Mountain Valleys Safari

KPK and Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan

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Duration

22 Days 21 nights

Tour Type

Specific Tour

Group Size

15 people

Languages

___

Overview

The 22-day journey through Pakistan’s northern mountain valleys, starting from Islamabad and passing through Naran, Astore, Deosai, and beyond, offers a mesmerizing experience of nature’s grandeur. This tour navigates you through the scenic valleys in the great mountain ranges of Himalaya, Hindukush, and Karakorum. The first leg of the journey takes you into the Himalayas from the green hills of Islamabad to the alpine meadows of Naran and onward to the serene valleys of Astore, where the breathtaking beauty of Deosai Plains awaits. Deosai, often called the “Land of Giants,” is a stunning plateau known for its wildflowers, streams, and rare wildlife. Reaching Skardu, the gateway to the mighty Karakoram, you explore Shigar and Khaplu, both ancient towns with stunning fortresses, rich Balti culture, and views of towering peaks.

The next phase of the trip leads to the Karakourm range from Gilgit to Hunza/Nagar, and Khunjerab Pass, a journey through some of the most dramatic mountain landscapes on Earth. The Hunza Valley, with its terraced fields and snow-capped peaks like Rakaposhi, offers a glimpse into the serene lifestyle of the locals, while Khunjerab, the highest paved border crossing in the world, connects Pakistan to China and offers unparalleled views. After enjoying the majestic beauty of these valleys, the journey winds its way to the enchanting Phander Lake, a turquoise gem surrounded by peaceful pastures, and then to Chitral, a remote yet culturally rich region.

The final leg is the Hindukush mountain valleys from Gilgit to Ghizer district and onwards to Chitral. Chitral opens the way to the Kalash Valleys, where the unique Kalash tribe celebrates their centuries-old traditions amidst stunning scenery. The route back to Islamabad passes through Swat, often called the “Switzerland of the East” for its verdant landscapes, rivers, and cultural treasures. In Swat, historical sites such as the Buddhist relics in Mingora and the breathtaking Swat Valley offer a blend of nature and heritage. Completing the journey back to Islamabad, this adventure encompasses some of Pakistan’s most picturesque and culturally diverse regions, creating memories of awe-inspiring landscapes, ancient traditions, and warm hospitality.

HIGHLIGHTS

Discover the vibrant capital city of Islamabad.
Journey through the majestic mountain ranges of Pakistan: The Karakoram, Himalayas, and Hindukush.
Explore Deosai National Park, the "Land of Giants," renowned for its unique flora and fauna.
Experience Baltistan, also known as "Little Tibet," and the historic princely states of Shigar and Khaplu.
Engage with the Balti people, learning about their distinct architecture and cultural heritage.
Visit Gilgit, a historical center of Buddhism in the Upper Indus Valley.
Enjoy the hospitality and stunning landscapes of the Hunza Valley.
Enjoy a scenic drive along the Karakoram Highway, often referred to as the "Eighth Wonder of the World."
Stop at significant landmarks, including the junction point of the three great mountain ranges and the collision point of the continental plates.
Experience the warmth and hospitality of the people of Hunza.
Visit the Khunjerab Pass, the world’s highest border crossing, connecting Pakistan and China.
Take in the breathtaking views along the Gilgit-Chitral Road.
Discover the natural beauty of Phander Valley in the Ghizer District.
Drive through the stunning Shandur Pass, which links the regions of Gilgit and Chitral.
Explore the picturesque valleys of Chitral and the unique Kalash Valleys.
Meet the Kalash tribe, one of the world’s last pagan communities, residing in the valleys of Bamburet, Rambur, and Birir.
Explore the Swat Valley, known as the "Switzerland of Pakistan" and home to significant Buddhist heritage.

Itinerary

Arrive in Islamabad, meet and greet at the airport and transfer to a hotel for check in. Afternoon, proceed for a half-day sightseeing of the capital city. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Drive from Islamabad to Naran - enjoy a scenic journey along the Hazara Motorway and then through the lower Himalayan mountains along the Khunhar River in the Kaghan Valley all the way to Naran. Afternoon, visit Lake Saif ul Mulook and return to the hotel for overnight stay.

Drive to Astor via Babusar Pass, Karakorum Highway, and then Gilgit-Astore road. It is almost a 7-9 hours journey in the Himalayan mountain range. Upon arrival, transfer to a hotel for overnight stay.

