The Grand Northern Pakistan Experience 2025–2026

Embark on an awe-inspiring 23-day expedition through Northern Pakistan — a land of unmatched natural wonders, centuries-old heritage, and heartfelt hospitality. From the alpine passes of Khunjerab to the serene valleys of Hunza and Skardu, this immersive tour is designed for explorers who crave authenticity, culture, adventure, and jaw-dropping scenery.

🌍 What This Tour Offers:

• Breathtaking mountain passes and lakes
• UNESCO heritage forts, shrines, and valleys
• Historic mosques and salt mines
• Adventure, food, history, and relaxation — all in one journey

🗺️ Route Overview

Islamabad → Kaghan → Naran → Chilas → Skardu → Khaplu → Deosai → Gilgit → Hunza → Khunjerab → Naltar → Rainbow Lake → Return

🏞️ Tour Highlights by Destination

📍Kaghan & Naran Valley

Nestled in the Himalayan foothills, Kaghan and Naran valleys are your entry to a world of vibrant meadows, glacial streams, and lush pine forests. As you journey through these green corridors, you’ll encounter scenic waterfalls, blooming wildflowers, and nomadic shepherds.

• Lulusar Lake: A shimmering high-altitude lake framed by snow-capped peaks, ideal for serene photography and short nature walks
• Babusar Top: Standing at over 4,100 meters, this mountain pass unveils breathtaking panoramas of Kashmir and Kohistan
• Activities: Riverbank picnics, trout fishing in icy waters, horseback riding, traditional bazaar exploration, jeep rides through alpine terrain, and chai breaks at scenic roadside cafés

📍Chilas & Nanga Parbat Viewpoint

As you descend into Chilas, the landscape shifts to a rugged canyon carved by the Indus River. It’s a warm, dry contrast to the alpine greenery — but no less striking.

• Junction Point: Witness the rare geographical intersection of three colossal mountain ranges: Himalayas, Karakoram, and Hindukush
• Nanga Parbat Viewpoint: Marvel at the towering face of the ‘Killer Mountain,’ the 9th tallest peak in the world, glowing at sunrise or sunset
• Activities: Petroglyph site visits with over 2,000-year-old Buddhist carvings, local tribal village interaction, stargazing in clear mountain skies, and optional campfire evenings with folklore

📍Skardu Region

A land of crystal-clear lakes, towering peaks, and timeless traditions, Skardu is the heart of Baltistan’s soul.

• Shangrila Resort & Upper Kachura Lake: Stroll through lakeside gardens and take a boat across the sapphire waters surrounded by pine-covered cliffs
• Manthoka Waterfall: A dramatic cascade set among grazing pastures and rocky cliffs; perfect for a short hike and riverside picnic
• Shigar Fort: A preserved 400-year-old palace turned boutique heritage hotel, offering an immersive look into royal Balti architecture
• Activities: Balti cooking class, jeep safari into Basho Valley or Soq Valley, visit to organic villages and interaction with local artisans

📍Khaplu & Kharmang

Tucked at the far end of Baltistan, these regions offer tranquility and ancient grace.

• Khaplu Fort: A multi-tiered palace built in Tibetan-style stone masonry with panoramic valley views; now a cultural museum
• Kharmang Cold Desert: Walk across surreal white sand dunes framed by snow-dusted mountains and alpine winds
• Activities: Guided history walk through Khaplu village, traditional butter tea with local elders, photography at the confluence of Shyok and Indus rivers, visit to the Blind Lake or hidden orchards in the valley

📍Deosai National Park

Known as the “Land of Giants,” Deosai is a high-altitude plateau that stretches across 3,000 square kilometers of raw wilderness.

• Sheosar Lake: A turquoise gem ringed by snowy ranges, with wildflowers carpeting the land in every direction
• Activities: Jeep safari across vast plains, golden marmot spotting, Himalayan ibex tracking, stargazing under pitch-black skies, and quiet nature journaling at the edge of still lakes

📍Gilgit & Nagar

After your alpine crossings, you return to urban warmth in Gilgit, a historic Silk Road hub nestled beside the Gilgit River.

• Rakaposhi Viewpoint: One of the most iconic roadside stops along the Karakoram Highway, showcasing the mighty 7,788m Rakaposhi peak
• Nomal Valley: A lesser-known gem with terraced fields, stone paths, and serene village life
• Activities: Gemstone and handicraft shopping, exploring local bazaars, trying walnut cake or dried mulberries, and meeting Hunza/Nagar locals in open tea houses

📍Hunza Valley (Karimabad, Altit, Eagle’s Nest)

Often called the crown jewel of the north, Hunza Valley is an emerald among giants.

• Baltit Fort & Altit Fort: Centuries-old castles perched on rocky spurs offering sweeping views and royal history
• Attabad Lake: Formed after a landslide in 2010, its vibrant turquoise water now offers boat rides and lakeside cafés
• Passu Cones & Hussaini Bridge: Jagged peaks rising like cathedral spires and one of the world’s most daring rope bridges
• Eagle’s Nest Viewpoint: Watch the sun dip behind Ultar and Lady Finger Peaks from the best panoramic terrace in Hunza
• Activities: Organic fruit picking in orchards, music night with local rubab tunes, visit to local schools or community centers, optional glacier trek in Hoper

📍Khunjerab Pass

At 4,693 meters, Khunjerab Pass is not just a border, but a bucket-list summit where Pakistan meets China at the edge of heaven.

• Visit the Pak-China Friendship Gate, often framed in clouds and prayer flags
• Spot rare wildlife like Himalayan marmots and ibex in the national park zone
• Activities: Snowball fight (seasonal), panoramic group photos, tea and snacks at high-altitude stalls, and witnessing cultural exchange at the open-air trade post

📍Naltar Valley & Rainbow Lake

Hidden behind the jagged ridges of Gilgit, Naltar Valley is a kaleidoscope of lakes, alpine forests, and snowfields.

• Blue, Pari, and Satrangi Lakes: Each lake glows with its unique hue — cobalt, emerald, or prism rainbow
• Optional: Overnight by Rainbow Lake, a secluded heaven for reflection and photography
• Activities: 4×4 Jeep rides over riverbeds, pine forest walks, stargazing by the lake, storytelling around campfire, and picnic breakfast on open meadows

This is more than a tour — it’s your deep dive into the beauty, history, and soul of Pakistan. Let Trip Organizers GB lead you through the Grand Northern Pakistan Experience 2025–2026.