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Pakistan

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Group / Max 12

21 days

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Group Tour

Pakistan Karakoram Highway Expedition

Islamabad to Lahore – 20 days

Expedition Overview

The Pakistan Karakoram Highway Expedition is an extraordinary 20-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 most remarkable and highest paved roads—connecting Pakistan to China and serving as a vital international route for trade, travel, and cultural exchange. The journey passes through remote valleys, ancient villages, and breathtaking mountain scenery with stunning views. 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 and opportunities for cultural exchange 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, and is a unique opportunity for cultural exchange through festival celebrations and interactions.

KARAKORAM HIGHWAY & GLACIER LANDSCAPES: Travel the legendary Karakoram Highway, one of the world's highest paved 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 stunning 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.

DAY 1

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 2

Passu

Continue your drive along the legendary Karakoram Highway. The route passes through dramatic mountains, valleys, and glacier-fed rivers like the Hunza River. Along the way, you’ll see the impressive Batura Glacier, a notable natural feature renowned for its vast size and stunning vistas. Stop at the famous Passu Cones, with their sharp, pointed peaks perfect for photos, surrounded by breathtaking snow-capped peaks. Nearby, the Passu Glacier displays its jagged ice formations, offering another spectacular view for adventurers. 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 massive landslide, enjoy a peaceful boat ride before dinner.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 3

Tarishing

After breakfast, leave Gilgit and drive into the Astore Valley, trading the Karakoram Highway for quieter mountain roads lined with pine forests and rushing streams. Stop along the way for photos and a simple roadside tea, then continue towards Tarashing, a peaceful village set against high ridgelines and wide meadows. After lunch, take an easy acclimatisation walk through the valley to stretch your legs and get your first feel for the Nanga Parbat region. Settle in for an early dinner and a calm night under clear mountain skies.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Hotel Options:
Resort

Rupal Hotel & Resort

Rupal Hotel & Resort in Tarishing is a simple mountain lodge-style stay set beneath the towering south face of Nanga Parbat in Pakistan’s Diamer region. It’s valued for its location and views rather than hotel frills, making a practical base for trekkers, photographers and travellers heading towards the Rupal Valley trails. Expect straightforward rooms, hearty local meals, and a calm, high-altitude atmosphere. Evenings are quiet, with clear skies on good nights and an unmistakable sense of being

Resort

DAY 4

Tarashing

Spend the day on a rewarding walk towards the Rupal-facing side of Nanga Parbat (conditions permitting). The trail climbs steadily through meadows and scattered woodland, opening to big views of hanging glaciers and the immense south wall when the weather is clear. Your guide sets a comfortable pace with plenty of stops for photos and breathers. Enjoy a packed picnic lunch in a scenic spot, then return to Tarashing in the afternoon for a hot drink and time to rest.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Hotel Options:
Resort

Rupal Hotel & Resort

Rupal Hotel & Resort in Tarishing is a simple mountain lodge-style stay set beneath the towering south face of Nanga Parbat in Pakistan’s Diamer region. It’s valued for its location and views rather than hotel frills, making a practical base for trekkers, photographers and travellers heading towards the Rupal Valley trails. Expect straightforward rooms, hearty local meals, and a calm, high-altitude atmosphere. Evenings are quiet, with clear skies on good nights and an unmistakable sense of being

Resort

DAY 5

Lahore

After an early breakfast, drive south towards the Salt Range. Stop at Khewra Salt Mines, the oldest and largest salt mine in Pakistan, for a guided visit inside the colourful crystal tunnels and key chambers (including the mosque and display areas). After lunch nearby, continue onwards to Lahore, arriving by evening for check-in and dinner.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 6

Lahore

A full day to experience Lahore’s Mughal and colonial grandeur. Begin at the Lahore Fort and Badshahi Mosque, two of the city’s most important landmarks. Walk through parts of the old walled city with your guide, learning the stories behind its gates, lanes, and lively markets. After lunch, visit Shalimar Gardens (time permitting) for a calmer side of Lahore. In the late afternoon, attend the Wagah Border ceremony for a unique, high-energy spectacle. Return for dinner and a final night in the city.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Hotel Options:
Resort

Pearl Continental Hotel Lahore

Pearl Continental Hotel Lahore is a five-star city hotel on The Mall, well placed for museums, gardens and the Walled City. It offers 607 rooms and suites, several restaurants and cafés, and strong business facilities including meeting rooms and banqueting halls. Guests can also use the gym, spa and swimming pool, making it a dependable base for work or sightseeing.

