16-Day Karakoram Adventure from Kashgar to Islamabad
- Duration: 16 Days (approx.)
- Product code: P1CFP8
Experience the Southern Silk Road, a network of ancient trade routes that connected the East and West. A vital artery of trade and cultural exchange, linking China with Central Asia, India, and the Mediterranean world, the Southern Silk Road is a journey into the heart of Asia's rich history and diverse cultures. This 14-day journey from Kashgar to Islamabad takes you on a unique adventure along the southern branch of the Old Silk Road, offering a rare glimpse into the customs, traditions, and lifestyles of the people who live along this route.
Begin your journey in Kashgar, an ancient city in the westernmost part of China's Xinjiang region. Kashgar has long been a crossroads of cultures and civilizations, and the city's vibrant markets and colorful bazaars are a testament to its rich history. Our first stop is the Yakshambe Bazaar, also known as the Sunday Market, where we will witness a bustling hub of commerce and exchange. Here, we will encounter a dizzying array of goods, from spices and fabrics to jewelry and livestock.
From Kashgar, continue your journey through the stunning mountains of northern Pakistan. Visit the ancient cities of Gilgit and Hunza, where you will explore the historic fortresses of Baltit and Altit and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys. You will also visit the stunning Attabad Lake, a crystal-clear body of water that was formed after a devastating landslide in 2010.
This journey will take you through some of the most remote and rugged landscapes in the world, including the Karakoram Highway, one of the highest paved roads in the world. Along the way, encounter diverse cultures and communities, from the Uighur Muslims in China to the Wakhi people of northern Pakistan.
An opportunity to step back in time and experience the beauty and complexity of a region that has been shaped by centuries of trade, migration, and conflict. It is a journey that will challenge your assumptions and broaden your horizons, leaving you with memories that will last a lifetime.
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
Spend the day exploring Kashgar, beginning with the well-known Sunday Market. Observe how locals trade everything from woodwork to sheep, donkeys, cattle, horses, and camels. You will then head to the famous mosque and animal market in town before dining at a traditional Uyghur restaurant. Afterwards, visit the more modern covered bazaar, which is deemed to be the largest in Central Asia.
Day 3 - Kashgar
Continue your tour around Kashgar and see some of its most interesting monuments, beginning with the green-tiled Abak Hoja mausoleum and the modest Silk Road museum. After lunch, visit the ancient town, which still has remnants of the Silk Road. Then, end the day with a stop at the second-floor balcony of one of the historic chaikhanas (tea houses) while watching the street market below.
Day 4 - Kashgar - Tashkurgan
Set off on the southern branch of the Old Silk Road, passing by Karakul Lake and the imposing 7000m-high hill Muztagh Ata - the Ice Father - on the way to Tashkurgan. This interesting frontier town is famed for its old fortress which you will take some time to look around.
Day 5 - Tashkurgan - Gulmit
Cross the border into Pakistan and go through passport control in Tashkurgan before traveling through the stunning Khunjerab Pass to Sost in Pakistan to finish the formalities. Continue towards Gulmit after clearing immigration. You also will stop for photos along the way at the Batura Glacier to see Shisper Peak.
Day 6 - Gulmit - Hunza
Stroll through Gulmit, Hunza's old summer capital. Visit some of the locals before continuing your journey along the Karakoram Highway to Hunza. Make a short boat trip on Lake Attabad before heading under the freshly constructed tunnel and continue to Hunza and the main town of Karimabad.
Day 7 - Hunza
Take a spectacular walk down into town. Visit Altit Fort and go for a walk along the water channels around town to absorb the local atmosphere and have a glimpse of the lifestyles of the local people. In the afternoon, take some time to look around the bazaar.
Day 8 - Hunza
Walk around the charming town of Hunza, taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and lush green valleys. Visit the famous Baltit Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site offering a glimpse into the history and culture of the region. You will then stop at a local restaurant and sample the delightful local cuisine. If you are up for some more adventure, take one of the many local hikes available in the area. Some of the most popular options include the Altit Fort trek and the Hoper Glacier trek - both offering spectacular views of the mountains and valleys. Afterwards, wind your day by watching the sunset over the mountains.
Day 9 - Hunza - Gilgit
Continue south down the Hunza Valley to Gilgit. Visit the Gandharan Buddha and Christian cemetery, explore the local bazaar, and, if possible, catch a game of Polo. Then, proceed to your pleasant accommodation, which is located just outside of town.
Day 10 - Gilgit - Fairy Meadows
Drive along the Karakoram Highway to Raikot Bridge, where you will transfer to jeeps and drive off into the hills for a very dramatic jeep ride with amazing landscapes. The Fairy Meadows is located in the shadow of the stunning Nanga Parbat, also known as the Naked Mountain that marks the end of the Himalayas. There are wonderful log houses in the area, all with commanding views of the mountain. A breathtaking natural setting, with mountains and glaciers in the distance, unwind and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.
Day 11 - Fairy Meadows
Spend the day in Fairy Meadows and then climb over the massif's forested foothills to Bayel camp and return. This will not be too strenuous, as you will run along the contours rather than straight up, but it will be breathtaking. Anyone looking for a more relaxed setting can simply stay in the meadows. You can bring a packed lunch or eat lunch at one of the local campers before returning to Fairy Meadows for evening.
Day 12 - Fairy Meadows - Naran
Walk back down to the roadhead, re-join the Karakoram Highway, swap the jeeps for your regular transportation, and continue on to Chilas. Here, take a new and more interesting route, over the Babusa Pass and into the Kaghan Valley and on to the town of Naran. Once here you will have a chance to go for a walk among the hills, hopefully meeting some of the Kutchi nomads that come this way, grazing their flocks, at this time of year.
Day 13 - Naran - Islamabad
Depart Naran for a long day's travel to Islamabad, Pakistan's capital. Stop in Abbottabad, known as the home of Osama Bin Laden during his final years. Continue the drive to Islamabad and arrive at your hotel to check in. You will then enjoy the rest of your day exploring the city or relaxing at your accommodation.
Day 14 - Islamabad
Begin the day with a visit to the famed Faisal Mosque, one of the world's largest mosques. Next, visit the Pakistan Monument and Museum, which highlights the country's history and culture. You will then go to the Lok Virsa Museum in the afternoon to discover more about Pakistan's diverse ethnic and cultural heritage. Finally, conclude the day with a visit to the lovely Rawal Lake, where you can unwind and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.
Day 15 - Islamabad
Leave the city and travel to the breathtaking Margalla Hills. Your day will begin with a climb to the Daman-e-Koh overlook, which provides amazing panoramic views of Islamabad and the surrounding environs. Following the hike, head to the Pir Sohawa overlook for a traditional Pakistani lunch and even more breathtaking views.
Day 16 - Islamabad
Conclude your adventure with a visit to the lively Shakarparian area, which offers breathtaking views of the city and is home to various monuments and museums. Then, head to the lovely Rose and Jasmine Garden, where you can rest and admire the gorgeous blooms. You will also visit the Taxila Museum and the ancient archaeological site of Taxila in the afternoon, which dates back to the Gandhara period and houses some of the most valuable Buddhist relics in the world. Afterwards, stop by the Islamabad Zoo, which is home to a variety of animals, including the rare Snow Leopard. You will then make your way to Islamabad International Airport for your journey back home.
Inclusions
Airport Pick Up and Drop Off
15 Nights Accommodation
Breakfast (15)
Lunch (14)
Dinner (14)
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.