Hunza & Fairy Meadows Tour

Upon arrival at Islamabad International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by a representative of Hunza Explorers and transferred to your hotel in Pakistan's modern and beautifully planned capital city.

After check-in, the remainder of the day is at leisure to relax after your international journey. Travellers arriving early may choose to explore parts of Islamabad at their own pace, visit a nearby café, or simply unwind before the adventure into the mountains begins. Those arriving in the evening or at night can enjoy a comfortable overnight stay and prepare for the journey to Fairy Meadows the following morning.

Your tour guide will provide a detailed briefing about the itinerary, weather conditions, trekking requirements, and what to expect during the coming days, ensuring you are fully prepared for your adventure through Gilgit-Baltistan.

Overnight stay in Islamabad.

After an early breakfast, depart Islamabad and begin your spectacular overland journey towards the mountains of Gilgit-Baltistan. Today's drive follows one of the world's most scenic routes, taking you from the plains of northern Pakistan into the heart of the Himalayas.

If Babusar Pass is open, which usually remains accessible from June to October depending on weather and road conditions, we take this shorter and more scenic route through the beautiful Kaghan Valley. Travelling via Balakot, Kiwai, Naran, Lulusar Lake, and Babusar Pass (4,173 metres / 13,691 feet), you'll enjoy breathtaking alpine scenery, crystal-clear lakes, waterfalls, lush meadows, and magnificent mountain panoramas before descending to Chilas.

When Babusar Pass is closed, the journey follows the legendary Karakoram Highway, tracing the mighty Indus River through dramatic gorges, towering cliffs, and rugged mountain landscapes. Built jointly by Pakistan and China, the Karakoram Highway is regarded as one of the greatest engineering achievements of the modern era and follows part of the ancient Silk Road.

Upon arrival in Chilas, check in to your hotel and relax after an unforgettable day surrounded by the spectacular scenery of northern Pakistan. Situated on the banks of the Indus River, Chilas serves as the gateway to both Fairy Meadows and the Karakoram region.

Overnight stay in Chilas.

After an early breakfast, continue along the legendary Karakoram Highway to Raikot Bridge, the starting point for one of Pakistan's most iconic mountain adventures. Here, transfer to a private 4WD jeep for an exhilarating drive along the famous Raikot Jeep Track to Tattu Village. Carved into steep mountain slopes, this thrilling route offers spectacular views of deep valleys, rugged cliffs, and the surrounding Himalayan landscape.

From Tattu Village, begin the scenic trek to Fairy Meadows, a moderate walk of approximately 5 kilometres that usually takes 2–3 hours. The well-established trail winds through fragrant pine forests, alpine meadows, and mountain streams, gradually revealing increasingly spectacular views of the mighty Nanga Parbat (8,126 metres), the ninth-highest mountain in the world and the westernmost peak above 8,000 metres.

Upon arrival at Fairy Meadows, check in to your mountain cabin or lodge and take time to relax while enjoying one of the most breathtaking mountain panoramas on Earth. Surrounded by dense alpine forests and overlooked by the immense south face of Nanga Parbat, Fairy Meadows offers an unforgettable wilderness experience and exceptional opportunities for photography.

As evening approaches, watch the changing colours of the setting sun illuminate Nanga Parbat, creating one of the most spectacular alpine landscapes in the Himalayas. Far from city lights, the clear night sky often reveals countless stars, making Fairy Meadows one of Pakistan's finest locations for night photography and stargazing.

Overnight stay in Fairy Meadows.

After breakfast, begin your scenic day hike from Fairy Meadows towards Beyal Camp and the Nanga Parbat Base Camp viewpoint. The trail passes through beautiful alpine forests, green meadows, and dramatic mountain landscapes, offering breathtaking views of Nanga Parbat (8,126m), the ninth highest mountain in the world.

The trek continues towards Beyal Camp, a peaceful alpine settlement surrounded by some of the most impressive mountain scenery in the region. From Beyal Camp, continue further towards the Nanga Parbat Base Camp viewpoint, where you can admire the magnificent western face of Nanga Parbat, the surrounding glaciers, and the rugged beauty of the Himalayan wilderness.

Spend time at the viewpoint enjoying the spectacular scenery and capturing unforgettable photographs before returning back to Fairy Meadows along the same trail.

After breakfast, depart from Fairy Meadows and begin your journey towards Gojal, Upper Hunza. Descend from Fairy Meadows to Tattu Village and continue by local 4x4 jeep towards Raikot Bridge, reconnecting with the legendary Karakoram Highway.

Continue your scenic drive towards Hunza Valley, following the dramatic landscapes of the Indus and Gilgit rivers before entering the breathtaking mountain scenery of Gojal, Upper Hunza. Along the way, enjoy views of towering peaks, traditional villages, and the rugged beauty of the Karakoram mountain range.

Upon arrival in Gojal, explore the charming villages of Ghulkin, Passu, and Gulmit, surrounded by some of the most iconic landscapes of Hunza. Witness the spectacular Passu Cones, enjoy views of the Passu Glacier, and experience the unique Wakhi culture, traditional lifestyle, and warm hospitality of Upper Hunza.

Relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the valley, where ancient traditions meet some of the world’s most dramatic mountain scenery.

After breakfast, begin your journey towards Khunjerab Pass, travelling along the legendary Karakoram Highway through the spectacular landscapes of Gojal, Upper Hunza. This scenic route follows the historic Silk Route towards the Pakistan–China border, surrounded by some of the highest peaks and most dramatic mountain landscapes of the Karakoram.

En route, enjoy breathtaking views of Attabad Lake, Passu Valley, Passu Cones, glaciers, and traditional Wakhi villages of Upper Hunza. Continue through Khunjerab National Park, a protected high-altitude wilderness area where you may spot the Himalayan ibex and other mountain wildlife.