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Resort
Modern

DAY 7

Lahore

Enjoy breakfast and a free morning depending on your flight time. If there’s time, fit in last-minute shopping for spices, shawls, or handicrafts, or simply relax at the hotel. Transfer to Allama Iqbal International Airport for your onward flight.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Hotel Options:
Resort

Pearl Continental Hotel Lahore

Pearl Continental Hotel Lahore is a five-star city hotel on The Mall, well placed for museums, gardens and the Walled City. It offers 607 rooms and suites, several restaurants and cafés, and strong business facilities including meeting rooms and banqueting halls. Guests can also use the gym, spa and swimming pool, making it a dependable base for work or sightseeing.

READ MORE
Resort
Modern

DAY 8

Lahore - Departure

After three amazing weeks, your Karakoram adventure comes to an end. We arrange your airport transfer to ensure a smooth journey home, with Islamabad International Airport serving as the main transit point for your departure. 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. For further information on border crossings or travel logistics, please contact us.

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, which lie within the majestic Karakoram mountain range, 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. The Karakoram Highway, also known as the China-Pakistan Friendship Highway, stands as a symbol of diplomatic ties and engineering achievement, connecting the two countries through some of the world’s most stunning scenery.

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.


What to Expect

JOURNEY STYLE: Expect a true north-to-south traverse of Pakistan: remote valleys, big mountain roads and a rich spread of cultures from Kalash to Hunza, Baltistan and Lahore. Distances are long and days can start early, but the scenery rewards every kilometre, and lively bazaar evenings.

ALTITUDE & CLIMATE: Altitude builds gradually, with high points at Shandur Pass and Khunjerab Pass, plus time on the Deosai Plateau. Some walks are optional, but you should be comfortable on uneven ground and ready for cool nights, strong sun, and weather changes.

SMALL GROUP & GUIDES: This is a small-group journey led by expert local guides, with careful pacing, regular stops, and flexibility for mountain conditions. Flights (such as Gilgit/Skardu–Islamabad) and key road sections can be weather-dependent, so plans may adapt.

HOTELS & COMFORT: Accommodation is chosen for comfort and character, using Serena hotels where available, alongside well-run local guesthouses. Expect hearty regional meals, warm hospitality, and respectful visiting customs in villages, mosques and festival settings.
 


What's Included

  • Accommodation: Twin/double rooms on a sharing basis. Single room available with a supplement, subject to availability.
  • Domestic flights: Gilgit–Islamabad flight. Baggage allowance 25 kg (airline limits apply).
  • Meals: As specified day-by-day (B/L/D). Breakfast is included on most itineraries unless stated otherwise.
  • Transport: All ground transport as listed in the itinerary (e.g., minibus, 4×4 Land Cruiser), including road tolls and parking.
  • Included visits & activities: All activities and entrance fees explicitly named as included in the day-by-day programme.
  • Guiding: Experienced tour leader plus specialist local guides where required.
  • Trek support: Trekking crew, porterage, camping kit and logistics where applicable.
  • Permits & fees: All trekking permits for the K2 region and campsite fees.
  • Crew costs: Porter and guide support where trekking is involved, including porter/guide meals, wages and insurance.
  • Transfers: Group airport transfers aligned to the group flight timings or a defined arrival/departure window.
  • Safety & operations: Safety planning, vetted suppliers and 24/7 on-tour support.
  • Financial protection: Your money is protected through our Protected Trust Services (PTS) Trust Account (No. 5846). Flight-inclusive packages are ATOL protected (ATOL No. 12209).

What's Not Included

  • International flights: We can arrange your international flights. In most cases, you won’t need to pay for flights until your tour is confirmed. If a specific fare requires earlier ticketing, we’ll let you know in advance. 
  • Domestic flights: Most of our tours include domestic flights, as listed above under “What’s included”. Any additional flights beyond those specified will be charged separately. Please note that domestic baggage allowances are usually lower than on international routes.
  • Visas & formalities: Visas, permits and border fees not explicitly listed as included.
  • Travel insurance: Mandatory for adventure trips.
  • Health requirements: Vaccinations, health tests and any required medical screening.
  • Optional extras: Optional activities or excursions not listed as included.
  • Additional meals & drinks: Any meals/drinks not stated in the itinerary, including bottled water and alcohol outside included meals.
  • Personal expenses: Laundry, minibar, phone calls, spa treatments, souvenirs and similar items.
  • Tips: Gratuities for the tour leader, local guides, drivers, trekking crew and hotel staff.
  • Baggage & airline changes: Excess baggage charges and costs arising from airline changes not caused by the operator.
  • Hotel porterage: Unless specifically stated as included.
  • Equipment hire: Any equipment rental not explicitly included (e.g., sleeping bags, trekking poles).
     
hotels tab
Epic K2 Concordia Expedition
EPIC K2 CONCORDIA EXPEDITION

A 20-day Karakoram trekking holiday following the Baltoro Glacier to Concordia, the meeting point of the region’s greatest peaks: K2, Broad Peak and the Gasherbrums. Walk past Trango Towers and vast granite walls, camp under clear skies, and travel with Asian Geographical expert guides and a professional local crew.

