Hunza & Phandar Autumn Tour

Upon arrival at Islamabad International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative and transferred to your hotel in Pakistan's beautiful capital city. After check-in, the remainder of the day is free to relax and recover from your journey.

If your flight arrives early and time permits, you may choose to explore some of Islamabad's highlights at your own pace or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings of the city. For travellers arriving in the evening or at night, no sightseeing is scheduled, allowing you to rest before the adventure through the spectacular autumn landscapes of Gilgit-Baltistan beginning the following morning.

Overnight stay in Islamabad.

After an early breakfast, begin your journey from Islamabad to Chilas, travelling towards the majestic mountains of Gilgit-Baltistan. Leaving the capital behind, the route passes through Haripur, Abbottabad, and Mansehra, where the landscapes gradually change from rolling hills to dramatic mountain scenery.

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. Passing through Balakot, Kiwai, Naran, Lulusar Lake, and Babusar Pass (4,173 metres / 13,691 feet), you'll enjoy breathtaking alpine scenery, crystal-clear lakes, lush meadows, and panoramic mountain views before descending to Chilas. During autumn, this route is particularly spectacular as the valleys are painted in vibrant shades of gold, orange, and red.

When Babusar Pass is closed, the journey follows the all-weather Karakoram Highway, tracing the mighty Indus River through deep gorges and rugged mountain landscapes. Once part of the ancient Silk Road, this legendary highway is considered one of the greatest engineering achievements in the world and offers spectacular scenery throughout the drive.

Arrive in Chilas by late afternoon or early evening and check in to your hotel. Situated on the banks of the Indus River, Chilas serves as the gateway to the Karakoram and provides a comfortable overnight stop before continuing towards the colourful valleys of northern Pakistan.

Overnight stay in Chilas.

After breakfast, continue your journey into the spectacular landscapes of Gilgit-Baltistan as you travel from Chilas to the peaceful Phandar Valley or Gupis. Today's drive takes you from the rugged canyons of the Indus River to the colourful autumn landscapes of Ghizer District, where golden forests, emerald rivers, and snow-capped mountains create some of Pakistan's most breathtaking scenery.

Following the legendary Karakoram Highway, travel alongside the mighty Indus River before arriving in Gilgit, the gateway to northern Pakistan. After a short refreshment break, continue west towards Ghizer District, where the scenery gradually transforms into fertile valleys lined with brilliant golden poplar trees, colourful orchards, crystal-clear rivers, and traditional mountain villages.

The road follows the beautiful Ghizer River, one of the cleanest and most picturesque rivers in Pakistan, leading you through the charming settlements of Gupis and onwards to the breathtaking Phandar Valley. During autumn, this region becomes a spectacular natural canvas, as vibrant shades of gold, orange, and yellow contrast beautifully against the emerald-green river, snow-dusted peaks, and deep blue skies.

Upon arrival, take time to explore the beautiful Phandar Lake, where the calm emerald waters perfectly reflect the surrounding autumn colours and towering mountains. The peaceful atmosphere, crisp mountain air, and stunning scenery make it one of the finest photography locations in Gilgit-Baltistan during the autumn season.

Depending on your selected accommodation and tour schedule, overnight stay will be in Phandar Valley or nearby Gupis, where you can relax and enjoy the tranquillity of one of northern Pakistan's most beautiful hidden gems.

Overnight Stay: Phandar Valley or Gupis

After breakfast, today's programme depends on your overnight location, allowing you to experience the very best of Ghizer District during the spectacular autumn season.

If Staying in Phandar Valley

Enjoy a full-day excursion to the breathtaking Shandur Pass, the world's highest polo ground, situated at an altitude of 3,700 metres (12,139 ft). The scenic drive follows the beautiful Ghizer River, passing traditional villages, golden poplar forests, colourful meadows, and dramatic mountain landscapes that are at their most beautiful during autumn.

Upon reaching Shandur Pass, spend time exploring the vast alpine plateau and the picturesque Shandur Lake, surrounded by snow-capped peaks and crisp mountain air. During autumn, the golden grasses and colourful alpine vegetation create a stunning contrast against the rugged mountains, making this one of the most rewarding scenic drives in northern Pakistan. After enjoying the spectacular scenery and taking memorable photographs, return to Phandar Valley for the evening.

If Staying in Gupis

Today is dedicated to exploring the beautiful Phandar Valley, one of Gilgit-Baltistan's most picturesque destinations. During autumn, the valley is transformed into a masterpiece of brilliant golden poplar trees, colourful orchards, emerald-green rivers, and crystal-clear lakes, creating an unforgettable setting for sightseeing and photography.

Visit the stunning Phandar Lake, where the calm emerald waters mirror the surrounding autumn colours and towering mountains. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the lakeshore, explore the peaceful village, and experience the tranquillity that makes Phandar one of Pakistan's hidden gems. The excursion also follows the scenic Ghizer River, offering numerous opportunities to capture the valley's breathtaking autumn landscapes before returning to Gupis in the afternoon.

