Cherry Blossom Tour: Islamabad to Hunza Tour
Passage to Pakistan's Cherry Blossom Hunza Tour Celebrate the arrival of spring in one of the most enchanting places on Earth—Hunza Valley.
About this journey
Passage to Pakistan’s Cherry Blossom Hunza Tour
Celebrate the arrival of spring in one of the most enchanting places on Earth—Hunza Valley. This 10-day tour is a vibrant and soul-stirring journey through Northern Pakistan, brought to you by PASSAGE TO PAKISTAN, during the magical cherry blossom season, when the rugged Karakoram landscapes burst into shades of pink, white, and crimson.
Every year, from late March to mid-April, Hunza transforms into a fairytale. Snow-capped peaks like Rakaposhi, Ultar Sar, and Ladyfinger provide a majestic backdrop to blooming apricot, peach, and cherry trees that line the ancient villages of Karimabad, Gulmit, and Altit.
Your adventure begins in Islamabad, followed by a scenic drive along the world-famous Karakoram Highway, with stops at breathtaking viewpoints, mountain villages, and historical landmarks. In Hunza, stroll through centuries-old stone alleys, visit the beautifully restored Baltit and Altit Forts, and enjoy panoramic hikes above the valley.
Experience the stunning serenity of Attabad Lake, formed by a natural landslide, and take a peaceful boat ride through its surreal blue waters. Discover the dramatic landscapes of Passu, the iconic Passu Cones, and the suspended Hussaini Hanging Bridge—a true test of courage.
Day by day
1Day 1: Arrival in Islamabad
Drive Time: Minimal (Airport to hotel)
Distance: ~30 km from Islamabad International Airport to central Islamabad
Altitude: ~540 m above sea level
Weather/Expected Temperature: Day ~18–24°C, Night ~10–14°C (comfortable spring weather)
Itinerary:
You will be welcomed at Islamabad International Airport and transferred to your hotel in the city. Take this day to rest after your journey, meet with the tour team for briefing about the next days’ road trip through Pakistan’s Northern Areas via the legendary Karakoram Highway. Enjoy a relaxed evening exploring local markets or dining at a recommended restaurant.
Night Stay: Islamabad
2Day 2: Islamabad to Chilas
Drive Time: ~10–12 hrs by road (breaks included)
Distance: ~460–480 km (via Hazara Motorway & KKH)
Altitude: ~1,265 m (Chilas)
Weather/Expected Temperature: Cooler as you ascend; likely daytime ~10–18°C, nights colder (check local forecasts closer to travel date)
Itinerary:
Depart early from Islamabad and head north via the Hazara Motorway, connecting to the Karakoram Highway. Enjoy views of mountain foothills and the Indus River valley. En route, observe constructions like the Diamer–Basha and Dasu dams rising against dramatic landscapes. Arrive in Chilas by late afternoon or evening, check in to your hotel, and rest up for the next day.
Night Stay: Chilas
3Day 3: Chilas to Hunza Valley (Karimabad/Gulmit)
Drive Time: ~7–9 hrs including stops
Distance: ~220–240 km (Chilas → Hunza via Gilgit)
Altitude: ~2,438 m (central Hunza valley)
Weather/Expected Temperature: Day ~5–15°C (cool to mild), nights below ~5°C (potential chill)
Itinerary:
Depart Chilas after breakfast and continue along the Karakoram Highway through spectacular mountainous terrain. On the way, stop at the symbolic junction where the three great mountain ranges — Hindukush, Himalayas and Karakoram — converge for photography and a stretch. Proceed to the Rakaposhi View Point to capture breathtaking views of Rakaposhi and nearby peaks. Arrive in Hunza in the late afternoon and check in to your guesthouse.
