Pakistan Expedition

Intrepid Travel · 15 days

4.8

10 Reviews

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Duration

15 days

Tour Type

Small Group

Accommodations

Moderate

Physical Rating

Demanding

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

Get set for a 15-day expedition through an ancient land. Beginning in Pakistan’s capital of Islamabad, the expedition takes you north to the stunning and rarely visited Hunza Valley region.

Highlights

Learn about Pakistan – its turbulent past, fascinating present, and hopeful future – from a local leader who knows and loves the country best.
Discover the jagged snow-capped peaks, bright blue lakes and traditional culture of the Hunza Valley, a little touristed but unbelievably beautiful region of northern Pakistan.
From its ancient museums, gardens and forts to its fantastic food scene, Lahore has so much to offer. Spend three days discovering this dynamic city.
Travel to the incredibly remote village of Shimshal where you’ll meet the local families who live in this challenging environment and hike through the surrounding mountains.
Visit a women’s group supported by the Aga Khan Foundation to learn about their projects and have lunch at a cafe run by local women.

Trip Details

Duration

15 days

Transportation

Private Vehicle,4WD,Plane

Tour Type

Small Group

Guide Language

English

Starts

Islamabad, Pakistan

Finishes

Lahore, Pakistan

Accommodations

Moderate

Travel Style

Physical Rating

Demanding

Itinerary

Day 1: Islamabad

Welcome to Islamabad, Pakistan’s capital city. Translating as ‘City of Islam’, Islamabad was built in the 1960s to replace Karachi as the nation’s capital, though there’s evidence that humans have lived in the area for many thousands of years. Your expedition begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm, but if you arrive earlier there are several sights worth checking out including Golra Railway Station, and the Lok Virsa Museum – dedicated to the preservation, documentation promotion of Pakistan’s cultural heritage. After your welcome meeting, get to know your group and local leader over an included dinner.

Included Activities:

Complimentary Arrival Transfer

Optional Activities:

Islamabad - Golra Railway Station & Railway Heritage Museum Entry (1000 PKR)
Islamabad - Lok Virsa Museum Entry (1000 PKR)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 2: Islamabad - Taxila - Islamabad

Make the most of the opportunity to explore Islamabad with your fellow travellers. Your local leader will speak with you about the history of both Islamabad and Pakistan and be able to answer any questions about this oft-misunderstood destination. There’ll be a chance to shop for local clothes, so perhaps take the opportunity to buy a shalwar kameez – the traditional dress of loose-fitting trousers and a long shirt. Visit Faisal Mosque, which was the largest mosque in the world upon its completion in 1986 and is said to hold 10,000 worshippers, then head to the ancient site of Taxila. These World Heritage-listed ruins are evidence of over 500 years of cultural evolution influenced by Persia, Greece, and the spread of Buddhism. Enjoy a group dinner at neraby Saidpur village.

Included Activities:

Islamabad - Faisal Mosque at sunset
Islamabad - Taxila Museum & archeological sites
Islamabad - Truck art workshop

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 3: Islamabad - Skardu (2228m)

Fly this morning from Islamabad to Skardu. Being the gateway to the Karakoram Mountain Range, it’s a popular spot for hikers and outdoorsy types, and your day will be spent exploring all that Skardu has to offer. You’ll head to the Skardu Bazaar, where you can pick up any snacks or souvenirs that might be calling your name. Then it’s on to the Manthal Rock Buddha – a sculpture dating back to the 8th century – as well as Kharpocho Fort.

Included Activities:

Skardu - Kharpocho Fort visit
Skardu - Manthal Buddha Rock
Skardu - Skardu market visit
Skardu - Katpana Desert

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 4: Hunza Valley (2500m)

Today, travel north to Passu, a small town surrounded by mountains and glaciers. It sits by the famous Karakoram Highway, which is also known as the China-Pakistan Friendship Highway as it connects the two countries. This is an achingly beautiful part of the world and there’ll be several opportunities to stop and take in views of many 7000 m peaks, including Rakaposhi. You’ll be staying in Passu for the next three nights, using it as your base for exploring the region.

