Autumn in Hunza Valley

Upon arrival at Islamabad International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our guide and transferred to your hotel for check-in and some time to relax.  

In the afternoon, we begin our city tour of Islamabad. Our first stop is Daman-e-Koh, a scenic viewpoint offering panoramic views over the capital and the surrounding Margalla Hills. We then drive through Islamabad’s wide, modern boulevards, passing elegant buildings that blend contemporary design with Islamic architectural influences.  

We continue to the Lok Virsa Folk Heritage Museum, where you will gain insight into Pakistan’s rich cultural traditions and diverse heritage. The tour culminates at one of the largest mosques in the world the magnificent Shah Faisal Mosque, an architectural masterpiece and iconic symbol of the city.  

In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner at a local restaurant.  

Hotel Options 

• Comfort Class: Marriott Hotel 

• Tourist Class: Burj-ul-Zaki, Grand, Ambrina Hotel   

Meals Included: Dinner  

We will begin the day with a scenic morning flight from Islamabad to Skardu, offering breathtaking views of the Karakoram mountains. Upon arrival in Skardu, we will continue our journey by road, traveling via Gilgit toward Minapin Nagar Valley.  

After reaching Gilgit City, the administrative capital of Gilgit-Baltistan, we will visit the renowned Kargah Buddha, a remarkable 7th-century Buddha carved into a rock face. We will then explore Gilgit Bazaar, followed by a visit to the historic British Cemetery.  

After lunch, we will continue driving along the legendary Karakoram Highway toward Minapin Nagar Valley. En route, we will stop at Chalt Nagar, which marks the Main Karakoram Thrust the dramatic geological collision point of the Indo-Pakistani and Eurasian tectonic plates.  

We will also make a relaxing tea stop at the Rakaposhi viewpoint for photography before continuing our drive to Minapin Village, where we will arrive in the evening. 

Hotel Options 

• Comfort Class: Osho Thang 

• Tourist Class: Osho Thang  

Meals Included: Breakfast-Dinner

In the morning, we drive towards Upper Hunza (Gojal), beginning our journey with a visit to Ganish Village, one of the oldest settlements along the ancient Silk Route. Here, we explore the historic Ali Gohar House, a 400-year-old architectural gem that received the UNESCO Asia-Pacific Award for Distinction in 2009. The beautifully preserved wooden structure reflects the rich cultural heritage and craftsmanship of the region. 

We also make a short stop at the Ganish Rock Carvings (Petroglyphs), ancient engravings on rocks believed to be over a thousand years old. These carvings and inscriptions were left by traders and travellers who once passed through this important trade corridor along the Silk Route. 

Continuing our journey, we drive toward Upper Hunza Gojal, we drive along the Hunza River with magnificent views of the surrounding Karakoram mountains. On the way, we stop at the striking turquoise waters of Attabad Lake for photography and enjoy the dramatic scenery created by the lake and surrounding peaks. 

Later, continue the drive toward the peaceful setting of Borith Lake, a small alpine lake located above the Hunza Valley and surrounded by rugged mountains and glaciers. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel overlooking the lake. The rest of the day is free to relax and enjoy the tranquil mountain environment. 

Hotel Options  

• Comfort Class: Borith Lake Hotel and Resort  

• Tourist Class: Borith Lake Hotel and Resort  

Meals Included: Breakfast-Dinner

This morning, we will hike toward the viewpoint of the impressive Passu Glacier, also known as the Passu White Glacier, where you can capture stunning photos of the glacier and the surrounding Karakoram peaks. The viewpoint also offers excellent views of the iconic Passu Cones rising dramatically above the valley. 

Later, we take a short drive to Hussaini Suspension Bridge. Here you will have the chance to gingerly walk across the narrow rope bridge that stretches over the fast-flowing Hunza River, offering both an exciting experience and beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. 

In the afternoon, continue to Gulmit. We will visit Gulmit Village, where we explore a well-preserved traditional Wakhi house and a handicraft center run by local women, showcasing beautiful handmade textiles and local crafts. 

Continue to Gulmit Village. Explore a traditional Wakhi house and a handicraft center run by local women, showcasing beautiful handmade textiles and crafts. In autumn, the village is especially magical, with golden poplar trees, colorful orchards, and crisp mountain air creating a serene and vibrant atmosphere. 