Night Stay: Hunza
4Day 4: Heritage and Views in Hunza
Drive Time: Short local drives only
Distance: Minimal local travel
Altitude: ~2,438 m (Hunza)
Weather/Expected Temperature: Cool mountain climate; days ~8–15°C, nights ~0–5°C
Itinerary:
Explore Hunza’s rich heritage. Experience a sunrise from Duikar Viewpoint — offering panoramic aerial views of the valley and peaks. Visit Baltit Fort and Altit Fort, showcasing history and culture atop scenic hilltops with views of vineyards and mountains. Enjoy local Hunza cuisine and interact with welcoming villagers to gain insight into their traditions and way of life.
Night Stay: Hunza
5Day 5: Gojal/Upper Hunza – Gulmit & Borith Lake
Drive Time: ~1–2 hrs (scenic local travel)
Distance: ~80–100 km round trip locally
Altitude: ~2,500–2,650 m in Gulmit and Borith Lake areas
Weather/Expected Temperature: Cool, potential winds around higher lakes; pack warm layers
Itinerary:
Depart for Gojal/Upper Hunza Valley to experience traditional mountain villages. Start with Old House Gulmit & Carpet Centre, then visit the famous Hussaini Suspension Bridge — an iconic yet photogenic crossing. Continue to Borith Lake, a serene high-altitude lake with spectacular mountain reflections. Return to Gulmit for the night.
Night Stay: Gulmit
6Day 6: Ondra Poyga Hike & Passu Exploration
Drive Time: Short transfers in morning and afternoon
Distance: ~local to Passu later ~30–40 km
Altitude: ~2,600 m (Upper Hunza)
Weather/Expected Temperature: Cool to cold at higher elevations; daytime ~5–12°C
Itinerary:
Begin early with a hike to the top of Ondra Poyga, offering expansive aerial views of Hunza’s rugged peaks and valleys. Explore Ondra Fort and Kamari’s Village, then either hike back or return by vehicle. Later in the day, drive toward Passu Village, exploring the village and stunning views of Passu Cones and nearby glaciers.
Night Stay: Gulmit
7Day 7: Hunza to Besham (via Chilas)
Drive Time: ~11–12 hrs (long day drive)
Distance: ~410+ km (Hunza → Besham via Chilas)
Altitude: ~615 m (Besham area)
Weather/Expected Temperature: Warming as you descend; daytime ~12–20°C
Itinerary:
Depart early and retrace part of the Karakoram Highway toward Chilas and beyond to Besham. An optional stop at Shatial — an ancient Buddhist rock carving site — can be included if time permits before continuing. Arrive in Besham in the evening for rest.
Night Stay: Besham
8Day 8: Besham to Islamabad – City Tour & Farewell Dinner
Drive Time: ~7–9 hrs
Distance: ~350–380 km
Altitude: ~540 m (Islamabad)
Weather/Expected Temperature: Pleasant spring weather in Islamabad; ~18–24°C
Itinerary:
Depart Besham for Islamabad. On arrival, embark on a light city tour visiting highlights such as Faisal Mosque, Lok Virsa Museum, and Saidpur Village. Conclude with a farewell dinner at a recommended restaurant celebrating the end of your Northern adventure.
Night Stay: Islamabad
9Day 9: : Return Journey
Drive Time: Airport transfer only
Distance: As required
Altitude: ~540 m (Islamabad)
Itinerary:
After breakfast and packing, you will be transferred to Islamabad International Airport for your return flight. The trip concludes with memories of mountains, culture, and scenic road experiences.
10Day 10: Departure from Islamabad
Transfer to Islamabad International Airport for your departure. End of tour.
What you will experience
- Witness the stunning cherry blossoms of Hunza in full bloom
- Explore the ancient forts of Altit and Baltit with majestic mountain backdrops
- Drive along the iconic Karakoram Highway through valleys and rivers
- Visit Passu Cones, Attabad Lake, and Khunjerab Pass (if accessible)
- Meet the warm people of Hunza and taste the local cuisine
What to bring
A practical starting point for this trip. Your guide will send a final, weather-checked list two weeks before departure.