Included Activities:

Nagar Valley - Rakaposhi view point

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 5: Hunza Valley (2500m)

Drive to nearby Gulmit today. Take a walk around this remote village and visit a carpet-weaving centre run by the local women. You’ll also hike out to the ruins of Ondra Fort. Sitting atop a rocky outcrop above Gulmit, it would’ve commanded views of several strategically important passes in the area. It’s believed to have been built in the 16th century by a ruler named Qutlug Baig and, as if the historic ruins weren’t enough, there are phenomenal views of both the valley and the surrounding peaks. Later, return to your accommodation in Passu for the night.

Included Activities:

Gulmit - Women-run carpet weaving center visit
Hunza Valley - Ondra Polygah hike
Gulmit - Old House Gulmit visit

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 6: Hunza Valley (2500-2900m)

Visit the Hussaini Hanging Bridge, described by some as the "most dangerous bridge in the world". Though the bridge’s condition is questionable its location is enviable, suspended above Hunza river and surrounded by jagged mountains. Walk to Borith lake, which sits at an elevation of approximately 2600 m, and out to the impressive Passu Glacier. There’ll be plenty of time to relax and you’ll also see the photogenic Tupopdan (6106 m), which is known as Passu Cones or Passu Cathedral. Sample Passu’s famous apricot cake and yak burgers. In the evening you’ll have a chance to get immersed in the melodious tunes of the region. A local band will play their local instruments, sing songs with you and show you some of their dance moves.

Included Activities:

Hunza Valley - Traditional music performance
Hunza Valley - Passu Glacier hike
Hunza Valley - Borith Lake hike
Hunza Valley - Hussaini Suspension Bridge

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 7: Shimshal (3100m)

Travel by 4WD to the remote town of Shimshal, which was inaccessible by road up until 2003. The road took 18 years to build and was constructed by the local community, who previously had to walk for several days to reach other parts of Hunza. Shimshal is so remote that state prisoners from Hunza were once exiled here as punishment. The locals are resilient and extremely hardworking people. A number of notable Pakistani mountaineers grew up here, which isn’t surprising given the rugged, mountainous terrain. The Shimshali are to Pakistan what the Sherpa are to Nepal, and perhaps the most famous Shimshali are Samina and Mirza Ali Baig, a brother- sister climbing duo. Samina is the first and only Pakistani woman to climb Everest (at the age of 21) and the Seven Summits. She also summited K2 in 2022.

Accommodation:

Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 8: Shimshal (3100m)

Spend the day exploring Shimshal and learn about the challenges that come with living in such an inhospitable environment. Almost every house in Shimshal is powered by solar electricity, as is the local school. Meet the local families and hear their stories, and lace up those hiking boots to head out on Shimshal’s beautiful walking tracks. Take a walk for expansive views of the surrounding area. Enjoy the mountainous surrounds, take some time to relax and acclimatise to the altitude and know that you’re experiencing a destination that few will ever get a chance to visit. If you’re not up for the hiking, you can spend the day getting familiar with the town.

Included Activities:

Shimshal - Village tour & optional hike

Accommodation:

Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 9: Karimabad (2500m)

Say farewell to the locals before returning to Passu by 4WD, then switch into a private van for the drive to Karimabad. On the way we will make a stopover at Lake Attabad and Ganish village. There’s a sad story lurking below Lake Attabad’s shimmering surface. The lake was formed in 2010 after a massive landslide that killed 20 people and displaced many thousands. It also essentially dammed the Hunza River for five months, creating a lake that measures some 21 kilometres across. The dam held, and the lake is now a popular tourist destination renowned for its bright blue water. See it for yourself then explore Ganish, an ancient Silk Road settlement that received a cultural conservation award from UNESCO. In the evening, visit the Karimabad market for some shopping. Karimabad is the commercial hub and capital of the Hunza region.

