Complete Northern Pakistan
Tailor Made Itinerary
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23 Days From C$7,263
Overview
This is our most comprehensive tour of Northern Pakistan where you really will see it all! Starting in the capital you will head up through the Swat Valley to the haven on Ayun and on to stay with the Kalash tribe. Crossing over to the Northeast of the country you will continue to Mastuj then up over the Shandur Pass and across to Gilgit before heading north to the wonderful Hunza for a few days. Next you will head back down the Karakoram Highway to Gilgit then out east to Shigar, Khaplu (to stay in a WF favourite property) and Skardu. The final stretch of your journey takes you up to Deosai Plateau then Fairy Meadows to enjoy more spectacular mountain scenery then down through Naran back to Islamabad.
Pakistan is a country close to our hearts… and for good reason. Having run trips here for more than two decades, we understand the political complexities of travelling to this fascinating country and by making the most of this unparalleled depth of knowledge are confident of providing the most innovative and authentic trips to the region, utilising the best guides, transport and accommodation.
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
- Explore the Swat Valley, with its multiple stupas and Ghandharan Buddhist history
- Stay with our friends the Kalash - a pagan tribe with animist beliefs and a fascinating culture
- Cross the vast Shandur Pass - known as 'the roof of the world'
- Admire the stunning azure Lake Attabad in Hunza - created by a landslide in 2010
- Stay in family-run guesthouses and historic forts and palaces, experiencing Pakistan's warm hospitality
- Hike in the valley of Nanga Parbat to the magical and remote Fairy Meadows
ITINERARY
This is a suggested itinerary. Our experts have all travelled widely in the region and will be happy to tailor any of our itineraries to suit your tastes, or build a trip from scratch.
DAY 1: ARRIVE ISLAMABAD
DAY 1: ARRIVE ISLAMABAD
Arrive into Islamabad airport, where you will be met by one of our representatives and transferred to your hotel. This afternoon, kick off your tour with a visit the Institute of Folk Heritage, known as Lok Versa – a small ethnological museum displaying numerous costumes and artefacts from all over Pakistan – and from here proceed to the Faisal Mosque. When this impressive house of worship was built in the 70s, it was the largest in the world and houses an Islamic university specialising in Philosophy and Law. Finally you can visit the Marghalla Hills to enjoy magnificent views over the city before taking dinner at one of the many restaurants in old Islamabad where Saidpur Village still survives amid the modern planning.
DAY 1: ISLAMABAD - SWAT VALLEY
DAY 1: ISLAMABAD - SWAT VALLEY
Today you will start your journey north by driving through the Northwest Frontier and into the beautiful Swat Valley. Follow the GT Road to Malakand Pass, Butkhela, Chakdara and Saidu Sharif. Until quite recently this region was out of bounds to foreign tourists, but now it has opened up again offering you a great chance to explore the regions ancient Buddhist past. Once you have checked into your hotel, you'll visit the local museum, packed with many fine Gandharan artefacts, and other Buddhist sites. Then visit the famous archaeological site of Butkara, which is one of oldest Buddhist stupas in Ghandhara.
DAY 3: SWAT VALLEY - AYUN
DAY 3: SWAT VALLEY - AYUN
After breakfast you will embark on a spectacular drive, passing Chakdara - where young Winston Churchill saw action back in the 1890s - before continuing over the Lowari Pass (or going through the new tunnel) and into the ancient kingdom of Chitral. Here you'll drive on to Ayun, where you'll check into the wonderful home of Prince Maqsood Ul Mulk - an old friend of Wild Frontiers. Encircling the fort is the farm and an orchard growing seasonal fruits. The Prince is a keen botanist so be sure to take a walk in the garden to admire the impressive variety of roses. Standing at the entrance to the Kalash Valleys, surrounded by wonderful views, this is a lovely laid-back place to end your day.
DAY 4: AYUN - KALASH VALLEY
DAY 4: AYUN - KALASH VALLEY
After breakfast, you will drive into the Valley of Rumbor and the village of Balanguru where you stay with our good friend Saifullah Jan, the chief spokesperson for the colourful Kalash people. You also have the option of walking the last few miles through this gorgeous valley. The Kalash, numbering approximately 3,000, are the smallest religious minority of Pakistan. Unlike the other minorities in the country, they live exclusively in a particular geographical area; the three valleys of Birir, Bumburet and Rumbur. Situated in the Hindu Kush between the Afghan Border and Chitral Valley, the Muslim label the community Kalash Kafirs' (non-believers) and their area Kafirstan.