Arrive at Khunjerab Pass (4,693m), the highest paved international border crossing in the world between Pakistan and China. Spend time at this remarkable mountain frontier, enjoying the panoramic views, taking photographs, and experiencing the unique atmosphere of one of the highest accessible places in Pakistan.

Later, return back to Gojal, Upper Hunza, through the same scenic mountain route.

After breakfast, begin your exploration of Gojal, Upper Hunza, visiting some of the most iconic natural and cultural highlights of the region. The day offers a perfect combination of breathtaking mountain scenery, traditional villages, and authentic local experiences.

Start with a visit to Passu White Glacier, a stunning glacier viewpoint surrounded by the dramatic peaks of the Karakoram. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and impressive views of the glacier and surrounding mountains while capturing memorable photographs.

Continue towards Hussaini Suspension Bridge, one of the most famous suspension bridges in Pakistan, offering a thrilling experience above the Hunza River with spectacular views of the surrounding valley and mountain landscapes.

Later, explore Gulmit Village, the cultural heart of Gojal, Upper Hunza. Visit the historic Gulmit Old House, where you can experience traditional Wakhi architecture and learn about the lifestyle and heritage of the local community. Take a leisurely walk through the village, exploring its narrow lanes, traditional houses, and beautiful mountain surroundings.

Continue to Ghulkin Village, a charming Wakhi settlement known for its traditional way of life, peaceful environment, and incredible views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers. Spend time interacting with the local community and experiencing the authentic culture of Upper Hunza.

After breakfast, depart from Gojal, Upper Hunza, and drive towards Karimabad, the cultural heart of Central Hunza Valley. The journey follows the spectacular Karakoram Highway, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and traditional settlements of Hunza.

Before reaching Karimabad, visit the Sacred Rocks of Hunza, one of the most important archaeological and cultural sites in the region. These ancient rock carvings and inscriptions provide a glimpse into the history of the Silk Route and the civilizations that travelled through this legendary mountain corridor.

Continue towards Hopper Valley, a beautiful side valley of Nagar known for its dramatic landscapes, traditional villages, and magnificent views of glaciers and snow-covered peaks. Visit Hopper Glacier, where you can experience the unique beauty of one of the most accessible glaciers in the region and enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding Karakoram mountains.

Later, explore Ganish Village, the oldest settlement in Hunza and an important historic stop along the ancient Silk Route. Walk through its traditional lanes and experience the unique architecture, culture, and heritage of this centuries-old village.

After sightseeing, continue to Karimabad and check in at your hotel. Enjoy the evening surrounded by the magnificent mountain views of Central Hunza Valley.

After breakfast, spend the day exploring the cultural heart of Hunza Valley, where centuries-old traditions, royal heritage, and breathtaking mountain scenery come together. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Baltit Fort, one of Hunza’s most iconic historical landmarks. This centuries-old fort offers fascinating insights into the region’s royal history, traditional architecture, and the lifestyle of the former rulers of Hunza.

Continue your exploration with a walk through Karimabad Local Bazaar, where you can experience the vibrant atmosphere of Hunza’s traditional marketplace. Discover local handicrafts, gemstones, traditional products, and interact with local shopkeepers while enjoying the charm of this historic mountain town.

Later, visit the beautiful Royal Garden, a peaceful site connected with the royal heritage of Hunza, offering relaxing surroundings and impressive views of the valley. Continue to Altit Fort, another remarkable heritage site known for its ancient architecture, restored interiors, and panoramic views over the Hunza Valley.

In the evening, drive to Duiker Viewpoint, one of the best places in Hunza to witness the changing colours of the sky as the sun sets behind the magnificent peaks of the Karakoram. Enjoy spectacular sunset views over Rakaposhi, Ultar Peaks, and the surrounding mountains before returning to your hotel in Karimabad.

After breakfast, depart from Karimabad and begin your journey towards Besham. The route follows the legendary Karakoram Highway, travelling through the spectacular landscapes of Hunza, Nagar, Gilgit-Baltistan, and along the mighty Indus River.

Continue the scenic drive through the dramatic mountain valleys, passing remote villages and breathtaking viewpoints before reaching Besham.

During the summer season, if Babusar Pass is open and road conditions allow, the route can be adjusted via Babusar Pass towards Naran. This alternative route offers spectacular views of high-altitude landscapes, alpine valleys, and some of the most scenic mountain scenery in northern Pakistan.

Upon arrival in Besham or Naran (depending on the selected route and seasonal road conditions), transfer to your hotel and relax after the scenic mountain journey.

After breakfast, depart from Besham or Naran and continue your journey towards Islamabad. The drive takes you through the scenic landscapes of northern Pakistan before reaching the capital city.

En route, visit Taxila Museum in Taxila, one of Pakistan’s most important archaeological destinations. The museum houses a remarkable collection of Gandharan artefacts, sculptures, coins, and historical treasures that showcase the rich Buddhist heritage and ancient civilisations that flourished along this historic region.

Upon arrival in Islamabad, explore some of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Visit the impressive Shah Faisal Mosque, one of the largest mosques in Pakistan and a striking symbol of modern Islamic architecture. Continue to the Pakistan Monument, a national landmark representing the unity and heritage of the country.

Later, visit Lok Virsa Museum, where you can discover Pakistan’s diverse cultural traditions, handicrafts, music, and heritage. Enjoy some free time at a local bazaar for shopping, where you can purchase souvenirs, traditional handicrafts, and local products.

In the evening, transfer to Islamabad International Airport for your onward flight and departure with unforgettable memories of your Pakistan journey.