Grand Northern Pakistan Tour – 13 Days in Gilgit-Baltistan
Experience the breathtaking beauty and rich cultural heritage of northern Pakistan with our 13-Day Gilgit-Baltistan Grand Explorer Tour.
About this journey
Experience the breathtaking beauty and rich cultural heritage of northern Pakistan with our 13-Day Gilgit-Baltistan Grand Explorer Tour. Starting and ending in Islamabad, this expertly crafted itinerary takes you deep into the heart of Gilgit-Baltistan, home to the majestic Hunza Valley, serene Attabad Lake, historic Shigar and Khaplu Forts, and the dramatic landscapes of Skardu and Khunjerab Pass. From exploring the lush valleys of Naltar and the Cold Desert of Skardu to visiting UNESCO-listed sites like Baltit Fort and Altit Fort, this tour offers the perfect blend of adventure, nature, and cultural discovery.
Perfect for travelers seeking an authentic Pakistan travel experience, this all-inclusive tour includes comfortable accommodations, private transport, guided excursions, and scenic jeep rides through some of the most remote and picturesque regions in Asia. Shop at traditional Gilgit bazaars, admire the iconic Passu Cones, and witness the sunset over the Hunza peaks. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or cultural explorer, this northern Pakistan tour promises memories that will last a lifetime.
Day by day
1Day 1: Arrival in Islamabad
Arrive at Islamabad International Airport where our representative will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. Relax after your flight, and join us for a welcome dinner and trip briefing. Overnight stay in Islamabad.
2Day 2: Islamabad to Naran (Drive Time: 8–9 hours)
We begin our drive north through Haripur, Abbottabad, and Balakot into the Kaghan Valley. After hotel check-in, we take a jeep ride to Saiful Muluk Lake, nestled under Malika Parbat. Enjoy boating or a walk around this fairytale lake. Overnight stay in Naran.
3Day 3: Naran to Skardu via Babusar Top (Drive Time: 10–11 hours)
Departing early, we journey over Babusar Top and stop at Lulusar Lake. Passing through Chilas, we continue to Skardu alongside the Indus River. Overnight stay in Skardu.
4Day 4: Skardu – Shangrila, Kachura Lakes & Shigar Fort
After breakfast, we explore Shangrila Resort and both Upper and Lower Kachura Lakes. We then cross the Cold Desert to visit Shigar Fort and enjoy optional hiking to Kharpocho Fort. Overnight stay at Shangrila Resort.
5Day 5: Skardu to Khaplu – Ghanche District Exploration
Drive to Khaplu, stopping at Khaplu Fort and the historical Chaqchan Mosque. Discover the hospitality of local communities and visit the scenic Manthoka Waterfall before returning to Skardu. Overnight stay in Skardu.
6Day 6: Shigar Valley Day Tour
A full-day visit to Shigar Valley, the gateway to the Karakoram. Experience traditional Balti culture, fields, and mountain views before returning to your hotel. Overnight stay in Skardu.
7Day 7: Skardu to Gilgit (Drive Time: 6–7 hours)
Drive to Gilgit and explore the Northern Light Infantry Market and Gilgit Bazaar. After shopping and strolling the streets, check into your hotel. Overnight stay in Gilgit.
8Day 8: Gilgit to Naltar Valley – Then on to Hunza (Drive Time: 6–7 hours)
After breakfast, take a jeep ride to the remote Naltar Valley. Surrounded by alpine forests and glacial streams, it’s a favorite for skiing and nature walks. In the evening, continue to Hunza. Overnight stay in Karimabad.
9Day 9: Hunza – Altit, Baltit Fort & Duikar Sunset
Visit the 700-year-old Baltit Fort and ancient Altit Fort. Tour the royal gardens, stop at a women’s workshop, and enjoy walnut cake at Café De Hunza. In the evening, watch the sunset from Duikar viewpoint. Overnight stay in Karimabad.
