13-Day Sightseeing Tour Gilgit Baltistan, Northern Pakistan

Boarding

Full Board

Tour Type

Family Friendly

Best Time

March to September

Duration

12 Days

Sightseeing Tour Gilgit Baltistan Overview

Discover the unmatched beauty of Gilgit Baltistan, a land of towering peaks, ancient forts, turquoise lakes, and living mountain cultures. This carefully designed journey takes you along the legendary Karakoram Highway into the heart of northern Pakistan, exploring iconic destinations including Hunza Valley, Skardu, Shigar, Khaplu, and Khunjerab Pass. From serene lakes and dramatic glaciers to historic palaces and traditional Balti villages, the tour offers a perfect balance of nature, culture, and adventure.

Travel through some of the world’s most spectacular landscapes, witness breathtaking views of Rakaposhi, Passu Cones, and the Karakoram giants, and experience warm local hospitality. Whether you are a nature lover, photographer, or cultural explorer, this Gilgit Baltistan tour promises an unforgettable Himalayan experience.

The 13-Day Sightseeing Tour of Gilgit Baltistan is the definitive road trip for travelers who want to see the “Greatest Hits” of Northern Pakistan in a single journey. This itinerary is meticulously designed to showcase the geographic diversity of the region—from the vertical alpine spires of the Hunza Valley to the sweeping high-altitude plateaus of Skardu.

Unlike more rugged expeditions, this tour prioritizes comfort and accessibility. You will travel primarily via the legendary Karakoram Highway and the scenic Astore road, stopping at world-renowned viewpoints, turquoise lakes, and medieval forts. It is an ideal choice for photographers, families, and those who want to experience the grandeur of the Himalayas, Karakorams, and Hindu Kush with the ease of a well-paced, vehicle-based sightseeing program.

  • Regions Covered: Islamabad, Naran/Chilas, Gilgit, Hunza (Central/Upper), and Skardu.
  • Best Time for Sightseeing: May – October 2026.
  • Peak Highlights: Nanga Parbat Viewpoint, Attabad Lake, and Shangrila Resort.
  • Accommodation: Choice of Standard, Deluxe, or Luxury Boutique hotels.

Sightseeing Tour Gilgit Baltistan Highlights

  • The Junction of Three Ranges: Stand at the unique geological point where the Himalayas, Karakorams, and Hindu Kush mountain ranges meet.
  • Hunza’s Royal Heritage: Guided tours of the UNESCO-listed Baltit Fort and the ancient Altit Fort overlooking the Indus River.
  • Passu Cones & Glacier: Witness the dramatic “Cathedral Ridge” of Passu and take a short walk to the edge of the white Passu Glacier.
  • Skardu’s “Heaven on Earth”: Relax at the world-famous Shangrila Resort and take a boat ride on the crystal-clear Upper Kachura Lake.
  • Highest Paved Border: A scenic drive to the Khunjerab Pass, the 4,693m gateway between Pakistan and China.
  • Manthal Buddha Rock: Discover the 8th-century Buddhist relief, a silent witness to the region’s pre-Islamic Silk Road history.

Sightseeing Tour Gilgit Baltistan Logistics

Is this tour right for you? This is a low-impact sightseeing tour. Most landmarks are accessible by vehicle, with only short, optional walks (15–30 minutes) on paved or well-maintained paths.

Transport & Comfort

We utilize premium 4×4 Jeeps (Prado/Land Cruiser) or high-roof luxury vans depending on group size. All vehicles are equipped for mountain terrain and driven by experienced local captains.

Altitude & Health

  • Maximum Elevation: 4,693m (at Khunjerab Pass).
  • Average Elevation: 2,200m to 2,500m.
  • Travel Note: This itinerary includes enough “rest days” to ensure everyone acclimates comfortably to the mountain air.

Sightseeing Tour Gilgit Baltistan Inclusions/Exclusions

InclusionsExclusions
Airport transfers & all ground transportationInternational 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 itineraryTips & gratuities to staff
Professional English-speaking guideOptional activities outside of itinerary
All sightseeing as per programAdditional hotel nights
Entrance fees to forts & heritage sitesEarly departure or itinerary changes
All tolls, taxes & parkingRescue or emergency costs
Basic first-aid kitPersonal expenses & shopping
Local operational support throughout tourForce majeure expenses

