A nine-day road journey from Islamabad through Naran and the Karakoram Highway to Hunza, Attabad Lake and Khunjerab Pass.
Gilgit-Baltistan9 Days / 8 NightsFrom PKR 141,500 per person4.5 (2 reviews)
Duration
9 Days / 8 Nights
Difficulty
Moderate
Max altitude
4,693 m (Khunjerab Pass)
Best season
May – October
Start / end
Islamabad → Islamabad
Trip type
Multi-day tour
Tour overview
This tour takes you through some of the most breathtaking landscapes of Pakistan, including the scenic beauty of Naran, the cultural heritage of Hunza and the majestic heights of Khunjerab Pass.
You will experience lush valleys, towering mountains, serene lakes and historic forts while travelling along the famous Karakoram Highway, known as the 8th Wonder of the World.
Highlights
Saif ul Malook Lake: A legendary alpine lake surrounded by myths and breathtaking scenery.
Karakoram Highway: Drive along the ‘8th Wonder of the World’ with jaw-dropping mountain views.
Hunza Valley: Explore ancient forts, vibrant bazaars and terraced fields.
Khunjerab Pass: Stand at the world’s highest paved international border.
Attabad Lake: Witness the mesmerizing turquoise waters formed by a landslide.
Hussaini Suspension Bridge: A thrilling walk over one of the most dangerous-looking bridges in the world.
Hoper Glacier: Visit this massive glacier for an unforgettable icy adventure.
Nanga Parbat & Rakaposhi Views: See two of the world’s most famous peaks.
Duikar Sunset: Experience a golden sunset over the Karakoram Range.
Passu Cones: Marvel at the dramatic, jagged peaks of Passu.
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 01Arrival in Islamabad
Upon arrival at Islamabad International Airport, our driver will receive you and transfer you to your hotel. After checking in, take some rest and get ready for the journey ahead. Overnight stay in Islamabad.
Day 02Drive to Naran – Visit Saif ul Malook Lake
Depart from Islamabad and head towards Naran via the scenic Hazara Motorway. Pass through charming towns such as Balakot, Besar and Jalkhand, following the beautiful Kunhar River. You may choose to experience optional river rafting and visit the Kewai Waterfall. Upon arrival in Naran, check in at the hotel and take a jeep ride to Saif ul Malook Lake. Enjoy some time at the lake before returning to Naran for an overnight stay. Alternate route (if Babusar Pass is closed): we will take the route through Chilas, stopping at Besham and driving on the Karakoram Highway. You will pass through Pattan and Dasu, with a brief stop at the Diamer Basha Dam site before staying overnight in Chilas.
Day 03Drive to Hunza
After breakfast, continue your journey towards Hunza, driving along the Indus River. Stop at the Nanga Parbat viewpoint and the Three Junction Point where the Karakoram, Himalaya and Hindu Kush ranges meet. Travel through Jaglot and Gilgit, stopping at the Rakaposhi viewpoint before arriving in Hunza for an overnight stay.
Day 04Heritage Tour in Hunza
Start the day by visiting Baltit Fort, a 700-year-old historical site. Explore Karimabad Bazaar and later visit Altit Fort. In the afternoon, head to Duikar, the highest viewpoint in Hunza, for panoramic views of the valley and a breathtaking sunset. Return to the hotel for the night.
Day 05Hoper Valley & Glacier Exploration
Drive to Hoper Valley via Ganish Bridge and the Nagar River. Visit Kamal’s Masjid, the oldest mosque in the Hunza-Nagar region. Explore the scenic Hoper Valley and the vast Hoper Glacier. After spending time in this beautiful area, return to Hunza for the night.
Day 06Khunjerab Pass & Attabad Lake
Depart early for Khunjerab Pass, the highest international paved border. Along the way, stop at Ganish Bridge, Attabad Lake, Hussaini Suspension Bridge and Passu Village, famous for its unique Passu Cones. Enter Khunjerab National Park and enjoy a picnic at the border. On the return journey, stop for shopping in Sost and spend the night near Attabad Lake.
