“Embark on a 24-day 4×4 adventure through Pakistan’s majestic Himalayas, Karakoram, and Hindu Kush ranges.”
Overview
Embark on an exhilarating 24-day 4×4 jeep safari traversing Pakistan’s three grand mountain ranges: the Himalayas, Karakoram, and Hindu Kush. This journey combines rugged off-road adventures with serene nature walks, offering an intimate experience of these majestic landscapes. A highlight of the expedition is a trek to the base camp of Nanga Parbat, the world’s ninth-highest peak, often referred to as the “Killer Mountain.”
Trip Highlights
- Fairy Meadows & Nanga Parbat Base Camp: Experience the serene beauty of Fairy Meadows and trek to the base camp of Nanga Parbat, the world's ninth-highest peak.
- Deosai Plains: Traverse the "Land of Giants," the world's second-highest plateau, renowned for its diverse flora and fauna.
- Historic Forts: Explore the ancient Baltit and Altit forts in Hunza Valley, showcasing traditional architecture and rich history.
- Karakoram Highway: Journey along the famed "Eighth Wonder of the World," offering breathtaking views of towering peaks and deep gorges.
- Kalash Valleys: Immerse yourself in the unique culture of the Kalash people, believed to be descendants of Alexander the Great's army.
- Shandur Pass: Cross the "Roof of the World," home to the highest polo ground globally and host to the annual Shandur Polo Festival.
- Skardu & Shigar Valleys: Discover the enchanting landscapes of Skardu and the restored 400-year-old Shigar Fort.
Safari Tour Itinerary
Arrive at Islamabad International Airport and transfer to your hotel. In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner followed by a comprehensive briefing session with your guide and support staff to ensure a seamless journey ahead.
Depart for Chilas, driving through the picturesque Kaghan Valley and crossing the Babusar Pass (4,000 meters). This route offers breathtaking views of lush valleys, terraced fields, and snow-capped peaks. Overnight stay at Hotel Shangrila.
Proceed to Raikot Bridge (1.5-hour drive), then transfer to local 4x4 jeeps heading to Tato Village. From there, embark on a 2-hour hike to Fairy Meadows, a serene alpine pasture offering panoramic views of Nanga Parbat. Overnight in huts or camps.
Take a 2-hour leisurely walk to Biyal Camp, surrounded by dense pine forests and offering closer views of Nanga Parbat. For the more adventurous, a day trip to Nanga Parbat Base Camp is available (5-6 hours one way), providing an up-close experience of the majestic peak. Return to Fairy Meadows in the afternoon. Overnight in huts or camps.
Descend to Tato Village (3-hour walk), then drive to Rama Village (3-hour journey), known for its beautiful lake and lush greenery. Overnight in a hotel or Camp.
Drive across the renowned Deosai Plains (4,100 meters) to Skardu Town (6-7 hours). The Deosai Plains, also known as the "Land of Giants," are the second-highest plateau in the world and are home to diverse flora and fauna. Overnight in a hotel.
Morning excursion to Shigar Valley and Shigar Fort, a 400-year-old fort that has been converted into a museum and hotel. Afternoon visits to Kharpocho Fort, offering panoramic views of Skardu, and the ancient Buddha rock carvings, reflecting the region's rich cultural heritage. Overnight in a hotel.
Journey to Gilgit (6-7 hours, 200 km), the capital city of Gilgit-Baltistan, known for its vibrant bazaars and as a hub for mountaineering expeditions. Overnight in a hotel. Visit to Kargah Buddha, an ancient rock carving dating back to the 7th century, followed by exploration of the local bazaar. If available, attend a traditional polo match; alternatively, a special match can be arranged upon request. Overnight in a hotel.
Drive to Hunza Valley (103 km, 3 hours), renowned for its stunning scenery and rich cultural heritage. Visit the 700-year-old Baltit Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and explore the local bazaar. Overnight in a hotel.
Morning drive to Hoper Valley in Nagar (1-hour drive) to witness the impressive Barpu Glacier. On the return journey, visit Ganish Village's ancient mosques and the 900-year-old Altit Fort, showcasing traditional Hunza architecture. Overnight in a hotel.
This day is dedicated to exploring the wonders of upper Hunza and the legendary Khunjerab Pass. The journey along the Karakoram Highway takes you past Attabad Lake, a mesmerizing turquoise lake formed after a landslide in 2010. Continuing further, you will witness the breathtaking Passu Cones, one of the most iconic mountain formations in Pakistan.
A short stop at the Hussaini Suspension Bridge will allow you to experience one of the world’s most adventurous rope bridges. The journey culminates at Khunjerab Pass, the highest paved border crossing between Pakistan and China at 4,693 meters. Here, you will have time to take in the stunning landscape before returning to Hunza for an overnight stay.
Travel to Ishkoman Valley via Gilgit (210 km), following the scenic route along the Ghizer River (6-7 hours). Overnight in a homestay or camping amidst apricot orchards, accompanied by a musical evening featuring sitar performances.
Drive to Yasin Valley (3 hours, approximately 100 km), known for its rich history and vibrant culture. Enjoy a musical night with a local band. Overnight in a homestay, hotel.
Proceed to Phandar Valley (4-hour drive), famed for its turquoise lake and lush landscapes. Overnight in a hotel or camp.
