Pure Pakistan incl Shandur Festival

The City of Gardens and Centre of art & culture, Lahore is the second largest populated city in Pakistan. Depart your hotel this morning for a visit to the Lahore Museum before continuing to the Royal Fort. Next explore the grounds of the Royal Mosque and then break for lunch before you continue to the Shalimar Garden and to the Indian border at Wagah to witness the Indian and Pakistani border guards lower their flags in the daily flag ceremony. (B)

Overnight – Nishat Hotel or similar

Departing at 0800hrs, you farewell Lahore and travel to Islamabad (430 km, approx. 5.5 hours) along the motorway. On this journey, you will experience a glimpse of the rural plains of Punjab and the Salt Range. This was the first salt range discovered by the horses of Alexander’s troops in 320 BC, but trade didn’t commence here until the Mughal era. There is said to be an estimated reserve of over 82 million to 600 million tons of salt.

Next, you will visit Raj Katas Temple, a complex surrounding a pond named Katas, which is regarded as sacred by Hindus. It is located along the motorway near Kallar Kahar. The pond is said to have been created from the tear drops of Shiva after he wandered the earth inconsolable following the death of his wife Sati. Enjoy a break for lunch before travelling approximately 2 hours to reach Islamabad in the early afternoon. This afternoon, explore the local bazaar before dining at Monal for dinner (optional – not included). This restaurant is said to have the best views of the city. (B)

Overnight – Islamabad Serena Hotel or similar

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel and drive to Chitral via the motorway to Chakdara, where you will travel through the Lowari Tunnel and onto Ayun (approx. 10 hours of travel, comfortably broken up with scenic stops along the way to stretch, explore, and enjoy the breathtaking landscapes you’re passing through). Ayun is a dreamy little village surrounded by towering mountains on all sides – some would compare this region with quaint hamlet villages of Switzerland! It is a naturally beautiful village with a sense of calm about it. Your accommodation here, Ayun Fort, is a gorgeous guesthouse which is home to one of the princes of the region. (B,L,D)

Overnight – Ayun Fort or similar

Today is all about exploring the Kalash Valley. Start off with a drive of approximately 1 hour to the village of Rumbur. Rumbur is one of three valleys in the Kalash region and is by far the least visited and most authentic. The local people are a pagan minority that once numbered 20,000 but now has only 3,000-4,000 people, with many converting to Islam. This minority group is hardly given any rights and is no longer recognised as a separate entity. A small number of NGOs work in the area to preserve this tribe, and your visit helps support this diminishing culture.

The Kalash people are notable for their white skin, golden brown hair, and blue eyes. They are polytheistic, believing in 12 gods and goddesses, and they consider crows to be the ancestors of gods, feeding them at tombs and other places. After checking in at your guesthouse, explore the village with your guide and gain true insight into this fascinating and proud culture. Spend time with a local Kalash family in their village home, participating in a cultural exchange. Your guide will act as a translator, allowing for open conversation about culture, religion, lifestyle, and more. (B,L,D)

Overnight – Local Guesthouse or similar

Enjoy breakfast before setting off to visit Bamburait Village, one of the three Kalash villages, renowned for its vibrant cultural heritage and deep-rooted traditions. As you explore the village, you’ll witness the daily life of the Kalash people, with their colourful dresses, distinctive customs, and unique wooden architecture that stands against the dramatic backdrop of the Hindu Kush mountains. A highlight of your visit will be the Kalash Museum, which preserves and showcases the heritage of this unique culture. The museum houses around 1,300 ethnological objects that offer a fascinating insight into Kalasha traditions, as well as artefacts from the broader Hindu Kush region. These exhibits provide an understanding of the Kalasha’s lifestyle, spiritual beliefs, and ancient customs, many of which have remained intact over centuries.

After visiting the museum, continue your journey to Karakal Village, a quaint and lesser-known Kalash hamlet. This small village, with its wooden houses scattered across the landscape, is rich in Kalash traditions and offers a more intimate look at the community’s way of life. As you explore the village, you’ll see how the local people continue to uphold their cultural practices amidst their remote mountain environments. This visit provides an excellent opportunity to engage with the locals and further deepen your understanding of this proud and resilient culture. (B,L,D)

Overnight – Local Guesthouse or similar

Following breakfast, drive to the town of Chitral (approx. 2 hours), an unspoiled paradise renowned for its lush green valleys, snowy peaks, and glacial rivers. Until 1947, Chitral was an independent princely state and formally became part of Pakistan in 1969. Nestled in the foothills of the Hindu Kush Mountain range, Chitral is situated in the remote and mountainous northwest region of the country, just a stone’s throw from the Afghanistan border.