DAY 5: KALASH VALLEY
DAY 5: KALASH VALLEY
After breakfast drive to the Bumburet Valley, the most picturesque of the three, scattered with villages and long, fertile stretches of cultivation. Upon arrival do spend as much time with the Kalash families as possible, learning about their culture, lifestyle and how they are slowly transitioning into the modern world.
DAY 6: KALASH VALLEY - CHITRAL
DAY 6: KALASH VALLEY - CHITRAL
Today you will leave the beautiful Kalash Valleys. Heading back down the winding rocky tracks through the soaring Hindu Kush mountains, you will continue your journey towards the sleepy and conservative mountain town of Chitral. Hopefully you can catch a game of mountain polo, if a match is being played, before checking into your hotel for the night.
DAY 7: CHITRAL - MASTUJ
DAY 7: CHITRAL - MASTUJ
After breakfast you will drive to Mastuj, 110 km north-east of Chitral town, in a 4x4 jeep. This is one of the most beautiful and dramatic drives you are ever likely to take as we wind our way up the Mastuj Valley, passing Tirich Mir and BoniZong, before finally entering the Yarkund Valley at the top of which lies Afghanistan's Wakhan Corridor. On arrival you can take a stroll around the village before retiring to your hotel.
DAY 8: MASTUJ - KALTI
DAY 8: MASTUJ - KALTI
Today after breakfast you will drive to the Shandur Pass, stopping for tea en route at the top of the pass at 3,800 metres. From here, if you'd like, you can walk to the Langer – a beautiful plain used for grazing the yaks and dzos – where you can enjoy a nice picnic lunch before getting back in your jeep again and drive on to Kalti.
DAY 9: KALTI - GILGIT
DAY 9: KALTI - GILGIT
After breakfast you will travel on to Gilgit through some of Northern Pakistan's most dramatic scenery.
DAY 10: GILGIT - HUNZA
DAY 10: GILGIT - HUNZA
After breakfast stop off in town to visit the Christian cemetery before yet another amazing drive, leading you up the Karakoram Highway beside the titanic form of Mount Rakaposhi and on into the beautiful Hunza valley. The sight of this great mountain, all 7,788 metres of it, basking in the sun beside the road, will surely leave you speechless. You can have lunch on the way at the Rakaposhi View Restaurant where you will witness the longest continuous vertical view anywhere on earth, before continuing on to the region’s main town of Karimabad.
DAY 11: HUNZA
DAY 11: HUNZA
Today head up above Karimabad town for a water channel walk with spectacular views out across the valley. Head back down into town where you can have lunch on one of the rooftop restaurants. After this you will have time to relax, shop and wander, before taking a sightseeing trip to the famous 15th century Baltit fort, once the seat of power in the Hunza state and recently restored by UNESCO to a fantastic standard. In the late afternoon you'll return to your accommodation.
DAY 12: HUNZA
DAY 12: HUNZA
Enjoy a day at leisure in one of the most beautiful places on earth. You may instead like the option to explore further, and drive out to Nagar Valley to take a short walk on the Hoper Glacier, or enjoy a visit to the lake at Attabad. In January 2010 a massive landslide blocked the Hunza River, which submerged 22km of the KKH by forming a beautiful azure lake. Here you can take boat ride towards the northern shore giving a great opportunity to photograph the famous cathedral peaks.
DAY 13: HUNZA - GILGIT
DAY 13: HUNZA - GILGIT
Today, you will begin your journey south down the famous Karakoram Highway to Gilgit. Your route will take you via the Rakaposhi view point providing a fabulous opportunity to view this gigantic mountain basking in the sunlight. The journey will take around 4 hours as you enjoy stops along the way.
DAY 14: GILGIT - SHIGAR
DAY 14: GILGIT - SHIGAR
Early this morning enjoy a short tour of Gilgit with your guide, stopping off at the popular polo grounds and the very typical mountain bazaar. Next leave Gilgit and drive through the narrow gorge that is known as the "Grand Canyon" of Northern Pakistan, following the course of the untamed Indus River to Shigar.
DAY 15: SHIGAR - KHAPLU
DAY 15: SHIGAR - KHAPLU
After having breakfast take a walking tour of the 14th century Amburiq Mosque that received a UNESCO award for restoration and the restored Khanqah. Following this, continue your drive on to Khaplu to check into your hotel. In the afternoon explore Khaplu Palace, the village and the Khanqah (a place of spiritual retreat which also housed journeymen).
