Hunza & Phandar Sightseeing Tour

Upon arrival at Islamabad International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative and transferred to your hotel in Pakistan's 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 begins the following morning.

Overnight stay in Islamabad.

After an early breakfast, begin your journey from Islamabad towards Chilas, following the legendary Karakoram Highway, one of the world's most spectacular mountain roads. Leaving the capital behind, the route winds through the picturesque hills of northern Pakistan before reaching the mighty Indus River, which accompanies much of today's drive.

Travelling through Haripur, Abbottabad, Mansehra, and Besham, you'll witness the changing landscapes as fertile valleys gradually give way to dramatic mountain scenery. Along the way, enjoy several short stops to admire the views, stretch your legs, and capture photographs of the ever-changing landscapes.

If Babusar Pass is open, which usually remains accessible from June to October depending on weather and road conditions, we take this shorter and far more scenic route via the beautiful Kaghan Valley, Naran, Lulusar Lake, and Babusar Pass (4,173 metres / 13,691 feet) before descending into Chilas. This seasonal route offers breathtaking alpine scenery, crystal-clear lakes, lush green meadows, and panoramic mountain views, making it one of the most spectacular drives in Pakistan.

When Babusar Pass is closed during the winter months, the journey continues via the all-weather Karakoram Highway, following the dramatic Indus River through deep gorges and rugged mountain landscapes. This historic highway, once part of the ancient Silk Road, is regarded as one of the greatest engineering achievements in the world.

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 an important gateway to the mountains of Gilgit-Baltistan and provides a comfortable overnight stop before continuing deeper into the Karakoram.

Overnight Stay: Chilas

After breakfast, continue your journey deeper into the spectacular mountains of Gilgit-Baltistan as you travel from Chilas to the peaceful Phandar Valley. Today's drive follows the legendary Karakoram Highway alongside the mighty Indus River, offering magnificent views of rugged mountains, dramatic gorges, and glacier-fed rivers before entering the beautiful valleys of Ghizer District.

En route, pass through Gilgit, the administrative capital of Gilgit-Baltistan and an important trading centre along the ancient Silk Road. After a short refreshment stop, continue west towards Ghizer Valley, where the scenery gradually transforms into lush green fields, crystal-clear rivers, colourful poplar trees, and charming mountain villages.

The route follows the beautiful Gilgit River towards Gupis, one of the largest towns in Ghizer District. Depending on the day's schedule and accommodation arrangements, enjoy a short stop to admire the picturesque surroundings before continuing through one of the most scenic valleys in northern Pakistan.

Arrive in the breathtaking Phandar Valley, a hidden gem renowned for its emerald-green waters, peaceful atmosphere, and spectacular mountain scenery. Visit the beautiful Phandar Lake, where the crystal-clear water perfectly reflects the surrounding snow-capped peaks and colourful landscapes. Take time to enjoy a leisurely walk along the lakeshore, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and experience the tranquillity that makes Phandar one of the most beautiful valleys in Gilgit-Baltistan.

Depending on your selected accommodation and the tour schedule, overnight stay will be in Phandar Valley or nearby Gupis, both offering comfortable accommodation surrounded by stunning natural beauty.

Overnight stay in Phandar Valley or Gupis.

After breakfast, today's programme depends on your overnight location, allowing you to experience the very best of Ghizer District while keeping the day's travel comfortable and enjoyable.

If Staying in Phandar Valley

Enjoy a full-day excursion to the spectacular 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 alpine meadows, traditional villages, and dramatic mountain landscapes before reaching the vast plateau of Shandur Pass, where Gilgit-Baltistan meets Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Spend time exploring the breathtaking surroundings, walking around the picturesque Shandur Lake, and enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Every summer, Shandur Pass hosts the world-famous Shandur Polo Festival, where teams from Gilgit-Baltistan and Chitral compete in traditional freestyle polo at the highest polo ground on Earth.

After enjoying the spectacular scenery, return to Phandar Valley, where the peaceful atmosphere and beautiful mountain landscapes provide the perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

If Staying in Gupis

Spend the day exploring the beautiful Phandar Valley, one of Gilgit-Baltistan's most scenic hidden gems. Visit the crystal-clear Phandar Lake, famous for its emerald-green waters and stunning reflections of the surrounding snow-capped mountains. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the lakeshore, admire the colourful poplar trees, and experience the peaceful atmosphere that makes Phandar a favourite destination for photographers and nature lovers.