Upon arrival in Chitral, take the opportunity to explore the Royal Mosque Fort, also known as the Shahi Mosque. This historic site offers insight into the architectural grandeur and cultural significance of the region. The mosque, with its intricate designs and serene atmosphere, reflects the rich heritage of the Kalash people and the influences from various cultures that have shaped this region over the centuries. After your exploration, continue your journey to Mastuj Village (approx. 1.5 hours), where you will overnight. This village is known for its warm hospitality and offers a perfect setting to relax and absorb the stunning natural beauty surrounding you. (B,L,D)

Overnight – Hindkush Heights Hotel or similar

Today you will drive to the Shandur Pass (approx. 2 hrs) to experience the Shandur Festival. The tournament takes place on the Shandur Pass in the Himalayas, the highest polo ground in the world at 3738 metres above sea level. The festival also includes folk music and dancing, and trout fishing at the nearby streams and lakes. The first time a polo tournament took place at the Shandur Pass was in 1936. This exotic location surrounded by some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in the world, the event marks the annual rivalry between the polo teams of Gilgit and Chitral provinces in Pakistan. Supporters of both sides travel long distances from remote areas of the provinces, to watch the thrilling game and cheer on their team. Experiencing the pride and passion of the locals at this festival offers a fascinating insight into the lifestyle of the people of this region. The roads to reach this pass are challenging, but all form part of the adventure of travelling through the mountains of Pakistan! (B,L,D)

Overnight – Camping

Today will be the final match between Chitral and Gilgit team which will simply spectacular to witness. After the victory of the winning team has been celebrated, you will drive to Phander Village, approx. 3hrs drive, where you will overnight. Phander is often referred to as the most beautiful valley in Pakistan or the “Land of Beauty”. In summer, cherries, apricots, and mulberries are in season, and the fishing season will be in full swing making the region the most beautiful at this time of year. Enjoy exploring at leisure on arrival. (B,L,D)

Overnight – PTDC Hotel or similar

Today you will travel towards Gilgit along the Indus river. It was an important stop on the ancient silk road and today serves as a major junction along the Karakorum Highway with the road connection to China, Skardu, Chitral Peshawar and Islamabad. There are several remains of the Buddhist era with the most prominent being Karga Buda and Buddah carved in rock. Drive a further hour to the village of Minapin where you will overnight. (B,L,D)

Overnight – Diran Hotel or similar

This morning enjoy exploring Minapin village and take a short hike to Pisan Glacier. This is an easy hike along edges of Pisan village to Shule where you will experience the closest views of Mount Rakaposhi and Pissan Glacier (approx. 2 hours). Continue on to visit the thousand-year-old Altit fort and 700-year-old Baltit fort which are some of the region’s oldest standing monuments and evidence of the valley’s feudal regime. Traditionally home to the Mir, or King of Hunza, Altit Fort was eventually vacated in favour of Baltit Fort. The rectangular stronghold sits at the foot of the Ulter Glacier and commands a view of the Hunza Valley and its tributaries—a strategic position for controlling the trans-Karakoram trade route between South and Central Asia. The fort served as home to the Mir until 1945. (B,L,D)

Overnight – Darbar Hotel or similar

Today you will visit the Nagar Valley home to Hoper Village and the Hoper Glacier. Hopar Valley is a cluster of villages around a natural bowl at the bend of Baltoro Glacier. Snow capped mountains border the valley. Continuing on, you will head to Altit village and fort. Altit Fort is an ancient fort and  was originally home to the hereditary rulers of the Hunza state who carried the title Mir, although they moved to the somewhat younger Baltit fort nearby three centuries later. Continue driving to Duiker. Take in the afternoon panoramic views and stunning sunset over the Rakaposhi Mountain Range and the Batura Range towering over the valley. The evening light is simply magical. (B,L,D)

Overnight at Eagles Nest or similar

Note: This hotel is very basic which is more than made up for by the view.

Take in the incredible sunrise over the mountains whilst enjoying breakfast before you drive through the Upper Hunza Valley. Stop briefly at the newly formed Attabad Lake. This 30km long lake was only formed in 2010 after a massive landslide dammed the Hunza River completely, its fresh, crystal clear water is mesmerizing. In January 2010, a massive landslide blocked the flow of River Hunza, creating a natural dam and burying 20 people beneath it. The rising water displaced thousands of residents and submerged countless villages, fields, orchards a well as a 19-kilometre stretch of the Karakoram Highway. In 2012, a spillway was created to release a steady flow of water and as the water receded, it revealed the villages that had been buried beneath. It is only now that people have started returning to rebuild their homes and lives. It is a fascinating area to explore.

Continuing on, you will visit the Passu Glacier before continuing to Khunjerab Pass which is the border between China and Pakistan which offers some of the countries most impressive scenic drives. Return to Passu village in the evening which lies at the mouth of the Passu glacier and is home for trekking to Bautra glacier, the 7th longest non polar glacier. (B,L,D)

Overnight Passu Ambassador or similar

The famous peak Batura, Shisper and Passu Cathedral are all over 7000m high and peer down on you in Passu. Explore the quaint village of Passu and the surrounding region rich with stunning hiking trails. Head to the rope bridge near the town of Husseini, only 10km away. The local people of Hussaini village, especially the women, often use this dangerous bridge to cross the river to Zarabad, which in itself is another gem for trekking lovers. Known as the most perilous bridge in the world, the Hussaini Suspension Bridge may look dangerous, however, it is a comparatively benign bridge and attracts hikers challenging their nerves as they prudently work their way across.

