7-Day Tour of Hunza & Shimshal from Islamabad
Highlights
Hunza, Islamabad, Gilgit, Shimshal, Chilas, Besham
Locations Covered
Hunza, Islamabad, Gilgit, Shimshal, Chilas, Besham
nature, cultural, Music
Private Tour
7 Days
Medium
English
Description
A journey through Hunza and Shimshal offers an unforgettable experience, bringing you to the heart of some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the Karakoram range. Here’s an itinerary to guide you through your adventure:
Day 1: Islamabad to Hunza
Departure from Islamabad: Start your journey early in the morning, heading towards the picturesque Hunza Valley.
Road Trip: The drive takes you through the scenic Kaghan Valley and Naran, offering incredible views of rivers, valleys, and snow-capped peaks. You’ll pass through towns like Balakot and Besham, with various stops for photos and meals.
Arrival in Hunza: Reach Hunza by late evening. Check into a local guesthouse or hotel.
Day 2: Exploring Hunza
Baltit Fort: Start your exploration by visiting Baltit Fort, a centuries-old structure offering a panoramic view of the Hunza Valley. Learn about its history and architecture.
Altit Fort: Visit Altit Fort, another ancient fort that reflects the rich cultural heritage of the region. You can take a guided tour to understand its significance and local stories.
Karimabad: Stroll through Karimabad, the main town in Hunza. Explore local markets where you can shop for Hunza handicrafts and dry fruits.
Husseini Suspension Bridge: For the adventurous, visit the Husseini Suspension Bridge, known as one of the most dangerous bridges in the world. It offers an adrenaline-pumping experience with stunning views of the valley below.
Day 3: Hunza to Shimshal
Departure to Shimshal: Begin your journey towards Shimshal early in the morning. The road to Shimshal is rugged and remote, offering a thrilling experience as you drive through narrow gorges and mountain passes.
Interaction with Locals: Along the way, you may come across shepherds and locals. The area is sparsely populated, and you will get a glimpse of the traditional ways of life.
Arrival in Shimshal: Reach Shimshal village by evening. The village is known for its picturesque landscapes and the hospitality of its inhabitants.
Day 4: Exploring Shimshal
Traditional Lifestyle: Spend the day interacting with the locals in Shimshal. The villagers are known for their unique culture, often practicing a form of self-sufficiency. You can explore the agricultural terraces, observe their ways of life, and perhaps even join in daily activities like herding goats or working in the fields.
Scenic Views: Take time to hike around Shimshal, which offers awe-inspiring views of surrounding peaks like Rakaposhi and the towering peaks of the Karakoram range.
Shimshal Pass: For experienced trekkers, you can opt for a visit to the Shimshal Pass, which provides breathtaking views of the mountains and is a gateway for trekking expeditions into the Karakoram.
Day 5: Return Journey to Hunza and Islamabad
Drive Back to Hunza: After spending the day in Shimshal, begin your journey back to Hunza, retracing your steps through the dramatic landscapes.
Relax in Hunza: Once back in Hunza, take time to relax. You can explore more of the valley or just enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings.
Return to Islamabad: The next morning, depart for Islamabad, concluding your adventure in the heart of the Karakoram.
Key Highlights of the Trip:
Majestic Forts: Altit and Baltit forts are key highlights, showcasing the region's history and culture.
Rugged Terrain: The drive through narrow gorges, along rivers, and past towering mountain peaks will offer you incredible vistas.
Local Interactions: Meeting the warm-hearted shepherds and villagers provides an insight into the unique culture and traditions of the Hunza and Shimshal people.
Scenic Beauty: From the lush green valleys of Hunza to the remote, breathtaking vistas of Shimshal, the landscapes will leave you in awe.
This adventure will give you a deep appreciation of the Karakoram's natural beauty and the resilience of its people living in such remote regions.
Itinerary
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Day 1: Islamabad to Chilas
Meet your local tour guide at ISBT for pick-up and transfer to Chilas.
Make a stopover on the way in Besham for lunch.
Arrive at Chilas and check-in at PTDC for an overnight stay.
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Day 2: Hunza
Drive to Hunza.
Stop-over in Gilgit for lunch.
Check-in to the hotel in Hunza and visit the Altit and Baltit fort.
Stay overnight at Hunza Embassy hotel.
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Day 3: Hunza to Shimshal
Drive for 3 hours to Shimshal.
Stop over at Kuk to enjoy the view of the glacier.
Arrive at Shimshal and have dinner.
Enjoy a traditional cultural performance.
Stay overnight at a local house.
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Day 4: Shimshal Valley
Visit local houses and a Museum Cultural house.
Watch or indulge in a polo match, gully danda and even ice skating.
Indulge in a special yak meat dinner and enjoy a cultural show for a musical night.
Stay overnight at a local house.
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Day 5:Full Day at Shimshal
Visit animal shelters with local shepherds.
Grab the opportunity to ski on snowy slopes.
Enjoy a musical program.
Stay overnight at a local house.
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Day 6: Shimshal to Hunza
Take a jeep drive to Hunza.
Stopover in Hunza for lunch.
Drive to Gilgit for an overnight stay at the Hunza Embassy hotel.
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Day 7: Hunza to Islamabad
Drive to Islamabad.
Stopover in Besham for lunch.
Arrive in Islamabad in the evening.
What's Included
What's Excluded
What To Bring
Meeting Point
Cancellation Policy
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For cancellations upto 2 days before the tour -
Refund of 80% of the tour price.