Drive up to the Rama Valley and enjoy the day hike to the scenic Rama Lake. It is an easy hike yet a rewarding experience for adventure buffs.

Drive from Astore to Skardu via Deosai Planes - one of the highest altitude national Parks of Pakistan. The journey is extremely scenic and with several stopovers, it costs the entire day to make it to Skardu.

Full day to explore Skardu. Visit local attractions including the Kharpocho Fort providing a bird's eye view of the town and Indus River, Manthal Buddha Rock, Kachura Lakes, and Katpana Desert. Overnight stay at a hotel.

Drive from Skardu to Khaplu via Manthoka Waterfall. Upon arrival, transfer to a hotel for check in. Afternoon explore Chaqchan Mosque and Serena Khaplu Fort. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Drive from Khaplu to Shigar valley en route Sarfaranga Desert and explore local attractions including the Blind Lake, Amburiq Mosque, the Khanqah and Hashupi Garden. Overnight stay at a hotel in Shigar.

Drive from Shigar to the Hunza Valley en route Skardu and Gilgit. It is about 7-8 hrs journey. Stopover at the Junction Point of three Mountain Ranges, Collision Point of Continental Place and Rakaposhi View Point. Overnight stay in Hunza.

Visit Baltit and Altit Forts, enjoy sunset at Duikar providing bird's eye view of the entire Hunza and Nagar Valleys guarded by snow-crowned mountains and explore the local market in Karimabad. Overnight stay in Hunza.

Day excursion to Khunjerab top (Pak-China border) is almost a full day activity. Upon return, visit the Hussaini Suspension Bridge and enjoy boating at Attabad Lake. Overnight stay in Hunza.

AM: Drive to the Hoper Valley, PM: return to Hunza and proceed to Gilgit for overnight stay.

After breakfast, visit Karga Buddha and proceed to the Phunder Valley for overnight stay.

Drive from Phunder to Chitral over the Famous Shandoor Pass by enjoying the scenic beauty of the tiny valleys of Chitral district. Overnight stay in Chitral.

Drive to the Bamburet valley in Kalash. Visit local attractions including the museum and the ancient graveyard besides exploring local lifestyle. Overnight stay in Bamburet Valley.

Drive from the Kalash Valley to Swat and transfer to a hotel for check in. Afternoon visit Swat Museum, White Palace and local market. Overnight stay in Swat.

Full day Swat Valley exploration. Visit the Buddhist Heritage of Swat and explore the scenic beauty. Overnight stay in Swat.

Drive from Swat to Peshawar via Takht-e-Bahi Monastery in Mardan. Upon arrival in Peshawar, transfer to a hotel for check in. Evening, explore prime attractions in the Peshawar city. Overnight stay in Peshawar.

Full day sightseeing in Peshawar - visit Baab-e-Khyber, Peshawar Museum, Sethi Street, Balahisar Fort, Cunningham Clock Tower, Mahabbat Khan Mosque etc. Overnight stay in Peshawar.

Drive from Peshawr to Islamabad en route visit to Taxila UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit Taxila Museum and adjacent stupas. Overnight stay in Islamabad.

Explore the capital city of Islamabad. Visit key landmarks including the Faisal Mosque, Pakistan Monument & the Wax Museum, Shakar Parian Hills, Lok Virsa Museum, and Daman-e-Koh. Evening explore local shopping malls and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Overnight stay in Islamabad.

Transfer to Islamabad Airport. Flyback Home with great memories. End of services.

Included/Exclude

All domestic flights and ground transportation including airport transfers.
All accommodation (hotel) on a twin sharing basis during the tour
Single supplement as per demand or for single female participant
All meals (breakfast, lunch & dinner) and coffee/green tea/hot water during treks
Professional tour guide and support staff
Fresh and packed meals as per itinerary
Basic First Aid Kit
Visa assistance

International flight ticket
Personal clothing (shoes, trousers, etc.)
Personal Equipment’s (Ice-Axe, Crampons, Harness, Helmet, etc.) can be arrange upon request
Personal Insurance of foreign participants
Visa fee
Extra hotel stays
Tips and gratuities to staff
Miscellaneous expenses
Anything not mentioned in the “services included

Tour's Location

KPK and Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan

FAQs

The Mountain Valley Safari tour is a journey through the scenic valleys of northern Pakistan – the territories of the upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province and in Gilgit-Baltistan.

