12-Day Discover the Best of China and Pakistan Multi Day Tour

Journey  from Kashgar to Islamabad on an amazing multi-day journey that will take you through some of China and Pakistan's most spectacular landscapes and cultural experiences. 

Go over the challenging yet scenic Karakoram Highway, dubbed as the "Eighth Wonder of the World," beginning in Kashgar and bringing you through towering peaks, gorgeous glaciers, and crystal-clear rivers.

Visit Kashgar's famous Sunday market, drive along the Karakoram Highway, walk to the Passu glacier, and see ancient sites such as Tashkurgan Fort and Baltit Fort. Stay in traditional hotels and visit local communities to learn about local culture and traditions. This tour, with skilled guides and comfortable transportation, provides a one-of-a-kind and spectacular adventure through some of the world's most beautiful landscapes.

This itinerary has been carefully prepared to bring you with the finest experience possible, including excursions to renowned locations. You will be able to trek, walk, and discover the natural beauties of the Karakorum and Kunlun mountains, with their rugged peaks, crystal-clear lakes, and lush green valleys, along the way.

An adventure that will leave you breathless and in awe of the natural beauty and cultural depth of China and Pakistan. Join us on this trip of discovery and adventure as we cross countries and cultures, discovering the diversity and splendor of this region of the world.

Itinerary

Day 1 - Kashgar

Arrive at Kashgar 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 - Kashgar - Tashkurgan

Begin your day with a scenic journey from Kashgar to Tashkurgan, including a stop at the breathtaking Karakul Lake. Take in the stunning views of the snow-capped peaks and the lake's crystal-clear waters, and then relax in the tranquil surroundings. Continue your drive to Tashkurgan, a historical and culturally rich town where you will spend the night.

Day 3 - Tashkurgan - Passu

Cross the border into Pakistan through the beautiful Khunjerab Pass, the world’s highest overland pass. Stop for a short time at the zero point to take photographs before making your way to Sost in Pakistan to go through the immigration process. After passing through immigration, continue towards Passu, enjoying the scenic beauty of the surrounding mountains along the way.

Day 4 - Passu

Start the day with a visit to Passu Glacier. Marvel at the beauty of the glacier as your knowledgeable guide shares insights about its history and geology. Next, walk over the Passu Suspension Bridge, an iconic structure that offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers. You will then drive to Hussaini Village and take a dip in the natural hot spring. Here, enjoy the warm waters and stunning views of the Hunza River. Afterward, visit the famous Hussaini Suspension Bridge. Take in the breathtaking views of the river and surrounding mountains as you cross the bridge. End the day with a drive back to your hotel and reflect on the incredible natural beauty and cultural experiences of the day.

Day 5 - Passu - Karimabad

Drive towards Karimabad after breakfast. En route, make a stop at the beautiful Attabad Lake, where you can enjoy the stunning turquoise waters and take plenty of photographs.

Next, continue your journey to Gulmit village, a picturesque town nestled in the heart of the mountains. Take a stroll through the town, interact with the locals, and learn about their way of life. After exploring Gulmit village, make your way to your hotel. Take some time to rest and freshen up before you start your exploration of the city at your own leisure.

Day 6 - Karimabad

Spend the day exploring Karimabad! Start the day by visiting the Baltit Fort, a 700-year-old structure that was once the residence of the Mirs of Hunza. Next, head to the Altit Fort, which is even older than the Baltit Fort and offers stunning views of the surrounding valley.

After exploring the forts, stroll through the lively Karimabad local bazaar and browse the handicrafts, textiles, and local produce on offer. In the late afternoon, drive up to Duiker, a small village perched on a hill overlooking the valley. From here, enjoy panoramic views of the sunset over the Karakoram Mountains. After watching the sunset, head back down to Karimabad.

Day 7 - Karimabad - Besham

Depart from Karimabad for Besham, a scenic drive along the Karakoram Highway. En-route, stop at various points to take in the stunning views of the mountains and valleys. Stop at Thakot Bridge for a photo opportunity and to learn about its historical significance. Arrive at Besham and transfer to your hotel.

Day 8 - Besham - Swat

Set off for Swat, a picturesque region noted for its natural beauty, rich history, and cultural legacy. Enjoy a relaxing journey through the valley's beautiful green hills and meandering roads. Along the way, make a stop at Takht-e-Bahi, a UNESCO World Heritage site that includes the remains of a Buddhist monastery and stupas from the 1st century BCE to the 7th century CE. Continue to Swat and check into your hotel. Rest of the day is free to explore the local bazaar and soak in the beautiful scenery of the valley.

Day 9 - Swat

Visit the Swat Museum, which showcases the rich history and cultural heritage of the region, after breakfast. Next, drive to the beautiful Marghazar Valley, known for its lush greenery and colorful flowers. Here, explore the White Palace, a stunning example of traditional Swati architecture. You will then head to the ancient Buddhist site of Shingardar Stupa. This 2,000-year-old stupa is located on top of a hill and offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. After exploring the stupa, take a short hike to the scenic Mahodand Lake, nestled among the mountains. You can take a boat ride on the lake or just relax and soak in the natural beauty. In the evening, drive back to Swat and visit the bustling Mingora Bazaar, where you can shop for souvenirs and local handicrafts.

Day 10 - Swat - Peshawar

Journey to Peshawar, a historic city known for its rich culture and bazaars. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel before heading out to explore the city at your own leisure. 

Day 11 - Peshawar - Islamabad

Start the day with a visit to the Peshawar Museum, which showcases the rich cultural and historical heritage of the region. Then, head to the Qissa Khwani Bazaar, one of the oldest and busiest marketplaces in Peshawar, where you can shop for traditional handicrafts and taste local street food. You will then visit the Mohabbat Khan Mosque, a beautiful 17th-century mosque with intricate tile work and marble carvings. Drive to the Peshawar Fort, a 16th-century Mughal fort with a fascinating history, before departing towards Islamabad, where you can explore the city's many parks, museums, and landmarks, such as Faisal Mosque, the National Monument, and Shakarparian Park.

Day 12 - Islamabad

Check out from the hotel after breakfast, then make your way to Islamabad International Airport for your journey back home.

Inclusions

• Airport Pick Up and Drop Off

• 11 Nights Accommodation

• Breakfast (11)

• Lunch (10)

• Dinner (10)

• 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.