21 days

Trip Type

Guided Groups

Destinations

Pakistan

Group Size

Group / Max 16

Reserve Online Or Call 0208 350 6199
Reserve Online Or Call 0208 350 6199

Group Tour

Pakistan Karakoram Highway Expedition

Islamabad to Lahore – 21 days

Expedition Overview

The Pakistan Karakoram Highway Expedition is an extraordinary 21-day group journey through some of Asia’s most awe-inspiring landscapes. Starting in Islamabad and ending in Lahore, this route follows the legendary Karakoram Highway—one of the world’s highest paved roads—through remote valleys, ancient villages, and breathtaking mountain scenery. Highlights include the vibrant Kalash festival, the glaciers of Hoper Valley, the high-altitude plains of Deosai, and the dramatic Nanga Parbat Base Camp. Cultural encounters blend with natural wonders, offering a deeply immersive experience.

Along the way, explore Silk Road heritage in Hunza, walk across suspension bridges, spot wildlife in national parks, and stay in royal forts and village guesthouses. From gold panners and yak herders to colonial-era relics and Mughal marvels, every day reveals a new side of Pakistan. Designed for adventurous travellers, this expedition is both enriching and unforgettable—perfect for those seeking cultural depth, natural beauty, and group camaraderie on the road less travelled.

Highlights

KALASH VALLEY CULTURE & CHILAM JOSHI FESTIVAL: Experience the vibrant traditions of the Kalash people during the Chilam Joshi Festival. Watch traditional dances, colourful attire, and festive rituals in remote mountain villages. This cultural highlight offers a rare glimpse into one of Pakistan’s oldest and most fascinating ethnic groups along the Karakoram Highway route.

KARAKORAM HIGHWAY & GLACIER LANDSCAPES: Travel the legendary Karakoram Highway, one of the world’s highest roads. Marvel at towering peaks, deep valleys, and ancient glaciers including the dramatic Hoper Glacier. Stop at the Passu Cones, Rakaposhi Viewpoint, and Attabad Lake for iconic photography and unforgettable views throughout this epic Pakistan expedition.

NANGA PARBAT BASE CAMP & TARISHING VILLAGE : Trek or drive to the base of Nanga Parbat, Pakistan’s formidable “Killer Mountain.” Stay in the remote village of Tarishing, nestled along the Rupal River. The route includes stunning Himalayan scenery, glacial streams, and a deep sense of wilderness—perfect for adventurers on this group expedition.

DEOSAI NATIONAL PARK & SHIGAR FORT STAY: Cross the high-altitude plains of Deosai National Park, known as the “Roof of the World.” Spot wildlife like marmots and, if lucky, Himalayan brown bears. End the day in royal comfort with a heritage stay at Shigar Fort, a beautifully restored 17th-century palace in Baltistan.

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Why Asian Geographical?

The difference with the Asian Geographical is, that each of our holidays is designed with extreme precision of a mountaineering expedition.

Itinerary

Tour Style

Guided Groups

Activity Level

Moderate-Strenuous

Service Level

Premium

This 21-day group expedition travels the full length of Pakistan’s legendary Karakoram Highway. Explore glacier valleys, mountain villages, and Silk Road forts while experiencing rich cultures from Kalash tribes to Mughal Lahore. With dramatic landscapes and authentic encounters, it’s the ultimate adventure through Pakistan’s wild and historic north.

DAY 1

Islamabad

Arrive in Islamabad and enjoy a warm welcome with lunch. Begin your tour at the striking Faisal Mosque, a modern icon of Islamic design. Continue to the Pakistan Monument and Museum to learn about the country’s rich history. At the Heritage Museum, see local artisans at work and browse handmade crafts. After the tour, return to Sayed Par Village for an early dinner in peaceful surroundings. This is your time to relax and recover from your journey before your adventure truly begins.

Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner

DAY 2

Chitral

Start the day with breakfast before setting off for Chitral through the scenic Hindu Kush Mountains. Drive past Chakdarra and cross the famous Lowari Pass, once used by Winston Churchill. Along the way, stop to watch an exciting polo match, a favourite sport of the region. Have lunch in Dir, a mountain town with beautiful views. The full drive takes 7 to 8 hours and offers stunning sights of rivers, valleys, and villages. Arrive in Chitral by late afternoon.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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Chitral
DAY 3

Kalash

Travel into the remote Rumbor Valley to meet the Kalash people. Your guide, Yashill, will introduce their fascinating way of life. Enjoy a traditional lunch in the village. Spend time observing the early preparations for the Kalash festival. Their customs, colourful clothing, and friendly community offer a rare look into one of Pakistan’s oldest cultures. Learn about their music, beliefs, and stories. It’s an experience that gives real insight into a unique world.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 4

Kalash

Enjoy the Chilam Joshi Festival, celebrated in May to welcome spring. Watch as men and women in traditional dress gather to dance, sing, and play drums. The day includes prayers, milk offerings, and blessings for crops and animals. It’s also a time for young people to meet and form connections. Take part in the joyful atmosphere with music, feasting, and community celebration. This is a special opportunity to witness a vibrant cultural tradition still alive today.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 5

