16-Day Islamabad–Hunza–Gojal–Shimshal–Gilgit–Lahore Cultural Exchange Tour Pakistan

Culture and History tour in Islamabad, Gilgit, Hunza, Skardu

Tour Price : $2450-4600 Duration : 16 days Languages: English

16-Day Islamabad–Hunza–Gojal–Shimshal–Gilgit–Lahore Cultural Exchange Tour

 

Days. 01 Arrival in Pakistan – Islamabad

 Upon arrival at Islamabad International Airport, you will be greeted by our representative and transferred to your hotel. After some time to rest, you will have the opportunity to take a relaxing evening walk around the Jinnah Super Market, where you can experience the vibrant atmosphere of the capital. A welcome dinner will be arranged at Kabul Restaurant, offering an authentic Afghan cuisine experience.

 

Days. 02 Islamabad & Rawalpindi Visit

After breakfast at the hotel, the day will start with a visit to Faisal Mosque, Pakistan’s largest and most iconic mosque. From there, you will proceed to the Pakistan Monument, a symbol of national unity, followed by a tour of the Lok Virsa Museum, which showcases the diverse cultural heritage of Pakistan. Lunch will be arranged at a traditional restaurant. Later, you will visit Saidpur Village, a historic settlement nestled in the Margalla Hills, before heading to Golra Railway Station, one of the oldest train stations in Pakistan with a charming colonial-era museum. The day will conclude with a visit to the bustling Raja Bazaar in Rawalpindi, offering a glimpse into the city's vibrant street life.

 

Days  03 Islamabad to Naran/Chilas

 After breakfast, the journey towards the northern regions will begin. You will travel along the scenic Hazara Motorway, passing through Abbottabad and Mansehra. Along the way, you will stop at Mansehra Viewpoint, where you can admire panoramic views of the surrounding valleys. Continuing the drive, you will pass through lush green mountains and picturesque villages before arriving in Naran or Chilas, depending on road conditions and weather. After checking into your hotel, you will have the evening at leisure to explore the town or relax at the hotel.

 

Days  04 Naran/Chilas to Hunza Valley via Lulusar Lake and Babusar Pass

After an early breakfast, the journey towards Hunza Valley will continue. If traveling via Naran, you will visit Lulusar Lake, a serene alpine lake with breathtaking reflections of the surrounding mountains. From there, you will ascend to Babusar Pass, which, if open, offers spectacular views of the Karakoram Range. If traveling via Chilas, you will visit the famous Junction Point of the Three Mountain Ranges, where the Himalayas, Karakoram, and Hindu Kush meet. The journey will continue through dramatic mountain landscapes until you reach the Rakaposhi Viewpoint, where you can enjoy lunch with a view of the towering Rakaposhi Peak. Upon arrival in Hunza, you will check into your hotel and have free time to relax or explore the charming town of Karimabad.

 

Days  05 Hunza Valley Excursion

After breakfast, the day will be spent exploring the cultural and historical treasures of Hunza. The first stop will be Baltit Fort, a 700-year-old fortress that offers insight into the region’s royal history and provides stunning views of the valley. Next, you will visit Altit Fort and Altit Village, known for its beautifully preserved architecture and traditional way of life. After lunch, the tour will continue to Ganish, the oldest settlement in Hunza, featuring ancient watchtowers, a mosque, and historic Buddhist inscriptions. The day will conclude with a visit to Duikar (Eagle’s Nest), a panoramic viewpoint where you can witness a stunning sunset over the Hunza Valley.

 

Days  06 Gojal Valley Exploration

After breakfast, you will travel towards Gojal Valley, starting with a visit to the Bulbulik Music & Women Carpet Center in Gulmit, where you can learn about traditional Wakhi music and carpet weaving. Continuing the journey, you will visit the famous Attabad Lake, a stunning turquoise lake formed after a massive landslide in 2010. You will have the option to take a boat ride on the lake. After lunch in Gulmit or Passu, you will visit the Hussaini Suspension Bridge, one of the most adventurous rope bridges in the world. The evening will be free for relaxation in Passu, with spectacular views of the Passu Cones.

 

Days  07 Passu to Shimshal Valley

After breakfast, the adventure will continue with a thrilling off-road jeep ride to Shimshal Valley, one of the most remote and beautiful settlements in Pakistan. Upon arrival, you will be warmly welcomed by the local community. After settling into a local guesthouse, you will have the opportunity to explore the village and interact with the residents. In the evening, a cultural session will be arranged, where you can learn about Shimshal’s unique traditions and way of life.

