A 9-day road journey from Islamabad via Naran and Babusar Pass to Skardu, with Shangrila, Soq Valley, Shigar, Manthoka Waterfall and the Deosai Plains.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa & Gilgit-Baltistan9 Days / 8 NightsFrom PKR 173,525 per person
Duration
9 Days / 8 Nights
Difficulty
Moderate
Max altitude
Babusar Top, 13,691 ft
Best season
April to October
Start / end
Islamabad → Islamabad
Trip type
Multi-day tour
Tour overview
This tour takes you through some of the most breathtaking landscapes of northern Pakistan, including the enchanting Naran Valley, the majestic Skardu region and the serene Deosai Plains.
You will see stunning lakes such as Saif ul Malook and Sheosar, explore historic landmarks such as Shigar Fort, and enjoy jeep safaris and optional rafting. The journey includes scenic drives along the Karakoram Highway and the Hazara Motorway, with unforgettable views of towering mountains, lush valleys and crystal-clear rivers.
Highlights
Legendary lakes: Saif ul Malook, Sheosar, Satpara and Kachura Lakes.
Babusar Top: A mountain pass at 13,691 ft with breathtaking vistas.
Cultural heritage: Shigar Fort, ancient mosques and the Wall of Baltistan.
Unique landscapes: Sarfaranga Cold Desert and the Deosai Plains.
Adventure activities: Jeep safaris, optional rafting and camel rides.
Scenic highways: Drives on the Karakoram Highway and the Hazara Motorway.
Waterfalls & valleys: Kewai Falls, Soq Valley and Manthoka Falls.
Wildlife spotting: A chance to see Himalayan bears in Deosai.
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 01Arrival in Islamabad
On arrival at Islamabad International Airport, our driver will pick you up and transfer you to the hotel. After check-in, rest and relax. Overnight stay in Islamabad.
Day 02Drive to Naran – Saif ul Malook Lake
Depart Islamabad for Naran on the scenic Hazara Motorway, with a short stop in Balakot. Pass through the charming towns of Besar and Jalkhand alongside the Kunhar River, where an optional rafting adventure is available, and stop at the beautiful Kewai Waterfall. After checking in at Naran, take an off-road jeep ride to the mesmerizing Saif ul Malook Lake before returning to Naran for the night. If Babusar Pass is closed due to snow, the route instead runs via the Karakoram Highway, with stops in Besham, Pattan and Dasu and at the Diamer Basha Dam site, to Chilas for the night.
Day 03Babusar Pass to Skardu
Continue to Skardu, stopping at Lulusar Lake and Babusar Top for the stunning views. Pass through Chilas and drive along the Karakoram Highway, stopping at the Three Junction Point where the Karakoram, Himalaya and Hindu Kush ranges meet. Check in at your hotel in Skardu for the night.
Day 04Shangrila Resort, Kachura Lake & Soq Valley
Drive to the famous Shangrila Resort, check in and take some rest. Later, visit Soq Valley and explore its beauty, including the Wall of Baltistan. On the way back, stop at Upper Kachura Lake to enjoy its mesmerizing surroundings before returning to the hotel for the night.
Day 05Shigar Valley & Cold Desert
Drive to Shigar Valley with a stop at Daghoni Village. Visit the historic Shigar Fort and explore the village, including the Amburiq and Khilingrong mosques. Later, head to the Sarfaranga Cold Desert for horse riding, camel riding and jeep safaris, and visit Blind Lake. Overnight stay in Shigar.
Day 06Manthoka Waterfall
Drive to Manthoka Waterfall, stopping along the way to enjoy the scenic beauty of the valley. Spend time at the waterfall before driving back to Skardu for the night.
Day 07Deosai National Park
Drive to Deosai National Park (80 km, 2–3 hours) through stunning landscapes, stopping at Satpara Lake and the Manthal Buddha Rock carving before passing through Bara Pani. At Deosai, visit the famous Sheosar Lake before returning to Skardu for the night.
Day 08Skardu to Islamabad
Depart early from Skardu and drive back to Islamabad via Shahrah-e-Baltistan, passing Allam Bridge and Astak Nala, with short stops at Babusar Top and Naran Valley. On arrival, you will be dropped at the hotel with free time to explore. Overnight stay in Islamabad.
Day 09Departure
You will be dropped off at Islamabad International Airport for your flight home, marking the end of this journey.
Price & what's included
FromPKR 173,525per 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
Road transport with fuel
Hotel accommodation
Breakfast
Experienced driver
Driver’s food and accommodation
Parking fees and toll taxes
What's not included
Travel insurance
Tips for guides and staff
Personal expenses (laundry, drinks, souvenirs)
Meals (lunch and dinner)
Entrance fees for forts and national parks
Airport pick-up/drop-off (unless specified)
Accommodation & transport
Accommodation
Hotel in Islamabad (2 nights)
Hotel in Naran, or Chilas if Babusar Pass is closed (1 night)
Hotels in Skardu and Shangrila Resort (4 nights)
Hotel in Shigar (1 night)
Transportation
Road transport with fuel and an experienced driver
The route is approximate. Trekking sections are on foot and won't show as a road on the map.
Important information & requirements
Important tips
Carry sufficient PKR cash; ATMs are scarce in remote areas.
Buy a local SIM (Zong and Jazz have the best mountain coverage).
Acclimatize properly and avoid alcohol for the first two days at high altitude.
Respect local customs; modest dress is recommended.
Clothing
Layered outfits (thermal base, fleece and waterproof jacket)
Comfortable hiking shoes with good grip
Sun hat and warm beanie
Essentials
High SPF sunscreen and lip balm
Portable charger or power bank
Basic first-aid kit, including altitude sickness tablets
Water purification tablets
Recommended extras
Binoculars for wildlife spotting
Travel adapter (Pakistan uses Type D plugs)
Roads & route
If Babusar Pass is closed, the tour uses the alternate route via Chilas on the Karakoram Highway without missing key destinations.
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 (April–May): Days 15–25°C, nights 5–10°C. Ideal for flowers, with moderate crowds.
Summer (June–August): Days 25–35°C, nights 10–15°C. Peak season with warm days.
Autumn (September–October): Days 10–20°C with crisp nights. Perfect for photography.
Winter (November–March): Sub-zero temperatures; many routes are closed.
Gallery
Frequently asked questions
How difficult is this trip physically?
Moderate fitness is required for high-altitude areas. Most sightseeing involves light walking, but Deosai and some valley explorations may include uneven terrain.
Is there WiFi or mobile network coverage?
Major towns have 4G, but expect limited connectivity in remote areas such as Deosai and Shigar Valley.
What is the food situation for vegetarians?
Vegetarian options (dal, vegetables, rice) are available at all hotels, but variety may be limited at remote stops.
Are there charging facilities throughout?
Hotels have electricity, but power cuts occur. Carry power banks for long road trips.
What happens if Babusar Pass is closed?
We use the alternate Chilas route on the Karakoram Highway, which is still scenic, without missing key destinations.
Can we customize the itinerary?
Yes. We can adjust stays or add activities such as trout fishing; discuss this during booking.