The excursion also offers opportunities to explore the charming villages of Phandar, meet local communities, enjoy the beautiful scenery along the Ghizer River, and capture unforgettable photographs of one of northern Pakistan's most picturesque valleys 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 travel east towards the spectacular Hunza Valley, one of Pakistan's most celebrated mountain destinations. Today's journey offers an incredible transition from the tranquil valleys of Ghizer District to the dramatic scenery of Upper Hunza (Gojal), passing through some of Gilgit-Baltistan's most breathtaking landscapes.

Following the scenic route along the Ghizer River, return to Gilgit, where there is time for a short refreshment break before continuing along the legendary Karakoram Highway towards Hunza. As the road follows the mighty Hunza River, the scenery becomes increasingly dramatic, with towering peaks, deep gorges, and glacier-fed rivers accompanying the journey.

En route, stop at the famous Rakaposhi View Point, one of the finest places to admire the magnificent Rakaposhi (7,788 metres), whose snow-covered summit rises almost directly above the valley floor. Continue through the historic villages of Nagar and Karimabad, entering the spectacular landscapes of Upper Hunza (Gojal).

Cross the dramatic spillway of Attabad Lake, created after the 2010 landslide, before continuing through the impressive tunnels that form part of the Karakoram Highway. Depending on the itinerary and available time, there may be opportunities to stop for photographs overlooking the lake's stunning turquoise waters.

Continue to the charming Wakhi villages of Gulmit, Ghulkin, or Passu, surrounded by some of the most iconic mountain scenery in the Karakoram. Upon arrival, admire the breathtaking Passu Cones, one of Pakistan's most recognisable mountain landscapes, while enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of Upper Hunza.

Depending on your selected accommodation, check in to your hotel in Ghulkin, Gulmit, or Passu and enjoy the remainder of the evening surrounded by magnificent mountain views.

Overnight stay in Ghulkin, Gulmit, or Passu.

After breakfast, set out on one of the most spectacular drives in northern Pakistan as you travel through Upper Hunza (Gojal) to the legendary Khunjerab Pass, the highest paved international border crossing in the world at 4,693 metres (15,397 ft).

Following the historic Karakoram Highway, the journey passes through the beautiful Wakhi villages of Passu, Ghulkin, and Sost, the last permanent settlement before the Pakistan-China border. Along the way, enjoy magnificent views of the iconic Passu Cones, glacier-fed rivers, alpine valleys, and the towering peaks of the Karakoram.

Beyond Sost, enter the breathtaking Khunjerab National Park, one of Pakistan's most important protected areas and home to a remarkable variety of high-altitude wildlife. If you're fortunate, you may spot Siberian ibex, Himalayan marmots, golden eagles, blue sheep, or other native wildlife that inhabit this pristine mountain environment.

Continue climbing through the park until reaching Khunjerab Pass, where Pakistan meets China's Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region. Standing at the international border, surrounded by vast alpine plateaus and snow-covered peaks, is one of the highlights of any journey through northern Pakistan. Take time to enjoy the fresh mountain air, capture memorable photographs at the Pakistan-China border gate, and admire the breathtaking scenery before beginning the return journey.

On the way back, stop at selected viewpoints overlooking the spectacular Passu Cones, the turquoise waters of Attabad Lake, or other scenic locations, depending on weather and available time.

Return to your hotel in Ghulkin, Gulmit, or Passu for a relaxing evening surrounded by the magnificent landscapes of Upper Hunza.

Overnight stay in Ghulkin, Gulmit, or Passu.

After breakfast, depart Shishkat, 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 packed with some of Hunza Valley's most spectacular landscapes, historic landmarks, and cultural treasures.

The first stop is the breathtaking Attabad Lake, renowned for its striking turquoise waters surrounded by towering mountains. Formed after the 2010 landslide, the lake has become one of the most iconic attractions in northern Pakistan. There will be time to enjoy the magnificent scenery and capture memorable photographs. Guests may also enjoy an optional boat ride on the lake if time permits.

Continue south along the Karakoram Highway to visit the fascinating Sacred Rocks of Hunza, an important archaeological site featuring ancient rock carvings and inscriptions left by travellers, merchants, and pilgrims who once journeyed along the historic Silk Road. These remarkable petroglyphs provide a unique glimpse into the region's rich history dating back thousands of years.

