Gilgit Baltistan tour

Gilgit-Baltistan Tour: 14 Days

14 days
Duration
4,693 m / 15,397 ft
Max altitude
$2500
From USD

The journey

Discover the incredible landscapes, rich cultural heritage and mountain communities of Gilgit-Baltistan on this 14-day journey through northern Pakistan. Starting and ending in Islamabad, the tour takes you through the beautiful valleys of Skardu, Shigar, Khaplu, Astore, Hunza and Nagar, combining spectacular mountain scenery with historical sites, traditional villages and memorable cultural experiences.

The adventure begins with a scenic flight to Skardu, the gateway to the Karakoram. Explore historic Balti forts, beautiful alpine lakes and the vast landscapes of Deosai National Park before continuing towards Astore and Hunza. Along the way, enjoy views of some of the world’s highest mountains, including Nanga Parbat, Rakaposhi and the dramatic peaks of the Karakoram.

In Hunza, visit ancient forts, explore traditional villages, discover Attabad Lake and admire the famous Passu Cones. The journey also includes a visit to Khunjerab Pass, located on the Pakistan-China border, before returning to Islamabad.

Designed for travellers who want to experience the best of Gilgit-Baltistan in two weeks, this tour combines comfortable accommodation, private transportation, cultural sightseeing and optional short hikes.

Trip highlights

✦Overland travel through Gilgit-Baltistan
✦Hunza and Skardu in one journey
✦Forts, lakes, bazaars and mountain views
✦Route and pace adjusted to your group

Trip specifications

Duration
14 days
Max altitude
4,693 m / 15,397 ft
Difficulty
Easy to Moderate
Best season
All Year
Start
Islamabad
Finish
Islamabad

Trip photo gallery

Itinerary

Day 1Arrive in Islamabad

Upon arrival at Islamabad International Airport, our representative will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. After checking in, spend the rest of the day relaxing or exploring the capital, depending on your arrival time.

Day 2Flight from Islamabad to Skardu

Altitude: 2,230 m / 7,316 ft
Flight Duration: Approximately 1 hour
Accommodation: Hotel in Skardu

After breakfast, transfer to Islamabad Airport for the scenic flight to Skardu. Weather permitting, enjoy spectacular aerial views of the Himalayan and Karakoram mountain ranges, including Nanga Parbat.

Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and spend the afternoon exploring Skardu Bazaar, visiting Kharpocho Fort or simply relaxing while enjoying the surrounding mountain scenery.

Day 3Explore Shangrila, Upper Kachura and Soq Valley

Altitude: Skardu, 2,230 m / 7,316 ft
Driving Duration: Approximately 4–5 hours total, including sightseeing stops
Accommodation: Hotel in Skardu

After breakfast, depart Khaplu and begin the scenic drive back towards Skardu, following the beautiful Shyok River through traditional Balti villages and mountain landscapes.

Continue towards Kachura Valley to visit Shangrila Resort, famous for its beautiful Lower Kachura Lake surrounded by mountains and greenery. Spend some time exploring the resort and enjoying the peaceful lakeside scenery.

Next, visit Upper Kachura Lake, known for its clear turquoise waters and spectacular mountain surroundings. Enjoy a short walk around the area, with the option of a boat ride depending on the season.

Later, continue to Soq Valley, a beautiful and relatively quiet destination surrounded by mountains, forests and flowing streams. Spend time exploring the valley, taking photographs and enjoying the natural scenery.

Day 4Explore Shigar Valley and Sarfaranga Cold Desert

Altitude: Approx. 2,300 m / 7,546 ft
Driving Duration: 2–3 hours total, excluding sightseeing
Accommodation: Hotel in Skardu

After breakfast, drive towards Shigar Valley, passing through the spectacular Sarfaranga Cold Desert, where golden sand dunes meet the surrounding mountains. Continue to the historic Shigar Fort, a beautifully restored 17th-century royal residence, and explore the traditional village streets and Amburiq Mosque. Spend time learning about Balti history, architecture and local traditions before returning to Skardu in the afternoon.

