit the Tomb of Bibi Jawindi. Continue to Derawar Fort and check in at your agreed accommodation Bahawalpur for the night.
Travel mode: Road transfers and local visits. Distances and timings are approximate where stated in the programme.
Overnight: Bahawalpur · accommodation agreed after enquiry
DAY 4
Bahawalpur To Multan
Altitude: 120–130 m | Drive: 2–3 hrs + 3–3 hrs includingstops
Drive to Noor Mahal, a 19th-century Italian-style palace with manicured gardens and ornate interiors. Continue to Multan and visit the Sufi shrines of Bahauddin Zakariya and Shah Rukn-e-Alam, reflecting centuries-old spiritual heritage. Overnight stay at Rumanza by Pearl Continental.
Travel mode: Road transfers and local visits. Distances and timings are approximate where stated in the programme.
Overnight: Rumanza by Pearl Continental
DAY 5
Multan To Lahore
Altitude: 217 m | Drive: 5-6 hrs
Guests travel via motorway to Lahore, en route visiting the Harappa Museum and archaeological site, with rest stops for refreshments. Evening activities include a guided walk in the Walled City or dinner at a premium local restaurant. Check-in at Pearl Continental Lahore.
Travel mode: Road transfers and local visits. Distances and timings are approximate where stated in the programme.
Overnight: Lahore · accommodation agreed after enquiry
DAY 6
Lahore Full Day 1 (Lahore Fort, Wazir Khan Mosque,
Altitude: 217 m | Drive: 1–2 hrs total
Guests explore Lahore Fort (UNESCO) with Mughal architecture and museuminteriors. Visit Wazir Khan Mosque, renowned for its faience tilework and frescoes. Explore Shalimar Gardens (UNESCO), Badshahi Mosque, and optionally Anarkali Bazaar for local handicrafts. Evening leisure or optional Wagah Border ceremony. Overnight Pearl Continental Lahore
Travel mode: Road transfers and local visits. Distances and timings are approximate where stated in the programme.
Overnight: Pearl Continental Lahore
DAY 7
Lahore Full Day 2 (Culture And Culinary Experiences)
Altitude: 217 m | Drive: Minimal, 30–45 min
A deeper exploration of Lahore includes a guided journey of the Walled City, tasting authentic Lahori cuisine on Food Street, and visits to Lahore Museum, Shahdara Tombs, and contemporary art galleries. Evening leisure or an optional cultural performance. Overnight Pearl Continental Lahore
Travel mode: Road transfers and local visits. Distances and timings are approximate where stated in the programme.
Overnight: Pearl Continental Lahore
DAY 8
Lahore To Rohtas Fort (Optional) And Islamabad
Altitude: 540 m | Drive: 6–7 hrs including stops
Drive to Islamabad with optional stop at Rohtas Fort (UNESCO), built by Sher Shah Suri. Explore its massive gates, bastions, and defensive architecture. Arrival in Islamabad for check-in at Serena Islamabad or equivalent and a farewell dinner.
Travel mode: Road transfers and local visits. Distances and timings are approximate where stated in the programme.
Overnight: Islamabad · accommodation agreed after enquiry
DAY 9
Islamabad And Optional Taxila Visit
Altitude: 540 m | Drive: 30–60 min depending on stops
Optional visit to Taxila (UNESCO), showcasing Gandharan heritage with Dharmarajika Stupa and Jaulian Monastery, or stay in Islamabad for leisure, shopping, or sightseeing at Lok Virsa Museum, Faisal Mosque, and Daman-e-Koh viewpoint. Overnight at Serena Islamabad or equivalent. Overnight stay in Serena Islamabad
Travel mode: Road transfers and local visits. Distances and timings are approximate where stated in the programme.
Overnight: Serena Islamabad
DAY 10
Islamabad → Skardu-Shigar(Domestic Flight)
Altitude: 2,228 m (7,310 ft) | Travel Time: ~1-hour flight
Morning domestic flight from Islamabad to Skardu, offering aerial views of theKarakoram. On arrival, visit Upper Kachura Lake and Lower Kachura Lake(Shangrila) — serene high-altitude lakes framed by mountain peaks. Afternoon optional visit to the Cold Desert (jeep ride) if road/conditions permit. Proceed to Shigar valley forovernight stay.
