Autumn in the northern areas of Pakistan is a truly enchanting time for tourists. The region transforms into a picturesque landscape with vibrant hues of red, orange, and gold as the leaves of trees change color. The weather becomes cooler and pleasant, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and exploration. Tourists can witness the stunning beauty of autumn in places like Hunza, Swat, Naran, and Kaghan Valley. The majestic mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and lush green valley’s become even more captivating against the backdrop of autumn colors. Visitors can indulge in activities like hiking, trekking, and photography, capturing the breathtaking views of the changing scenery. The local culture and traditions add a unique charm to the experience, with festivals and celebrations taking place during this season. Autumn also offers an opportunity to savor the local cuisine, with delicious fruits and traditional dishes being abundantly available. Whether it’s exploring the majestic landscapes, immersing in the local culture, or simply enjoying the tranquility of nature, autumn in the northern areas of Pakistan is a delightful experience for tourists.
Tour Itinerary
Day 01:
Arrival – Islamabad Sightseeing
After landing at Islamabad International Airport, Indus Holidays’ team will extend a warm welcome and transfer you to your hotel in Islamabad. If your arrival is in the morning, ample time awaits for city exploration. The half-day tour encompasses iconic sites like Pakistan Monument, a testament to national heritage, and the magnificent Faisal Mosque, an epitome of Islamic architecture. Margalla Hills reveal sweeping city vistas, while the vibrant Islamabad Market immerses you in local culture and shopping. Saidpur Old Village offers a window into tradition, while Rawalpindi adds historical charm. This city tour is your initial window into Islamabad’s captivating blend of beauty, diversity, and historical resonance, setting the tone for your Pakistani journey. Overnight Islamabad.
Day 02:
Islamabad – Taxila – Besham
We begin our journey towards North Pakistan on the legendary Karakoram Highway, an ancient silk route, with a 5-6 hours’ drive ahead. On the way, we will visit Taxila Museum, located in the modern town of Taxila, just 35 km from Islamabad. Taxila is renowned for its archaeological sites dating back to 600 B.C. to 500 A.D. The region was a significant center of learning, Gandhara art, education, and Buddhism during its heyday. Taxila boasts over 50 archaeological sites within a 30 km radius, including Dharmarajika Stupa and Monastery, Bhir Mound, Sirkap, Jundial Temple, and Julian Monastery. These sites showcase the rich cultural and historical heritage of the region. After our visit, we continue our drive, making a stop for a refreshing cup of Pakistani tea along the way. Overnight Besham.
Day 03:
Besham – Chilas – Gilgit
We embark on a long but scenic 12-hour drive towards Gilgit, where the stunning landscapes along the way make the journey worthwhile. Along the route, we encounter several interesting and photogenic stops. We marvel at the prehistoric rock carvings at Shatial, admire the ancient graffiti on the rocks at Chilas, and capture the breathtaking views of the 9th highest peak in the world, Nanga Parbat, from a viewpoint. Another highlight awaits us as we reach the point where the Karakoram, Himalayas, and Hindu Kush Mountain ranges converge, offering a mesmerizing panorama. Our final stop before reaching Gilgit is at the confluence of the mighty River Indus and the Gilgit River, a remarkable sight to behold. Overnight Gilgit.
Day 04:
Gilgit – Phandar
After breakfast, we proceed towards Gilgit city for a quick tour. We explore the fascinating sights of the town, including its iconic suspension bridges, vibrant local bazaar, and the ancient Karga Buddha statue. Our journey continues as we embark on a 6-7 hour drive to Phandar, passing through the scenic Gacouch Village. Along the way, we make photography stops to capture the breathtaking beauty of the surroundings. Phandar awaits us, offering its own enchanting landscapes and experiences. Overnight Phandar.
Day 05:
Phandar – Shandur – Phandar
In the morning, we embark on a half-day excursion to the renowned Shandur Pass, where we witness the world’s highest polo ground in all its glory. The breathtaking vistas and thrilling polo matches captivate our senses. Later in the day, we continue our exploration and visit the picturesque Phandar Valley. We have the opportunity to stroll through the charming village, immersing ourselves in the local culture and traditions. Alternatively, we can take a leisurely walk around the tranquil Phandar Lake, admiring its serene beauty. Our time in Phandar is filled with memorable experiences and scenic delights. Overnight Phandar.
Day 06:
Phandar – Hunza Karimabad
In the morning, we embark on a leisurely stroll around the enchanting Phandar Lake, taking in the serene surroundings and capturing the beauty of nature. Afterwards, we begin our journey back to Gilgit, a scenic drive of 5-6 hours, followed by another 2-3 hours to reach the charming town of Karimabad. Along the way, we make several photography stops, including the collision point of the River Erosion and Indian Plates, as well as the Silk Route and Rakaposhi View Points.
These stops offer breathtaking views and opportunities to capture the majestic landscapes and historical significance of the region. Our journey is filled with awe-inspiring moments and unforgettable memories. Overnight Hunza Karimabad.
Day 07:
Hunza Valley Sightseeing
We start our day with an exciting 4×4 jeep drive to Hopar, passing through the scenic Nagir Valley. Along the way, we make stops to capture stunning photographs of the picturesque landscapes. By midday, we return to Karimabad and embark on a visit to the historic Baltit Fort, immersing ourselves in its rich cultural heritage. We then take a leisurely stroll through the bustling bazaar, experiencing the vibrant local atmosphere. As the day draws to a close, we drive up to Duikar for a breathtaking sunset photography session, capturing the mesmerizing hues of the Hunza Valley. These experiences offer a blend of natural beauty, cultural exploration, and photographic opportunities, leaving us with lasting memories of the central Hunza Valley. Overnight Hunza Karimabad.