Included Activities:

Hunza Valley - Sacred Rock of Hunza
Hunza Valley - Attabad Lake
Karimabad - Market tour
Hunza Valley - Ganish Village walking tour

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 10: Karimabad (2500m)

Karimabad is a town known for its locally made handicrafts, carpets, and, of course, its next-level views of the surrounding mountains. Today you’ll walk to Baltit and Altit forts, which have stood in the region for over 700 years and are a testament to the valley’s past strategic importance. These towns were crucial for controlling the ancient Asia trade routes and Baltit Fort holds a particularly commanding position above the village. These well-maintained forts were restored by the Aga Khan Foundation, which has also been working on several projects to empower local women’s groups. You’ll have lunch at a cafe run by local women as well as have a chance to meet and speak with some local women during a visit to a women-run woodworking workshop. At sunset, drive up to Duiker for an unforgettable view of the surrounding mountains including – on a clear day – Rakaposhi, Ultar, the Bublimotin, and Spantik.

Included Activities:

Karimabad - Lunch at women-run cafe
Karimabad - Ciqam women's social enterprise visit
Karimabad - Baltit & Altit Forts
Karimabad - Duiker (Eagle's Nest) sunset viewing

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 11: Skardu (2228m)

After breakfast, make the drive back to Skardu. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to stop and stretch your legs at the picturesque Upper and Lower Kachura lakes. Stay in Skardu overnight before your flight to Islamabad tomorrow morning.

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 12: Skardu - Islamabad - Lahore

Depart Skardu for a flight back to Islamabad. From here, your group will drive to Lahore, Pakistan’s second-largest city and the capital of the Punjab region. It’s a wealthy city known for being relatively cosmopolitan with a focus on education and the arts.

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 13: Lahore

Your first full day in Lahore will be spent visiting some of the city’s most famous places. First up is the Walled City of Lahore, which was constructed around the year 1000. Within its walls, you’ll find the Delhi Gate, the World Heritage-listed Lahore Fort, the huge Badshahi Mosque and the ridiculously beautiful Wazir Khan Mosque. The interior is decorated with intricate mosaics and frescoes and the mosque houses historic shops, tombs of Sufi saints and the Shahi Hammam baths. You’ll also visit the tomb of Allama Iqbal, a poet and philosopher who is widely regarded as having inspired the Pakistan Movement (he also had a fantastic moustache). You’ll have time to explore the markets within the Walled City too. Take a walk through the Akbari Mandi, dedicated to grains and spices, or the bustling fish market by Delhi Gate. There is also the Azam Cloth Market, one of Asia’s largest, which houses some 16,000 shops. You’ll also get some time explore the hustling and bustling Anarkali market for some shopping.

Included Activities:

Lahore - Anarkali & Liberty Markets
Lahore - Akbari Mandi & Azam Cloth Market
Lahore - Wazir Khan Mosque
Lahore - Shahi Hammam
Lahore - Walled City of Lahore
Lahore - Badshahi Mosque
Lahore - Tomb of Allama Iqbal
Lahore - Delhi Gate
Lahore - Lahore Fort

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 14: Lahore

There’s another full day of exploration to be had today. You’ll visit the Tomb of Jahangir, a 17th-century mausoleum built for the Mughal Emperor Jahangir, who ruled from 1605–27. Continue to the splendid Shalimar Gardens, built in the 17th century by the Emperor Shah Jahan and feature waterfalls, ponds and several garden pavilions. Wander through the complex, designed to be a natural utopia on earth, then travel to the Wagah border of Pakistan and India to witness the flag-lowering ceremony. This impressive spectacle attracts both international tourists and locals and features both sets of soldiers performing some seriously macho choreography. The ceremony ends with both flags being lowered simultaneously and a handshake between the soldiers. As the cultural capital of Pakistan, Lahore isn’t short on delicious cuisine to try. For your farewell dinner tonight, head to Lahore’s famous (and mouth-watering) Food Street.

