Pakistan – a land of fairy tales on the roof of the world 14 days
We invite you to take part in the tour to mountain regions of Pakistan during which we will see one of the most beautiful mountain landscapes on the Earth, at the junction of Hindu Kush, Himalayas, Karakoram and a unique trek to Nanga Parbat. We will take a ride on one of the most famous roads in the world – the Karakoram Highway.
We will meet the inhabitants of mountain valleys – we will get to know their traditions and culture shaped over centuries by multiple religions and civilisations that were present in the territory of contemporary Pakistan. The rocky landscapes, picturesque valleys and extraordinary architecture of towns and villages located in this hardly explored area of Asia will stay for long in our memory.
itinerary
The flight usually arrives in Islamabad in the early morning or at night. After arrival, visa formalities will be carried out and then transfer to the hotel. After a short rest, we serve a late breakfast and organize an organizational meeting. Early in the afternoon, we start exploring Islamabad, the capital of Pakistan since 1963. The area where it is located was one of the earliest inhabited areas. Against the background of Karachi, Hyderabad or Multan, Islamabad stands out for its greenery, cleanliness and calm. We will have the opportunity to see the Faisal Mosque, the National Monument of Pakistan and the Ethnographic Museum of Lok Virsa, to learn about the rich collections related to the material culture of the inhabitants of Pakistan. In the afternoon, we will go to the bustling bazaar in Rawalpindi, where we will discover a kaleidoscope of colors, people and their goods. We will end the day with a welcome dinner and relax after an intensive day full of experiences.
L.D.
After breakfast, we will embark on a full-day excursion to one of the most significant archaeological sites in Pakistan. This city dates back over 4000 years BC. Information about Taxila can be found in Hindu poems. In Persian times, it was a fortress that was later besieged by Alexander the Great. To this day, many monuments from the time of the flourishing of Buddhism in the areas of today’s Pakistan, during the Indo-Greek dynasty and the Kusan state have been preserved. We will visit the ruins of the monastery along with numerous stupas and the museum, which houses sculptures and statues discovered during excavations. In addition, we will visit other archaeological sites in Mohra Moradu. In the evening, we will return to Islamabad, transfer to the airport or additional overnight stay at the hotel.
B. L. D.
In the morning, we will head to the airport in Islamabad, where weather permitting, we will fly to Gilgit. During the flight, we will have the opportunity to admire some of the highest peaks of our planet. Upon landing, we will head towards Karimabad. Along the way, we will have many opportunities to stop at the most interesting viewpoint and enjoy the wonderful mountain panorama. Upon arrival in Karimabad, we will take a walk through the town and acclimatize to the altitude of 2500 meters. In the evening, dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.
B.L.D.
Alternatively, in case of flight cancellation – a full-day trip on one of the world’s most famous roads – the Karakorum Highway (500 km). This extraordinary road is also known as the Chinese-Pakistan Friendship Road. Some of its sections are located at an altitude of over 4700 meters above sea level. The construction of the road was extremely difficult and lasted over 20 years. A drive on Route NR-35 is one of the experiences that you’ll remember for a lifetime. The road offers exceptional views of the Nanga Parbat massif and the Indus River in its upper course. In the town of Basham, we will stop for lunch, after which we will continue our journey to the city of Chailas.
B.L.D.
After breakfast, we will visit some of the most interesting glaciers in the area. This will be the first opportunity to admire the glacier at the lateral moraine and to touch it directly. The next point of the day will be visiting the Baltit Fort, the history of which dates back to the 13th century. Inside, there is a museum where you can see exhibits related to the history of the Hunza valley. Then we will go to the Altit Fort, which impresses us with its spectacular location on the high bank of the Hunza river. Both forts were once the residences of local rulers. In the evening, we will take a walk around the local market and have dinner. Overnight at the hotel.
B.L.D.
In the case of a land journey from Islamabad on this day, an afternoon arrival in Karimabad and a visit to the Altit and Baltit Forts was planned.
B.L.D.
After lunch, we will head to the picturesque Duiker Valley, which offers stunning views of the surrounding seven-thousanders. During our visit, we will have the opportunity to get to know the valley residents, their traditions, and perhaps even the secret of their longevity. The Hunza Valley was once an important route between India and China. We will end the day with dinner and an overnight stay
B.L.D.
On this day, we will visit further surroundings of the Hunza Valley. We will head towards the Passu village, admiring interesting petroglyphs along the way, left by some of the first residents of this region. Then, we will visit Attabad Lake, which is over 20 km long and over 100 m deep. Early in the afternoon, we will head to the vicinity of the Passu Glacier, which we will see up close during a short trek. After the trek, we will drive to Borith Lake, which is an important resting place for migratory birds. The final point of the program will be an exciting walk on the suspension bridges. Dinner at the hotel where we will stay overnight or in one of the nearby restaurants.