Day 08:
Day Excursion Khunjrab Pass
Our full day excursion takes us to the majestic Khunjerab Pass. With the goal of reaching the top before noon to avoid weather changes, we make fewer stops along the road. Once at the summit, we spend half an hour taking in the breathtaking views. On our return journey, we pause at various points to capture the beauty of the towering mountains and may even spot Ibex, the magnificent mountain sheep, along the way. In the late afternoon, we arrive back in Sost, where we enjoy a leisurely village and bazaar walk, immersing ourselves in the local culture and atmosphere. This day offers a memorable adventure to the Khunjerab Pass and a chance to experience the unique charm of the Sost village. Overnight Hunza Karimabad.
Day 09:
Hunza Karimabad – Gilgit
After breakfast, we embark on our return journey to Gilgit. Along the way, we make several fascinating photo stops, including the magnificent Batura Glacier, the awe-inspiring Pass Cathedrals, and the majestic Passu Peak. We also take a memorable walk on the Hussani suspension bridge, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Next, we enjoy a delightful 30-minute boat ride on Atabad Lake, soaking in the serene beauty of the turquoise waters. Before reaching Gilgit, we visit the historic Rock Carving site, marveling at the ancient artwork carved into the stones. In the remaining time, we explore the cultural charm of Gilgit with a leisurely bazaar walk and a visit to the remarkable Karga Buddha. Overnight Gilgit.
Day 10:
Gilgit – Skardu
After breakfast, we begin our journey towards Skardu, with several captivating photo stops along the way. We pause to admire the scenic canyon of the majestic River Indus, immersing ourselves in the beauty of its rugged landscape. As we continue, we come across enchanting hanging bridges, offering picturesque views and a sense of adventure. We also make stops at charming villages, where we can capture the essence of the local culture and way of life through our lenses. These photo stops provide us with wonderful opportunities to capture the natural and cultural wonders of the region on our journey to Skardu. Overnight Skardu.
Day 11:
Skardu – Khaplu
After breakfast, we embark on a one-hour drive to Skardu Town, where we indulge in a delightful 30-minute walk through the bustling Skardu Bazaar. Next, we visit the historic Khapochu Fort, immersing ourselves in its rich heritage and architectural marvels. We then proceed to the serene Satpara Lake, where we can revel in its tranquil beauty and capture breathtaking photographs. Around noon, we embark on a scenic three-hour drive to Khaplo, where we will spend the night at the comfortable Hotel Khaplo. This itinerary promises a perfect blend of cultural exploration, natural beauty, and relaxation as we discover the treasures of Skardu and Khaplo. Overnight Khaplu.
Day 12:
Khaplu – Shigar Valley
We begin our day by immersing ourselves in the vibrant atmosphere of Khaplo Town, exploring its local bazaar and embracing the unique charm of this quaint town. Later, we embark on a scenic drive to a picturesque bridge, where we can marvel at the surrounding natural beauty and capture stunning photographs. In the afternoon, our journey continues as we drive to Shigar, with a captivating stop at the Shigar Sand Dunes, known as the coldest desert of the Karakoram Mountains. Here, we can witness the awe-inspiring landscape and experience the serenity of this remarkable desert. This day promises a mix of cultural exploration, natural wonders, and unforgettable sights as we delve into the heart of Khaplo and Shigar. Overnight Shigar.
Day 13:
Shigar Valley – Chilas
As we bid farewell to the enchanting landscapes of Khaplo and Shigar, we embark on a long but scenic journey back to Chilas, spanning approximately 8-10 hours. Along the way, we will make several stops for photography, capturing the breathtaking vistas that unfold before us. From majestic mountains to winding rivers and verdant valleys, every frame promises to be a masterpiece of nature’s artistry. We will cherish these moments, preserving the memories of this remarkable journey through our lenses. As we continue our drive, the beauty of the surroundings will serve as a constant reminder of the awe-inspiring wonders of northern Pakistan. Finally, we will arrive in Chilas, ready to rest and reflect on the incredible sights we have witnessed throughout the day. Overnight Chilas.
Day 14:
Chilas – Besham
Today, we embark on a scenic drive from Chilas to Besham, taking in the breathtaking landscapes along the way. As we journey through the majestic mountains, we will make a stop at Shatial to explore the fascinating rock carvings. These ancient carvings provide a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the region. The intricate designs and symbols etched into the rocks are a testament to the artistic skills of past civilizations. We will take our time to appreciate these remarkable creations and capture the beauty of the surroundings. This stop adds an enriching cultural experience to our journey, enhancing our understanding of the region’s heritage. As we continue our drive to Besham, we will be surrounded by stunning natural scenery, making this leg of the journey truly memorable. Overnight Besham.
Day 15:
Besham – Islamabad – Departure
Today marks the end of our incredible autumn tour of Northern Pakistan as we drive back to Islamabad from Besham. We will bid farewell to the breathtaking landscapes and vibrant colors that have captivated us throughout our journey. Along the way, we will cherish the memories of our encounters with nature’s beauty, from the towering mountains to the cascading rivers and lush valleys. As we approach Islamabad, we will reflect on the awe-inspiring sights and cultural experiences we have had during this tour. Upon reaching Islamabad, we will ensure a smooth transfer for our guests, taking them to the airport to catch their flights. This marks the conclusion of our unforgettable journey, leaving us with cherished memories and a deep appreciation for the natural wonders of Northern Pakistan during the autumn season.
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Lahore Tours: Experience the heart of Pakistan in Lahore, uncovering its history, architecture, and local charm through guided tours.
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