Travel mode: Flight and transfers, subject to operation. Distances and timings are approximate where stated in the programme.
Overnight: Shigar · accommodation agreed after enquiry
DAY 11
Skardu → Gilgit (Via Skardu–Juglot Road / Kkh)
Altitude: 1,500 m (4,921 ft) | Travel Time: 4–6 hrs
Drive along the Skardu–Juglot Road and join the Karakoram Highway. Stop at the Junction Point where the Karakoram, Himalaya, and Hindu Kush ranges meet. Continue along the Indus corridor and arrive in Gilgit in the afternoon. Evening check-in at a premium hotel in Gilgit. Overnight stay in your agreed accommodation.
Travel mode: Road transfers and local visits. Distances and timings are approximate where stated in the programme.
Overnight: your agreed accommodation
DAY 12
Gilgit → Karimabad, Hunza
Altitude: 2,500 m (8,202 ft) | Travel Time: 2–3 hrs
Travel to Hunza Valley, stopping at remnants of the Ancient Silk Route and theRakaposhi Viewpoint (views of the 7,788 m Rakaposhi). Arrive in Karimabad, check in at Serena Hunza or similar, visit Baltit Fort and stroll Karimabad Bazaar. Overnight in your agreed accommodation
Travel mode: Road transfers and local visits. Distances and timings are approximate where stated in the programme.
Overnight: your agreed accommodation
DAY 13
Exploring Central Hunza
Altitude: 2,500 m (8,202 ft) | Drive: Minimal local transfers
Explore Altit Fort, local terraced fields and viewpoints such as Eagle’s Nest (Duikar) for sunrise/sunset panoramas of the valley and peaks. Time to meet local artisans and learn about apricot cultivation and traditional crafts. Overnight in your agreed accommodation.
Travel mode: Road transfers and local visits. Distances and timings are approximate where stated in the programme.
Overnight: your agreed accommodation
DAY 14
Gojal Valley Excursion (Attabad Lake, Gulmit, Ghulkin)
Altitude: 2,700 m (8,858 ft) | Travel Time: 1–2 hrs betweensites
Drive into Gojal (Upper Hunza) to visit Attabad Lake (boat options when conditions permit), Gulmit village, and a visit to a women-run carpet-weaving center. Stop in Ghulkin and share a traditional meal with a local family if available. Drive back to your agreed accommodation for an overnight stay.
Travel mode: Road transfers and local visits. Distances and timings are approximate where stated in the programme.
Overnight: Ghulkin · accommodation agreed after enquiry
DAY 15
Passu, Borith Lake, And Return To Gilgit
Altitude: 2,800 m (9,186 ft) | Travel Time: 4–6 hrs dependingon stops
Drive to Passu region, visit Borith Lake, see the Passu Cones, and cross theHussaini Suspension Bridge (optional, with caution). Short hikes or viewpoints at Shabad viewpoint. Return to Gilgit for overnight. Overnight stay at your agreed accommodation
Travel mode: Road transfers and local visits. Distances and timings are approximate where stated in the programme.
Overnight: your agreed accommodation
DAY 16
Gilgit → Bisham City
Altitude: 540 m | Travel Time: ~12 hours
Drive along the legendary Karakoram Highway, passing through dramatic mountain landscapes, deep valleys, and riverside villages. Please note that the road can be bumpy for a few hours due to ongoing dam construction in certain sections. Evening check-in at Bisham Hilton (a basic local hotel, not part of the Hilton chain).
Travel mode: Road transfers and local visits. Distances and timings are approximate where stated in the programme.
Overnight: Bisham · accommodation agreed after enquiry
DAY 17
Bisham → Taxila → Islamabad
Altitude: 540 m | Drive: 5–6 hrs
Drive from Bisham to Islamabad, with an en route visit to Taxila (UNESCO World Heritage Site) — an ancient Gandharan city known for its Buddhist monasteries and archaeological treasures. Overnight stay in Islamabad.
Travel mode: Road transfers and local visits. Distances and timings are approximate where stated in the programme.
Overnight: Islamabad
DAY 18
Airport Transfer For International Departure
After breakfast, transfer to Islamabad International Airport for your onward international flight.
