Full Board
Family Friendly
March to September
12 Days
The 11-Day Highlands Tour in Northern Pakistan is an adventurous yet comfortable journey through some of the most dramatic mountain landscapes of Gilgit-Baltistan. This tour combines the raw beauty of Diamer, the alpine serenity of Astore Valley, the vast wilderness of Deosai National Park, and the cultural charm of Skardu. Designed for travelers seeking scenic drives, light hikes, high-altitude plateaus, and iconic mountain views, the itinerary follows a logical route from Islamabad along the Karakoram Highway. With glaciers, lakes, high mountain passes, and ancient rock carvings, this tour offers a perfect balance of nature, culture, and adventure without technical trekking.
The 12-Day Highlands Tour is a specialized itinerary designed to showcase the wild, high-altitude meadows and dramatic mountain transitions of Southern Gilgit-Baltistan. While most tours focus solely on the Karakoram Highway, this journey takes you into the heart of the Himalayan-Karakoram confluence, featuring the lush Astore Valley and the ethereal Deosai National Park.
This tour is perfect for travelers who want to experience the “Land of Giants.” You will transition from the rugged canyons of Diamer to the turquoise lakes of Skardu, crossing the world’s second-highest plateau along the way. Whether it’s witnessing the sunrise over Nanga Parbat from Rama Meadows or spotting Himalayan Brown Bears in Deosai, this highlands tour offers a level of serenity and raw beauty that is unmatched.
Is this tour right for you? The 12-Day Highlands Tour is a jeep-based adventure. While there is no technical climbing, the high altitude of the Deosai Plains requires a healthy heart and lungs.
The stretch through Astore and Deosai involves unpaved, rocky tracks that require rugged 4×4 vehicles (Prados or Jeeps). Our expert drivers are specialized in these highland routes, ensuring a safe but thrilling experience.
| Inclusions | Exclusions |
|---|---|
| Airport transfers & all ground transportation | International airfare & visa costs |
| Domestic flights (if mentioned in itinerary) | Travel & medical insurance |
| Hotel accommodation (twin-sharing) | Meals not specified in itinerary |
| Meals as specified in itinerary | Tips & gratuities to staff |
| Professional English-speaking guide | Optional activities outside of itinerary |
| All sightseeing as per program | Additional hotel nights |
| Entrance fees to forts & heritage sites | Early departure or itinerary changes |
| All tolls, taxes & parking | Rescue or emergency costs |
| Basic first-aid kit | Personal expenses & shopping |
| Local operational support throughout tour | Force majeure expenses |
The 12-Day Highlands Tour price typically ranges from $2,200 to $2,800 USD per person for a private, all-inclusive group of four. This includes 4×4 transport, all meals, hotel stays, and professional local guides.
The Deosai Plains are only accessible from mid-June to mid-September. Outside of these months, heavy snow closes the passes. For the best wildflowers, aim for late July.
While the Himalayan Brown Bear is a resident of the park, they are shy. Sightings are possible, especially near the Shatung Nala, but require patience and binoculars.
It is a Moderate tour. The “demand” comes from the long jeep drives on bumpy roads rather than strenuous hiking. Most sites are accessible with short 15–30 minute walks.
We specialize in the Astore-Deosai corridor. Our guides have deep roots in these valleys, providing you with access to “secret” viewpoints and local stories you won’t find in a guidebook.
Diego Almeida –
The villages, traditions, and landscapes are incredible. A life-changing journey!