Gilgit-Baltistan 11 Days
Day 1: Arrival in Islamabad and Journey to Naran
- Arrival: Meet at the designated point in Islamabad, where you’ll be greeted by our representative.
- Drive to Naran: Begin the scenic journey through neighbouring towns and the lush green valleys of Kaghan, marking the start of the adventure into the breathtaking landscapes of Gilgit-Baltistan.
- Saiful Muluk Lake: After checking into the hotel, embark on a jeep ride to Saiful Muluk Lake, also known as the "Lake of Fairies," situated at an elevation of over 3,000m above sea level, beneath the towering Malika Parbat peak. You can enjoy activities such as boating and horse riding.
- Welcome Dinner: In the evening, we will discuss the itinerary for the days ahead over a welcome dinner.
- Overnight Stay: Naran.
Day 2: Drive to Skardu via Lulusar Lake and Babusar Top
- Lulusar Lake: After breakfast, make a brief stop at Lulusar Lake to appreciate its crystal-clear waters and natural beauty.
- Babusar Top: Continue through the lush valleys of Kaghan, stopping at Babusar Top, famous for its hairpin roads and elevated views.
- Arrival in Skardu: After lunch, check into the hotel in Skardu.
- Overnight Stay: Skardu.
Day 3: Shangrila Resort, Kachura Lakes, Cold Desert, and Shigar Fort
- Shangrila Resort: Begin the day with a visit to Shangrila Resort, known for its heart-shaped lake and orchards of apples, pears, and cherries.
- Kachura Lakes: Continue to the Lower and Upper Kachura Lakes for scenic views and picturesque surroundings.
- Cold Desert: Travel through the Cold Desert, the highest desert in the world, before reaching Shigar Fort, a 17th-century restored fortress-palace.
- Optional Hike: Option to hike to Kharpocho Fort for stunning views of Skardu.
- Overnight Stay: Skardu.
Day 4: Ghanche and Khaplu Valley Exploration
- Ghanche: Depart for Ghanche, a district full of high summits and beautiful valleys. Experience the famous hospitality of the locals.
- Khaplu Fort and Chaqchan Mosque: Visit Khaplu Fort, a restored architectural heritage site, and Chaqchan Mosque, one of the oldest mosques in the region.
- Manthoka Waterfall: Conclude the day with a visit to the scenic and refreshing Manthoka Waterfall.
- Overnight Stay: Skardu.
Day 5: Shigar Valley and Shigar Fort
- Shigar Valley: Explore the gateway to the Karakoram Range, known for its scenic beauty and rural culture.
- Shigar Fort: Visit the 17th-century Shigar Fort, a restored palace of the Raja of Baltistan.
- Overnight Stay: Skardu.
Day 6: Gilgit City and Shopping
- Gilgit: After breakfast, head to Gilgit for a leisurely stroll through the Northern Light Infantry Market and Gilgit Bazaar, where you can enjoy some retail therapy.
- Overnight Stay: Gilgit.
Day 7: Naltar Valley and Hunza
- Naltar Valley: Travel to Naltar Valley, a secluded beauty amidst snow-capped peaks, known for its ski resorts during winter.
- Hunza: After a day in Naltar Valley, proceed to Hunza for an overnight stay in Karimabad.
- Overnight Stay: Karimabad, Hunza.
Day 8: Baltit Fort, Altit Fort, and Duikar Viewpoint
- Baltit Fort: Visit the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Baltit Fort, which dates back over 700 years.
- Altit Fort and Women’s Workshop: Explore the dungeons of Altit Fort and visit a local women’s workshop to see beautiful handicrafts.
- Duikar Viewpoint: End the day with a short trek to Duikar for a sunset view over the Karakoram peaks.
- Overnight Stay: Karimabad, Hunza.
Day 9: Attabad Lake, Khunjerab Pass, and Hussaini Suspension Bridge
- Attabad Lake: Visit the turquoise waters of Attabad Lake, set amidst stunning mountain scenery.
- Khunjerab Pass: Continue to Khunjerab Pass, the highest border-crossing between Pakistan and China.
- Hussaini Suspension Bridge: Experience the thrill of crossing the famous, and often considered dangerous, Hussaini Suspension Bridge.
- Overnight Stay: Karimabad, Hunza Valley or Gulmit.
Day 10: Return to Naran
- Journey to Naran: Head back towards Naran, exploring towns like Haripur, Abbottabad, and Mansehra along the way.
- Overnight Stay: Naran.
Day 11: Departure from Islamabad
- Return to Islamabad: After breakfast, continue the journey back to Islamabad.
- End of Trip: After lunch, proceed to the Departure Point, marking the end of your adventure.