Day 5Drive to Khaplu and Explore the Valley

Altitude: 2,600 m / 8,530 ft
Driving Duration: Approximately 6–7 hours
Accommodation: Hotel in Skardu

After breakfast, begin the scenic journey towards Khaplu, following the Shyok River through traditional Balti villages and beautiful mountain valleys.

Upon arrival, visit the historic Khaplu Palace, a former royal residence that has been carefully restored to preserve its traditional architecture.

Continue to Chaqchan Mosque, one of the region's oldest and most important historical buildings, before exploring the village and enjoying the peaceful surroundings.

Day 6Drive Through Deosai National Park to Astore

Highest Altitude: Approx. 4,114 m / 13,497 ft
Driving Duration: Approximately 7–9 hours, including short stops
Accommodation: Hotel in Astore

Depart Skardu early in the morning and travel towards Deosai National Park, one of the highest alpine plateaus in the world. The journey begins with a stop at Sadpara Lake before continuing into the vast plains of Deosai, known for their wildflowers, wildlife and spectacular open landscapes. Visit Bara Pani and Sheosar Lake, enjoying views of the surrounding mountains and the possibility of spotting Himalayan marmots and other wildlife. Continue across the plateau towards Chilam Valley before descending into Astore. Arrive in Astore in the evening and check into your hotel.

Day 7Explore Rama Meadows and Astore Valley

Highest Altitude: Approx. 3,300 m / 10,827 ft
Driving Duration: Approximately 2–4 hours
Accommodation: Hotel in Astore

After breakfast, travel towards Rama Meadows, one of the most beautiful alpine destinations in Astore Valley. Surrounded by pine forests, green pastures and towering mountains, Rama Meadows offers a peaceful setting for nature walks and photography. Depending on road and weather conditions, take an optional excursion towards Rama Lake or enjoy a short guided hike through the surrounding landscape. Return to Astore in the afternoon and spend the evening exploring the local villages or relaxing at your hotel.

Day 8Drive from Astore to Hunza via Gilgit

Altitude: Karimabad, approx. 2,450 m / 8,038 ft
Driving Duration: Approximately 6–8 hours, excluding extended stops
Accommodation: Hotel in Karimabad, Hunza

After breakfast, leave Astore and travel towards Jaglot, where the Karakoram, Himalayan and Hindu Kush mountain ranges meet. Continue along the famous Karakoram Highway through Gilgit towards Hunza Valley. Stop at the Rakaposhi Viewpoint to enjoy magnificent views of Rakaposhi (7,788m), one of the most impressive mountains in the Karakoram. Continue to Karimabad, the historic centre of Hunza, and check into your hotel. Spend the evening enjoying the beautiful mountain scenery.

Day 9Explore Karimabad, Baltit Fort and Altit Fort

Altitude: Approx. 2,450 m / 8,038 ft
Sightseeing Duration: 5–6 hours
Accommodation: Hotel in Karimabad, Hunza

Today is dedicated to exploring the rich history and culture of Hunza Valley. After breakfast, visit Baltit Fort, a historic royal residence overlooking Karimabad, followed by a visit to Altit Fort and the surrounding traditional village. Walk through the old streets of Karimabad, explore the local bazaar and enjoy opportunities to meet local artisans. In the late afternoon, drive to Duikar, also known as Eagle's Nest, for spectacular sunset views of Rakaposhi, Ultar Sar and the surrounding Hunza peaks. Return to your hotel for the night.

Day 10Attabad Lake, Hussaini Suspension Bridge and Passu

Altitude: Passu, approx. 2,500 m / 8,202 ft
Driving Duration: Approximately 3–4 hours, excluding sightseeing
Accommodation: Hotel in Gulmit or Passu

After breakfast, travel towards Upper Hunza, stopping at the beautiful turquoise waters of Attabad Lake. Enjoy an optional boat ride before continuing to Hussaini Suspension Bridge, one of the region's most famous attractions. Visit the historic village of Gulmit and explore the surrounding mountain scenery before continuing towards Passu. Stop at the famous Passu Cones viewpoint, where the dramatic pointed peaks rise above the Karakoram Highway. Spend the evening relaxing at your hotel in Gulmit or Passu.

