Hunza & Kalash Valley Tour

In this journey, we will explore some of the most breathtaking valleys of Pakistan, including the majestic Hunza Valley, the unique Kalash Valley, and the scenic Swat Valley, often called the “Switzerland of the East.”

Along the way, we will pass through the ancient city of Peshawar, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in South Asia, known for its rich culture and bustling bazaars.

The trip also includes visits to iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites, offering a fascinating glimpse into Pakistan’s diverse history and heritage. This tour combines stunning natural landscapes with centuries-old culture and traditions.

Tour Highlights

• Discover Islamabad with visits to Faisal Mosque, Pakistan Monument, Lok Virsa Museum, and panoramic views from Daman-e-Koh.
• Explore ancient Taxila, including UNESCO-listed ruins, stupas, monasteries, and museum treasures.
• Journey along the Karakoram Highway, stopping at Nanga Parbat viewpoint, witnessing the convergence of the Karakoram, Himalaya, and Hindu Kush ranges, and viewing ancient rock carvings.
• Immerse yourself in Hunza Valley, visiting Hoper Glacier, Baltit and Altit Forts, Ganesh Village, and sunset at Eagle’s Nest.
• Excursion to Khunjerab Pass, including Attabad Lake, Passu, Sost, and crossing the thrilling Hussaini Suspension Bridge.
• Travel through Besham, enjoying the Indus River landscapes, waterfalls, gorges, and Silk Road history.
• Experience Swat Valley with lush alpine scenery, Gandhara Buddhist relics, and peaceful villages.
• Visit Ayun Valley, featuring remote rivers, forests, traditional villages, and panoramic views of the Hindu Kush.
• Explore the Kalash Valleys of Rumbur, Birir, and Bumburet, immersing in vibrant culture, festivals, and unique traditions.
• Excursion to Chitral, including Chitral Fort, Shahi Mosque, bazaars, handicrafts, and terraced mountain landscapes.
• Discover historic Peshawar with Qissa Khawani Bazaar, Peshawar Museum, Sethi Street, and local cuisine.
• Return to Islamabad for a final city tour, scenic views, markets, and cultural reflections.
• Step back in time at Taxila before departure, visiting Dharmarajika Stupa, Sirkap, Julian Monastery, and exploring Gandhara heritage.

Day 01 – Arrival & Islamabad Sightseeing

Arrive in Islamabad and receive a warm welcome, settling into your hotel. Begin your journey with visits to Lok Virsa Museum, rich with Pakistan’s cultural heritage, and admire panoramic views from Daman-e-Koh in the Margalla Hills. Stroll through the Japanese Garden, Shakarparian, and beside serene Rawal Lake, absorbing the city’s tranquil beauty. Enjoy the evening exploring Islamabad’s leafy avenues and vibrant streets. Overnight Islamabad.

Day 02 – Islamabad – Taxila – Besham

Depart Islamabad and drive through the scenic towns of Haripur, Abbottabad, and Mansehra. Stop at ancient Taxila, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to explore Gandhara ruins, Buddhist monasteries, and relics that date back millennia. Continue along the legendary Karakoram Highway beside the mighty Indus River, witnessing changing landscapes of rivers, hills, and villages. Pause at Batagram for refreshing scenery before arriving in Besham, nestled at the gateway of Pakistan’s northern mountains.

Day 03 – Besham – Gilgit

Travel north along the famed Karakoram Highway, a route renowned for breathtaking vistas and engineering marvels. Pause at Nanga Parbat viewpoint, the “Killer Mountain,” where snow-capped peaks rise dramatically. Observe the convergence of the Karakoram, Himalaya, and Hindu Kush ranges, and marvel at the confluence of the Indus and Gilgit Rivers. Stop for photos and to admire natural grandeur before reaching Gilgit town in the evening, surrounded by majestic mountains. Overnight Gilgit.

Day 04 – Gilgit – Hunza (Karimabad)

Follow the Hunza River into a valley of timeless beauty, framed by towering peaks. Stop at Rakaposhi viewpoint, where the giant mountain dominates the skyline. Explore Karimabad, the cultural heart of Hunza, with vibrant bazaars, terraced fields, and historic forts. Absorb echoes of the ancient Silk Road as you wander streets lined with traditional homes and shops. End the day amidst snow-capped serenity and mountain tranquility in Karimabad. Overnight Hunza.

Day 05 – Hunza Valley Sightseeing

Gaze upon the glittering Hoper Glacier, flanked by peaks like Ultar and Spantik. Tour Baltit Fort Museum, witnessing Hunza’s royal history and architectural splendor. Explore Altit Fort with its timber balconies and fortified walls, standing as a testament to centuries of tradition. Stroll through Karimabad beneath the imposing Rakaposhi, feeling the majesty of the mountains. Learn about local customs, orchards, and crafts while embracing the harmony of history and nature. Overnight Karimabad.

