Hunza Highroad - Overland Trip

2 weeks: Islamabad to Islamabad (IMT-ATHH)

Intro

Follow the Karakoram Highway north through Pakistan, into the spectacular scenery of this remote mountain region. Great hiking opportunities bring you closer to these majestic peaks but the real stars of this trip are the people of the Hunza Valley. Renowned for their good looks and longevity, the casual warmth of their welcome puts you at ease immediately - you’ll never want to leave.

Maximum Group Size

15

Trek Grade

A - Easy

Arrival Transfer

Airport transfer to hotel day 1

Fully Escorted

By Imaginative Traveller tour leader, trekking guide

Transport

Private air-conditioned vehicle, local jeep for excursions

Activities

Extensive optional hiking, extensive walking at sites

Accommodation

12 nights tourist class class hotels

Meals - As per itinerary

B–Breakfast, L-Lunch, D-Dinner Allow US$4-8 per day for other meals

Entrance Fees

Included for all sites listed as part of the itinerary

Itineraries

Day 1, ISLAMABAD

Arrival day.

Day 2, ISLAMABAD - SHARKOL

Drive to Murree where we take a pleasant valley hike through the Ayubia National Park. Join the Karakoram Highway at Abbottabad, and continue to Sharkol, up and away from the heat of the plains. (B)

Day 3, SHARKOL - CHILAS

The Highway follows the Indus Valley to Chilas, where we stop for the night. (B)

Day 4, CHILAS - KARIMABAD

Now we head north to the beautiful Hunza Valley. On a clear day you can expect views of Nanga Parbat and Rakaposhi as well as many other lesser peaks. We end the day in the picturesque town of Karimabad. (B)

Day 5, KARIMABAD

This morning we rise early to take jeeps up to the small village of Duiker where we watch the sun rise over the mountains. The rest of the day is free to explore the town or take an optional walk to other friendly villages. (B)

Day 6, KARIMABAD - PASSU

We drive through spectacular mountain scenery through the Khunjerab National Park and towards the ‘Roof of the world’ - the border with China and the highest tarmacced border crossing in the world ! We return back part of the way and stay the night in Passu. (B)

Day 7, PASSU

We meet our local trekking guide and set off on a day trek to the Yunz Pass (3000m). En route we have magnificent glacier and mountain views. (B)

Day 8, PASSU - GULMIT

Trek through the valley, crossing the Hunza River on suspension bridges with wonderful views of the Passu Glacier. Later we drive to Gulmit where we can relax in the gardens of our hotel or continue exploring the lovely valley. In the evening we have a traditional meal with one of the families in the village. (BD)

Day 9, GULMIT

An optional hike to Borith Lake. The route crosses the Ghulkin Glacier but no special skill or equipment is required. It is possible to take a van up to the lake instead. (B)

Day 10, GULMIT - GILGIT

Drive to Gilgit, stopping along the way to gaze up at Rakaposhi (7788m). If we are lucky, we may see a polo match being played here in its home town. (B)

Day 11, GILGIT - BESHAM

Following the mighty Indus River, we continue down the Karakoram Highway to Besham, a famous overnight halt on this branch of the ancient Silk Road. (B)

Day 12, ISLAMABAD

A visit to the ancient Gandharan capital of Taxila before continuing to Islamabad. (B)

Day 13, ISLAMABAD

Tour ends after breakfast. (B)



Last updated: 25th February 2008

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