B.L.D.
After breakfast, we will head towards the Chinese-Pakistani border to see one of the highest border crossings in the world (at an elevation of 4733 m). The construction of the road and the border crossing was completed in 1982. During our journey, we will stop at the most attractive scenic points. In the evening, we will return to Karimabad for dinner and an overnight stay.
B.L.D.
After breakfast, we will travel to the city of Gilgit. During our journey, we will stop at the Rakaposhi viewpoint for photos and a short break. The town of Gilgit has a very long and unique history. To this day, in the customs and culture of the residents, echoes of ancient beliefs associated with Greek, Persian, Hindu, or Buddhist cultures can still be heard. Gilgit is known as the gem of Pakistan, the town and valley are largely inhabited by Ismailis. We will get to know their customs and the incredibly interesting history of this branch of Islam. In the evening, we will have the opportunity to participate in the training of polo players, the most popular sport in Gilgit. Overnight stay and dinner in Gilgit
B.L.D.
After breakfast, we will drive to the Raikot village where we will switch to 4×4 vehicles. We will travel on a scenic and thrilling mountain road until we reach Tato village. After a short break, we will go for a 2-3 hour trek to Fairy Meadows. For those interested, there is an option to ride on the back of a mule to reach the destination. We will spend the night at a mountain hotel with a stunning view of the Nanga Parbat. For those interested, there will be an afternoon walk and a photo session at sunset. Dinner and overnight stay at a mountain hotel.
B.L.D.
Before breakfast, a photo session at sunrise. After breakfast, we will travel along a picturesque route to the viewpoint and at the same time to the first base of mountaineers climbing Nanga Parbat. There will be no shortage of unique views and encounters with residents who are engaged in herding. Dinner and overnight stay at a mountain hotel.
B.L.D.
After breakfast, we will start our journey back to the village of Tato. For those interested, there is the possibility of traveling on the back of a mule. From the village, we will set off in all-terrain vehicles to the town of Raikot, passing through the winding mountain road. A short break by the mountain stretch of Indus, then a drive to the town of Gilgit, where we will tour some of the largest Buddha statues carved into the rock – the Kharga Buddha – in the afternoon. An evening visit to the bazaar and dinner at one of the restaurants. Overnight at the hotel.
B.L.D.
After breakfast, we’ll drive to the airport and take a flight to the capital city of Pakistan. Then, we’ll proceed to the hotel. In the afternoon, we’ll visit the twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi. We’ll have the opportunity to visit the unique bazaar in Rawalpindi and make some final purchases.
B.L.D.
In case of flight cancellation, we’ll drive by land to Islamabad.
After breakfast, we’ll start our journey back to the city of Chilas (300 km). The journey will take approximately 10-11 hours. We’ll be traveling along the Indus River, stopping at the most interesting scenic spots along the way. In the evening, dinner and overnight stay in Chilas.
B.L.D.
Free day or the option to participate in additional paid, optional excursions.
In case of flight cancellation, a road trip to Islamabad.
After breakfast, we will start our journey back to Islamabad (470 km). During the drive, we will take a break at the Babusar Pass, which is at an altitude of 4173 meters. Arrival in Islamabad in the evening, farewell dinner.
B.
- Full-day tour to Peshawar, where you’ll have the opportunity to see the spectacular Mohabat Khan Mosque. Then, visit Fort Jamrud and the Islamic College building. There will also be time for some short shopping. Return to Islamabad in the evening. Dinner and then transfer to the airport for an overnight departure from Pakistan.
- A Full-day Tour to Rohtas Fort south of Islamabad. Rohtas Fort is one of the largest military structures in Asia. The fort, which was finally completed in the 16th century, is still perfectly preserved today and has been on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1997. After the tour, return to Islamabad for a farewell dinner and then transfer to the airport. Departure from Pakistan in the late hours.
Depending on the departure time, transfer to the airport and flight home. We will reach our final destination airport on the same or next day. .
Practical information
- the length of the tour : 14 days in Pakistan;
- start of the trip: Islamabad;
- end of the trip: Islamabad;
- the highlights of this expedition The tour will begin and end in Islamabad. The highlight of this tour will be the drive to the mountain regions of Pakistan, where we will be able to admire probably the most beautiful mountain landscapes on our planet. We will visit unique villages and towns located in picturesque mountain valleys. We will take the famous Karakoram Highway and visit the junction of three mighty mountain ranges: Himalayas, Hindu Kush and Karakoram. During the trip, we will have an opportunity to meet the inhabitants of this exceptional part of Asia where the local culture was shaped by multiple civilisations, religions and traditions.