Included Activities:

Lahore - Shalimar Gardens
Lahore - Wagah Border ceremony
Lahore - Tomb of Jahangir
Lahore - Dinner at Food Street

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 15: Lahore

Your Pakistan expedition comes to an end today. You are free to leave the accommodation at any time after breakfast, but please ensure you check out by 12 pm.

Included Activities:

Complimentary Departure Transfer

Exclusions

Flights to and from origin and destinations
Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
Anything else not explicitly listed in tour inclusions
Recommended gratuities/tipping
Optional activities/tours
Personal expenses
Travel insurance
Visas, meals and beverages not stated in the list of inclusions.

Important Information

Meals

When meals are not included, your tour leader (where available) will be happy to help with restaurant recommendations, bookings, and directions. Please let us know if you have any dietary needs or preferences. We willdo our best to accommodate these, though we cannot guarantee that every request can be met.

Luggage

You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. You will need to carry your own bags between the vehicle and your hotel room. Drivers will assist with loading and unloading luggage from the vehicle.

Mobility

Travellers requiring wheelchair access should contact our sales and service team, who can make enquiries on your behalf.

Fitness Level

This tour requires an Average level of fitness. Activities are paced gently and include leisure time. You may be expected to join guided walks of up to one hour, navigate short stairways and mild inclines, and manage your own luggage. You should also be able to board and exit all transport without assistance.

Travellers are expected to be self-sufficient and capable of handling all aspects of their journey. Please discuss your circumstances and support needs with your booking agent to confirm this trip is suitable.

If you are unsure, we recommend consulting your doctor before booking or travelling. (Note: I assume each tour has a different description depending on level of fitness required).

Sightseeing

If a planned site visit is unavailable due to changes in operating hours or holiday closures, the itinerary may be altered, or a comparable activity will be substituted where possible and subject to availability.

Visas

Visa conditions can change. Once you receive your travel documents, check with the relevant embassy, consulate, or immigration office of your destination for the latest information.

It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct and valid travel documents and to comply with all entry requirements.
Non-Australian citizens must also confirm visa and identification requirements with the appropriate consulate or visa agency.
Certain occupations (for example, journalists, government officials, or those working in charities) may face additional restrictions when applying for visas, which could affect the type of application required.

Departure Dates & Surcharges: See checkout for live dates and availability.

AUD $6,250

(Tour only)

Per Person Twin Share

Duration: 15 days

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Demanding

Get set for a 15-day expedition through an ancient land. Beginning in Pakistan’s capital of Islamabad, the expedition takes you north to the stunning and rarely visited Hunza Valley region.

Check Availability Brochure

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 26 Apr 2026

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Customer Reviews

Overall Rating

Excellent

4.5

Guide

Excellent

4.5

Itinerary

Excellent

4.5

Accommodations

Excellent

4.5

Transportation

Excellent

4.5

Tour Operator

Excellent

4.5

Food

Excellent

4.5

5.0

Julie

Traveled, October 2023

10/16/2023

Pakistan is a stunningly beautiful and varied country. This itinerary covers the best of the cities and the mountains. There are very few international tourists so expect to be made to feel very welcome by the incredibly friendly locals. The treks are challenging but rewarding. It's worth bringing a sleeping bag for the cold nights in the mountains, and diamox to help with the high altitude. Our leader Aneeqa is an inspirational leader who made this one of the best trips ever.

5.0

Janneke

Traveled, October 2023

10/19/2023

This trip was a dream come true for me.It had everything,awe inspiring moments,adventure,not for the faint hearted though,great leader ,enthusiastic and very knowledgeable.A trip of a lifetime.

Tour Operator

Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.

In Business Since 1989

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