Tour Plan

Day 01 Arrival in Islamabad
  • Arrival at Islamabad International Airport and meet our representative.
  • Transfer to hotel for rest and recovery after international travel.
  • Tour briefing and route overview in the evening.
  • Overnight stay in Islamabad.
Day 02 Drive to Chilas via Karakoram Highway
  • Early morning departure for Chilas.
  • Drive along the legendary Karakoram Highway beside the Indus River.
  • Stops for photography and refreshments en route.
  • Overnight stay in Chilas.
Day 03 Drive from Chilas to Gilgit
  • Continue driving on the Karakoram Highway.
  • Stop at the junction point of the Himalayas, Karakoram, and Hindukush.
  • Visit Rakaposhi View Point.
  • Overnight stay in Gilgit.
Day 04 Gilgit Sightseeing & Drive to Hunza
  • Explore Gilgit Bazaar and local surroundings.
  • Drive towards Hunza Valley via Nagar.
  • Enjoy views of Rakaposhi, Diran Peak, and Ultar Sar.
  • Overnight stay in Hunza / Karimabad.
Day 05 Hunza Valley Sightseeing
  • Visit Baltit Fort and Altit Fort.
  • Explore Karimabad Bazaar and local culture.
  • Sunset at Eagle’s Nest with panoramic mountain views.
  • Overnight stay in Hunza.
Day 06 Hunza to Khunjerab Pass & Return
  • Drive to Khunjerab Pass (4,693m), the Pakistan–China border.
  • Visit Attabad Lake, Passu Cones, Hussaini Suspension Bridge, and Passu Glacier.
  • Photography and sightseeing throughout the day.
  • Overnight stay in Hunza.
Day 07 Hunza to Skardu
  • Drive from Hunza to Skardu via Gilgit.
  • Enjoy changing landscapes, rivers, and valleys.
  • Arrival in Skardu and hotel transfer.
  • Overnight stay in Skardu.
Day 08 Skardu Sightseeing
  • Visit Shangrila Resort (Lower Kachura Lake).
  • Explore Upper Kachura Lake and Skardu Bazaar.
  • Optional visit to Buddha Rock.
  • Overnight stay in Skardu.
Day 09 Skardu to Shigar Valley
  • Drive to Shigar Valley, known for its orchards and heritage sites.
  • Visit the historic Shigar Fort and Amburiq Mosque.
  • Walk through traditional Balti villages.
  • Overnight stay in Shigar.
Day 10 Manthokha Waterfall & Khaplu
  • Drive from Shigar to Manthokha Waterfall, one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Gilgit-Baltistan.
  • Continue towards Khaplu through scenic valleys.
  • Visit Khaplu Palace (Yabgo Palace) and surrounding village.
  • Overnight stay in Khaplu.
Day 11 Rest Day in Skardu
  • Visit local bazaars and markets
  • Visit the historic Kharpocho Fort
  • Visit the Buddha Rock
Day 12 Drive to Chilas
  • Drive back towards Chilas from Skardu.
  • Enjoy views of rivers, mountains, and rural life.
  • Stops for refreshments along the way.
  • Overnight stay in Chilas.
Day 13 Drive to Islamabad & Departure
  • Drive from Chilas to Islamabad.
  • Arrival in Islamabad in the evening.
  • Transfer to airport or hotel depending on flight schedule.
  • End of Gilgit Baltistan Tour.

2 reviews for 13-Day Sightseeing Tour Gilgit Baltistan, Northern Pakistan

  1. Jake Smith

    Had an unforgettable tour with Karakoram Treks. The north of Pakistan is truly is one of the most beautiful regions in the world. Cant complain about Karakoram Treks’ services either. Will definitely return to visit the places I missed. Thank you, guys.

  2. Santiago Ruiz

    From glaciers to historic sites, every day was a new adventure. Highly recommend!

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to visit Gilgit-Baltistan?

The best time to visit Gilgit-Baltistan is from May to October. Summer (June–September) offers pleasant weather, open mountain passes, and ideal conditions for sightseeing, trekking, and cultural tours. Winter travel is limited due to heavy snowfall.

Do foreign tourists need a permit to travel to Gilgit-Baltistan?

Yes, foreign tourists require a No-Objection Certificate (NOC) to visit certain areas of Gilgit-Baltistan. Registered tour operators like Karakoram Treks arrange all necessary permits in advance for a hassle-free journey.

Can children and seniors join this tour?

Yes! This is one of our most popular family packages. The pace is relaxed, and we ensure the hotels provide modern amenities and heating/cooling as required.

What should I pack for a Gilgit-Baltistan tour?

Pack layered clothing, comfortable walking shoes, a warm jacket, sun protection, personal medications, and a power bank. Weather can change quickly in mountainous areas, even during summer.

Why book with Karakoram Treks?

We specialize in “Slow Travel.” While other tours rush the long drives, we include curated “tea stops” at local hidden gems and ensure you spend more time out of the car exploring the culture than just looking through a window.