Day 11Excursion to Khunjerab Pass

Highest Altitude: 4,693 m / 15,397 ft
Driving Duration: Approximately 6–8 hours return
Accommodation: Hotel in Hunza

After an early breakfast, begin the scenic journey towards Khunjerab Pass, located on the Pakistan-China border.

Travel along the Karakoram Highway through dramatic mountain valleys and Khunjerab National Park, where wildlife such as ibex and marmots may occasionally be spotted. Reach Khunjerab Pass at approximately 4,693 metres, one of the highest paved international border crossings in the world. Spend a short time enjoying the mountain scenery and taking photographs before returning to Hunza. Due to the high altitude, the visit will be kept brief and adjusted according to the group's condition.

Day 12Hunza to Skardu

Altitude: Skardu, 2,230 m / 7,316 ft
Driving Duration: Approximately 7–9 hours
Accommodation: Hotel in Skardu

After breakfast, depart Hunza and begin the scenic drive towards Skardu. Travel along the Karakoram Highway, passing through beautiful mountain valleys with views of Rakaposhi and the surrounding peaks.

Continue towards Gilgit before joining the Gilgit-Skardu Road, which follows the Indus River through dramatic mountain landscapes, narrow gorges and traditional villages. Stop along the way for photographs, refreshments and lunch while enjoying the spectacular scenery of the Karakoram. Arrive in Skardu in the late afternoon or evening and transfer to your hotel for a well-deserved rest.

Day 13Flight from Skardu to Islamabad

Altitude: Islamabad, 540 m / 1,772 ft
Flight Duration: Approximately 1 hour
Accommodation: Hotel in Islamabad

After breakfast, transfer to Skardu Airport for your flight to Islamabad, subject to weather conditions. Upon arrival, our representative will transfer you to your hotel. Spend the afternoon relaxing or exploring Islamabad, depending on your arrival time. This day also provides some flexibility before your international departure.

Day 14International Departure from Islamabad

Altitude: 540 m / 1,772 ft
Travel Time: Airport transfer, approximately 30–45 minutes

After breakfast, transfer to Islamabad International Airport for your onward flight.

This marks the end of your 14-day Gilgit-Baltistan Discovery Tour with Broad Peak Adventures.

Map & location

Destination overview. The final route is confirmed with your trip itinerary.

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Departures & pricing

Custom private trip
Customised trip

This is a customised trip. Contact us and we will plan the dates, route and group size together with you.

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What's included

Choose your experience

Standard

Standard

$2,500 USD per person

Everything in the Included list below.

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Premium

Premium

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Everything in Standard, plus:

  • Premium/Luxury Hotels
  • Luxury up model 4x4 Vehicle
  • Fully guided
  • Flexible and customisable itinerary
Enquire about Premium

Included

Domestic return flights between Islamabad and Skardu.
13 nights of accommodation in carefully selected hotels and resorts on a twin or double-sharing basis.
Daily breakfast at all hotels.
Airport transfers in Islamabad and Skardu.
Private air-conditioned transportation throughout the tour.
Experienced English-speaking local tour guide.
Professional driver, including fuel, tolls and parking charges.
Entrance fees to national parks, historical forts and attractions included in the itinerary.
Guided sightseeing and cultural visits as mentioned in the itinerary.
All necessary local travel arrangements and logistics.
Drinking water during road journeys.
Assistance with Pakistan tourist visa documentation, including an invitation letter.
24/7 assistance from the Broad Peak Adventures team throughout the tour.
All applicable government taxes and service charges.

