12 Days Hindu Kush & Karakoram Mountains Tour
This unforgettable journey combines two of Asia’s greatest mountain systems: the legendary Hindu Kush and the mighty Karakoram. The tour takes travelers through remote valleys, ancient cultures, dramatic mountain scenery, and some of the most spectacular landscapes in Pakistan.
Beginning in Islamabad, the journey leads west into Chitral and the unique Kalash Valleys beneath the peaks of the Hindu Kush. From there, travelers cross into the high mountains of Gilgit-Baltistan, exploring Hunza Valley, Attabad Lake, Passu, and the famous Karakoram Highway before reaching the Pakistan-China border at Khunjerab Pass.
This tour is ideal for travelers seeking culture, history, mountain scenery, photography opportunities, and authentic encounters with the diverse peoples of Northern Pakistan.
Tour Highlights
- Explore two legendary mountain ranges: Hindu Kush and Karakoram
- Visit Chitral and the ancient Kalash Valleys
- Experience the unique culture of the Kalash people
- Travel through spectacular mountain landscapes
- Explore Gilgit and Hunza Valley
- Visit Baltit Fort and Altit Fort
- Enjoy Attabad Lake and Passu Cones
- Travel on the Karakoram Highway
- Visit Khunjerab Pass on the Pakistan-China border
- Photograph some of the world’s most spectacular mountain scenery
Tour Itinerary
Day 1 – Arrival in Islamabad
Arrival at Islamabad International Airport. Meet and assist by our representative and transfer to the hotel. Depending on arrival time, enjoy a brief city tour including Faisal Mosque and Pakistan Monument.
Overnight in Islamabad.
Day 2 – Islamabad to Chitral
Drive via the scenic Lowari Tunnel into Chitral District. Enjoy magnificent mountain scenery and traditional villages along the route.
Arrival in Chitral in the evening.
Overnight in Chitral.
Day 3 – Chitral Sightseeing
Explore Chitral town including Chitral Fort, Shahi Mosque, local bazaars, and views of Tirich Mir, the highest peak of the Hindu Kush range.
Learn about the region’s rich history and its strategic location along ancient trade routes.
Overnight in Chitral.
Day 4 – Kalash Valley Excursion
Drive into the famous Kalash Valleys. Visit traditional villages and learn about the unique customs, beliefs, and lifestyle of the Kalash people.
Explore local homes, community centers, and enjoy opportunities for cultural interaction.
Overnight in Kalash Valley.
Day 5 – Kalash Valley Exploration
Full day exploring the remote villages and scenic landscapes of the Kalash Valleys. Visit local shrines, agricultural terraces, and traditional settlements while learning about one of the world’s most fascinating cultures.
Overnight in Kalash Valley.
Day 6 – Kalash to Gilgit
Journey eastward toward Gilgit through dramatic mountain landscapes. The route passes remote valleys and provides spectacular views of both the Hindu Kush and Karakoram ranges.
Arrival in Gilgit.
Overnight in Gilgit.
Day 7 – Gilgit to Hunza Valley
Drive along the legendary Karakoram Highway into Hunza Valley. Stop at the famous viewpoint where the Karakoram, Himalaya, and Hindu Kush mountain systems converge.
Continue to Karimabad in Hunza.
Overnight in Hunza.
Day 8 – Explore Hunza Valley
Visit the historic Baltit Fort and Altit Fort. Explore Karimabad village and enjoy panoramic views of Rakaposhi, Ultar Peak, Ladyfinger Peak, and surrounding glaciers.
Overnight in Hunza.
Day 9 – Attabad Lake and Passu
Travel to Upper Hunza and visit the beautiful Attabad Lake. Enjoy boating or lakeside walks before continuing to Passu.
Visit the famous Hussaini Suspension Bridge and photograph the spectacular Passu Cathedral Peaks.
Overnight in Passu or Hunza.
Day 10 – Excursion to Khunjerab Pass
Full-day excursion through Khunjerab National Park to the Pakistan-China border at Khunjerab Pass (4,693 meters).
Enjoy breathtaking scenery and opportunities to observe wildlife including ibex, marmots, and yaks.
Return to Hunza.
Overnight in Hunza.
Day 11 – Hunza to Islamabad
Drive to Gilgit Airport and board a flight to Islamabad (subject to weather and flight schedules). If flights are unavailable, an alternative road transfer can be arranged.
Free evening in Islamabad.
Overnight in Islamabad.
Day 12 – Departure
Transfer to Islamabad International Airport for onward flight.
End of services.
What’s Included
- Airport transfers
- All transportation in private vehicle
- Domestic flight (Gilgit–Islamabad where applicable)
- Hotel accommodation
- Daily breakfast
- Professional tour guide
- Driver expenses, fuel, tolls and parking
- Tour coordination throughout the journey
What’s Not Included
- International airfare
- Visa fees
- Lunches and dinners
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses
- Entrance fees and optional activities
- Tips and gratuities
Best Time to Travel
The best time for this tour is from May to October. During these months the mountain roads are open, weather conditions are favorable, and both the Kalash Valleys and Karakoram region are accessible.
Travelers visiting during Kalash festivals may also witness colorful celebrations and traditional cultural events.
Why Choose This Tour?
- Combines the Hindu Kush and Karakoram in one itinerary
- Unique cultural encounters with the Kalash people
- Visits Pakistan’s most famous mountain destinations
- Perfect balance of culture, scenery, history and adventure
- Suitable for photographers and nature lovers
- One of the most comprehensive Northern Pakistan journeys available
Tour Price
Starting from USD 1,995 per person
Pricing depends on season, hotel category, transportation options, and group size.
Book This Tour
Join us on an unforgettable journey through the mountains, cultures, and landscapes of Northern Pakistan. Discover the beauty of the Hindu Kush and Karakoram with experienced guides and carefully planned itineraries.
Hindukush Tours and Travel
Islamabad, Pakistan
Website: https://hindukush.com.pk