Step into the heart of the world’s most spectacular mountain corridor with our expertly curated 9-day journey from Islamabad to Kashgar. Designed for adventurous travelers seeking culture, history, and breathtaking landscapes, this itinerary follows the iconic Karakoram Highway, often called the Eighth Wonder of the World - through northern Pakistan into western China.
From the modern elegance of Islamabad to the ancient charm of Kashgar, you will experience an unforgettable blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. Explore
centuries-old forts in the Hunza Valley, cruise the turquoise waters of Attabad Lake, stand beneath the towering peaks of Nanga Parbat and Passu Cones, and cross the majestic Khunjerab Pass into China’s Xinjiang province.
Itinerary:
Day 1. Islamabad - Naran
Arrive early in the morning at Islamabad Airport where you will be met by your local guide and start the journey to Naran (250 km). Overnight in Naran. (-/-/-)
Day 2. Naran - Skardu
Today, we wil have a long ride along the Jaglot-Skardu road passing Babusar Pass 4173 m. We drive past Chilas on the Karakoram Highway before reaching Jaglot, the confluence of the Indus and Gilgit Rivers. Close to Jaglot there are several Viewpoints where 3 great mountain ranges meet: Karakoram, Himalayas, and Hindu Kush. We reach Skardu late in the afternoon. (B/-/-)
Day 3. Skardu - Khaplu
The spectacular road to Khaplu follows the Indus river for about 4-5 hours, passing small Balti and Tibetan towns. Today, we visit Khaplu Fort, a true acrhitectural masterpiece of the region. The palace was built in 1840 by the Yabgo Raja Daulat Ali Khan of Khaplu after the Dogra of Kashmir who captured the region decided to move the seat of government from the old fort.Then, we visit Chaqchan Mosque, which is a religious temple which carries nearly 700 years of history, and a great cultural and religious significance. Overnight in Khaplu. (B/-/-)
Day 4. Khaplu - Shigar Valley - Skardu
After breakfast, we drive from Khaplu Valley to Shigar Valley, the gateway and starting point for trekking in the high mountains of the Karakoram. This is one of the most beautiful valleys in Skardu with stunning views all around. We visit the 400-year-old fort and the 17th century Palace of the Raja before driving back to Skardu for overnight. (B/-/-)
Day 5. Skardu - Gilgit - Hunza
Today, we head on a 6 to 8-hour drive on the Karakoram Highway from Skardu to Hunza Valley. We drive past Gilgit, the capital of Gilgit-Baltostan region, and make a short stop at Rakaposhi Peak view point to take photos. Overnight in Hunza. (B/-/-)
Day 6. Hunza
We will visit Baltit Fort in Hunza. It is a 1000 years old fort once that was used for residential purposes by then royal family of Hunza and it was restored in 1996 by Agha Khan foundation. After that we will visit another Altit Fort. Drive back to Hunza and visit Karimabad Bazar where will enjoy a free time for shopping. Overnight in Karimabad, Hunza. (B/-/-)
Day 7. Hunza Valley - China Border Khunjerab Pass - Tashkurgan (China)
After breakfast, we will visit the Khunjerab National Park - the highest international border between Pakistan and China, at 4,670 m above sea level. After passing the border formalities and changing vehicles at the border, we reach Tashkurgan. (B/-/-)
Located on the ancient Silk Road and part of the Pamir Plateau, Tashkurgan offers dramatic mountain landscapes, vast grasslands, and high-altitude beauty. It is the only Tajik autonomous country in China. The Tajik people here (distinct from Tajiks in Tajikistan) have their own language, way of dressing, traditions, and music. Their cultural identity has been shaped by centuries of life in the remote valleys of the region, with strong traditions of hospitality, craftsmanship, and community life. Hotel in Tashkurgan. (B/-/-)
Day 8. Tashkurgan - Kashgar
Today is dedicated to a visit to Tashkurgan Stone City (Ancient Fortress), a 2,000-year-old Silk Road outpost that once served as an important stop along the ancient trade routes. We then continue to Kashgar (approx. 4 hours’ drive), a historic oasis city known for its Uyghur culture, traditional markets, and long-standing role as a crossroads between Central and Central Asia. Overnight in Kashgar. (B/-/-)
Day 9. Kashgar
Today’s city tour introduces us to Kashgar’s famous Grand Bazaar, where the atmosphere reflects the city’s centuries-old trading traditions, followed by a visit to Id Kah Mosque, one of the most important Islamic landmarks in the region. We also visit the Abakh Hoja Tomb, an elegant historic mausoleum, or have time to wander through the atmospheric streets of Kashgar’s Old Town, discovering traditional courtyards, local crafts, and everyday life.
Overnight in Kashgar. (B/-/-)
Day 10. Departure
Transfer to the airport or train station for your departure. End of service. (B/-/-)
9 nights in hotels and guesthouses in a double room with private facilities and breakfast
1880 €, 10 Days
Verified