DAY 16: KHAPLU
DAY 16: KHAPLU
Today you are free to relax and enjoy the hotel or partake in the many activities available from the hotel. Why not witness a polo game, visit the rock carvings at Saling, explore the 18th century majestic Khaplu Khanqah mosque, ride on horseback through the beauty of Baltistan, take a stroll through Khaplu or see the hotels many projects, such as the Bara wool spinning centre and the Khaplu Women’s Vocational Training Centre.
DAY 17: KHAPLU - SKARDU
DAY 17: KHAPLU - SKARDU
You will be driven from the ancient kingdom of Khaplu, 105 kilometres west to Skardu, on a journey of around 2 hours. You can enjoy a walk through the town's main bazaar to the 'organic village' via an old trail at the foot of Kharpocho Fort. See if you can catch a game of Polo at the town's main field and visit the K2 museum at the K2 Motel. This is an ideal way to experience the capital of Baltistan and understand the life of the locals and the mountaineers that visit.
DAY 18: SKARDU - DEOSAI - RAMA LAKE
DAY 18: SKARDU - DEOSAI - RAMA LAKE
After an early breakfast, continue your journey to the Deosai Plateau National Park. This plateau is a stunning 4,000m high wildlife wilderness complete with an array of wild flowers at certain times of year. Enjoy a hearty picnic lunch with views of the Himalayas before continuing on to Rama. If time permits, in the afternoon take a short drive to Rama Lake to enjoy the stunning view of the Lake.
DAY 19: RAMA LAKE - CHILAS - FAIRY MEADOWS
DAY 19: RAMA LAKE - CHILAS - FAIRY MEADOWS
Continue the road journey towards Chilas today. Once you leave the alpine meadows of Rama and Astore, you will enter thes Astore Gorge, one of the most dramatic and impressive landscapes in the world. Eventually reach Raikot Bridge, where you will switch to local 4x4 jeeps and continue up a narrow and steep mountain road to Fairy Meadows. The drive is quite the adventure, but well worth it!
DAY 20: FAIRY MEADOWS
DAY 20: FAIRY MEADOWS
Fairy Meadows, locally known as Jut, is a grassy pasture near one of the base camp sites of the mighty Nanga Parbat Mountain (8126m). Today you will hike towards Nanga Parbat base camp, passing through lush green meadows and pine forests and surrounded by some of the most stunning scenery.
DAY 21: FAIRY MEADOWS - NARAN
DAY 21: FAIRY MEADOWS - NARAN
Today say goodbye to this peaceful haven as you start your journey back down and on to Naran. Make a short stop at the top of the 4100-metre-high Babusar Pass to enjoy the stunning view of the Himalayas, Karakorum and Hindu Kush mountain ranges before proceeding to Naran.
DAY 22: NARAN - TAXILA - ISLAMABAD
DAY 22: NARAN - TAXILA - ISLAMABAD
Today you will continue your journey stopping en route in Taxila, a fascinating Buddhist university town, dating back to the Ghandaharan era of Alexander the Great. Departing Taxila, you will continue the short distance to Islamabad for your final night.
DAY 23: DEPART ISLAMABAD
DAY 23: DEPART ISLAMABAD
This morning you will be transferred to the airport in time to catch your onward flight.
SUGGESTED ACCOMMODATION
Serena Hotel Gilgit, Gilgit
The Serena Hotel is set in six acres of rugged landscape in Jutial Village and has breathtaking vistas of the snow-capped peaks surrounding the Gilgit Valley. The hotel has 43 simply furnished rooms with stunning views of Mount Rakaposhi and the Jutial Nala and offers all modern comforts and amenities including air-conditioning, telephone and cable TV. The Dumani Restaurant serves Pakistani, Chinese and continental dishes and has a beautiful panoramic view over the Hunza River, Gilgit River and Danyore Valley. The Jutial Lounge serves light cooking gardens of the hotel. The Hotel offers its guests high standards of service in a luxurious, friendly environment in keeping with local culture and traditions.