Because of the special nature of the visited places and of the expedition features, the travellers are required to be physically and mentally fit. Long drives on mountain roads, frequent changes of altitude and considerable temperature fluctuations during the day may cause fatigue and discomfort. Accommodation is planned in hotels of different standards. The drives during our tour will be on minibuses and off-road vehicles. The trip plan includes one optional trek from Fairy Meadows to Nanga Parbat base camp, which may be very tiring because of the high altitudes. The itinerary was designed to enable best possible viewing of the places away from mass tourism routes, while meeting safety standards and ensuring comfort to the travellers. Bear in mind that the Islamic Republic of Pakistan is mostly inhabited by Sunni Muslims, which means the need to respect cultural differences and to adhere to the appropriate dress code.
Depending on the political situation, the length of the tour and the order of visited places may change. In a situation of a serious threat to travellers’ safety, the tour may be cancelled. We will keep you updated as to whether the expedition is possible.
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months after the planned end of the tour.
Before departure, you must obtain a tourist visa online https://visa.nadra.gov.pk or at diplomatic posts of Pakistan.
Furthermore, you should take with you for the trip a photocopy of your passport (the photo page) and an additional ID document.
- Before departure, we recommend a consultation with a family physician and a tropical medicine specialist.
- Malaria prophylaxis is recommended but an infection is rather unlikely because of the climate, the trip dates and the itinerary of the planned tour.
- Vaccination against tetanus, diphtheria, viral hepatitis A and B and typhus is recommended.
- There is a risk of tuberculosis.
- We recommend visiting https://travelhealthpro.org.uk/countries.
- During our expedition, we will drink only bottled water. You should avoid ice in your beverages and eating raw or undercooked foods.
- At the visited places, only private healthcare exists (a visit cost is approximately USD 50).
- Because of difficult travelling and accommodation conditions and particularities of the country, good general health is necessary. Please take with you a first aid kit and a sufficient supply of your regular (prescription) medicines, if any. Some useful contents of the first aid kit:
The Islamic Republic of Pakistan is a country with relative political stability but there are still some armed conflicts in certain regions. This applies in particular to regions at the borders with Afghanistan and India. Moreover, there is a small but existing threat of terrorist attacks and a risk related to an unstable political situation.
However, trips to Afghanistan are possible and safe when conducted with the adequate precautions.
Owing to the good relations we have with local contractors, we keep following the news to be aware of any potential threats and safety risks. We also recommend you to read the latest news on the Foreign & Commonwealth Office website: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice.
During the tour, please take seriously the instructions of our contractors, guides and tour leader.
It is very important to respect local customs and abide by local laws and regulations. You will receive the necessary information on an on-going-basis from your local guides and the tour leader.
The official currency in Pakistan is the Pakistani rupee (PKR). Currency exchange is possible at the airport, in banks, in some hotels and at foreign exchange points in the street. During the exchange, you must thoroughly calculate the received money and make sure what exchange rate is used. Using payment cards is not always possible. The best foreign exchange rate is for US dollars and euros. Please note that dollars should be printed after 2006.
For current foreign exchange rates see www.xe.com or install xe.com on your phone.
The official languages in the Islamic Republic of Pakistan are Urdu and English. Several dozen local languages are also spoken within the Pakistan territory. For self-guided tours, you must speak basic English or hire a local guide with a command of English.
The Islamic Republic of Pakistan is a multi-ethnic and multi-religious country. Most of the inhabitants are Sunni Muslims. Because of cultural considerations and for safety reasons, it is advisable to learn about the recommended dress code. Women are not required to wear headscarves at public places. However, this is necessary while visiting mosques and Sufi tombs. Clothes that reveal too much flesh are frowned upon – both in men and women. During official encounters, women do not give their hand to a man, and men do not give their hand to a woman. Discussions about political subjects should be avoided. Pakistani people are curious about the world and tourists and are ready to take up such conversations.
It is very important to respect local customs and abide by local laws. You will receive the relevant information from your local guide or the tour leader.
The tour dates are proposed in periods of the best possible weather conditions at the sites included in the itinerary. The best time for expeditions to Pakistan is the period between May and October. During the day, temperatures exceed +20°C in Islamabad during the night +10°C. The temperatures in the north-eastern part of the country where we will travel depend on altitude and local conditions During the day in the main part of they are higher than +20°C. during the day and may drop to +0°C at night. Rainfalls may be frequent in the north. H.
For detailed information see https://www.meteoblue.com/en.
