Patundas Hunza Valley Trek

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. 
Accommodation: 
•  Burj-ul-Zaki, Grand, Ambrina Hotel  
Meals Included: Dinner 

This morning, transfer to Islamabad Domestic Airport for your scenic flight to Skardu. Weather permitting, enjoy breathtaking aerial views of the Pakistani Himalayas and the mighty Karakoram Range, including some of the highest peaks on earth.
Skardu, the capital of Baltistan, sits at an altitude of 2,438 metres and is surrounded by dramatic mountain landscapes. The local Balti people speak Balti, an ancient Tibetan dialect, and due to its strong cultural and architectural similarities with Tibet, Baltistan is often referred to as “Tibet-e-Khurd” (Little Tibet).
Upon arrival and check-in, begin exploring the area with a visit to Upper Kachura Lake, a stunning turquoise lake nestled among rugged mountains. An optional boat ride is available here.
If time permits, we will also explore Skardu Bazaar and visit the historic Kharpocho Fort, perched dramatically on a hilltop overlooking the town. Built in the late 16th century by Ali Sher Khan Anchan, the fort offers panoramic views over the Indus River and surrounding valley.

Accommodation:
• Dynasty Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast – Dinner

After breakfast, begin our scenic drive along the Indus River towards the beautiful Hunza Valley. The journey takes us through dramatic mountain landscapes and along sections of the legendary Karakoram Highway.
Our first stop is Gilgit, the capital of Gilgit-Baltistan. Here, we visit the ancient Kargah Buddha, a remarkable 7th-century rock carving that reflects the region’s early Buddhist heritage. We will also explore Gilgit Bazaar and visit the historic British Cemetery, offering insight into the area’s colonial past.
After lunch, continue driving along the Karakoram Highway towards the Nagar Valley. At Chalt Nagar, we stop to observe the Main Karakoram Thrust the geological collision point of the Indo-Australian and Eurasian tectonic plates.
We then pause at a scenic viewpoint overlooking the majestic Rakaposhi Peak (7,788 m) for tea and photographs. The panoramic views of this towering mountain are truly unforgettable.
Afterward, continue the drive to Karimabad, in the heart of the Hunza Valley.

Accommodation: 
• 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 (7,388 m), Rakaposhi (7,788 m), and Diran (7,266 m). The changing colours over the mountains create a truly unforgettable scene.
After breakfast, we drive to Altit Village to visit the historic Altit Fort, originally built around 1,100 years ago. This beautifully restored fort offers fascinating insight into the ancient ruling families of Hunza and the region’s rich history.
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.

Accommodation: 
• Eagle Nest or Hilltop Hotel 
Meals Included: Breakfast – Dinner 

After breakfast, we drive towards Upper Hunza (Gojal), beginning with a visit to the historic Ganish Village, one of the oldest settlements along the ancient Silk Route. Here, we explore the beautifully preserved Ali Gohar House, a 400-year-old architectural masterpiece that received the UNESCO Asia-Pacific Award for Distinction in 2009.
We then take a scenic side trip to Hopper Valley, a fertile and picturesque valley located on the eastern side of the Hunza River. The valley is predominantly Shia Muslim and is home to the impressive Hopper Glacier, known as one of the fastest-moving glaciers in the region.
After lunch, we return to the Karakoram Highway, we will make a short stop at the ancient Ganish Petroglyphs, remarkable rock carvings dating back over a thousand years. These inscriptions and symbols were left by traders and travellers who once passed through this important trade corridor.
After visit we continue our journey towards Upper Hunza (Gojal). Along the way, we stop at the striking Attabad Lake for photography, with an optional boat ride on its vivid turquoise waters.
Next, we visit Gulmit Village, where we explore a well-preserved traditional Wakhi house and a handicraft centre run by local women, offering insight into the region’s culture and craftsmanship.
Finally, we continue to Borith Lake, a peaceful high-altitude lake surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery.