Day 07Drive to Besham
Start the return journey along the Karakoram Highway. Enjoy scenic views and short stops en route. Travel through Chilas and Kohistan before arriving in Besham for an overnight stay.
Day 08Return to Islamabad
Drive back to Islamabad, making brief stops along the way. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel for the final night and reflect on your journey.
Day 09Departure
You will be transferred to Islamabad International Airport for your flight back home.
Price & what's included
FromPKR 141,500per person
Price per person sharing a twin room. The final price depends on group size, travel dates and hotel category; we confirm it before you pay anything.
What's included
All road transport with fuel
Hotel stays (twin-sharing basis)
Daily breakfast
Experienced driver/guide
Driver’s food and accommodation
Toll taxes and parking fees
What's not included
International airfare
Travel insurance
Meals (lunch and dinner)
Entry fees for forts and national parks
Personal expenses (shopping, tips, etc.)
Optional activities (rafting, jeep rides)
Accommodation & transport
Accommodation
Hotels on twin-sharing basis
Islamabad (1 night)
Naran, or Chilas if Babusar Pass is closed (1 night)
Hunza (3 nights)
Near Attabad Lake (1 night)
Besham (1 night)
Islamabad on return (1 night)
Transportation
All road transport with fuel and an experienced driver
Alternate route via Chilas on the Karakoram Highway if Babusar Pass is closed
Accessories: sunglasses, sunblock, hat, gloves, scarf.
Gear: power bank, camera, reusable water bottle, small backpack.
Documents: passport/ID (for the Khunjerab border), travel insurance (recommended).
Health: basic medicines, altitude sickness tablets (if needed), hand sanitizer.
Health & safety
Altitude sickness: stay hydrated, avoid overexertion and acclimatize properly.
Winter (December–February) can bring possible road closures.
Money & connectivity
ATMs are scarce; carry enough PKR for meals, souvenirs and entry fees.
Mobile networks (Jazz/Zong) work in towns but may be weak in remote areas.
Requirements & Health
Valid passport and tourist visa for international guests.
Original CNIC / passport required at Northern checkpoints.
Basic physical fitness appropriate for chosen itinerary.
Personal medication and hydration essentials advised.
Payment & Booking
Prices are starting quotes in PKR per person on twin-sharing basis.
Written itemized quotation provided after availability check.
Deposit required only after itinerary and hotel category are locked.
Bank transfer and cash settlement options supported.
Cancellation & Contingencies
Weather delays or mountain road blockages handled flexibly.
Alternative routes or rest stops arranged by your expert guide.
Date adjustments possible subject to accommodation availability.
Insurance & Safety
Personal travel and medical insurance is highly recommended.
High altitude rescue coverage strongly advised for trekking packages.
Experienced licensed mountain guides accompany all treks.
Weather guide
Spring (March–May): pleasant days (15–25°C), chilly nights. Flowers bloom in Hunza.
Summer (June–August): warm days (20–30°C), cool nights. Khunjerab may still have snow.
Autumn (September–November): ideal weather (10–25°C), clear skies, golden foliage.
Winter (December–February): extremely cold (-5 to 10°C), possible road closures.
Gallery
Traveller reviews
4.5 out of 5 from 2 reviews
The drive up the Karakoram Highway was spectacular, and our driver knew every viewpoint, including the spot where the three mountain ranges meet. Sunset from Duikar was the highlight of the whole trip. Standing at Khunjerab Pass with snow in September felt unreal.
Baltit and Altit forts were beautifully kept, and the Hoper Glacier day was better than I expected. Babusar Pass was still closed, so we went via Chilas, which made for a long day, but the team explained the change well in advance.
Frequently asked questions
Is this tour suitable for families with kids?
Yes, but high-altitude areas like Khunjerab Pass may be challenging for very young children.
What if Babusar Pass is closed?
We take the alternate route via Chilas on the Karakoram Highway.
Are meals included?
Only breakfast is provided; lunch and dinner are at your own expense.
Do I need a visa for Khunjerab Pass?
No, but you must carry your original passport/ID for border checks.
What’s the best time to visit?
May to October offers the best weather and open roads.