Mobile network coverage is available in most towns and villages. However, it may not be present in many mountain regions and during our rides from town to town. It is possible to purchase a local SIM-card with an Internet package. To avoid a nasty surprise, we recommend disabling mobile data usage.
- Wi-Fi is available at most hotels and restaurants.
- Power sockets of type C, E and F. Voltage 240 V, frequency 50 Hz.
- Additionally, we recommend taking a capacious power bank.
For climatic and cultural reasons, loose garments will be most appropriate: long trousers, long skirts, long-sleeved shirts, which can be easily washed and will quickly dry. The most comfortable footwear for the tour will be lightweight boots. Palladium brand boots are recommended. Wearing open sandals is possible. Hiking boots are not necessary.
The following are worth taking:
- sachet for documents and money
- lightweight sleeping bag
- wet wipes for body cleaning and antibacterial gels
- polar fleece jacket or warmer blouse, especially useful at evening and night times in northern areas of Pakistan
- head cover and sunglasses – mandatory, the sun is no joke!
- comfortable summer clothes, useful during practically the whole trip
- light T-shirts/shirts
- useful odds and ends: torch, Swiss Army knife, sewing kit (usually is not needed but is not heavy and does not take much place), chargers, mug (for special occasions); inflatable neck pillow, useful on the plane and during car rides; small wallet for the local currency; books to pass the time on flights and car rides
Price
Price: £ 2790 p/p
The trip plan includes two domestic flights from Islamabad Gilgit and Gilgit Islamabad
During the expedition, we will travel by minibuses and off-road vehicles. Depending on the daily agenda in the itinerary and the current situation as regards traveller safety, we will spend 4 to 10 hours travelling every day.The speed and transfer times depend on the road surface conditions, terrain characteristics and number and length of stops. Moreover we have two domestic flight in our plan Islambad Gilgit Islamabda
We are not able to guarantee a uniform accommodation standard at each of the planned sites during the stay in Pakistan. Our priorities are your comfort, safety and appropriate location. We always place emphasis on the support of local community when selecting the sites for our accommodation. In general, rooms will be assigned on the assumption of two people sharing a twin room (rooms with individual bathrooms). The surcharges for single rooms are quoted in the “Price” section.
Two overnight stays in hotels approximately corresponding to the 3- and 4-star standard are planned during the tour.
Meals are included in the tour price, as specified in the itinerary. B – breakfast, L – lunch, D – dinner. Breakfasts will usually be offered in hotels. We will go for lunches and dinners to local restaurants. The Pakistani cuisine is varied, similarly as the culture and history of this exceptional country.
For information about the local costs of living see https://www.numbeo.com/cost-of-living/.
Local and special guides in National Parks
All entrance fees and permits to visit national parks and reserves in the itinerary
Trip preparation, visa mediation, the invitation necessary to obtain a visa
Costs of the main flight to Islamabad and from Islamabad
Costs of flight tickets are not covered by the tour price. BTP Adventure does not directly arrange and buy tickets for international flights. However, we may suggest the best connections and airlines. For this purpose, contact us by e-mail or call us.
Visa for the Islamic Republic of Pakistan
Insurance is not covered by the tour price. Having valid insurance is a condition for taking part in the trip. We recommend taking out insurance that will be appropriate for the planned itinerary and for your individual state of health and needs. Please send us the proof of your insurance contract.
You can purchase insurance on your own on the website of Axa or any other insurance company: https://www.axa.co.uk/travel-insurance/.
BTP Adventure may help you obtain adequate insurance cover. If you want our help, please contact us.
Meals other than those listed in the final itinerary.
The price does not includes the cost of tips and porters’ fees.
Personal expenses and souvenirs.
Surcharge for a single room: 550 £
supplementary payment for the additional accommodation In the case of arrival or departure on a different date,
optional trip to Peshawar or Rohtas Fort
We will keep updating the detailed information on the safety and final itinerary of the tour. Before you decide to submit the booking form, please learn about the current political and sanitary situation in Pakistan.
The planned expedition is an exclusive proposal prepared on the basis of our experience and knowledge of the local peculiarities and major sightseeing attractions of Pakistan.
We are committed to ensure the best possible and safe and, as far as feasible, comfortable travelling through this little-frequented and extremely interesting country with a fascinating history.
Depending on the political situation, the length of the tour and the order of visited places may change. In a situation of a serious threat to travellers’ safety, the tour may be cancelled. We will keep you updated as to whether the expedition is possible.
It is possible to combine this tour with trips to Tajikistan or Iran.
With any questions please contact BTP ADVENTURE
2790 £ Per Person
Price: £ 2790 p/p