Accommodation:
• Borith Lake Hotel & Resort (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast – Dinner

After breakfast, we take a short drive to Hussaini Village, home to the famous Hussaini Suspension Bridge. Here, you will have the opportunity to carefully walk across the historic rope bridge spanning the fast-flowing Hunza River an exhilarating experience for those who enjoy a little adventure. For a quicker and more thrilling option, an optional zipline ride is also available.
We then continue towards Passu Village. Lunch today offers a unique culinary experience, with the opportunity to try locally sourced yak meat, known for being leaner and lower in fat compared to traditional red meats and even salmon.
After lunch, enjoy a leisurely walk around Passu Village. Take in the breathtaking scenery and capture photographs of the iconic Passu Cones, whose dramatic, jagged peaks dominate the skyline. Later, return to Borith Lake for a relaxing evening.

Accommodation:
• Borith Lake Hotel & Resort

Meals Included: Breakfast – Dinner

After breakfast, begin today’s adventurous trek towards Luzdur. The highlight of the day is crossing the impressive Passu Glacier, a rewarding experience as you carefully navigate its rocky, icy terrain under the guidance of your local team.
As we ascend gradually to approximately 3,400 metres, we enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding Karakoram peaks and dramatic mountain scenery. There will be plenty of opportunities to pause for photographs and to take in the raw beauty of this high-altitude landscape.
By late afternoon, arrive at Luzdur and settle into your campsite. The remainder of the day is at leisure to rest and enjoy the peaceful mountain surroundings.
Accommodation:
• Camp

Meals Included: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner

In the morning, we leave our camp behind and begin a steep ascent to Patundas Meadow. From the top, enjoy stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountain peaks, including the magnificent Batura Glacier and the dramatic Karakoram skyline.
In the afternoon, take time to explore the meadow and its breathtaking alpine scenery. Later, we begin our descent, trekking back to Luzdur for overnight camping.

Accommodation:
• Camp

Meals Included: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner

In the morning, we retrace our steps and trek back to Borith Lake, once again crossing the Passu Glacier along the way.
Upon arrival, enjoy a relaxed and easy afternoon at Borith Lake, taking in the peaceful surroundings and spectacular mountain views.
Accommodation:
• Borith Lake Hotel and Resort

Meals Included: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner

After breakfast, we begin our hike across the Ghulkin Glacier towards Ghulkin Village, enjoying impressive views of the surrounding peaks and rugged landscapes along the way.
Upon arrival, we are welcomed by a local family for a picnic lunch, a wonderful opportunity to experience the region’s warm hospitality and daily village life.
After lunch, we continue our walk through Kamaris Village towards Gulmit, a peaceful and historic settlement that once served as the summer capital of the former Hunza Kingdom. Here, we explore the village lanes, visit a beautifully preserved 400-year-old traditional Wakhi house, and observe local women weaving carpets and creating traditional handicrafts.
We also visit a small local museum, offering further insight into the culture and heritage of Upper Hunza. Later, return to Borith Lake for the evening.
Accommodation:
• Borith Lake Hotel and Resort

Meals Included: Breakfast – Lunch – 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. The high mountain pass offers breathtaking views of alpine landscapes, glaciers, and lush valleys along the way.
Please note: during spring and late autumn, when Babusar Pass is closed due to weather conditions, we will travel via Besham instead.
Accommodation:
• North Retreat

Meals Included: Breakfast – Dinner

After breakfast, we depart for Islamabad. En route, we stop at Taxila, one of the most significant archaeological sites of the Gandharan Buddhist civilisation. The area flourished from the 6th century BC to the 5th century AD and features impressive ruins of ancient monasteries, stupas, and settlements. We will also visit the well-curated Taxila Museum, which houses an outstanding collection of Gandharan art and artefacts.
Continuing to Islamabad, the afternoon is free for last-minute shopping at a local market.
In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant, celebrating the memorable journey through northern Pakistan.
Accommodation:
• Burj Ul Zaki / Grand Hotel / Ambrina Hotel (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast – Dinner

After breakfast, transfer to Islamabad International Airport for your onward flight.
Our services conclude with the airport transfer.
Lahore extension can be arranged upon request for those wishing to further explore Pakistan.
Meals Included: Breakfast