Ancient Silk Route Tour

The Karakoram Highway, often hailed as the “Eighth Wonder of the World,” stretches 1,200 kilometers across Pakistan into China’s Xinjiang province. Built over nearly two decades by 15,000 Pakistani and Chinese workers, it stands as a monument to human determination, with many lives sacrificed in its creation. Reviving the ancient Silk Road once traveled by Marco Polo and Chinese monks like Fa Hien and Huen Tsang, the highway reconnects us to centuries of trade and cultural exchange. Rising to its pinnacle at the Khunjerab Pass (4,770 m), the world’s highest paved road, it offers breathtaking landscapes and enduring inspiration.

Tour Highlights

• Islamabad Sightseeing: Visit Faisal Mosque, Pakistan Monument, and Daman-e-Koh for panoramic city views.
• Taxila Excursion: Explore Gandharan ruins, stupas, monasteries, and Taxila Museum along the historic Silk Road.
• Karakoram Highway – Besham to Chilas: Marvel at towering peaks, deep gorges, rushing rivers, and roadside villages.
• Chilas to Gilgit: Stop at Nanga Parbat Viewpoint and witness the confluence of the Karakoram, Himalaya, and Hindu Kush ranges.
• Gilgit Bazaar: Experience local culture, cuisine, and handicrafts; cross historic suspension bridges tracing ancient trade routes.
• Hunza Valley – Karimabad: Visit Baltit and Altit Forts, Ganesh village, orchards, and Hoper Glacier; capture sunset at Eagle’s Nest.
• Attabad Lake & Passu: Admire turquoise waters, rock carvings, Gulmit village, and cross the thrilling Hussaini Suspension Bridge.
• Khunjerab Pass: Explore Khunjerab National Park, spot wildlife like Marco Polo sheep, and reach the world’s highest paved border.
• Tashgurgan Town: Experience a blend of Tajik, Chinese, and local cultures amid remote alpine landscapes.
• Karakol Lake Stop: Picnic beside serene mountain lakes with sweeping views of Muztagh Ata and Kongur peaks.
• Silk Road Journey to Kashgar: Traverse historic caravan routes, glaciers, and valleys connecting northern Pakistan to Xinjiang.
• Kashgar Arrival: Immerse in Uyghur culture, bustling bazaars, and historic trade routes blending history with modern life.
• Market, and Clifton Beach.

Day 01 – Arrival & Islamabad Sightseeing

Arrive in Islamabad and settle into your hotel, greeted with warm hospitality. Begin your tour with Faisal Mosque, a modern marvel of Islamic architecture. Visit the Pakistan Monument, representing national unity and history. Take in sweeping panoramas of the city from Daman-e-Koh, nestled in the Margalla Hills.

Day 02 – Islamabad to Besham via Taxila

Drive to Besham, stopping at ancient Taxila, a cradle of Gandharan civilization. Explore Buddhist ruins, monasteries, stupas, and the Taxila Museum with its priceless artifacts. Learn about the region’s spiritual significance and historic role in early trade. Continue your journey along the mighty Indus River, watching mountain vistas unfold.

Day 03 – Besham to Chilas (Karakoram Highway)

Journey along the legendary Karakoram Highway, known as the “8th Wonder of the World.” Marvel at towering peaks, deep gorges, and rushing rivers as the Indus carves through rugged valleys. Stop at scenic viewpoints for photography and short walks amidst nature. Witness local life in roadside villages perched along the cliffs.

Day 04 – Chilas to Gilgit

Depart Chilas and continue toward Gilgit, enjoying the grandeur of the Karakoram and Himalayan ranges. Pause at Nanga Parbat Viewpoint, gazing upon the “Killer Mountain” and surrounding glaciers. Stand at the rare junction of three mighty ranges: Karakoram, Himalaya, and Hindu Kush. See the confluence of the Indus and Gilgit Rivers, a stunning natural spectacle.

Day 05 – Gilgit to Hunza (Karimabad)

Stroll through Gilgit Bazaar to experience local culture, handicrafts, and cuisine. Cross historic suspension bridges spanning rushing mountain rivers, tracing the old Silk Road’s path. Stop at Rakaposhi Viewpoint for sweeping panoramas of snowy peaks and valleys. Pass through scenic villages and terraced orchards, soaking in Hunza’s natural beauty.

Day 06 – Hunza & Nagar Valley Exploration

Explore Baltit and Altit Forts, centuries-old hilltop fortresses with royal history. Visit Ganesh village and nearby orchards, witnessing traditional architecture and local life. Marvel at the icy expanse of Hoper Glacier, a stunning natural wonder. End the day at Eagle’s Nest for sunset views over the Karakoram peaks, capturing unforgettable landscapes. Experience Hunza’s serene atmosphere and hospitality.

Day 07 – Karimabad to Passu

Stop at Attabad Lake, its turquoise waters a striking contrast to rugged mountains. Admire ancient rock carvings etched into valley walls, telling tales of past travelers. Explore the village of Gulmit, engaging with local culture and hospitality. Cross the thrilling Hussaini Suspension Bridge for an adrenaline rush and stunning views. Conclude the day in Passu, gazing at the iconic Passu Cones as dusk settles over the Karakoram.

Day 08 – Passu to Tashgurgan via Khunjerab

Drive through Khunjerab National Park, the gateway to China, surrounded by glaciers and towering Karakoram peaks. Spot wildlife such as the rare Marco Polo sheep in high alpine meadows. Reach the world’s highest border crossing at Khunjerab Pass, pausing for photography. Continue to Tashgurgan, a town blending Tajik, Chinese, and local cultures at over 3,000 meters elevation. Immerse yourself in remote mountain landscapes and prepare for onward travel to Xinjiang. Overnight Tashgurgan.

Day 09 – Tashgurgan to Kashgar via Karakol Lake

Traverse the high plateau with sweeping views of Pamir peaks, including Muztagh Ata and Kongur. Pause at Karakol Lake for a lakeside picnic amid snow-capped mountains and expansive grasslands. Observe the vast, serene landscapes shaped by glaciers and rivers. Continue your journey through valleys and historic caravan routes of the Silk Road. Arrive in Kashgar, a bustling hub of Uyghur culture and trade, where history and modern life converge.

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