 

Days 08 Cultural Immersion in Shimshal

After breakfast, you will spend the day experiencing the daily life of the Wakhi people. You will have the chance to participate in activities such as traditional bread-making, farming, or weaving. Local elders will share stories about the valley’s history and traditions, providing a deep cultural connection. A traditional lunch will be arranged, after which you will have time to explore the valley further.

 

 Days  09 School Visit & Cultural Program in Shimshal

After breakfast, you will visit Shimshal School, where you can interact with students and teachers. A cultural program will be arranged, featuring traditional Wakhi music and dance performances. Later, you will visit the Shimshal Museum and the Women’s Handicraft Center, where you can see locally made crafts and learn about the region’s artistic heritage. In the evening, a farewell dinner with community leaders will be arranged before returning to the guesthouse.

 

Days  10 Shimshal to Gilgit

After breakfast, you will depart from Shimshal and begin the return journey towards Gilgit. Along the way, you will enjoy scenic views of the Karakoram mountains. Upon arrival in Gilgit, you will visit Kargah Buddha, an ancient rock carving dating back to the 7th century. The rest of the evening will be free to explore Gilgit’s local bazaars and markets.

 

Days  11 Gilgit to Naran/Besham

After breakfast, the journey towards Naran or Besham will begin. Along the way, you will make several scenic stops, including river viewpoints and lush valleys. Lunch will be arranged en route, and upon arrival in Naran or Besham, you will check into your hotel for an overnight stay.

 

Days  12 Besham/Naran to Islamabad via Taxila

After breakfast, the journey back to Islamabad will continue. A stop will be made at Taxila, an important archaeological site from the Gandhara civilization. You will visit the Taxila Museum and Jaulian Monastery, where you can learn about the rich Buddhist heritage of the region. Upon arrival in Islamabad, you will have free time for shopping or relaxation.

 

Days  13 Islamabad to Lahore via Salt Range

After breakfast, you will begin the journey to Lahore. Along the way, you will visit Khewra Salt Mine, the world’s second-largest salt mine, where you can explore underground salt formations and a beautifully lit salt mosque. The journey will continue through Kallar Kahar, a scenic region known for its salt lakes, before stopping at Rohtas Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with impressive Mughal-era architecture. Upon arrival in Lahore, you will check into your hotel and have free time to explore Anarkali Bazaar.

 

Days  14 Lahore Sightseeing

After breakfast, a full day of sightseeing will begin. You will visit the iconic Badshahi Mosque and Lahore Fort, both of which are masterpieces of Mughal architecture. The tour will continue to Shalimar Gardens, a beautiful example of Persian-style gardens. After lunch, you will visit the Wazir Khan Mosque, known for its intricate tilework. The day will conclude with a visit to Lahore Museum and the Tomb of Allama Iqbal, the poet-philosopher of Pakistan.

 

Days  15 Lahore & Wagah Border Ceremony

 After breakfast, you will visit Minar-e-Pakistan and Iqbal Park, important national landmarks. In the afternoon, you will travel to the Wagah Border to witness the flag-lowering ceremony, a spectacular display of military discipline and patriotism between Pakistan and India. A farewell dinner will be arranged in the evening.

 

Days  16 Departure from Pakistan

After breakfast, you will be transferred to Lahore Airport for your international departure, marking the end of an unforgettable journey.

 

Services & Cost Includes:

Accommodation:

• Twin-sharing basis in hotels throughout the tour.
• Comfortable and well-rated hotels with local charm.

Transportation:

• Air-conditioned Grand Cabin/Coaster for the entire journey, including fuel and toll taxes.
• 4x4 Jeeps for Shimshal Valley, ensuring safe and comfortable off-road travel.

Our Team:

 Professional, licensed tour guides throughout the tour, offering insights into history, culture, and local traditions.

 

Meals:

 Breakfast only included for all days, featuring a mix of local and international cuisine. Mineral water and soft drinks.

Visa Support:

 Invitation letter provided to facilitate the visa application process.

Production Team:

 A dedicated production team covering all activities in Pakistan, ensuring media and photography coverage for cultural events.

 

 

Additional information

Tour information:
Tour Price: $2450-4600
Duration: 16 days
Group Size: 2-50 tourists
Languages: English
Tour package includes:
Airport Transfer :	YES
Hotel pick-up:	YES
Drop-off :	YES
Tour Transportation (car, van, limo, boat, etc…):	YES
Food and Drinks :	YES
Other services (fees apply):
Attraction tickets (concerts, theater, museum, circus...) :	YES
Translation services :	YES
Reservations (hotels, restaurants, airline) :	YES
Visa support :	YES
Additional information:
This tour must be booked at least 7 days in advance of your travel date :	YES
Tour groups must include a minimum of 2 passengers :	YES
Tour prices are flexible and based on your requirements :	YES
This Tour is Kid Friendly :	YES