Discover the breathtaking beauty of Hunza and Skardu on a 12-day journey through majestic mountains, crystal-clear lakes, historic forts, beautiful valleys, and the famous Karakoram Highway. From the 700-year-old Baltit Fort perched above Karimabad to the turquoise waters of Attabad Lake, from the world’s second-highest plateau at Deosai to the emerald Shangrila Lake this tour takes you to the heart of Pakistan’s most spectacular landscapes. Travel along the legendary Karakoram Highway, cross the highest paved border in the world at Khunjerab Pass, and experience the rich culture and warm hospitality of Gilgit-Baltistan. Whether you are a photographer, culture enthusiast, or adventure traveler, this unforgettable journey through the Karakoram, Himalaya, and Hindukush ranges will leave you speechless.
There is a moment on the Karakoram Highway when the road curves, the valley opens, and Rakaposhi 7,788 meters of mountain fills the entire sky above terraced apricot orchards and ancient stone forts. No photograph prepares you for it. No description does it justice.
This is what awaits you on our 12-day Hunza and Skardu Valley Tour a journey through the most spectacular mountain landscapes on earth. Nestled in Gilgit-Baltistan, where the Karakoram, Hindu Kush, and Pamir mountain ranges converge, Hunza and Skardu offer an unparalleled blend of natural grandeur, ancient history, and warm hospitality.
Hunza Valley Pakistan’s most photographed northern valley is home to the legendary Baltit Fort (700+ years old), the older Altit Fort (1,100+ years), the surreal turquoise waters of Attabad Lake, and the iconic Passu Cones that rise like granite spires against the sky. It is a place where 7,000-meter peaks Rakaposhi, Ultar Sar, Ladyfinger tower over villages where people have lived for centuries.
Skardu Valley the gateway to K2 and the breathtaking Deosai Plains (the world’s second-highest plateau at 4,114 meters) offers a different kind of magic. Here you will find the emerald Shangrila Lake (Lower Kachura), the mysterious Katpana Cold Desert the world’s second-highest cold desert with sand dunes at 2,226 meters surrounded by snow peaks Shigar Fort, Kharpocho Fort, and the serene Satpara Lake.
Travel along the legendary Karakoram Highway (KKH) one of the highest paved roads in the world and the main artery connecting Pakistan to China. This 800-kilometer engineering marvel, carved through the world’s greatest mountain ranges, offers a road trip experience that rivals any in Asia.
From the Khunjerab Pass the highest paved international border crossing in the world at 4,693 meters to the wildflower-covered Deosai Plains, from ancient Silk Route forts to turquoise alpine lakes, this tour delivers the ultimate Karakoram experience.
Depart early from Islamabad and travel along the Karakoram Highway to Besham via the Thakot Motorway. After a short break, resume the drive along the mighty Indus River, making photo stops at Shatial Rocks with their ancient graffiti. Arrive in Chilas for an overnight stay
Cross the Indus River at Raikot Bridge, with spectacular views of Nanga Parbat (the “Killer Mountain”) along the way. Stop at the famous viewpoint where you can see all three mountain ranges—Karakoram, Himalaya, and Hindukush—converge, including the confluence of the Gilgit River into the Indus. Continue to Gilgit and then ascend to Karimabad, the historic capital of Hunza.
Spend a full day exploring the cultural heart of Hunza. Visit the iconic Baltit Fort—the 700-year-old residence of the Mir of Hunza, perched on a ridge above Karimabad with panoramic valley views. Explore the older Altit Fort (1,100+ years), dramatically positioned on a cliff above the Hunza River. Wander through Karimabad Bazaar, famous for Hunza dry fruit, embroidered caps, gemstones, and walnut cake at Cafe de Hunza. End the day at Eagle’s Nest Viewpoint (Duikar) for a breathtaking sunset over Rakaposhi, Ultar, and Ladyfinger peaks.
Journey north through Upper Hunza (Gojal Valley), crossing the villages of Gulmit and Passu. Witness the dramatic Passu Cones one of the most photographed mountain skylines in Pakistan. Reach the Khunjerab Pass at 4,693 meters the highest paved international border crossing in the world, connecting Pakistan and China. Return to Karimabad for the night.
After breakfast, visit the Hopper Glacier in the Nagar Valley one of the few glaciers in the Karakoram you can drive to the snout of. Then travel toward Skardu, with stops at the Nanga Parbat viewpoint and the confluence of the three great mountain ranges. Arrive in Skardu and check into your hotel.
Venture to the Deosai National Park the world’s second-highest plateau at over 4,000 meters, often called the “Land of Giants”. Stop briefly at Satpara Lake before the steady climb to the plateau. Explore this vast wilderness of wildflowers, alpine lakes (Sheosar Lake), and roaming Himalayan brown bears. Return to Skardu in the evening.
Explore the Shigar Valley, a striking contrast of greenery and desert home to the famous Cold Desert (Katpana). Visit Shigar Fort (Fong Khar) a beautifully restored fort that is part history, part community project. Continue to the Khaplu Valley to visit the magnificent Khaplu Palace. Return to Skardu for the night.
Discover the jewels of Skardu. Visit Shangrila Lake (Lower Kachura) an emerald lake ringed by pines with the iconic red-roofed resort reflecting in its crystal-clear waters. Trek 15 minutes to Upper Kachura Lake a hidden gem of unpolished beauty. Explore the Katpana Cold Desert sand dunes at 2,200 meters with snow peaks behind them. End the day at Kharpocho Fort, perched on a rocky hilltop above Skardu city, offering the best overview of the valley and the Indus River.
Enjoy a free day to relax or choose optional excursions: white-water rafting on the Indus, paragliding over Skardu Valley, or exploring the Manthokha Waterfall (180 feet high).
Begin the return journey, traveling from Skardu back toward Chilas. Enjoy the changing landscapes as you descend from the high mountains.
Continue along the Karakoram Highway, with scenic stops along the way. Arrive in Islamabad for an overnight stay.
After breakfast, transfer to Islamabad International Airport for your departure flight or extend your stay to explore Pakistan’s capital.
Be the first to review “Hunza and Skardu Valley Tour – 12 Days”