From Mountains to Mughal Majesty: Pakistan's Hidden Gems

Islamabad

Upon arrival in Islamabad, we will begin our adventure with a delightful lunch. Afterward, we embark on a tour of the city, starting with a visit to the iconic Faisal Mosque, a symbol of modern Islamic architecture. We will also visit the Pakistan Monument and Museum, where you can immerse yourself in the history and culture of Pakistan. The journey continues with a stop at the Heritage Museum, where local artisans craft traditional handicrafts. This will be our first opportunity to shop for unique souvenirs. After an exciting day, we will enjoy an early dinner at Sayed Par Village, allowing time to unwind.

Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner

Chitral

After a hearty breakfast, we set off for the ancient Kingdom of Chitral. The scenic drive will take us through Chakdarra, leading up to the breathtaking Lowari Pass, famously associated with Winston Churchill’s adventures in the 1890s. As we drive through the dramatic landscape, there may even be a chance to witness a thrilling polo match, a popular local sport. We will pause for a relaxing lunch at Dir before continuing our journey, which will take approximately 7-8 hours. The drive promises to be a spectacular start to our exploration of this enchanting region.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Chitral

Kalash

Our day begins with a journey into the stunning Rumbor Valley, home to the Kalash people. We will be welcomed by our friend Yashill, who will be our guide for the upcoming festival. After a traditional village lunch, we will explore the preparations for the festivities, allowing you to immerse yourself in the unique culture and traditions of the Kalash. This special encounter provides an intimate introduction to their customs and way of life.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Kalash

Today we will experience the Chilam Joshi festival in all its glory. Celebrated in May, this Spring Festival showcases the vibrant and colourful culture of the Kalash people. We will witness traditional dances performed to rhythmic drum beats, with men and women dressed in striking attire – women adorned in vibrant clothing, jewellery, and elaborate headgear, while men wear traditional shalwar kameez. The Kalash people pray for the protection of their fields and animals, offering milk to their gods as part of their ritual. The festival also holds special significance for young people, as unmarried boys and girls can choose their future spouses.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Chitral

After breakfast, we will drive to Bomberat to explore the fascinating Kalash Tribal Museum, which offers insight into the unique culture and history of the Kalash people. There may also be a chance to visit a local school. After a tea break, we will visit the cemetery in Karkal, where wooden coffins have been laid above ground for centuries. We’ll enjoy lunch in the valley before heading back to Chitral, where we’ll visit a local hat maker. Before dinner, we will head out to the edge of the mountains for a chance to spot the rare and majestic Markhor, a type of mountain antelope.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Chitral

Gupis

Today’s journey will be long but undoubtedly one of the most memorable road trips of your life. The road takes us over the Shandur Pass, known as the "Roof of the World." The pass is home to the highest polo field on the planet, standing at 3,700 metres above sea level. We will have ample time to pause and soak in the stunning landscape, with opportunities for photography and tea breaks along the way. In the evening, we’ll savour freshly caught River Trout, a local delicacy that will perfectly end this awe-inspiring day.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Gilgit

We begin our journey to Gilgit by driving along the Karakoram Highway, where we will stop to witness the dramatic meeting point of the Karakoram, Hindu Kush, and Himalayan ranges. Following the river, we arrive in Gilgit, where we will visit the British Cemetery. Lunch will be at the serene Serena Hotel, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The afternoon is free for you to relax and enjoy the hotel’s peaceful gardens. In the evening, we are treated to authentic Gilgit hospitality at Eshan’s home, where his family will prepare a variety of local dishes using fresh, homegrown ingredients.