Serena Shigar Fort, Shigar
Located in the beautiful province of Baltistan in the Northern Areas of Pakistan, Shigar Fort Residence is the result of a unique heritage conservation project, which offers guests the opportunity to experience the restored original architecture of a 17th century Raja fort-palace. Opened as a guesthouse in 2005, following an intensive six-year restoration undertaken by the Aga Khan Cultural Service Pakistan, the original 400-year old building was brought back to life following a careful strategy of adaptive re-use and restoration. The result is a combination of authentic original 17th century architecture together with the modern amenities and services of a modern guesthouse. There are 20 rooms organised in two buildings; the original old fort palace - where architecture style and features have been meticulously restored - and the new garden house building with rooms newly built using traditional materials and building techniques. Facilities include a gift shop, guest kitchen, overnight laundry service and a restaurant that specialises in local Pakistani dishes, including traditional BBQ and Iftar dinners, featuring organic produce, fish, and meat.
Ayun Fort, Ayun
This gorgeous guesthouse, home to Maqsood Ul Mulk who is an old friend of Wild Frontiers and one of the princes of Chitral, is a wonderful place to stay. Situated above the village of Ayun, at the entrance to the Kalash Valleys, it has stunning views of Chitral and Tirich Mir, the highest mountain in the Hindu Kush. This hotel has got a small number of spacious and tastefully decorated rooms, each with en suite facilities, a lovely dining room - providing excellent local fare - and comfortable lounge. However the piece de resistance is the garden, which is simply amazing showcasing roses form all over the world. The arboretum, with a collection of over 60 pines, and fruit orchard are simply heavenly. This is definitely worth a night or two, and offers a great place from which to explore the Kalash Valleys.
Khaplu Palace, Khaplu
This 19th Century Fort has recently been restored to its former glory by the Aga Khan Foundation and as such is an excellent escape in this rural area of Baltistan. Located just outside of the town, the combination of idyllic surroundings, beautiful courtyard and gardens as well as wonderfully authentic rooms makes Khaplu Fort a brilliant place to pause if travelling through this area. There are several atmospheric lounges with views over the surrounding countryside while the flat roof also makes for an excellent place to relax with a good book. A little bit of luxury in this remote area which is also just a short distance from the Wild Frontiers supported school at Baylegon.
Hindu Kush Heights Mastuj, Mastuj
Made up of 6 cosy chalets in the orchard of the old fort, this is the best accommodation in Chitral. The setting on the side of a hill provides fantastic views over Chitral town and the valley. The rooms are within chalets dotted around the property and each is comfortable and well maintained, with private bathrooms and comfortable beds. Hindukush Heights has its own hydroelectricity and the water into the hotel is gravity fed from a mountain spring. Vegetables are supplied from the hotels own organic garden and are used to create tasty dishes, served in the cosy dining room. From here you are also allowed to visit the old fort which is an interesting experience.
Serena Hotel Swat, Swat Valley
A secure and harmonious retreat nestled among six acres of meticulously cultivated lawns and gardens in the lush valley of Saidu Sharif, Swat Serena Hotel seamlessly captures the region’s rich culture, heritage and beauty while offering every modern comfort. Arriving guests marvel at our unique blend of colonial and Art Deco styles. The inviting architecture is complemented by scenic views of tranquil rose gardens and the snow-capped Hindukush Mountains. The in-house restaurant is designed in the beautiful Pakistani style, perfectly matched with some of the regions finest food. The pool and fitness centre allow guests to relax after exploring the historical Vazir House, home to the hotels six Heritage Suites. The badminton courts and table tennis are great for socialising with other guests.
Raikot Sarai, Fairy Meadows
At an altitude of 3306m, the Raikot Sarai is your ultimate mountain escape within the forested Fairy Meadows in Gilgit, Pakistan. Popular amongst hikers, from the accommodation go in search of the Raikot Glacier or the Nanga Prabat. The two brothers who own the resort have been welcoming guests since 1992 and they have set the path for responsible tourism within the region. Stay within a basic cabin or tent overlooking the ‘Killer Mountain’. The Bhul Café, named after the first mountaineer to summit Nanaga Prabat, serves limited local cuisine, and the Khushbek lounge serves the same, complete with sheesha. The accommodation may be very basic but the peaceful mountain location more than makes up for it. For those not wanting to walk, horse-riding and polo can be arranged from the accommodation.
Concordia Motel, Skardu
Stay in Concordia Motel in Skardu for some of the best views of Skardu Valley, the Indus River and Kharpocho Fort. Just off the main road, the hotel is built around a courtyard and is right opposite the Kharpocho Fort. Although not the most luxurious hotel, the views, clean rooms and quality of service more than make up for the lack of glamour. Choose to stay in a standard or deluxe room with an en suite bathroom and wake up to views of the Indus River. Soak up the gorgeous scenery on the shared balcony with a cup of tea or take photographs from the rooftop. The restaurant serves hearty Pakistani cuisine to charge hikers who visit the area and the little shop in the courtyard provides clothing and maps.