Travel mode: Road transfers and local visits. Distances and timings are approximate where stated in the programme.
Overnight: No overnight stay; departure timing confirmed in your proposal
Accommodation along the journey
Premium accommodation where available, selected for the overnight places in this itinerary. Properties, room categories and any remote-area alternatives are agreed after enquiry; named hotels are not confirmed standard arrangements.
Use the overnight line in each daily card to follow the stay sequence. Tell us your room preferences and any requests for longer stays before the personal programme is finalised.
What is included
The services below reflect this journey. Your agreed proposal confirms the final arrangements before booking.
Drinking water & refreshments
- Complimentary bottled mineral water provided in the vehicle throughout the journey.
Accommodation, agreed with you
- Premium accommodation where available, with simpler stays in remote locations as appropriate. Properties and room arrangements are agreed after your enquiry.
- Comfortable, well-rated stays across South, Central, and Northern Pakistan.
Transport & arrangements
- Transport
- Private air-conditioned vehicle for the entire journey.
- Professional driver + expert English-speaking journey guide.
- Airport meet & greet with private arrival and departure transfers.
- All toll taxes, parking fees, and government taxes included.
- All domestic flights as per itinerary.
Included visits & arrangements
- Extras
- Entrance tickets for all historical, cultural, and natural sites mentioned in the itinerary.
- 24/7 on-ground support team.
- Seamless coordination for a stress-free travel experience.
What is not included
Meals & personal spending
Breakfast, lunch and dinner are excluded and paid directly by guests.
Other exclusions
- International flights; personal travel insurance.
- Tips and gratuities; personal purchases and optional activities not specified in your agreed proposal.
- Lunches and dinners (except daily breakfast).
- International airfare.
- Tips and gratuities for guides, drivers, and hotel staff.Any service not explicitly listed in the “Services Included” section.
- Shopping, laundry, souvenirs, and any personal purchases.
- Travel and medical insurance.
Tailor the experience
Yes. Tell us your arrival point and the regions you want to keep. We will prepare a shorter route with its own duration, services and price rather than simply deleting days from this programme.
Plan your From the Indus to the Karakoram journey
Mountain flights, road alternatives & international departure
When a mountain flight is cancelled, the road alternative is split over two days with an overnight in Naran when the Babusar route is open and suitable, or in Bisham via the Karakoram Highway. The same overnight arrangement applies when travelling north from Islamabad towards Gilgit or Hunza. Northbound road travel replaces local sightseeing or uses the arrival-contingency day shown in the programme. Return journeys reach Islamabad at least one calendar day before international departure, with an Islamabad hotel overnight. Confirm international flight times against this revised sequence before booking.
Season, access & pace
This is a multi-region expedition with several substantial transfers. Compare the full daily sequence with your preferred pace; city and mountain accommodation will have different character and availability.
Dates & arrangements
The proposed duration is 18 days / 17 nights. Share your arrival and departure plans, party size and preferred balance of the visits listed here. Your proposal confirms transport, stays, fees and any flight arrangements for this particular route.
Packing for this journey
Comfortable walking footwear, sun protection, a daypack and layers for the valley and mountain stops on this route. Discuss extra warm clothing and waterproof protection for your dates, particularly for highland visits or mountain lodges.
Travel notes & FAQs
Can I book only the southern or northern chapter?
Yes. Tell us your arrival point and the regions you want to keep. We will prepare a shorter route with its own duration, services and price rather than simply deleting days from this programme.
What affects the daily plan on this route?
This is a multi-region expedition with several substantial transfers. Compare the full daily sequence with your preferred pace; city and mountain accommodation will have different character and availability.
Are meals included?
Breakfast, lunch and dinner are excluded and paid directly by guests.
Further reading
Explore the official destination and heritage references relevant to this route.
LET’S SHAPE YOUR JOURNEY
From the Indus to the Karakoram, made personal
Tell us your preferred dates, interests and accommodation preferences. We’ll prepare a clear proposal with the itinerary, stays, services and price.
Enquire about this journey →Prefer shared company? Explore fixed departures and confirm current availability. Meet the people behind Crossroads and view our credentials.