Interest

Hiking/Trekking, Off Grid

Destination

Pakistan

Tour Style

GROUP

Duration

20 days

Price For Person

From £3,700

Valid on

Jun 27 2026

Karakoram Highlands Expedition
KARAKORAM HIGHLANDS EXPEDITION

Experience Northern Pakistan on a group expedition through the Karakoram Highlands. With scenic drives, glacier walks, and soft trekking to Fairy Meadows and Biyal Camp, explore Hunza’s forts, alpine lakes, and local culture. This guided tour blends adventure and heritage across some of the world’s most spectacular mountain landscapes.

Interest

36,41

Destination

Pakistan

Tour Style

GROUP

Duration

14 days

Northern Pakistan Heritage Expedition
NORTHERN PAKISTAN HERITAGE EXPEDITION

Travel through Northern Pakistan on a group tour combining mountain landscapes, cultural encounters, and historic sites. These trips are a great way to make new friends and share memorable experiences with fellow travelers. From the forts of Hunza to the Kalasha Valleys and Peshawar’s old city, this journey offers an authentic look into the region’s heritage, scenery, and remote traditions — with expert guidance and comfortable stays throughout.

Interest

36,72

Destination

Pakistan

Tour Style

GROUP

Duration

14 days

Pakistan Kalash and Highlands
PAKISTAN KALASH AND HIGHLANDS

This tour showcases Pakistan's breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage, from the vibrant capital of Islamabad to the majestic mountains of Hunza and Kalash tribes. Explore ancient forts, experience the Kalash Spring Festival, and conclude with Lahore's Mughal architecture and the unforgettable Wagh Border ceremony. A truly immersive adventure.

Interest

92,72

Destination

Pakistan

Tour Style

PRIVATE

Duration

14 days

Pakistan Mountain Kingdoms
PAKISTAN MOUNTAIN KINGDOMS

This tour takes you through Pakistan's stunning landscapes, from Islamabad's modern capital to the Hunza Valley and Kalash tribes, showcasing breathtaking mountain passes and ancient forts. The journey ends in Lahore, with a chance to explore Mughal architecture and witness the vibrant Wagah border ceremony. A truly unforgettable experience!

Interest

92,72

Destination

Pakistan

Tour Style

PRIVATE

Duration

16 days

Pakistan Rush Lake Trek with Hunza
PAKISTAN RUSH LAKE TREK WITH HUNZA

Small-group, expert-led and packed into 12 days, this trek pairs Hunza’s culture with high Karakoram scenery. Explore Karimabad and Baltit Fort, then walk from Hoper in Nagar through terraces and moraine to turquoise Rush Lake. Spend crisp nights at camp and, if you’re feeling strong, take the optional non-technical climb to Rush Peak for vast mountain views.

Interest

36,82

Destination

Pakistan

Tour Style

GROUP

Duration

13 days

Pakistan Sufi Heritage Trail
PAKISTAN SUFI HERITAGE TRAIL

This 10-day Pakistan Sufi Heritage Trail explores UNESCO sites, showcasing ancient ruins of the Indus Valley Civilisation, Mughal architecture and Sufi traditions. Our Pakistan holidays include cultural, adventure, and spiritual journeys, each offering unique experiences across the country. On this Pakistan holiday you will experience Pakistan’s Sufi culture and monuments in a way you have never seen before.

Interest

94,72

Destination

Pakistan

Tour Style

GROUP

Duration

10 days

Grid View

List View

PAKISTAN KALASH AND HIGHLANDS
Pakistan

This tour showcases Pakistan's breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage, from the vibrant capital of Islamabad to the majestic mountains of Hunza and Kalash tribes. Explore ancient forts, experience the Kalash Spring Festival, and conclude with Lahore's Mughal architecture and the unforgettable Wagh Border ceremony. A truly immersive adventure.