Chitral

Begin the day at the Kalash Tribal Museum, learning more about Kalash culture and history. If possible, visit a nearby school to meet teachers and students. Next, see the Karkal cemetery, where wooden coffins are placed above ground—an ancient practice still observed today. After lunch, return to Chitral. Meet a local hat maker and watch the traditional craft of Chitrali cap making. Before dinner, drive into the nearby mountains and look for the rare Markhor, Pakistan’s national animal.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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Chitral
DAY 6

Gupis

Today’s drive takes you over the famous Shandur Pass, also known as the “Roof of the World.” At 3,700 metres, it is home to the world’s highest polo field. The journey offers amazing views of the surrounding peaks and valleys, with plenty of chances for photo stops. By evening, arrive in Gupis, a scenic town along the Gilgit River. Dinner includes fresh River Trout, a delicious local speciality, ending your day with a taste of the region.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 7

Gilgit

Travel along the Karakoram Highway, known as one of the most beautiful roads in the world. Stop to see where the Karakoram, Hindu Kush, and Himalayan ranges meet. Continue along the Gilgit River and arrive in Gilgit. Visit the British Cemetery to learn about the region’s colonial past. Enjoy lunch at the peaceful Serena Hotel with lovely mountain views. In the evening, have a home-cooked dinner at Eshan’s family home, prepared using fresh local ingredients.

Meals Included: Breakfast

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Gilgit
DAY 8

Passu

Continue your drive along the legendary Karakoram Highway. The route passes through dramatic mountains, valleys, and glacier-fed rivers. Stop at the famous Passu Cones, with their sharp, pointed peaks perfect for photos. Take a tea break while enjoying the view. See ancient petroglyphs carved into rocks, showing signs of early Silk Road travellers. Enjoy lunch at the Rakaposhi Viewpoint, looking out to the 7,788m peak. At Attabad Lake, formed by a landslide, enjoy a peaceful boat ride before dinner.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 9

Karimabad

Drive to Khunjerab Pass, the highest international border crossing in the world at 4,693 metres. Pass through Khunjerab National Park, home to wild yaks, ibex, and marmots. Stop in Sost, the last town before the Chinese border, for lunch. On your way to Karimabad, visit Borit Salt Lake and cross a suspension bridge with breathtaking views. Arrive in Karimabad, the cultural heart of Hunza Valley, known for its hospitality, history, and stunning natural surroundings.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 10

Karimabad

Spend the day exploring Hunza’s royal heritage. Visit Baltit Fort, a 700-year-old palace high above the valley. Learn about the history of the rulers and how people lived in the mountains. Later, see Altit Fort and its 1,100-year-old Shikari Tower, once guarding Silk Road traders. In the afternoon, head to Eagle’s Nest, a famous viewpoint. Watch the sun set over the Karakoram peaks, possibly catching a glimpse of Needle Peak. Enjoy a traditional Hunza dinner at the hotel.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 11

Gilgit

Today, drive to the beautiful Hoper Valley, home to the Mohaan people who still pan for gold in mountain streams. Take a short walk to see the impressive Hoper Glacier with the towering Karakoram peaks behind it. For those who want, a glacier trek is possible. Enjoy a peaceful lunch surrounded by the valley’s natural beauty. In the afternoon, visit Ganash, an ancient Silk Road village with narrow alleys, Buddhist relics, and old stone houses. Return to Gilgit for a relaxing evening and dinner at a colonial-style hotel.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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Gilgit
DAY 12

Tarishing

Travel to Tarishing, a remote Himalayan village with just 200 residents. The village lies beside the Rupal River and is surrounded by towering snowy peaks. Walk through narrow paths lined with wooden houses, golden wheat fields, and grazing yaks. This peaceful highland retreat is a quiet place to enjoy the fresh air and mountain views. Settle in and prepare for tomorrow’s journey to the famous Nanga Parbat Base Camp.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 13

Nanga Parbat Base Camp

Start your trek or drive towards Nanga Parbat Base Camp, one of the world’s most spectacular mountain spots. Cross dramatic landscapes filled with glaciers, wildflowers, and snowy peaks. Pass small villages where locals live simple mountain lives. At the base camp, enjoy incredible views of Nanga Parbat’s icy cliffs and glaciers. Have a picnic lunch in the midst of untouched wilderness. Return to the guesthouse in the afternoon to relax after a truly memorable day.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 14

Deosai National Park

Drive into Deosai National Park, known as the second-highest plateau in the world. At 4,114 metres, the vast grasslands stretch for miles, with clear skies and mountain views. Travel through flower-filled meadows, cold streams, and alpine lakes. Stop for tea and take photos in this remote, beautiful setting. Watch for marmots and, if lucky, spot the rare Himalayan Brown Bear. After a full day in the wild, reach your hotel for a well-earned rest.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 15