Gilgit

Passu

Our journey today takes us along the stunning Karakorum Highway, where we will encounter some truly remarkable sights. We’ll pass by the iconic ‘Passu Cones,’ a series of sharp, jagged peaks that are a photographer’s delight. Along the way, we’ll stop for tea and visit a local craftsman who creates intricate wooden products using a water-powered wheel. This is an excellent opportunity to purchase some unique handmade items. As we continue, we’ll see ancient petroglyphs etched into the roadside rocks. Our lunch stop will be at the Rakaposhi Viewpoint (7788m), offering excellent photo opportunities. In the afternoon, we’ll enjoy a scenic boat ride on Attabad Lake, with its striking green and blue glacier-fed waters. Our evening will be spent at a hotel offering panoramic views of the Passu Cones, and we’ll savour Yak meat for dinner.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Karimabad

Today we venture to the Khunjarab Pass, the highest paved international border crossing in the world, and the highest point on the Karakorum Highway. The pass offers incredible views as we pass through the Khunjarab National Park, which runs parallel to the highway. Herds of yaks can often be spotted grazing in the park. Our journey will take us to the border town of Sost, the last town in Pakistan before entering China, where we will stop for lunch. Afterward, we will visit the Bovit Salt Water Lake and its nearby suspension bridge before continuing our drive to Karimibad, a historic and culturally rich town.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Karimabad

Our morning starts with a visit to the magnificent Baltit Fort, a 700-year-old structure that once served as the residence of the Mir, or king, of Hunza. The fort is located in the stunning Hunza Valley, a crucial point on the ancient Silk Road, and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding glaciers. After exploring the fort’s rich history and strategic location, we will enjoy tea and the local speciality, walnut cake. Following this, we’ll make a short drive to Altit Fort, known for its ancient Shikari Tower, which is over 1,100 years old. In the evening, we’ll visit the ‘Eagle’s Nest’ viewpoint to witness a spectacular sunset over the surrounding peaks, including a possible glimpse of the famous Needle.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Gilgit

Today, we drive alongside the river to the Hoper Valley, where we will observe the local Mohaan people panning for gold in the river. A short walk will take us to the viewpoint of the Hoper Glacier, with an optional hike down into the glacier for the more adventurous. We will have lunch amidst the tranquil countryside, surrounded by the valley’s natural beauty. After lunch, we visit Ganash, a 1,000-year-old Silk Road village and a UNESCO World Heritage site. In the evening, we return to Gilgit, where we will stay in a traditional colonial-style hotel and enjoy a relaxing dinner.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Gilgit

Tarishing

Our next destination is the charming village of Tarishing, home to around 200 residents. This remote village is known as the gateway to Nanga Parbat, one of the highest mountains in the world. Upon arrival, we will take a leisurely walk through the village, offering a glimpse into the daily lives of the locals who live along the banks of the Rupal River. Tarishing's tranquil setting, surrounded by towering mountains, provides a perfect opportunity to unwind and immerse ourselves in the simplicity of village life.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Nanga Parbat Base Camp

Today, we embark on an exciting adventure to the Nanga Parbat Base Camp. Depending on your preference, we can either drive or hike through the valley, offering stunning views as we traverse mountain passes and interact with locals tending to their fields. Along the way, you might spot donkeys carrying goods between villages. Upon reaching the base camp, we’ll stop for a picnic lunch, surrounded by the majestic beauty of Nanga Parbat, often referred to as the "Killer Mountain." Afterward, we’ll make our way back to our guesthouse, where we can relax and reflect on the day’s extraordinary journey.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Shigar Fort

Today’s journey takes us through the breathtaking landscapes of Deosai National Park, the second-highest plateau in the world, standing at an impressive 4,114 metres. The park is an Alpine wonderland filled with rolling plains, crystal-clear lakes, and winding rivers. As we travel, we will make stops for tea and photos, and with a bit of luck, we might spot some of the park’s wildlife, including the Golden Marmot. The awe-inspiring scenery of this remote wilderness makes it a day of nature’s wonders.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Shigar Fort