Overnight stay in Phandar Valley or Gupis.

After breakfast, leave the peaceful landscapes of Phandar Valley or Gupis behind and journey towards the spectacular Upper Hunza (Gojal). Today's drive combines the colourful autumn scenery of Ghizer District with the breathtaking mountain landscapes of the Karakoram, making it one of the most scenic days of the tour.

Travelling alongside the crystal-clear Ghizer River, pass through charming mountain villages framed by brilliant golden poplar trees before arriving in Gilgit for a short refreshment break. From here, continue north along the legendary Karakoram Highway, following the beautiful Hunza River into one of Pakistan's most iconic mountain regions.

En route, stop at the famous Rakaposhi View Point, where the magnificent Rakaposhi (7,788 metres) rises dramatically above colourful autumn forests and fertile valleys. As you continue towards Upper Hunza, the scenery becomes even more spectacular, with snow-covered peaks, glacier-fed rivers, and vibrant autumn colours accompanying the journey.

Continue through the impressive tunnels overlooking the turquoise waters of Attabad Lake, where a stop is made to admire one of northern Pakistan's most beautiful lakes, surrounded by golden poplar trees and towering mountains. The combination of brilliant blue water and colourful autumn foliage creates one of the most photographed scenes in Gilgit-Baltistan.

The journey then continues into the heart of Upper Hunza (Gojal), where the picturesque Wakhi villages of Ghulkin, Gulmit, and Passu welcome you with their traditional stone houses, colourful orchards, and breathtaking mountain scenery. On arrival, enjoy magnificent views of the iconic Passu Cones, whose jagged peaks rise above the valley, creating one of Pakistan's most recognisable landscapes.

Depending on your selected accommodation, check in to your hotel in Ghulkin, Gulmit, or Passu and spend the evening surrounded by the peaceful beauty of Upper Hunza during its most colourful season.

Overnight stay in Ghulkin, Gulmit, or Passu.

After breakfast, set out on an unforgettable excursion to Khunjerab Pass, travelling through the spectacular landscapes of Upper Hunza (Gojal) along the legendary Karakoram Highway. This is one of the highlights of the journey, taking you to the highest paved international border crossing in the world at 4,693 metres (15,397 ft).

Leaving Passu, Gulmit, or Ghulkin, drive through the colourful Wakhi villages where golden poplar trees and autumn orchards beautifully contrast with the rugged Karakoram peaks. Along the way, enjoy magnificent views of the iconic Passu Cones, glacier-fed rivers, and colourful mountain slopes before reaching Sost, the last town before the Pakistan-China border.

Beyond Sost, enter Khunjerab National Park, one of Pakistan's most important protected areas and a sanctuary for high-altitude wildlife. During the drive through the park, keep an eye out for Siberian ibex, Himalayan marmots, blue sheep, golden eagles, and, with exceptional luck, the elusive snow leopard.

Continue climbing across the vast alpine plateau until arriving at Khunjerab Pass, where Pakistan meets China's Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region. Spend time at the famous Pakistan-China border gate, enjoy the crisp mountain air, capture memorable photographs, and admire the breathtaking scenery of one of the highest international roads in the world.

On the return journey, stop at selected viewpoints overlooking the magnificent Passu Cones and the turquoise waters of Attabad Lake, where the brilliant autumn colours create some of the most spectacular landscapes in Upper Hunza.

Return to your hotel in Ghulkin, Gulmit, or Passu for another peaceful evening surrounded by the golden beauty of the Karakoram.

Overnight stay in Ghulkin, Gulmit, or Passu.

After breakfast, depart Passu, Gulmit, or Ghulkin and begin your journey towards Karimabad, the historic heart of Central Hunza. Although today's drive is relatively short, it is filled with some of the most spectacular autumn scenery, cultural landmarks, and mountain landscapes in northern Pakistan.

Your first stop is the breathtaking Attabad Lake, where the turquoise waters are beautifully framed by golden poplar trees and the towering peaks of the Karakoram. During autumn, the vibrant colours surrounding the lake create one of the most iconic and photographed landscapes in Pakistan. There will be time to enjoy the scenery, take photographs, and, if you wish, enjoy an optional boat ride on the lake.

Continuing along the Karakoram Highway, visit the historic Sacred Rocks of Hunza, an important archaeological site featuring ancient petroglyphs and inscriptions carved by traders, pilgrims, and travellers who once journeyed along the ancient Silk Road. These remarkable carvings provide a fascinating glimpse into the region's rich history stretching back thousands of years.