Interest

People & Culture, AONB

Destination

Pakistan

Tour Style

PRIVATE

Duration

14 days

Tailor-made

14 days

Without Flights
Duration

14 days

PAKISTAN MOUNTAIN KINGDOMS
Pakistan

This tour takes you through Pakistan's stunning landscapes, from Islamabad's modern capital to the Hunza Valley and Kalash tribes, showcasing breathtaking mountain passes and ancient forts. The journey ends in Lahore, with a chance to explore Mughal architecture and witness the vibrant Wagah border ceremony. A truly unforgettable experience!

Interest

People & Culture, AONB

Destination

Pakistan

Tour Style

PRIVATE

Duration

16 days

Tailor-made

16 days

Without Flights
Duration

16 days

Grid View

List View

EPIC K2 CONCORDIA EXPEDITION
Pakistan

A 20-day Karakoram trekking holiday following the Baltoro Glacier to Concordia, the meeting point of the region’s greatest peaks: K2, Broad Peak and the Gasherbrums. Walk past Trango Towers and vast granite walls, camp under clear skies, and travel with Asian Geographical expert guides and a professional local crew.

Interest

Hiking/Trekking, Off Grid

Destination

Pakistan

Tour Style

GROUP

Duration

20 days

Price For Person

From £3,700

Valid on

Jun 27 2026

Guided Group

20 days from

£3,700

Without Flights
Duration

20 days

Price For Person

From £3,700

Valid on

Jun 27 2026

KARAKORAM HIGHLANDS EXPEDITION
Pakistan

Experience Northern Pakistan on a group expedition through the Karakoram Highlands. With scenic drives, glacier walks, and soft trekking to Fairy Meadows and Biyal Camp, explore Hunza’s forts, alpine lakes, and local culture. This guided tour blends adventure and heritage across some of the world’s most spectacular mountain landscapes.

Interest

Hiking/Trekking, Nature & Wildlife

Destination

Pakistan

Tour Style

GROUP

Duration

14 days

Guided Group

14 days

Without Flights
Duration

14 days

NORTHERN PAKISTAN HERITAGE EXPEDITION
Pakistan

Travel through Northern Pakistan on a group tour combining mountain landscapes, cultural encounters, and historic sites. These trips are a great way to make new friends and share memorable experiences with fellow travelers. From the forts of Hunza to the Kalasha Valleys and Peshawar’s old city, this journey offers an authentic look into the region’s heritage, scenery, and remote traditions — with expert guidance and comfortable stays throughout.

Interest

Hiking/Trekking, People & Culture

Destination

Pakistan

Tour Style

GROUP

Duration

14 days

Guided Group

14 days

Without Flights
Duration

14 days

PAKISTAN RUSH LAKE TREK WITH HUNZA
Pakistan

Small-group, expert-led and packed into 12 days, this trek pairs Hunza’s culture with high Karakoram scenery. Explore Karimabad and Baltit Fort, then walk from Hoper in Nagar through terraces and moraine to turquoise Rush Lake. Spend crisp nights at camp and, if you’re feeling strong, take the optional non-technical climb to Rush Peak for vast mountain views.

Interest

Hiking/Trekking, Off Grid

Destination

Pakistan

Tour Style

GROUP

Duration

13 days

Guided Group

13 days

Without Flights
Duration

13 days

PAKISTAN SUFI HERITAGE TRAIL
Pakistan

This 10-day Pakistan Sufi Heritage Trail explores UNESCO sites, showcasing ancient ruins of the Indus Valley Civilisation, Mughal architecture and Sufi traditions. Our Pakistan holidays include cultural, adventure, and spiritual journeys, each offering unique experiences across the country. On this Pakistan holiday you will experience Pakistan’s Sufi culture and monuments in a way you have never seen before.

Interest

People & Culture, History & Archaeology

Destination

Pakistan

Tour Style

GROUP

Duration

10 days

Guided Group

10 days

Without Flights
Duration

10 days

Similar ITINERARIES

Why Travel with Asian Geographical

Small Groups

Your entire holiday is designed around your personal preferences

Travel at your own pace with full itinerary flexibility

Choose from handpicked, luxury hotels & resorts across Asia

Enjoy seamless logistics, private transfers, and 24/7 assistance

Expert Knowledge

Our package holiday team has decades of experience in luxury Asia travel

Receive first-hand advice from specialists who know each destination intimately

Gain access to hidden gems and authentic local experiences

Sustainable Travel

Our aim is to stay committed to responsible travel in Asia

We partner with eco-conscious providers

Itineraries include experiences that preserve Asia’s cultural and natural heritage

PROTECTED SERVICES

Travel with complete confidence under full ATOL protection

Fully bonded and financially protected for your peace of mind

Established in 2014

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