Shigar Fort

Today’s drive takes you through the dramatic Sarfaranga Cold Desert, where golden sand dunes rise against snowy mountains. Arrive at Shigar Fort, a 17th-century palace that has been restored into a lovely heritage hotel. Explore the fort’s carved wooden interiors and historic rooms. From the gardens, enjoy views of the surrounding valley. This peaceful place is perfect for reflecting on your adventure through Pakistan’s remote mountains.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 16

Gilgit

Drive back to Gilgit through winding mountain roads and high passes. The day is filled with scenic views of deep valleys and dramatic peaks. Stop in a remote village for lunch and meet local people whose traditional way of life has changed little over the years. Continue the journey through the Karakoram’s rugged terrain and arrive in Gilgit by late afternoon. Check in and enjoy a relaxing evening over dinner.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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Gilgit
DAY 17

Taxila

Fly from Gilgit to Islamabad, then drive to Taxila, an ancient city once known for Buddhist learning and trade. Explore the Taxila Museum, filled with carved stone sculptures and relics from the Indo-Greek and Persian eras. Visit a workshop where Pakistan’s colourful trucks are painted by hand—each one a rolling piece of art. If time allows, stop at Rawalpindi’s historic railway station, a colonial building from 1881.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 18

Khewra Salt Mines

Visit the famous Khewra Salt Mines, the second-largest in the world. Walk through underground salt chambers, see a mosque made entirely from salt, and learn how the mine is used to treat breathing problems. Later, explore the Katas Raj Temples, a sacred site for Hindus built around a holy pond. These temples are more than 1,500 years old and full of legends and spiritual stories.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 19

Lahore

Travel to Rohtas Fort, built in the 1500s by Sher Shah Suri. This massive fortress shows clever military design with giant walls and gates. Later, visit Emperor Jahangir’s Mausoleum, known for its beautiful Mughal decorations. Continue to the grand Badshahi Mosque, one of the world’s largest, with its striking red sandstone and marble. End the day at the Wagah Border to watch the flag-lowering ceremony, a patriotic event between India and Pakistan.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

DAY 20

Lahore

Begin the day at Shalamar Gardens, built by Emperor Shah Jahan. These Mughal gardens are peaceful, with flowing water and trees. Visit the Lahore Museum, full of ancient sculptures, coins, and artworks from different periods in history. Spend your last day walking through the old streets of Lahore. Enjoy the sounds, sights, and flavours of this vibrant city, full of colour and culture.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 21

Lahore - Departure

After three amazing weeks, your Karakoram adventure comes to an end. We arrange your airport transfer to ensure a smooth journey home. If you’re staying longer, we can help plan the extra days. As you fly out, you carry memories of snowy peaks, ancient cities, and unforgettable cultural moments.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

The story

The Karakoram Highway Expedition was born from a deep respect for Asia’s untouched landscapes, ancient cultures, and diverse wildlife. Exploring the rugged mountains of Gilgit-Baltistan, meeting remote communities, and seeing the fragile balance of nature and tradition made us realise the importance of responsible travel.

Inspired by the timeless Silk Road, the resilience of the Kalash people, and the breathtaking beauty of Deosai National Park, we designed this journey to celebrate Pakistan’s rich heritage and fragile ecosystems. Every aspect of this expedition reflects our commitment to conservation, sustainable tourism, and cultural preservation. From staying in eco-conscious lodges to supporting local artisans and wildlife protection efforts, this tour offers an authentic yet responsible way to experience Pakistan’s wonders. By joining the Karakoram Expedition, travellers experience the grandeur of the Karakoram while actively contributing to its preservation for future generations.

WHY BOOK PAKISTAN KARAKORAM HIGHWAY EXPEDITION WITH US?

EXPERTLY CURATED ITINERARY: 
Asian Geographical offers an unparalleled Karakoram Expedition, blending cultural immersion, breathtaking landscapes, and exclusive encounters with Indigenous communities for a truly authentic and meaningful travel experience

PASSION FOR CONSERVATION & CULTURE: 
We are committed to sustainable travel, supporting local communities, protecting endangered wildlife, and preserving Asia’s rich heritage, ensuring a positive impact on the places and people we visit.

EXCLUSIVE ACCESS & LOCAL EXPERTISE: 
Our deep regional connections provide exclusive access to cultural festivals, Indigenous tribes, and hidden gems that typical tours miss, guided by experts who share their profound knowledge of history, nature, and traditions.

LUXURY WITH ADVENTURE: 
Enjoy carefully selected accommodations ranging from boutique hotels to charming guesthouses, blending comfort with authenticity, while experiencing breathtaking landscapes, remote valleys, and vibrant cultures with the highest level of personalised service.
 

What's Included
  • Hotel transfers and airport transfers 
  • All accommodation (twin sharing room)  
  • All Means: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner 
  • English speaking experience Guide for the trip
  • All Museum, forts and national parks entrance fee 
  • All transportation including internal flights, mini bus
What's Not Included
  • International flights 
  • Cost of visa and insurance 
  • Any costs other than what is mentioned
  • Due to certain circumstances the itinerary may change
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Why travel with us

Tailored Luxury

Your entire holiday is designed around your personal preferences

Travel at your own pace with full itinerary flexibility

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We partner with eco-conscious providers

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