Cross the Shandur Pass (3,750 meters), known as the "Roof of the World," en route to Chitral Town (6-7 hours). The pass is renowned for its annual polo festival. Overnight in a hotel.
Drive to Chitral that takes 4 hours through charismatic villages all the way with stunning views of Snow-capped peaks.
Explore Chitral Town, visiting Chitral Fort, Shahi Mosque, and the traditional bazaar, renowned for woolen Chitrali caps (Pakol). Overnight in a hotel.
Day trip to the Gharum Chashma (Hot Spring) valley beautiful drive along the river. Afternoon return to Chitral. on the way stop at Thrusi to see Ibex Hotel
Drive to Kalash valley (the descendent of General Shahlik shah) who was one of Alexander General and to whom Alexander gave Chital valley as a reward.
Morning visit the Kalash Museum and then a short walk in the Krakal village to meet some Kalasha families to observe closely about their living style. Hotel or camping in Bumbureth.
Drive to Rumbur valley.Visit some Kalash families,if got a chance to meet Mrs Aqiqa from Japan who is married to a kalasha guy. Another Interesting figure among the Kalasha people is Mr Saif ullah,the first Graduate in Kalash community, he speaks good English and always interested to chat with him about Kalasha culture. Evening return to Chitral town Hotel.
Fly to Islamabad or drive via Lawari Tunnel or by the tunnel to Dir and onwards to Islamabad.12 to 14 hrs. Hotel or Guest house in Islamabad.
Free day in Islamabad, explore the twin cities Islamabad and Rawalpindi. In the evening fare well dinner and gratitude
Transfer to Islamabad International for home flight
Includes and Excludes
Included
- Transportation: Comfortable air-conditioned vehicle for all transfers and sightseeing throughout the tour.
- Accommodation: 3-star or equivalent hotels for all overnight stays with breakfast included.
- Guided Tour: Professional and knowledgeable local tour guide throughout the journey to provide insights into the culture, history, and nature of the region.
- Meals: Daily breakfast at hotels, and lunch and dinner at local restaurants or arranged meals (as specified in the itinerary).
- Entry Fees: All entrance fees for forts, cultural sites, and parks as per the itinerary.
Excludes
- International Flights: Airfare to and from Pakistan is not included.
- Visa Fees: The cost of obtaining a visa to Pakistan is not included.
- Personal Expenses: Expenses such as souvenirs, personal shopping, laundry, or any additional meals and drinks not mentioned in the itinerary.
- Travel Insurance: Personal travel insurance for medical coverage, trip cancellations, or personal losses.
- Optional Activities: Any optional activities such as trekking or extra excursions not mentioned in the itinerary.
- Tips and Gratuities: Tips for the driver, guide, and hotel staff are not included.
- Additional Services: Any other services not specifically mentioned in the "Includes" section
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
PASSPORT AND VISA
Participants of all nationalities are required to have a valid passport with six months remaining validity and a visa for Pakistan. Visas must be applied online at https://visa.nadra.gov.pk/
The main category is Safari Trip and the sub-category is CULTURE TOUR. You will need a letter of invitation (LOI) which our office will provide along with the requisite documents like Trips Nomad Adventure (TNA) license copy and National Identity Card of the issuing authority.
PLEASE MAKE SURE YOU HAVE THE CORRECT TRAVEL DOCUMENTS AND A VISA FOR PAKISTAN.
PERSONAL INSURANCE
As the trip is of strenuous nature, it is a mandatory requirement to have an insurance policy for accidents, medical and helicopter evacuation covering at least $ 30,000. We recommend you insure with SafetyWing Travel Insurance that their benefits and coverages are amazing for travelers around the world. The best is they provide online services without hastles.
DRESS
In the cities like Islamabad, there is no problem if you are in western dress but in remote regions including Skardu, you will need to have a full dress (covering your body)
LOCAL CREW
The local crew includes a licensed guide, cook, assistant cook, porter’s Sirdar, and porters. Our guides and cooks are well-experienced, strong, supportive and friendly. They performed their duties with full dedication to facilitate our valued clients.
GROUP JOINING INSTRUCTIONS
The tour starts and ends in Islamabad. TNA, guide or representative will be at the airport to pick the clients with the welcome signboard of TNA. We can also make reservations for pre and post nights if anyone arriving early or departing late.
BOOKING & DEPOSITS
The trip can be reserved upon as an initial deposit of 50% one month before arrival. The initial deposit shall not be refunded but can be transferred for a future trip.
FINAL PAYMENT
We accept full trip cost before the commencement of the tour. The payments are only accepted in cash/bank transfers in bank account. We don’t accept payments through credit cards. Please do not accept any invoice which is not generated by Trips Nomad Adventure and sent through official email ID.
1) Cancellations must be notified in writing to Trips Nomad Adventure or the agent through which the trip is booked. Cancellation charges shall be levied as follows:
- Cancellation before 30 days or more-After a deduction of the 10%, the remaining amount will be refunded. If the deposit is retained with the consent of our client no cancellation charges will be applied. The full amount will be adjusted with a future trip.
- Cancellation within 2 weeks before departure –50 % of the package offer
- Cancellation within one week of departure or no show –Loss of full payment
2) There shall be no refunds if you leave the trip for any reason whatsoever, either voluntarily or involuntarily, after the trip has begun. No refunds shall be made for any meals, accommodation or services not utilized