Documents & essentials
- Passport valid 6+ months, plus photocopies stored separately
- Pakistan visa or e-visa confirmation printout
- Travel insurance certificate (mandatory — must cover altitude if trekking)
- Flight tickets and this itinerary, printed and on your phone
- Cash in USD or EUR for exchange; cards are not widely accepted outside major cities
- Passport-sized photographs for permits and hotel registration
Clothing
- Layered clothing — northern valleys are cool at night even in summer
- Fleece or insulated jacket for high passes such as Khunjerab and Babusar
- Light waterproof jacket
- Comfortable walking shoes plus sandals or trainers
- Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees for mosques, forts and villages
- A scarf or shawl (women should carry one for religious sites)
- Sun hat and sunglasses — UV is intense at altitude
Health & personal care
- Personal medication with a copy of the prescription
- Basic first-aid kit: blister plasters, painkillers, antihistamine, rehydration salts
- Anti-diarrhoeal and a broad-spectrum antibiotic if your doctor advises it
- High-factor sunscreen (SPF 50) and SPF lip balm
- Insect repellent
- Hand sanitiser and wet wipes
- Toilet paper — not reliably supplied outside hotels
Electronics
- Universal adapter — Pakistan uses type C and D sockets, 230 V
- Power bank; mains power is intermittent in mountain areas
- Camera with spare batteries — cold drains them quickly
- Phone with offline maps downloaded before departure
Good to have
- Reusable water bottle to reduce plastic waste
- Small padlock for luggage
- Snacks you like — choice is limited outside cities
- Earplugs and eye mask for long drives and shared lodges
- A small gift or postcards from home if you plan to visit local families
Good to know before you go
What’s included
- All accommodation (hotel and guesthouse stays)
- Daily meals
- Private air-conditioned transport
- Entry tickets to forts and parks
- English-speaking local guide
- All tolls, fuel, parking, and road taxes
- Airport transfers
Not included
- International airfare and visa fees
- Travel insurance (mandatory)
- Snacks, and personal expenses
- Tips for drivers and guides
- Any extra excursions not mentioned
When to travel
Cherry blossom season. Highlighted months are when we run this itinerary. Private departures can be arranged on any date — just ask.
Dates shown are guide departures. Exact start dates are confirmed at the time of booking and can be adjusted to suit your flights.
Plan your Cherry Blossom Tour: Islamabad to Hunza Tour
Tell us your dates and we will build this itinerary around them — private guide, your pace, your interests. We reply within one working day.
Or call +92 342 5017535
Questions travellers ask
1. When is the best time to visit Hunza Valley for cherry blossoms?
The best time to witness cherry blossoms in Hunza is from late March to mid-April. During this period, the valley bursts into shades of pink, white, and red blossoms, offering one of the most scenic springtime views in Northern Pakistan.
2. What are the main highlights of the Hunza Cherry Blossom Tour?
Key highlights include Altit & Baltit Forts, Attabad Lake, Passu Cones, Eagle’s Nest sunset point, and scenic drives through Nagar Valley and Hopper Glacier. The tour is designed to combine cultural exploration with seasonal photography opportunities.
3. Is this tour suitable for families and international travelers?
Yes, this is a family-friendly and foreigner-friendly tour that includes comfortable accommodation, guided visits, and scenic drives. It’s perfect for nature lovers, couples, photographers, and anyone wanting to enjoy the spring blossoms in Gilgit-Baltistan.
4. What should I pack for a spring tour in Hunza?
Pack layered clothing, as temperatures in March–April range from 8°C to 18°C. Bring a warm jacket, camera, sunglasses, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes. Since it’s a photography-focused tour, a good zoom lens or drone is also recommended.
5. What kind of accommodation and transport are included in this cherry blossom tour?
The tour includes stays in scenic hotels and boutique guesthouses in Hunza, Gilgit, and Nagar, with private transportation throughout the journey. Airport transfers, meals, guided excursions, and all entry tickets are part of this all-inclusive spring tour package.