Our journey continues with a drive through the scenic Sarfaranga Desert, which leads us to the historic Shigar Fort, also known as the "Fort on Rock." Built in the 17th century by the Raja of the Amacha Dynasty, the fort has been beautifully restored by the Aga Khan Cultural Service Pakistan. Today, it serves as a luxurious five-star hotel, where we will stay the night. The fort’s serene atmosphere and majestic surroundings provide a perfect ending to our journey, as we reflect on the rich history and cultural heritage we’ve encountered over the past two weeks.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Gilgit

Today will be a day of travel, but the journey offers more stunning views of majestic mountain passes as we make our way through Pakistan’s rugged landscapes. The day’s drive gives us ample opportunity to stop for lunch en route, where we will experience the warmth and hospitality of the local villagers. As we pass through these small communities, you’ll get a glimpse of everyday life in these remote regions, and perhaps even interact with the locals to learn more about their customs and way of living. We will arrive at our hotel in the late afternoon, ready for a relaxing evening.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Gilgit

Taxila

This morning, we’ll take an early flight back to Islamabad and then head towards Taxila, a fascinating historical site situated along the famous Grand Trunk Road. En route, we’ll pass the significant Sikh pilgrimage centre of Hasan Abdal. Taxila’s ancient roots date back to around 1000 BCE, and the area is renowned for its archaeological and cultural heritage. A visit to the Taxila Museum will give us further insight into this rich history. Later in the day, we will visit a workshop where the famous decorated Pakistani trucks are painted, a unique art form that brightens the roads of Pakistan. If time permits, we’ll stop by Rawalpindi’s historic railway station, a piece of colonial history from 1881.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Lahore

Today, we explore the famous Khewra Salt Mines, the second-largest in the world. Said to have been discovered by Alexander the Great’s army, the mine has been in operation since 1812 and is known for producing the renowned Pink Himalayan Salt. It is a fascinating site with a unique mosque made entirely of salt inside the mine. The mine also houses a hospital that treats asthma patients. After the mines, we will visit the Katas Raj Temples, a 1,500-year-old Hindu temple complex. The temples are connected by walkways surrounding a sacred pond called Katas, said to have been created by the tears of Lord Shiva in his grief over the death of his wife, Sati.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Lahore

Our journey today takes us to the impressive Rohtas Fort, a 16th-century fortress near the city of Jhelum, constructed during the reign of Sher Shah Suri. The fortress, with its massive defensive walls, was never captured by force and remains remarkably intact. It became a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1997. After exploring the fort, we’ll visit the Mausoleum of Jahangir, built for the Mughal Emperor Jahangir in 1637. The mausoleum is located along the Ravi River and is known for its intricate frescoes and stunning architecture. We will also stop at the iconic Badshahi Mosque, built by Emperor Aurangzeb in 1671. It is the fifth-largest mosque in the world, capable of hosting over 55,000 worshippers. In the evening, we will witness the Wagah Border ceremony, an extraordinary daily event at the India-Pakistan border that is full of patriotic pomp and military precision.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Lahore

Our day begins with a visit to the breathtaking Shalamar Gardens, a stunning example of Mughal garden design. Constructed under Emperor Shah Jahan in 1641, the gardens are a UNESCO World Heritage site and were intended to represent a Persian Paradise garden. The serene setting, with its flowing water and lush greenery, is a peaceful contrast to the bustling city of Lahore. After our garden tour, we will visit the Lahore National Museum, home to an impressive collection of artefacts. The museum showcases Buddhist art from the Gandhara Kingdom, Indo-Greek relics, and pieces from the Mughal and Sikh Empires. The extensive collection is a fascinating window into the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Lahore - Departure

After three weeks of breathtaking sights and rich cultural experiences, it’s time for your departure. We will arrange your transfer to the airport, but if you would like to extend your stay, extra nights can be arranged. We will also provide all necessary visa support documents to assist with your visa application. Please note that the weight limit for the internal flight is 20kg, so plan your packing accordingly. Safe travels, and we hope you leave with fond memories of your time in Pakistan.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch