15-Day Karakoram Tour: Gilgit Baltistan Discovery Travel

Boarding

Full Board

Tour Type

Family Friendly

Best Time

March to September

Duration

15 Days

Karakoram Discovery Tour in Gilgit Baltistan Overview

The 15-Day Karakoram Tour is a comprehensive introduction to the spectacular landscapes, ancient cultures, and legendary mountain scenery of Gilgit-Baltistan in Northern Pakistan. Designed for international travelers seeking comfort, cultural depth, and breathtaking scenery, this journey follows the historic Karakoram Highway through the heart of the world’s greatest mountain ranges. From the lush valleys of Hunza and Nagar to the dramatic deserts and alpine lakes of Skardu, the tour blends scenic drives, light walks, heritage sites, and authentic local experiences. Ideal for first-time visitors to Pakistan, this tour offers a perfectly paced exploration of the Karakoram without strenuous trekking, while showcasing iconic peaks such as Rakaposhi, Nanga Parbat, and the mighty Karakoram giants.

The 15-Day Karakoram Discovery Tour is a masterfully crafted introduction to the staggering landscapes and ancient Silk Road cultures of Northern Pakistan. Designed specifically for international travelers, this journey traverses the legendary Karakoram Highway, offering a front-row seat to some of the highest peaks on Earth without the need for strenuous trekking.

Over 15 days, you will transition from the lush, terraced orchards of Hunza to the high-altitude deserts and alpine lakes of Skardu. This tour is more than a sightseeing trip; it is a “Discovery” of the archaeological wonders, diverse languages, and hospitality that define Gilgit-Baltistan. Whether you are standing at the world’s highest paved border crossing or exploring 700-year-old mountain forts, the Karakoram Discovery Tour provides a perfectly balanced blend of comfort, history, and raw adventure.

  • Regions Covered: Islamabad, Chilas, Gilgit, Hunza Valley, Nagar Valley, and Skardu.
  • Peak Season: March – September 2026 (Ideal for spring blossoms and summer vistas).
  • Mountain Views: Rakaposhi, Nanga Parbat, Passu Peaks, and Ultar Sar.
  • Accommodation: Premium hotels and traditional heritage stays.

Karakoram Discovery Tour in Gilgit Baltistan Highlights

  • The Karakoram Highway: Drive the “Eighth Wonder of the World,” following the ancient Silk Route through deep mountain gorges.
  • Khunjerab Pass (4,693m): Reach the China-Pakistan border, the highest paved international crossing in the world.
  • Hunza & Nagar Heritage: Explore the UNESCO-recognized Baltit Fort and Altit Fort, symbols of the region’s royal history.
  • Skardu’s Alpine Lakes: Visit the turquoise waters of Upper Kachura Lake and the famous Shangrila Resort (Lower Kachura).
  • Cold Deserts & Forts: Experience the Sarfaranga Cold Desert and the royal Shigar Fort in the heart of Baltistan.
  • Ancient Petroglyphs: Discover the 7th-century Kargah Buddha and prehistoric rock carvings along the Indus River.

Karakoram Discovery Tour in Gilgit Baltistan Logistics

The Karakoram Discovery Tour is a “Family Friendly” program. It is primarily vehicle-based with optional short walks, making it suitable for all ages and fitness levels.

Transportation

We use modern, air-conditioned 4×4 Land Cruisers or luxury vans. Our drivers are local experts trained in mountain safety, ensuring a smooth ride on the winding roads of the Karakoram.

Altitude and Climate

  • Maximum Altitude: 4,693m (at Khunjerab Pass – brief visit).
  • Average Sleeping Altitude: 2,200m to 2,500m.
  • Weather: Sunny days (20°C–25°C) and cool evenings. High passes can be cold even in summer.

Karakoram Discovery Tour in 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 1 Arrival in Islamabad
  • Arrival at Islamabad International Airport
  • Meet & greet by Karakoram Treks representative
  • Transfer to hotel
  • Rest and recovery from international travel
  • Evening tour briefing
  • Overnight stay in Islamabad
Day 2 Drive from Islamabad to Chilas
  • Early morning departure from Islamabad
  • Scenic drive via Karakoram Highway or Naran–Babusar Pass (seasonal)
  • Views of rivers, valleys, and Himalayan foothills
  • Lunch en route
  • Arrival in Chilas
  • Overnight stay in Chilas
Day 3 Chilas to Gilgit
  • Breakfast at hotel
  • Drive along the Indus River towards Gilgit
  • Visit Thalpan Petroglyphs en route
  • Stop at the Junction of Three Mountain Ranges (Himalaya, Karakoram, Hindu Kush)
  • Arrival in Gilgit
  • Hotel check-in
  • Overnight stay in Gilgit
Day 4 Gilgit Sightseeing
  • Breakfast at hotel
  • Visit Kargah Buddha (7th-century rock carving)
  • Explore Taj Mughal Minar
  • Walk across Bireno Suspension Bridge
  • Optional visit to Firoza Lake or Satrangi Lake
  • Free time in Gilgit Bazaar
  • Overnight stay in Gilgit
Day 5 Gilgit to Hunza Valley
  • Breakfast at hotel
  • Drive towards Hunza Valley via Karakoram Highway
  • Stop at Rakaposhi View Point
  • Visit Attabad Lake (optional boating)
  • View Passu Glacier and Passu Cones
  • Continue to Karimabad
  • Overnight stay in Hunza
Day 6 Hunza Valley Exploration
  • Breakfast at hotel
  • Visit Baltit Fort
  • Visit Altit Fort & Royal Gardens
  • Walk through Karimabad & Aliabad villages
  • Cultural interaction with local communities
  • Sunset views of Rakaposhi & Ultar Peaks
  • Overnight stay in Hunza
Day 7 Hunza to Khunjerab Pass Excursion
  • Early breakfast
  • Drive towards Khunjerab National Park
  • Visit Sost Valley
  • Reach Khunjerab Pass (4,693m)
  • Photography and short walks
  • Return to Hunza in the afternoon
  • Overnight stay in Hunza
Day 8 Hunza to Nagar Valley
  • Breakfast at hotel
  • Drive to Nagar Valley
  • Explore Sikandarabad Valley
  • Enjoy close-up views of Rakaposhi Peak
  • Light village walks and photography
  • Overnight stay in Nagar or Hunza
Day 9 Nagar to Skardu
  • Early breakfast
  • Drive towards Skardu via Gilgit
  • Scenic drive along the Indus River
  • Stops for refreshments and photography
  • Arrival in Skardu
  • Hotel check-in
  • Overnight stay in Skardu
Day 10 Skardu Sightseeing
  • Breakfast at hotel
  • Visit Shangrilla Resort (Lower Kachura Lake)
  • Visit Upper Kachura Lake
  • Explore Manthal Buddha Rock
  • Free time at Skardu Bazaar
  • Overnight stay in Skardu
Day 11 Skardu to Shigar Valley
  • Breakfast at hotel
  • Drive to Shigar Valley
  • Visit Shigar Fort & Royal Mosque
  • Explore Sarfaranga Cold Desert
  • Optional visit to Blind Lake
  • Return to Skardu or overnight in Shigar
Day 12 Basho or Chunda Valley Excursion
  • Breakfast at hotel
  • Day excursion to Basho Valley or Chunda Valley
  • Enjoy alpine landscapes and glacier-fed streams
  • Short nature walks and photography
  • Picnic lunch
  • Return to Skardu
  • Overnight stay in Skardu
Day 13 Skardu to Chilas
  • Breakfast at hotel
  • Begin return journey along Indus River
  • Scenic drive through mountain gorges
  • Lunch en route
  • Arrival in Chilas
  • Overnight stay in Chilas
Day 14 Chilas to Islamabad
  • Early breakfast
  • Drive back to Islamabad
  • Stops for rest and meals
  • Arrival in Islamabad by evening
  • Hotel check-in
  • Farewell dinner
  • Overnight stay in Islamabad
Day 15 Departure from Islamabad
  • Breakfast at hotel
  • Transfer to Islamabad International Airport
  • End of 15-Day Karakoram Discovery Tour

1 review for 15-Day Karakoram Tour: Gilgit Baltistan Discovery Travel

  1. Olivia Green

    Stunning landscapes and vibrant local culture. A tour that exceeded all expectations.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cost of the 15-Day Karakoram Discovery Tour?

The 15-Day Karakoram Discovery Tour price starts at $3,000 USD per person for a luxury all-inclusive package. This includes all domestic transport, premium hotel stays, all meals, entrance fees, and a professional English-speaking guide.

Is this tour safe for solo travelers?

Yes. Pakistan is increasingly popular for solo travel, and our group tours provide a safe, organized environment. We also offer private discovery tours for solo travelers with dedicated guides.

What is the best month for this tour?

April/May is stunning for fruit blossoms, while June to August offers the most stable weather and clear mountain views. September is ideal for pleasant temperatures and the beginning of autumn colors.

Do I need a visa for Gilgit-Baltistan?

You need a standard Pakistan Tourist Visa. We provide the necessary Visa Invitation Letter (LOI) and hotel booking confirmations required for your online visa application.

Why book with Karakoram Treks?

With 15 years of experience, we specialize in “Discovery” style travel. We focus on the small details: finding the best viewpoints, selecting the highest-quality local restaurants, and ensuring you have an authentic connection with the people of the Karakoram.