The journey then crosses into Nagar Valley for an excursion to the beautiful Hoper Valley, one of Gilgit-Baltistan's most scenic mountain destinations. Surrounded by towering peaks, traditional villages, and fertile terraces, Hoper is famous for its spectacular views of the magnificent Hoper Glacier, where travellers can witness the dramatic meeting of ice, rock, and mountain landscapes. Take time to enjoy the breathtaking scenery and explore the viewpoint before returning to the Hunza side of the valley.

In the afternoon, continue to the historic Ganish Heritage Village, the oldest surviving settlement in Hunza Valley and one of the most important cultural landmarks along the ancient Silk Road. Wander through its narrow stone lanes, admire centuries-old wooden mosques, traditional watchtowers, and beautifully preserved houses while learning about the history of the settlement and its role as a trading stop for caravans travelling between Central Asia and the Indian subcontinent.

After exploring Ganish Heritage Village, continue the short drive to Karimabad, where you will check in to your hotel. The remainder of the evening is free to relax and enjoy the spectacular views of the surrounding Karakoram peaks.

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. Surrounded by some of the highest peaks in the Karakoram, Karimabad offers a fascinating blend of history, traditional architecture, and spectacular mountain scenery.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the magnificent Baltit Fort, a 700-year-old fortress that once served as the royal residence of the Mirs of Hunza. Perched on a hillside overlooking the valley, the fort offers fascinating insight into Hunza's history as well as breathtaking panoramic views.

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

Next, visit the beautifully restored Altit Fort, Hunza's oldest fort, dating back more than 900 years. Explore its impressive wooden architecture and learn about the history of the ancient Kingdom of Hunza before strolling through the adjacent Altit Royal Garden, a peaceful oasis offering magnificent views of the valley and surrounding mountains.

In the late afternoon, drive to Duiker Viewpoint, widely regarded as one of the finest viewpoints in northern Pakistan. From this spectacular vantage point, enjoy breathtaking panoramic views over both Hunza Valley and Nagar Valley, surrounded by the snow-covered peaks of Rakaposhi (7,788 m), Diran Peak (7,266 m), Golden Peak (Spantik) (7,027 m), Ultar Sar (7,388 m) and Ladyfinger Peak. As the sun sets behind the Karakoram, watch the mountains glow in changing shades of gold, orange, and pink, creating one of the most memorable experiences of the tour.

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

Overnight stay in Karimabad.

After breakfast, bid farewell to the spectacular mountains of Hunza Valley and begin your journey south along the legendary Karakoram Highway. As you travel through the heart of Gilgit-Baltistan, enjoy one last opportunity to admire the dramatic landscapes of the Karakoram, passing glacier-fed rivers, towering cliffs, and picturesque mountain villages.

Leaving Karimabad, follow the Hunza River before rejoining the mighty Indus River, which accompanies much of today's scenic drive. Along the way, there will be opportunities for short refreshment and photography stops at selected viewpoints.

If Babusar Pass is open, which usually remains accessible from June to October depending on weather and road conditions, the journey follows the scenic route via Chilas, Babusar Pass, Lulusar Lake, Naran, and the beautiful Kaghan Valley. This route offers magnificent alpine scenery, crystal-clear lakes, lush green meadows, and breathtaking mountain landscapes before arriving in Naran for the night.

When Babusar Pass is closed during the winter months, the journey continues along the all-weather Karakoram Highway through Chilas, Dasu, and Besham, following the spectacular Indus River before arriving in Besham for an overnight stay.

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

Overnight stay in Naran or Besham.

After breakfast, begin the final leg of your journey as you travel from Besham to Islamabad, enjoying the changing scenery as the rugged mountain landscapes 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 refreshment stops before arriving in Islamabad. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for a brief visit to one of the capital's landmarks or simply relax before your departure.

At the appropriate time, you will be transferred to Islamabad International Airport, arriving at least three hours before your scheduled international flight, where our services conclude.

Thank you for choosing Hunza Explorers for your journey through the spectacular landscapes of Hunza Valley and Phandar Valley. We hope this unforgettable adventure has left you with wonderful memories of Pakistan's majestic mountains, rich culture, and warm hospitality. We look forward to welcoming you back for another extraordinary journey across Pakistan.