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  • Travel License ID # 2071
Travel License ID #

2071

Hunza and Skardu Tour

Complete travel guide for Hunza and Skardu northern Pakistan

A Hunza and Skardu tour is one of the most remarkable journeys through northern Pakistan, combining dramatic mountain landscapes, rich cultural heritage, turquoise lakes, ancient forts, and the unmatched hospitality of the people of Gilgit-Baltistan. The tour typically begins in Islamabad, where travelers set out by road on the legendary Karakoram Highway, considered one of the most scenic mountain roads in the world. As the journey progresses, the landscape transforms from lush lower valleys to rugged gorges and towering cliffs, eventually opening into the wide and fertile Hunza Valley.

Karimabad, the cultural center of Hunza, welcomes visitors with breathtaking views of Rakaposhi, Ultar Sar, and Golden Peak. Travelers often spend their first days exploring historic landmarks such as Baltit Fort and Altit Fort, both centuries-old structures that reflect the architectural and cultural evolution of the region. Strolling through the traditional settlements of Hunza offers a glimpse into the unique lifestyle of the locals, known for their longevity, organic food traditions, and deep-rooted sense of community.

Beyond the landscapes, the Hunza and Skardu tour stands out for its cultural richness, peaceful environment, and the genuine warmth of local people. Traditional wooden homes, orchards blooming with apricots, cherries, and apples, and the aroma of home-cooked organic meals make the experience both comforting and memorable. Whether arriving by road or by flight into Skardu, the journey offers constant beauty, relaxation, and inspiration

  • Adventure holiday in Hunza and Skardu with Deosai Plains

After exploring Hunza, the tour transitions into Skardu, a valley that offers a completely different yet equally enchanting atmosphere. The road from Hunza to Skardu is known for its stunning natural beauty, with winding paths that follow rivers and cliffs, creating an unforgettable travel experience. Skardu itself is home to some of the most famous lakes in Pakistan, including the serene Shangrila Lake, often photographed for its vibrant red-roofed resort and natural surroundings, and Upper Kachura Lake, a crystal-clear water body accessible through a short nature walk. Satpara Lake and the historic Skardu Fort add depth to the region’s cultural and historical appeal, inviting visitors to learn more about local traditions and legends

Attabad Lake and Upper Kachura Lake sightseeing trip

One of the major highlights of the Skardu section of the tour is a full-day excursion to Deosai National Park, known as the “Land of Giants.” This high-altitude plateau is one of the world’s largest and most pristine natural meadows. In summer, Deosai transforms into an ocean of wildflowers, with rolling green fields stretching as far as the eye can see, while golden marmots play and graze in the sunlight. The vastness and silence of Deosai leave a lasting impression on travelers, and Sheosar Lake, perched within the park, offers stunning reflections of snow-capped peaks on clear days.

 

  • Must-See Places in Hunza

  • Karimabad town

  • Baltit Fort

  • Altit Fort & Royal Gardens

  • Attabad Lake

  • Passu Cones

  • Hussaini Suspension Bridge

  • Gulmit village

  • Eagle’s Nest viewpoint

  • Gojal Valley

  • Khunjerab Pass (optional)

  • Must-See Places in skardu

  • Shangrila (Lower Kachura) Lake

  • Upper Kachura Lake

  • Skardu Fort

  • Satpara Lake

  • Deosai National Park

  • Shigar Fort

  • Cold Desert (Katpana)

  • Manthokha Waterfall (optional)

  • hunza and skardu tour essentials

  • Original ID/passport

  • Warm clothing (even in summer)

  • Comfortable shoes

  • Camera / power bank

  • Sunglasses, sunscreen

  • Water bottle

  • Personal medication

  • Light snacks for long drives

  • Cash (ATMs limited in remote areas)