The journey then crosses into Nagar Valley for an excursion to the beautiful Hoper Valley. During autumn, the valley is transformed into a stunning landscape of colourful orchards, golden poplar trees, and traditional villages set beneath the snow-covered peaks of the Karakoram. Visit the famous Hoper Glacier Viewpoint, where the dramatic glacier, colourful valley, and surrounding mountains create one of the finest photography locations in Gilgit-Baltistan.

In the afternoon, continue to the historic Ganish Heritage Village, the oldest surviving settlement in Hunza Valley and an important stop along the ancient Silk Road. Walk through its narrow stone lanes, admire the beautifully preserved traditional houses, centuries-old wooden mosques, and historic watchtowers while learning about the village's remarkable cultural heritage.

Later, continue the short drive to Karimabad, where colourful orchards and magnificent mountain views welcome you to the former capital of the Kingdom of Hunza. After checking in to your hotel, enjoy the remainder of the evening at leisure, surrounded by the spectacular autumn beauty of Central Hunza.

Overnight stay in Karimabad.

After breakfast, spend the day exploring the cultural and historical treasures of Karimabad, the former capital of the Kingdom of Hunza. During autumn, this charming mountain town becomes one of the most beautiful places in Pakistan, with golden apricot, walnut, mulberry, and poplar trees surrounding its historic landmarks against the backdrop of the snow-capped Karakoram.

Begin your sightseeing at the magnificent Baltit Fort, a 700-year-old fortress that once served as the royal residence of the Mirs of Hunza. Perched high above the valley, the fort offers fascinating insight into Hunza's royal history and rewards visitors with breathtaking panoramic views of Hunza Valley, colourful autumn orchards, and the surrounding mountains.

Continue with a leisurely walk through the vibrant Karimabad Bazaar, where you can browse local handicrafts, gemstones, traditional textiles, organic dry fruits, and handmade souvenirs while experiencing the warm hospitality of the local people.

Next, visit the beautifully restored Altit Fort, Hunza's oldest fort, with a history spanning more than 900 years. Explore its impressive architecture before taking a peaceful stroll through the beautifully maintained Altit Royal Garden, where colourful autumn foliage creates a magical setting overlooking the valley.

In the late afternoon, drive to Duiker Viewpoint, widely regarded as the finest viewpoint in Hunza Valley. As the sun begins to set, witness a spectacular panorama over Hunza Valley and Nagar Valley, surrounded by some of the highest peaks in the Karakoram, including Rakaposhi (7,788 m), Diran Peak (7,266 m), Golden Peak (Spantik) (7,027 m), Ultar Sar (7,388 m), and Ladyfinger Peak. During autumn, the golden forests covering the valleys below create an unforgettable contrast against the snow-covered mountains, making this one of the most rewarding sunset experiences in northern Pakistan.

After sunset, return to your hotel in Karimabad for the evening.

Overnight stay in Karimabad.

After breakfast, bid farewell to the magnificent autumn landscapes of Hunza Valley as you begin your journey south along the legendary Karakoram Highway. As you leave Karimabad, enjoy your final views of the colourful orchards, golden poplar trees, and snow-capped peaks that make Hunza one of the world's most beautiful autumn destinations.

Following the Hunza River before joining the mighty Indus River, today's drive offers one last opportunity to admire the dramatic scenery of the Karakoram. The route passes picturesque mountain villages, rugged cliffs, and deep river gorges, with several short stops for refreshments and photography along the way.

If Babusar Pass is open, which usually remains accessible until October depending on weather and road conditions, the journey continues via Chilas, Babusar Pass, Lulusar Lake, Naran, and the beautiful Kaghan Valley. During autumn, this scenic route is transformed into a breathtaking landscape of golden forests, colourful mountain slopes, crystal-clear lakes, and alpine meadows, making it one of the most spectacular drives in Pakistan. Overnight stay will be in Naran.

When Babusar Pass is closed, the journey follows the all-weather Karakoram Highway through Chilas, Dasu, and Besham, tracing the course of the mighty Indus River through dramatic mountain gorges before arriving in Besham for the night.

Depending on the season and road conditions, overnight accommodation will be in Naran or Besham.

After breakfast, depart Besham and begin the final drive to Islamabad, enjoying the changing scenery as the rugged mountains gradually give way to the rolling hills and plains of northern Pakistan.

Travelling through Mansehra, Abbottabad, Haripur, and Hasan Abdal, there will be opportunities for short comfort and refreshment stops before arriving in Islamabad.

Depending on your flight schedule, if time permits, you may enjoy some free time in the capital for last-minute shopping or relaxation before your airport transfer. At the appropriate time, you will be transferred to Islamabad International Airport, arriving at least three hours before your scheduled international flight.

Thank you for choosing Hunza Explorers for your Hunza & Phandar Autumn Tour Pakistan. We hope the golden valleys, crystal-clear lakes, colourful mountain villages, and unforgettable landscapes of Gilgit-Baltistan have left you with lifelong memories. We look forward to welcoming you back to Pakistan for another extraordinary journey in the future.