PTDC Motel Rama, Rama Lake
Stay at PTDC Motel Rama for the outstanding surrounding landscape and remote location. The PTDC is within a gorgeous valley and it is a bit of climb uphill but the views are worth it. Truly escape as mobile connection is limited and there is no internet. The area is popular with hikers, especially for those wishing to hike to nearby Rama Lake or Nanga Parbat. The facilities within the large rooms are simple yet comfortable with hot water being limited to certain times of the day. The restaurant serves delicious meals throughout the day and can arrange a picnic for those sightseeing on the mountains.
PTDC Gupis, Kalti
Situated in the small town of Gupis, the PTDC Gupis overlooks Gupis Lake, known locally as Kalti lake. When a glacial lake high in the mountains burst, it flooded the area, which then dammed and formed the lake. The rooms are simply decorated but are comfortable and have an en suite bathroom with hot and cold running water. Trekkers often stay here from Chitral or Gilgit to enjoy the peaceful surroundings and hiking trails. The Pakistani food served at the restaurant is organic from the nearby farms.
Mountain Top Resort, Naran
Mountain Top Resort offers beautiful mountain views and hospitable staff. At 2804m, the resort has simple yet homely accommodation and the location more than makes up for any lack of comforts. The rooms feature private bathrooms and come with a continental breakfast in the morning. There is a restaurant, lounge and terrace for socialising and appreciating the views.
Premium
Excellent standards without the big price tag
Premium
Excellent standards without the big price tag
Mid-Range
Good quality service and overall comfort
Mid-Range
Good quality service and overall comfort
Mid-Range
Good quality service and overall comfort
Mid-Range
Good quality service and overall comfort
Simple
No frills, basic accommodation, but often in the most exciting of places
Simple
No frills, basic accommodation, but often in the most exciting of places
Mid-Range
Good quality service and overall comfort
Simple
No frills, basic accommodation, but often in the most exciting of places
Simple
No frills, basic accommodation, but often in the most exciting of places
Accommodation listed here is intended as a guide only, to give you a taste of what we can do. Our experts can tailor any aspect of this itinerary and accommodation to suit your budget and tastes.
GUIDELINE PRICE & WHAT’S INCLUDED
COMPLETE NORTHERN PAKISTAN (23 DAYS) C$7,263
MEALS
As specified in the itinerary, sampling some of the country's finest cuisine.
TRANSPORT
Private air-conditioned vehicles with experienced, dedicated drivers.
ENTRANCE FEES
Tours and admission fees, including tickets specified in the itinerary.
EXPERT TEAM
Licensed English-speaking guides and a support team available 24/7.
ACCOMMODATION
As specified in the itinerary, using some of our favourite local properties.
ACCOMMODATION
Ultra - The best of the best, the ultimate indulgence
Luxury - Outstanding service and facilities, giving you the 5* experience
Premium - Excellent standards without the big price tag
Superior - Good quality service and overall comfort
Simple - No frills, basic accommodation, but often in the most exciting of places
CARBON CONTRIBUTIONS
If you book international flights through Wild Frontiers.
This itinerary is aimed to give you an idea of what we can offer. The price shown above is based on two people travelling outside of peak periods. As this itinerary is only a suggestion and can be tailor-made to suit your interests and budget, your final price may differ.
START PLANNING YOUR TRIP
Our team of experts have a wealth of knowledge and experience to help you plan your adventure of a lifetime.
WHEN TO GO
WHY WILD FRONTIERS?
Expert travel consultants
Up-to-date knowledge and advice from our experienced consultants on the best places to stay, things to do and regions to visit to make your holiday the trip of a lifetime.
EXPERIENCED LOCAL GUIDES
We use experienced local guides to help bring the sights to life, introduce you to local characters and ensure you get under the skin of your destination.
HAND-PICKED ACCOMMODATION
Whether you are looking for a boutique hotel, homestay, local guesthouse, luxury spa, tented camp or heritage hotel, our experts can select the perfect property for you.
24-HOUR SUPPORT
Our local agents are there to help you on the ground should you need any assistance, and in addition you will be given a 24-hour UK emergency phone number.Meet the expert, Clem
Clem is our Pakistan expert, who has travelled extensively in the region.
Speak to Clementine by calling
+44 (0)20 3944 6258