The Karakoram Highway, Gilgit-Hunza and Kaghan (7 Days)

Leaving Besham early this morning, we would continue on the fabled Shahrah-e-Resham towards Gilgit (driving time of approx. 10-11 hours), passing the towns of Pattan—the administrative center of Kohistan—and Chilas on the way. Spectacular scenery is our companion and we will cross the sites of two important under construction dams at Dassu and Diamar-Basha. At Chilas there are world famous petroglyphs (rock carvings) left by Buddhist Monks on their way to China. Shortly before arriving at Gilgit, we will also see the meeting point of the greatest mountain ranges on Earth, the Karakoram, the Himalaya and the Hindu Kush. Overnight at our hotel in Gilgit.

After breakfast drive to Kargah Buddha rock carving which was etched in the 7th century. There was a monastery and three stupas here as this served as a rest stop for Buddhist pilgrims travelling from China to the Buddhist monasteries located in the Swat Valley. From here we will go to the Gilgit Bazaar with its kaleidoscopically arrayed shops, and then on to the ChinarBagh (Garden) with its memorial to those who fought for independence. Next continue on to the Chinese cemetery, the final resting place for the scores of Chinese workers and engineers who died during the construction of the Karakoram Highway in the 1970’s. We then set out on a scenic drive on the Karakorum Highway to Hunza. Enroute pause at Rakaposhi view point for a cup of tea. The view of this North Face of Rakaposhi allows one to see the longest uninterrupted mountain flank on earth (6000m). Continue the drive to Karimabad and check in to the hotel. After lunch visit the 800 year old Baltit Fort, once the stronghold of the Ayasho Dynasty, and today a wonderfully restored museum that has won many awards including awards from UNESCO and British Airways. We will then drive to the neighboring ‘twin’ village of Altit. Here we will visit the Altit Fort (restored by the Aga Khan Cultural Services, Pakistan--AKCSP) and the women’s work shop, established by the AKCSP, where they make wooden furniture and handicrafts. Return to the hotel for overnight stay.

After breakfast drive to Ganish Historical town, believed to be the oldest settlement in Hunza where traditional mosques and religious centers have been meticulously restored. Then drive to Gulmit, in Upper Hunza, along the banks of the newly formed Attabad Lake, a significant addition to the natural beauty of Hunza. This lake was created due to a major landslide and the road link has been recently restored by a 7.9 km long tunnel system. Gulmit is a peaceful and serene village that formerly served as winter capital of the Hunza Kingdom. Walk through the village and see local women weaving carpets and making several other traditional handicrafts. After lunch continue to visit Passu village and catch a glimpse of the white Passu Glacier. Return to Gulmit for overnight at the hotel.

After breakfast proceed on the Karakorum Highway to Khunjerab, the Pak-China border (visit subject to snowfall). We will pass by Passu Village, enjoying fabulous views of TupupdanSar, Passu Peaks, Shispare and Boyohagur, all exceeding 7000 meters.  We then come to the border crossing town of Sust, and after completing formalities continue on to enter the Khunjerab National Park before arriving at the Khunjerab Pass at an elevation 4,693 meters or 15,397 feet and the actual border line. Khunjerab derives its name from two words of the local Wakhi language: 'Khun' means Home and 'Jerav' means a creek coming from spring water/water falling. In this National Park reside, amongst other animals, the snow leopard, Himalayan Ibex, Marco Polo sheep and the pesky Golden Marmot. After enjoying the vistas, return to Sust and then take the return drive to Gilgit for check into the hotel in the late afternoon to enjoy the views. Overnight at the hotel.

Leaving for Naran early this morning, we would continue on the fabled Shahrah-e-Resham towards Chilas (driving time of approx. 2 to 3 hours), passing the meeting point of the greatest mountain ranges on Earth, the Karakoram, the Himalaya and the Hindu Kush, the Nanga Parbat viewing point and the meeting point of River Indus and River Gilgit. At Chilas there are world famous petroglyphs (rock carvings) left by Buddhist Monks on their way to China. Continue on to cross the Babusar Pass (4173m) and arrive at the spectacular Kaghan Valley. We will pass alpine lakes before coming to the main town of Naran (3 to 4 hour drive). Arrive and transfer to the hotel.   Note: Alternate Program Given Below Will Be Followed In Case The Babusar Pass Is Closed. Normally The Pass Is Open From Early June To Early October. Day 06 Gilgit – Besham: Leave the hotel early as there will be a long 10 hour driving day today. Join the Karakorum Highway (KKH) a few kilometers away from Gilgit. On the way stop at the junction of the three highest mountain ranges of the world: the Hindu Kush, Himalayas and the Karakorum ranges. It is at the same point where Gilgit River joins the Indus River. Later, if the weather is clear, get a glimpse of the Nanga Parbat peak from Thalachi. By the evening reach Besham where you will check in to the hotel for an overnight stay.   Day 07 Besham—Taxila—Islamabad:From Beshamresume the road journey to Islamabad along the Indus (8 hours). On the way visit the historical city of Taxila, excavated between 1913 & 1939. Taxila is known as an archeological gem of the Buddhist period, and includes three city remains, Buddhist monasteries and Stupas. Most popular sites are Taxila Museum, DharmarajikaStupa from King Ashok period and the Julian Buddhist Monastery remains. After Taxila, return to the twin cities of Rawalpindi-Islamabad.

After an early breakfast leave for a 6-7 hour road journey for Islamabad. On the way we pass Balakot Village near the Kunhar River, which is the gateway to Kaghan. From here we continue through Mansehra and drive on the newly built Hazara Motorway, on the way visiting the historical city of Taxila which was excavated between 1913 & 1939. Taxila is known as an archeological gem of the Buddhist period, which includes three city remains, Buddhist monasteries and Stupas. Most popular sites are Taxila Museum, DharmarajikaStupa from King Ashok period and the Julian Buddhist Monastery remains. After Taxila, return to the twin cities of Rawalpindi-Islamabad.

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