Please share your idea, dates and other people planning to travel with you so that we can arrange accordingly.

This tour is not a physically demanding one as other strenuous expeditions. It involves driving through the scenic valleys and towns in the mountains of Pakistan covering all three mountain ranges – Hindukush, Karakorum, and Himalayan mountain ranges and meeting people from a diverse ethnic and geographic backgrounds. Simply prepare yourself for surprises on a daily basis that this tour brings about.

You will be crossing five passes on this particular tour with each pass located at a certain altitude. The maximum altitude of the passes falling on the route begins with Babusar Pass at 4,173 meters (13,691 ft) above sea level, Deosai National Park at 4,114 meters (13,497 ft) above the sea level, Khunjerab Pass at 4,693 m (15,397 ft) above sea level, Shandur Pass at 12,205 ft (3,720 m), and Malakand Pass at 1,362 m (4,468 ft).

There is a detailed list of must-carry and optional equipment’s which covers the required equipment and baggage to carry. If you have previous travelling experience, you may select your personal requirement.

● Important medicine/first aid kit
● Hiking backpack and sticks
● Sunglasses
● Sunblock and lip balm
● Water bottle
● Glows and warm pairs of socks
● Warm cap, hat, and scarf (to avoid scorching sun)
● Full sleeves shirt
● Comfortable shoes and flip-flops
● Warm layers of clothing
● Camera with additional batteries (optional)
● Cell phone with charger and charging bank (optional)
● Binoculars (optional)

We are a Member Company of Pakistan Association of Tour Operators (PATO) and helicopter rescue plan is part of the program we offer.

For any rescue mission we are required to deposit advance payment in favor of PATO out of which a small percentage is non-refundable (will be discussed at the time of confirmation) while rest is refundable (in case service was not availed). This entire amount is required to be paid by the client in advance. If there is any insurance policy on part of the client that can cover the impending bill, that needs to be submitted.

We do. We can organize customized tours/treks for solo trekkers and groups of any volume, but we prefer not more than 12. All we need is the information on the interest, dates, and number of persons with special instructions if any.

The maximum size of our groups is 20 persons. The average size of our groups is 10 members.

During this tour, all three meals (including breakfast, lunch, and dinner) will be served to the participants. A combination of foreign and Pakistani meals will be included in our food plan. Breakfast will be taken at the hotel where stay is arranged. Lunch is usually taken at a suitable location during the journey while dinner is taken either at the hotel where accommodation is arranged or at a decent restaurant in the vicinity.

On this particular tour, accommodation is arranged at various hotels falling on the route in Naran, Astore, Skardu, Hunza, Gilgit, Phunder, Chitral, Kalash, Peshawar, and Islamabad. We always strive to provide the best available accommodation services to our clients. In big cities, we have open options on the accommodation while in small towns and valleys, we have a limited provision and provide best available accommodation. However, the type of accommodation to be provided will always be informed to the client in advance and we always suggest our client about the pros and cons of the property based on the convenience, services, nearby attractions and on our prior experience so that we reach an agreement and quote the final price accordingly.

During the tour, the day starts with breakfast at your hotel restaurant. Our guide provides morning briefing about the day activity either at breakfast or immediately after. The briefing involves distances, road condition, weather condition, type of attractions to visit, lunch break, refreshment, accommodation, and also addresses the queries participants have about day plan. Most of the day is usually spent by driving to the destinations and exploring local attractions as per the pre-agreed itinerary.

All nationalities must obtain a valid visa for entry into Pakistan. Tourists are advised to contact the nearest Pakistan Embassy/High Commission/consulate in their respected country/city. For the detailed information on visa, please refer to https://visa.nadra.gov.pk/ Pakistan does have visa on arrival facility for a number of countries. Please check the details here https://visa.nadra.gov.pk/visa-on-arrival-tourist/

Portable chargers, storage cards and extra batteries may be required during the trekking holiday. We advise you to make a relevant list of adapters, sockets and any other kind of electrical items you might require keeping your devices function as long as possible.

Tipping in Pakistan is not obligatory; it is entirely at one’s own discretion. Staff generally expects to be tipped at the end of the tour. If the staff during the trip performed well, a good tip is considered well-deserved. However, there is no defined amount as it depends on the situation, number of days spent and performance of the staff. With groups clients can join in to add to an amount.

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