Not included

International flights to and from Pakistan.
Pakistan tourist visa fees.
Lunches, dinners and beverages unless otherwise specified.
Personal expenses, including shopping, laundry, telephone calls and hotel minibar charges.
Optional activities such as boating, ziplining and other recreational experiences.
Travel and medical insurance.
Medical treatment, emergency evacuation and rescue expenses.
Additional accommodation, transportation or meals resulting from flight cancellations, road closures, landslides or other circumstances beyond our control.
Costs arising from changes to the itinerary requested by travellers.
Tips and gratuities for guides, drivers and hotel staff.
Any services or activities not specifically mentioned under Tour Inclusions.

Packing list

Contact us for a complete equipment and packing list tailored to this journey.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best time to visit Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan?

The best time to visit Gilgit-Baltistan is from May to October, depending on the experiences you are looking for. For our 14-day Gilgit-Baltistan Tour, June to September is ideal, as Deosai National Park and Khunjerab Pass are generally accessible during these months. Spring, particularly April, is famous for cherry and apricot blossoms, while October offers beautiful autumn colours in Hunza and Skardu.

How many days are enough to explore Gilgit-Baltistan?

A 12 to 14-day tour is ideal for exploring the major attractions of Gilgit-Baltistan, including Skardu, Shigar, Khaplu, Deosai National Park, Astore and Hunza Valley. Our 14-day Gilgit-Baltistan Tour from Islamabad offers a balanced itinerary covering historical forts, alpine lakes, mountain landscapes and traditional villages, with enough time to enjoy the region without rushing between destinations.

What are the best places to visit in Gilgit-Baltistan?

Some of the best places to visit in Gilgit-Baltistan include Hunza Valley, Skardu, Shangrila Resort, Upper Kachura Lake, Soq Valley, Shigar Fort, Khaplu Palace, Deosai National Park, Attabad Lake, Passu Cones and Khunjerab Pass. Our 14-day tour combines these popular attractions with cultural experiences, scenic drives and opportunities to explore local communities.

Is Gilgit-Baltistan safe for international tourists?

Gilgit-Baltistan is a popular destination for international travellers visiting Pakistan. Many tourists explore Skardu, Hunza and the surrounding valleys each year. However, mountain travel involves risks such as landslides, changing weather, road closures and high altitude. Broad Peak Adventures provides experienced local guides, private transportation and assistance throughout the journey to help travellers explore the region safely and comfortably.

How much does a 14-day Gilgit-Baltistan tour cost?

The cost of a 14-day Gilgit-Baltistan tour depends on the number of travellers, hotel category, travel dates and level of customization. Our Islamabad to Islamabad package includes domestic return flights to Skardu, accommodation, private transportation, guided sightseeing and selected entrance fees. Broad Peak Adventures offers private tours for couples, families and small groups. Contact our team for a personalized quotation based on your preferred dates and travel requirements.

Planning your trip

Before you book

Share your preferred dates, group size, travel experience and any accessibility or dietary requirements. Ask our team for a written itinerary and a clear breakdown of included services, optional activities and additional costs before confirming.

Arrival and onward travel

Check the start and finish locations shown in the trip specifications. Confirm airport transfers, meeting times and any domestic flights with our team before booking independent travel. Allow flexibility for weather and transport changes.

Accommodation and meals

Ask for the accommodation plan for each night, room or tent arrangements and meal inclusions for your chosen departure. Tell us about food allergies and dietary needs in advance so we can confirm what is possible along the route.

Preparation and equipment

Review the itinerary, difficulty and maximum altitude before choosing this journey. Request the trip-specific packing list and confirm any rental equipment, sizes and availability before arrival. Discuss any health concerns with a qualified clinician before travel.

Travel documents and insurance

Check current entry requirements for your nationality and confirm whether your route needs additional permits. Review insurance coverage for your planned activities, maximum altitude, medical care and evacuation. Ask our team which documents are needed for this itinerary.

Changes and private arrangements

Weather, road conditions and local circumstances can affect the programme. Ask about alternative routes, spare days and how additional costs are handled. Contact us to discuss a private departure or changes to the published itinerary.

$2500
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