This afternoon you will hike to Lake Borit lying above the village of Hussaini. You can admire the views of two glaciers and two different lakes during this hike. Borit Lake sits at the height of 2600m and from here, you will be blown away by the incredible scenery of the Batura mountain range. The hike to the glacier is fairly easy and enjoyable. (B,L,D)

Overnight – Passu Ambassador or similar

Just when you thought the natural beauty of Pakistan could not get any better, you depart and set off for Fairy Meadows. At 3300m, Fairy Meadow offers a breathtaking view of Majestic Nanga Parbat (The Killer Mountain). These lush, green meadows and forests lie at the base of Nanga Parbat, at the western edge of the Himalayan range in Pakistan. Named in 1953 by Austrian climber Hermann Bhul due to its mesmerising beauty, many have called this region ‘Heaven on Earth’. Cutting deep through the valleys, the Karakoram Highway crosses the Raikot Bridge, and from there it is a hair-raising one-hour jeep drive up the mountain to Tato village. You then commence a 2-3hr trek into Fairy Meadows – one of the most beautiful places in northern Pakistan. You can opt to leave luggage with the main driver or take it all with you via donkey when you hike (approx. $1 per kg payable locally). (B,L,D)

Whilst beautiful, Fairy Meadows is becoming more and more popular with tourists which has lead to a rubbish problem. Please ensure you do your part and dispose of rubbish correctly.

Overnight – Raikot Sarai Huts or similar

Today, embark on a soft trek of two to three hours each way, leading you through dense pine forests and later transitioning to birch trees alongside shallow streams. This scenic route will take you to Beyal, a summer settlement of shepherds that offers stunning views of Nanga Parbat, which stands majestically at 8,125 metres. As you continue your hike to the base camp, you will cross glacial tails with well-identified tracks, allowing you to enjoy nature at its best. The trek provides an incredible opportunity to immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes and tranquil environment before returning to your hut for the evening. (B,L,D)

Overnight – Raikot Sarai Huts or similar

Trekking Distances – Beyal to Base Camp: 7km, 3-4 hrs (one way). Base Camp to Raikot Sarai Huts: 7 km, 2 hrs (return). Moderate to challenging.

This morning, you will trek back to the jeep (approx. 1-2 hours) and head towards the Karakoram Highway, making your way to Chilas (approx. 4-5 hours). The journey takes you over the Babasur Pass and into the picturesque Kagan Valley, which is often regarded as a jewel among the many beautiful valleys in the Mansehra District of Hazara. As you travel, you will be surrounded by lofty peaks that crown the mountain ranges on either side, ranging in height from 12,000 to 17,000 feet. Along the way, you will have the opportunity to encounter the Gujar nomads of the Kaghan Valley. They can often be found camping along the road in their traditional tents, moving up and down the valley with their herds of sheep and goats as they guide them to higher pastures in the upper Kaghan Valley during spring and bring them down again in autumn. (B,L,D)

Overnight – Northern Retreat or similar

Today’s drive will continue through the Kagan valley and onto the Karakorum Highway, arriving at the capital of Pakistan – Islamabad (approx 4-5hrs). A late 20th century capital city, Islamabad is laid out in straight lines and right angles: a proud metric showcase of government and administration. Enroute, you will visit South Asia’s richest archaeological sites, Taxila. A fascinating place for those who have an interest in Buddhism and the art of Gandhara. The city excavations, most of which are found around the museum, are open to the public, along with dozens of smaller sites over a 25-sq-km area.

Gandhara is the historical name for the Peshawar Plain, and Taxila has always been one of Gandhara’s more important cities. In the 6th century BC, the Achaemenians made Takshasila (Taxila) the Gandharan capital, at a site now called Bhir Mound. In 326 BC Alexander the Great paused here en route to India. The Mauryan emperor Ashoka, a patron of Buddhism, built a university here, to which pilgrims and scholars came from all over Asia. In about 180 BC, Bactrian Greeks developed a ‘new’ Taxila, at the site called Sirkap.

In the 1st century AD came the Kushans, building their own city at the Sirsukh site. Until the 3rd century Taxila was the cultured capital of an empire stretching across the subcontinent and into Central Asia. It was the birthplace of a striking fusion of Greek and Indian art, and also the place from which Buddhism spread into China. The city fell into obscurity after it was destroyed by White Huns in the 5th century. The modern-era excavation of the site was led by Sir John Marshall between the years of 1913 and 1934. (B)

Overnight – Pearl Continental Hotel or similar

This morning you will visit the Faisal Mosque followed by Daman-e-Koh, a picnic spot and lookout in the Margalla Hills offering panoramic views over Islamabad. It’s a splendid spot to get a sense of the city’s layout, with the Shah Faisal Mosque a breathtaking sight in the skyline. From here, the day is yours at leisure until it is time to transfer to the airport for your onward flight. (B)