13 days
Daily Tour
16 people
English
Embark on an extraordinary journey through time with Hunza Explorers‘ Indus & Gandhara Civilization Tour. Tailored for discerning travelers, this meticulously crafted itinerary invites you to explore the grandeur of the Indus Valley and Gandhara Civilization, unraveling the rich tapestry of history and cultural heritage. As we traverse the country from Karachi in the south to the Swat Valley in the north, the tour unfolds stories held by all six UNESCO World Heritage Sites, twelve UNESCO tentative sites, and numerous archaeological wonders. Engage with local communities along the way, gaining insights into modern Pakistani life in this immersive cultural odyssey.
Delve into the echoes of the Indus Valley Civilization, where evidence of religious practices dating back to 5500 BCE sets the stage for a profound historical exploration. Witness the evolution from farming settlements around 4000 BCE to the emergence of urban centers by 3000 BCE, marking the zenith of this thriving civilization. Transitioning through time and geography, the tour also unveils the Gandhara Civilization, which existed from the 1st millennium BCE to the 2nd millennium CE in Northern Pakistan and Afghanistan. Amidst various ruling powers, a shared reverence for Buddhism and the embrace of the Indo-Greek artistic tradition, shaped by Alexander’s invasions into India, characterize this remarkable era. Immerse yourself in the allure of ancient civilizations, explore archaeological wonders, and engage with the living history of modern Pakistan. Come, be part of this extraordinary expedition into the realms of the Indus and Gandhara Civilizations!
Arrival in Karachi, our guide and driver will meet you at the international/domestic arrival of Jinnah international airport, or at your location, after meeting with staff drive to the hotel in Lahore.
Explore "Karachi" the largest city in Pakistan and the twelfth-largest city in the world. The region around Karachi has been the site of human habitation for millennia. Upper Paleolithic and Mesolithic sites have been excavated in the Mulri Hills along Karachi's northern outskirts. These earliest inhabitants are believed to have been hunter-gatherers, with ancient flint tools discovered at several sites. The expansive Karachi region is believed to have been known to the ancient Greeks, and may have been the site of Barbarikon, an ancient seaport which was located at the nearby mouth of the Indus River. Karachi may also have been referred to as Ramya in ancient Greek texts. Visit Mohatta Palace Museum, Frere Hall, Mazar-e-Quaid, Jinnah's Mausoleum, Quaid e Azam House Museum, Empress Market, St. Patrick's Cathedral.
Drive to Hyderabad. Before traveling to Hyderabad, we will visit Chaukundi (UNESCO tentative list), Banbhore (UNESCO tentative list) and Makli Necropolis (UNESO heritage list) and later drive to the hotel in Hyderabad to overnight stay.
Drive to Larkana. Enroute we will visit Ranikot Fort (UNESCO tentative list), Sehwan, tomb of Shah Baharo and some other sites.
Drive to Sukkur, today we will visit Kot Diji Fort and Mohenjo-daro (UNESO heritage list), arrive and transfer to the hotel.
Drive to Bhawalpur, today we will visit Bhong mosque and Derawar Fort (UNESCO tentative list)m arrive and transfer to the hotel.
Drive to Multan before reaching Multan we will visit Uch Sharif, The Tomb of Bibi Jawindi (UNESCO tentative list) and other sites at Uch Sharif, later drive to Multan, arrive and explore the Old Fort, which houses the elaborately decorated shrines of Sheikh Bahad-ud-din Zakriya and Shah Shams Tabriz, as well as the Tomb of Shah Rukn-e-Alam (UNESCO tentative list).
Drive to Lahore. Enroute we will visit Harappa (UNESCO tentative list). The archaeological site of Harappa consists of a series of low archaeological mounds and cemeteries to the south of a dry bed of the Ravi river.
Day to explore Lahore. We start our visit in the Lahore Fort (UNESCO heritage list), Tombs of Jahangir (UNESCO tentative list) , Diwan-e-Kas, Lal Burj, Khwabgah-e-Jahangiri, the majestic Shish Mahal, Badshahi Mosque (UNESCO tentative list), Wazir Khan’s Mosque (UNESCO tentative list), Samadhi of Ranjit Singh, the mausoleum of the Sikh ruler Maharaja Ranjit Singh and Guru Arjun Dev, and the Shalimar Gardens (UNESCO heritage list).
Drive to Islamabad. Enroute we will visit Hiran Minar (UNESCO tentative list), Khewra Salt Mines (UNESCO tentative list) and Rohtas Fort (UNESCO heritage list).
Drive to Peshawar, today we will explore Taxila (UNESCO heritage list) before driving to Peshawar.
Drive to Swat Valley. Enroute we will visit Takht-i-Bahi (UNESCO heritage list) and the nearby ruins of Sahr-i-Bahlol.
Day to explore Swat valley. Today we will explore the beautiful Swat valley (commonly called Switzerland in Pakistan) with many Buddhist heritage sites, including Butkara stupa (2nd century BCE), Shingardar Stupa, Nemogram (2nd–3rd century A.D), Amluk Dara Stupa (2nd–3rd century A.D), Najigram Stupa & Monastery and if time allows we will visit more Heritage sites.
Drive back to the capital of Pakistan, depending on your flight time, if time allows then we will explore the twin city “Rawalpindi and Islamabad” later drive to the airport and fly to your destination.
The heritage sites of Indus valley and Gandhara civilization can be visit anytime of the year however the best time is winter season from October to February.
The duration of the tour varies, typically spanning 13 days. Specific details can be found in the tour itinerary on our website.
The tour explores all six UNESCO World Heritage Sites, twelve UNESCO tentative sites, and various archaeological wonders, spanning from Karachi in the south to the Swat Valley in the north. Details can be found in the specific tour itinerary.
Most tour packages include meals. Details about meal inclusions can be found in the specific tour itinerary on our website.
While our itineraries are carefully curated, we understand individual preferences. Contact our team to discuss any specific customization requests, and we will strive to accommodate your preferences.
We offer comfortable accommodations reflecting the cultural ambiance of the region. Specifics can be found in the tour package information.
Yes, the tour package generally includes entrance fees to specified historical sites and museums mentioned in the itinerary.
The tour is designed to be accessible for participants with varying levels of physical fitness. However, some historical sites may involve walking and exploration. Check the tour details for specific physical requirements.
Photography policies vary at each site. Our guides will inform you about the specific rules and regulations regarding photography and videography.
The tour is generally suitable for all age groups. Families, history enthusiasts, and cultural explorers are welcome. Specific age-related considerations, if any, can be found in the tour details.
The tour is accessible and enjoyable all year round. However, for the most comfortable weather conditions, consider planning your visit during the cooler months, from October to March.
Member Since 2023
Leave a review