10Day 10: Attabad Lake, Passu Cones & Khunjerab Pass Excursion (Drive Time: 6–7 hours)
Visit Attabad Lake, the Passu Cones, and the highest border crossing at Khunjerab Pass. On the return, stop at Sost market and cross the Hussaini Suspension Bridge. Overnight stay in Gulmit.
11Day 11: Hunza to Besham/Naran (Drive Time: 10–12 hours)
Return south via Naran or Besham depending on road conditions. Enjoy scenic views of Kaghan Valley or Karakoram Highway. Overnight stay in Besham/Naran.
12Day 12: Besham/Naran to Islamabad – Capital Tour (Drive Time: 7–9 hours)
Drive back to Islamabad. Check in and explore Faisal Mosque and Daman-e-Koh. Enjoy a farewell dinner at Monal Restaurant. Overnight stay in Islamabad.
13Day 13: Departure
Transfer to Islamabad Airport after breakfast for your return flight. End of tour.
What you will experience
- Explore the lakes and forts of Skardu, including Shangrila Resort and Shigar Fort
- Visit the Cold Desert and hike to Kharpocho Fort for breathtaking views
- Discover the cultural gems of Khaplu, including Chaqchan Mosque and Khaplu Fort
- Experience the pristine beauty of Hunza Valley, Attabad Lake, and Khunjerab Pass
- Step into history at UNESCO-listed Baltit and Altit Forts
- Uncover hidden treasures of Naltar Valley and shop at Gilgit’s lively markets
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 (Standard or Luxury options available)
- Daily breakfast and dinner
- Private land transportation
- Jeep transfers and local sightseeing
- All tolls and entry tickets
- Local English-speaking guide
- Airport transfers
Not included
- International & domestic flights (unless mentioned)
- Visa and travel insurance (mandatory)
- Lunches and personal expenses
- Optional recreational activities-
- Tips (optional)
When to travel
Recommended travel window. 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 Grand Northern Pakistan Tour – 13 Days in Gilgit-Baltistan
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
Is Gilgit-Baltistan safe for international travelers?
Yes, Gilgit-Baltistan is generally safe for tourists, and our tours prioritize your security at all times. We work with trusted local guides and experienced drivers who know the region well. The Pakistani government and local communities are very welcoming to international visitors, especially in the northern areas.
What’s the best time of year to visit Gilgit-Baltistan?
The ideal travel season is from May to October, when the weather is pleasant, and mountain passes like Babusar Top and Khunjerab Pass are open. These months offer the best views, clear skies, and access to all key destinations.
What kind of accommodations are provided during the tour?
We offer a mix of standard and luxury hotels, including top-rated resorts like Shangrila Resort in Skardu and Serena Hotels in Hunza, Khaplu, and Shigar. All accommodations include daily breakfast and dinner and are chosen for comfort, cleanliness, and cultural charm.
Is altitude sickness a concern in this region?
Some areas like Khunjerab Pass reach high altitudes (up to 4,700 meters), but the tour is paced to help you acclimatize. Most travelers experience little to no discomfort. Drinking water, light meals, and staying hydrated help prevent altitude sickness.
What should I pack for the Gilgit-Baltistan tour?
Pack layers! Even in summer, nights in the mountains can be chilly. Bring a warm jacket, sturdy walking shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, and modest clothing for cultural sites. A power bank and universal adapter are also recommended.
Will I have internet and mobile signal during the tour?
Internet and mobile signals are available in most towns like Skardu, Hunza, and Gilgit, but coverage may be limited or slow in remote valleys. Most hotels offer Wi-Fi, though it may not be high-speed. We recommend downloading offline maps and essential info.
Can I customize this tour or add extra days?
Absolutely! We can tailor the itinerary to suit your travel style, add rest days, or include other destinations like Fairy Meadows or Swat Valley. Just let us know your preferences, and we’ll create a personalized travel experience.