In the evening, enjoy a special local dinner in Gulmit, experiencing the warm hospitality and traditional flavors of the region.

Hotel Options  

• Comfort Class: Borith Lake Hotel and Resort  

• Tourist Class: Borith Lake Hotel and Resort  

Meals Included: Breakfast-Dinner 

Today, you will drive to the highest paved international border crossing in the world and the highest point on the Karakoram Highway, the Khunjerab Pass (4,750 m). Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to see some wildlife in Khunjerab National Park. Afterward, you’ll return to Passu Village, take a walk around the village, and capture a photo of the iconic Passu Cones. 

In the evening, you will be invited to a local Hunza family’s home for a traditional dinner. 

Hotel Options 

• Comfort Class: Borith Lake Hotel and Resort 

• Tourist Class: Borith Lake Hotel and Resort 

Meals Included: Breakfast-Dinner 

In the morning, drive to Hopper Valley, located across the Hunza River in the Nagar region. This beautiful and fertile valley is known for its traditional villages, terraced fields, and spectacular views of surrounding Karakoram peaks. From the village, enjoy close views of the impressive Hopper Glacier, where the massive glacier descends dramatically into the valley, creating a striking contrast with the lush green fields and blossoming orchards. Take some time to explore the village and enjoy the magnificent scenery. 

After the visit, return to Hunza and continue the drive to Karimabad, the historic capital of the former Hunza State. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel. The rest of the afternoon is free to relax or explore the small bazaar and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding Karakoram peaks. 

Hotel Options  

• Comfort Class: Serena Hotel  

• Tourist Class: Eagle Nest or Hilltop Hotel  

Meals Included: Breakfast-Dinner 

Early this morning, enjoy a spectacular sunrise over the snow-capped peaks surrounding Hunza, including Ultar Sar, Rakaposhi, and Diran Peak. The changing colours over the mountains create a truly unforgettable scene. 

During autumn, the terraced fields and orchards of Hunza glow with beautiful shades of gold, orange, and red as the apricot, apple, and poplar trees change colour, creating one of the most scenic landscapes in the valley. 

After breakfast, we drive to Altit Village to visit the historic Altit Fort, originally built around 1,100 years ago. In spring, the traditional houses and orchards surrounding the village are decorated with beautiful apricot blossoms. 

Later, we visit Baltit Fort, constructed approximately 700 years ago. Over the centuries, the fort has been rebuilt and remodelled several times. In the 16th century, the Mir (King) of Hunza married a princess from Baltistan, who brought skilled Balti craftsmen as part of her dowry to renovate the palace. The architectural style clearly reflects strong Tibetan influences, highlighting the historical connection between Hunza and Baltistan. 

 The remainder of the day is free for leisure, relaxation, or exploring Karimabad Bazaar for local handicrafts and souvenirs 

Hotel Options  

• Comfort Class: Serena Hotel  

• Tourist Class: Eagle Nest or Hilltop Hotel  

Meals Included: Breakfast-Dinner 

After breakfast, we begin our scenic drive along the legendary Karakoram Highway towards Chilas, following the dramatic course of the Indus River. 

From Chilas, we continue via the spectacular Babusar Pass (weather permitting) into the beautiful Naran–Kaghan Valley. This high mountain pass offers breathtaking views of alpine landscapes, glaciers, and lush valleys along the way. 

Please note: The Naran–Kaghan route is open during the summer season. When Babusar Pass is closed, we will continue our journey via the Karakoram Highway to Besham instead. 

Hotel Options  

• Comfort Class: North Retreat Or Besham Inn  

• Tourist Class: North Retreat Or Besham Inn  

Meals Included: Breakfast-Dinner 

After breakfast, depart for Islamabad. On the way, stop at Taxila, one of the most important archaeological centres of the ancient Gandharan Buddhist civilisation. Visit the Taxila Museum, which displays a remarkable collection of Gandharan art and artefacts. 

Continue the drive to Islamabad. If time allows, there will be an optional stop for last-minute shopping at a local market before transferring to Islamabad International Airport for your evening flight. 

Meals Included: Breakfast