  • Travel-friendly backpack

  • Altitude-friendly hydration

  • hunza and skardu Tour Highlights

  • Experience the legendary Karakoram Highway

  • Explore ancient historical forts of Hunza valley

  • Visit the dramatic turquoise waters of Attabad Lake

  • Discover the photogenic Passu Cones mountain spires

  • Walk on the thrilling Hussaini Suspension Bridge

  • Explore Skardu’s famous lakes and the alpine Deosai Plateau

  • Enjoy local culture, traditional food, and scenic sunsets

  • Experience Pakistan’s most iconic mountain valleys in one trip

  • Option 1: 10-Day Hunza & Skardu Tour Itinerary

Option A – Islamabad → Hunza → Skardu → Islamabad (By Road)

DayDestinationActivities / Highlights
Day 1Islamabad → Naran/Besham/ChilasStart early from Islamabad, drive via Karakoram Highway, enjoy river and mountain views, overnight in Naran (summer) or Besham/Chilas.
Day 2Chilas → Gilgit → HunzaVisit Nanga Parbat viewpoint, junction of three mountain ranges, reach Karimabad Hunza, sunset views.
Day 3Hunza (Karimabad)Explore Baltit Fort, Altit Fort, Royal Gardens, old settlements, cultural experience.
Day 4Upper Hunza (Attabad – Passu – Gulmit)Visit Attabad Lake, Gulmit village, Passu Cones, Batura Glacier viewpoint, Hussaini Suspension Bridge.
Day 5Hunza (Optional Khunjerab Pass)Full-day optional trip to Khunjerab Pass or enjoy a free day exploring Hunza markets, cafés, and Eagle’s Nest viewpoint.
Day 6Hunza → SkarduDrive to Skardu through one of the most scenic mountain routes; evening arrival.
Day 7SkarduVisit Shangrila Lake, Upper Kachura Lake, Skardu Fort, and local bazaar.
Day 8Skardu – Deosai National ParkFull-day trip to Deosai Plains, Sheosar Lake, wildlife and meadows.
Day 9Skardu → Chilas/BeshamBegin return journey toward Islamabad; overnight in Chilas or Besham.
Day 10Chilas/Besham → IslamabadFinal drive to Islamabad; end of tour.
  • Option 2: 10-Day Hunza & Skardu Tour Itinerary

Option B: Islamabad → Skardu (Flight) → Hunza → Islamabad (By Road)

DayDestinationActivities / Highlights
Day 1Islamabad → Skardu (Flight)Flight to Skardu, visit Shangrila Lake, relax and explore the surroundings.
Day 2SkarduExplore Upper Kachura Lake, Satpara Lake, and Skardu Fort.
Day 3Skardu – Deosai PlainsFull-day excursion to Deosai National Park, Sheosar Lake, alpine meadows.
Day 4Skardu → Shigar → GilgitVisit Shigar Fort, then drive toward Gilgit for overnight stay.
Day 5Gilgit → HunzaDrive to Hunza, explore Karimabad and its scenic viewpoints.
Day 6Hunza (Karimabad)Visit Baltit Fort, Altit Fort, Royal Gardens, local culture and markets.
Day 7Upper HunzaVisit Attabad Lake, Passu Cones, Gulmit, Hussaini Bridge.
Day 8HunzaFree day for photography, Eagle’s Nest, cafés, or short hikes.
Day 9Hunza → Besham/ChilasStart return road journey toward Islamabad; overnight midway.
Day 10Besham/Chilas → IslamabadDrive back to Islamabad; end of tour.
  • FAQs – hunza and skardu tour

Q1: What is the best time for a Hunza & Skardu Tour?

A: May to October is ideal. July–September is peak season.

Q2: Is the road safe for travel?

A: Yes during tourist season, but weather and landslides can cause delays. Experienced drivers recommended.

Q3: Can families travel easily?

A: Absolutely. Hunza and Skardu are family-friendly.

Q4: Do I need a permit?

A: No special permits for Hunza or Skardu (border zones have routine ID checks).

Q5: Is altitude sickness common?

A: Rare but possible in some travelers. Hydration and slow acclimatization help.

Q6: Are hotels easily available?

A: Yes — from budget guesthouses to upscale resorts.

Q7: Is the flight to Skardu reliable?

A: Weather-dependent but generally smooth in summer.

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