10-Day Hunza Valley Cherry Blossom Experience

Set out on an unforgettable excursion to the gorgeous Hunza Valley, where you will be able to admire the splendor of cherry blossoms in full bloom. When the snow melts and the flowers bloom, a Cherry Blossom season begins in Gilgit-Baltistan, a known tourist haven with distinct yet stunning scenery. In the Hunza and Nagar valleys, cherry blossoms symbolize fresh life, which revitalizes the environment. 

From Islamabad, this 10-day guided tour takes you on a spectacular journey through the Karakoram Highway, one of the highest paved roads in the world, to the Hunza Valley. Enjoy Hunza Valley's cherry blossom season and the valley's brilliant spring colors. Soak in the breathtaking panorama of green terraced fields, flowering apricot, almond, peach, and apple trees, snow-capped mountains, crystal clear rivers and creeks, and azure skies.

You will also stop at many locations along the way, including mountain peaks, rivers, farmland, forts, villages, and so much more! See the Altit and Baltit forts, both over 800 years old; take in the valley vistas, including the beautiful Rakaposhi and Spantik peaks; and learn all about the people, geography, and history from your knowledgeable guide throughout the journey.

Itinerary

Day 1 - Islamabad

Arrive at Islamabad International Airport. Your local guide will meet you at the airport and take you to the hotel. Take time to freshen up before heading out to explore the city at your own leisure. 

Day 2 - Islamabad - Besham

Begin the day with a scenic drive towards Besham, a quaint town nestled in the mountains along the Indus River. Stop for lunch en route and arrive at the hotel in Besham by early evening. The scenic landscapes from Islamabad to Besham make it a pleasant journey.

Day 3 - Besham to Chilas

Continue your journey towards the Hunza Valley via Karakoram Highway after breakfast, making a stop at the Thalichi Viewpoint to take in the beautiful scenery of the Indus River. You will also visit the Shatial Rock Carvings, an ancient Buddhist site dating back to the 7th century. Upon arrival in Chilas, head directly to the hotel and check in. The journey from Besham to Chilas takes you through the narrow winding roads of the Himalayan range.

Day 4 - Chilas - Karimabad

Make your way to the Hunza Valley by passing through the spectacular Nanga Parbat viewpoint and the old Ganish town, which is renowned for its ancient architecture and local handicrafts. Continue along the breathtaking Hunza Valley where you will be able to see the original Silk Route used by both traders and monks. In the evening, arrive at Karimabad, the capital of Hunza Valley. The drive from Chilas to Karimabad features the scenic vistas of the stunning Hunza Valley.

Day 5-8 - Hunza Valley

Spend the next four days exploring the beautiful Hunza Valley, including the Altit and Baltit Forts, the Attabad Lake, and the Khunjerab Pass, one of the highest border crossings in the world. You will also take leisurely strolls through the orchards and gardens to admire the beauty of the cherry blossoms in their full glory. Known for its beautiful landscapes and diverse culture, Hunza Valley is also notable for its nearby mountains and the beautiful Hunza River, with the cherry blossoms adding to the natural beauty of the place.

Visit the Altit and Baltit Forts in Hunza Valley, both of which are UNESCO World Heritage sites and provide a great insight into the region’s history and culture. Situated on hilltops, the forts also offer breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys. You will drop by Attabad Lake, a magnificent turquoise-colored lake formed by a landslide in 2010. The lake is surrounded by stunning mountains and is a popular destination for boating and photography.

You will also make a stop at Khunjerab Pass, the world’s highest paved international border crossing, which connects Pakistan and China. The pass, at an elevation of 4,693 meters, provides amazing views of the surrounding mountains. You will have plenty of time to explore the local markets and shops, where you can buy souvenirs and sample the local cuisine.

Day 9 - Karimabad - Chilas

Start your journey back toward Chilas, making a stop at the Rakaposhi Viewpoint to take in the breathtaking views of the Rakaposhi Mountain Range. Arrive in Chilas by evening and check into the hotel.

Day 10 - Chilas - Islamabad

Make your way back to Islamabad, stopping at various scenic viewpoints and local bazaars along the way. Reach Islamabad by early evening and transfer to Islamabad International Airport, where your Hunza Valley journey comes to an end.

Inclusions

• Airport Pick Up and Drop Off

• 9 Nights Accommodation

• Breakfast (9)

• Lunch (9)

• Dinner (9)

• English-Speaking Local Guide

• Transportation as Per Itinerary

• Entrance Fees as Per Itinerary

Exclusions

• Local and International Flights

• Meals and Drinks Not Mentioned

• Visas

• Travel Insurance

• Personal Expenses

• Gratuities (Optional)

Additional Information

• This experience involves a moderate amount of walking; Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

• This experience requires good weather conditions. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

• This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed for any reason. If you cancel or ask for an amendment, the amount you paid will not be refunded. 

• Arrival time at each location may vary depending on the season.

• If there is insufficient time for all attractions/destinations on the itinerary, the tour guide will adjust the length of time spent at other attractions/destinations. 

• Delays, shortening of the tours, or omissions to the itinerary due to traffic, weather, or other unforeseen circumstances are not subject to refund.

• Itinerary is subject to change and the attractions may be closed due to traffic, weather, and force majeure. An alternative itinerary may also be omitted depending on road conditions.

• Please note that on days in which no activities are planned, you are free to explore at your leisure; all activities and purchases will be at your own expense. You will have your tour guide's mobile number in case of emergency.