Day 06 – Excursion to Khunjerab Pass

Climb toward Khunjerab Pass, the highest paved border in the world, passing picturesque villages like Gulmit, Passu, and Sost. Admire the turquoise waters of Attabad Lake, formed by a natural landslide, framed by rugged mountains. Cross the exhilarating Hussaini Suspension Bridge, suspended high above the Hunza River. Experience breathtaking views of peaks, valleys, and glaciers along the way. Return to Karimabad for an overnight stay amidst the dramatic northern landscapes.

Day 07 – Hunza (Karimabad) – Besham

Descend from Hunza along the Karakoram Highway, tracing the course of the mighty Indus River. Pause to admire waterfalls, cliffs, and deep gorges that showcase the region’s raw natural beauty. Observe rivers carving valleys through ancient rock, with villages perched along the slopes. Reflect on centuries of Silk Road history embedded in these landscapes. Arrive in Besham for a restful evening, surrounded by mountains and rivers, after a day of awe-inspiring travel.

Day 08 – Besham – Swat Valley

Drive into Swat Valley, often called the “Switzerland of the East” for its lush meadows and alpine scenery. Discover relics of Gandhara’s Buddhist past, with monasteries and stupas dotting the hillsides. Pass orchards, rivers, and small villages, framed by towering snow-capped peaks. Stop to admire mountain streams, serene landscapes, and local life unfolding peacefully. Experience Swat’s natural charm, history, and culture before reaching your hotel for an overnight stay amidst alpine beauty.

Day 09 – Swat – Ayun Valley

Journey across the winding Lowari Pass into the remote Ayun Valley, a hidden gem of northern Pakistan. Admire dramatic vistas of rivers, forests, and snow-capped mountains along the route. Step into traditional villages with historic forts carved from timber and stone, meeting locals preserving their unique culture. Enjoy the serenity of unspoiled nature, framed by the Hindukush peaks. Arrive in Ayun Valley for an overnight stay in a tranquil mountain retreat surrounded by legends.

Day 10 – Excursion to Kalash Valley

Enter the Kalash Valleys, home to the unique Kalash people, known for their vibrant culture and ancient traditions. Visit the villages of Rumbur, Birir, and Bumburet, admiring wooden homes, colorful decorations, and terraced fields. Observe traditional festivals, music, and dances, and engage with locals to learn about their beliefs and way of life. Surround yourself with lush meadows and towering mountains while absorbing the valley’s cultural richness.

Day 11 – Excursion to Chitral

Drive through Chitral’s scenic valleys, with rugged peaks and sparkling streams. Explore Chitral Fort, once the seat of local rulers, and the grand Shahi Mosque. Wander vibrant bazaars offering handicrafts, textiles, and traditional souvenirs. Meet locals and hear stories of centuries-old customs, resilience, and hospitality. Admire surrounding landscapes, terraced fields, and rushing rivers. Return to Ayun Valley for overnight stay, carrying memories of Chitral’s rich cultural heritage and mountain beauty.

Day 12 – Ayun Valley – Peshawar

Leave Ayun’s tranquility for the historic city of Peshawar. Travel through valleys and plains, with rivers and villages unfolding along the route. Pause to admire local life, traditional crafts, and rural markets. Upon arrival, explore the city’s lively streets, enjoying a taste of local cuisine and vibrant bazaars. Observe the blend of history and modernity, from forts and mosques to bustling city lanes. Overnight stay in Peshawar, steeped in cultural heritage.

Day 13 – Peshawar Sightseeing – Islamabad

Explore Peshawar’s historic sites, including Qissa Khwani Bazaar, alive with stories of traders and travelers. Visit the Peshawar Museum, home to Gandhara relics and ancient sculptures. Walk along Sethi Street, admiring traditional mansions and crafts. Reflect on the city’s frontier history, from the Mughal and British eras to present-day culture. Depart Peshawar and return to Islamabad for an overnight stay, enjoying the scenic drive and remembering encounters with rich heritage and vibrant communities.

Day 14 – Taxila & Islamabad – Departure

Step back in time at Taxila, visiting the Taxila Museum, Julian Monastery, Sirkap, and Dharmarajika Stupa. Learn about the ancient Gandhara civilization and its Buddhist heritage. Return to Islamabad for a final city tour, exploring landmarks blending modernity with history. Admire scenic views, markets, and cultural hubs one last time. Depart from Islamabad, carrying with you stories, experiences, and unforgettable memories of mountains, rivers, valleys, and centuries of culture.

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