This nine-day itinerary combines Pakistan's two most celebrated northern valleys with scenic domestic flights at either end: fly from Islamabad to Skardu for Deosai National Park, drive overland to Hunza past the Nanga Parbat and Rakaposhi viewpoints, day-trip to the Khunjerab Pass on the China border, then explore Gilgit and Naltar before flying back to the capital.
Itinerary
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Day 1 — Islamabad
On arrival at Islamabad International Airport, your local guide greets you and transfers you to the hotel for check-in. The day begins with a visit to Faisal Mosque, the largest mosque in Pakistan, set against the backdrop of the Margalla Hills, followed by Daman-e-Koh, a viewpoint with panoramic views over Islamabad, and the Pakistan Monument, which symbolizes the country's four provinces. In the evening, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant before returning to the hotel for the night.
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Day 2 — Islamabad to Skardu (by air)
After breakfast, take a short but spectacularly scenic flight from Islamabad to Skardu in the Gilgit-Baltistan region. On arrival, transfer to the hotel, then explore the bustling Skardu Bazaar for local handicrafts and souvenirs. The evening is at leisure to relax in Skardu's beautiful surroundings, with dinner at the hotel and an overnight stay.
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Day 3 — Deosai National Park excursion
After breakfast, embark on a full-day excursion to Deosai National Park, one of the highest plateaus in the world, renowned for its stunning landscapes and wildlife. Explore Sheosar Lake, a pristine high-altitude lake within the park ringed by snow-capped peaks — fantastic for photography and tranquility — and enjoy a picnic lunch amid the scenery. Return to Skardu in the evening for dinner and an overnight stay.
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Day 4 — Skardu to Hunza (6–7 hours by road)
Begin the overland journey from Skardu to Hunza through stunning landscapes, with photo stops including the Nanga Parbat Viewpoint — capturing the world's 9th highest peak — and the Rakaposhi Viewpoint. Arrive in Karimabad, the main town of Hunza, check in to the hotel, and enjoy dinner and an overnight stay.
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Day 5 — Attabad Lake, Gulmit and the glaciers
Start the day at Attabad Lake, formed after the 2010 landslide, with a boat ride on its turquoise waters. Visit the Husseini Suspension Bridge, Gulmit Village and the Corgah Carpet Centre, then continue to Passu Glacier and Hooper Glacier with dramatic views of the surrounding peaks. Return to Karimabad for dinner and the night.
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Day 6 — Khunjerab Pass day trip
After breakfast, take the scenic drive to Khunjerab Pass, the highest paved international border crossing in the world, on the Pakistan–China border. The route offers spectacular views of the Karakoram Range, and at the pass you stand at one of the highest points in the region surrounded by towering peaks. Return to Hunza for dinner and a relaxing evening.
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Day 7 — Hunza to Gilgit and Naltar Valley
Drive from Hunza to Gilgit (about 2–3 hours) and visit the famous Gilgit Bazaar for local crafts and souvenirs. Later, enjoy a scenic drive along the Indus River and visit Naltar Valley, known for its stunning scenery and especially the Naltar lakes. Return to Gilgit for dinner and an overnight stay.
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Day 8 — Gilgit to Islamabad (by air)
After breakfast, board a flight from Gilgit to Islamabad and transfer to your hotel. Enjoy a relaxing day in the city with leisure time for shopping, exploring or a peaceful walk in one of Islamabad's parks, followed by a farewell dinner at a local restaurant. Overnight in Islamabad.
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Day 9 — Departure
After breakfast, depending on your flight time, transfer to Islamabad International Airport for departure, marking the end of an unforgettable adventure in Pakistan.