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6-Day Hunza Valley Tour from Islamabad: January 27 to February 1, 2026

Day 1 · Tue, Jan 27
Islamabad

Arrival in Islamabad and Sightseeing

8:30 AM:

Arrive at Islamabad International Airport and meet your private guide for a transfer to the Islamabad Serena Hotel to check in and freshen up.

10:00 AM:

Begin your tour at the Faisal Mosque, an architectural masterpiece and the largest mosque in Pakistan, set against the backdrop of the Margalla Hills.

11:30 AM:

Visit the Pakistan Monument, a striking petal-shaped structure that symbolizes national unity, and explore the adjacent Heritage Museum for a glimpse into local history.

7:00 PM:

Head up to the Margalla Hills for a spectacular dinner at Monal Restaurant, where you can enjoy traditional Pakistani cuisine while overlooking the glittering lights of the entire city.

8:30 PM:

Visit the charming Saidpur Village, a historic site nestled in the hills, to explore its unique blend of ancient architecture and vibrant nighttime cafe culture.

9:30 PM:

Return to the Islamabad Serena Hotel for a final briefing with your guide regarding the logistics of your journey to Gilgit Airport the following morning.

10:30 PM:

Unwind with a late-night artisan coffee or specialty tea at the Rakaposhi Café, located within the gardens of the Islamabad Serena Hotel, to discuss the upcoming journey to the mountains.

11:30 PM:

Retire to your suite at the Islamabad Serena Hotel for a restorative night's sleep in preparation for your early departure to Gilgit Airport tomorrow morning.

Day 2 · Wed, Jan 28
Karimabad

Flight to Gilgit and Journey to Hunza

6:00 AM:

Check out from the Islamabad Serena Hotel and take a private transfer to Islamabad International Airport for your flight to the heart of the mountains.

7:30 AM:

Board your Pakistan International Airlines flight; try to secure a window seat to witness the dramatic aerial views of Nanga Parbat and the Karakoram Range.

8:45 AM:

Land at Gilgit Airport where your local 4x4 transport awaits to begin the scenic drive north along the iconic Karakoram Highway.

10:00 AM:

Pause at the Collision Point of Continental Plates near Chalt, a unique geological site where the Indian Plate and the Eurasian Plate first impacted.

11:30 AM:

Reach the Rakaposhi Viewpoint in Ghulmet to enjoy a cup of local tea while standing in the shadow of the magnificent Rakaposhi mountain, known for its sheer vertical rise.

12:30 PM:

Enjoy a traditional lunch at the Rakaposhi Viewpoint Restaurant, sampling local specialties and walnut cake while gazing at the massive glaciers of Mount Rakaposhi.

2:00 PM:

Continue the drive toward North Hunza, stopping briefly at the Ancient Silk Route Viewpoint to see where the historic trade path once clung to the cliffs above the Hunza River.

3:30 PM:

Arrive in Karimabad and check into your rooms at the Hunza Serena Inn, a property renowned for its stunning terraced gardens and views of Ultar Sar.

4:30 PM:

Take a guided walk through the Karimabad Bazaar, browsing shops for local gemstones, handmade woolen shawls, and dried fruits at the famous Hunza Food Pavilion.

5:30 PM:

Ascend by vehicle to Duikar Village, the highest settlement in the valley, to reach the Eagle's Nest viewpoint for a spectacular sunset over Golden Peak and Rakaposhi.

7:00 PM:

After the sunset colors fade, enjoy a hearty dinner at the Eagle's Nest Hotel Restaurant, featuring local delicacies like Chapshuro (Hunza-style meat pie) and Mamtu (steamed dumplings).

8:30 PM:

Descend back to the Hunza Serena Inn for a relaxing evening by the fireplace, where you can watch a local cultural performance featuring traditional instruments like the Rubab and Sitar.

9:30 PM:

Sip on a cup of authentic Tumuro Tea (wild mountain thyme tea) at the hotel's courtyard, taking in the spectacular nighttime views of the moonlit Karakoram Mountains.

10:30 PM:

Retire to your heated mountain-view rooms at the Hunza Serena Inn to rest your body for tomorrow's exploration of the ancient Altit and Baltit forts.

Day 3 · Thu, Jan 29
Karimabad

Exploring Karimabad Altit and Baltit Forts

8:00 AM:

Begin your morning with a buffet breakfast at the Osho Maraka Restaurant within the Hunza Serena Inn, featuring local apricot juice and freshly baked Khamir bread while admiring the north face of Mount Rakaposhi.

9:00 AM:

Embark on a guided walk through the narrow, uphill cobblestone streets of Karimabad to reach the historic Baltit Fort, a 700-year-old architectural masterpiece inspired by Tibetan design.

10:00 AM:

Explore the multi-story wooden structures and museum of Baltit Fort, where your guide will share stories of the Mirs of Hunza and point out the stunning panoramic views of Ladyfinger Peak from the rooftop.

11:30 AM:

Follow the Barbar Irrigation Channel, a serene walking trail that winds through the terraced orchards of Karimabad, providing a peaceful look at the traditional mountain water management system.

12:30 PM:

Indulge in a traditional lunch at the Hidden Garden, an organic kitchen where you can enjoy local sourdough bread and apricot-based dishes in a tranquil orchard setting.

2:00 PM:

Descend to the base of the valley to visit the historic Altit Fort, the oldest standing structure in Gilgit-Baltistan, which served as the original seat of the Mirs of Hunza.

3:30 PM:

Relax in the Altit Royal Garden, wandering among ancient apricot trees while observing the sheer drop-off to the Hunza River and the winding Karakoram Highway below.

4:30 PM:

Visit the CIQAM Women's Social Enterprise near the fort entrance to observe local women mastering woodcarving and construction, a pioneering initiative for gender equality in Hunza Valley.

5:30 PM:

Stop by the Cafe de Hunza for their legendary walnut cake and fresh French-press coffee while browsing a specialized collection of books on Central Asian history and mountaineering.

6:30 PM:

Head to the Ganish Village, the oldest settlement in the valley, to witness the evening glow illuminate the ancient watchtowers and the UNESCO-awarded Shikari Mosque.

7:30 PM:

Savour an authentic Hunzakuz dinner at Kha Basi Local Food located within the grounds of Altit Fort, where you can sample traditional Diram Fitti and Giyaling.

9:00 PM:

Explore the night market at Karimabad, searching for unique silver jewelry and locally made woolen Patti shawls at the Karakoram Handicraft shop.

10:30 PM:

Conclude the evening with a relaxing stargazing session on the terrace of the Hunza Serena Inn, taking in the peaceful silhouettes of Ultar Sar and Ladyfinger Peak.

Day 4 · Fri, Jan 30
Passu

Excursion to Attabad Lake and Passu Cones

7:30 AM:

Enjoy a final gourmet breakfast at the Hunza Serena Inn, fueling up with local honey and organic fruits before departing for the stunning landscapes of Upper Hunza.

8:30 AM:

Begin your journey north on the Karakoram Highway, heading toward the turquoise waters of the valley's most famous lake while passing through the vibrant village of Ayeenabad.

9:15 AM:

Arrive at Attabad Lake and board a private motorboat to glide across the vibrant blue waters, marveling at the sunken mountain peaks and the massive landslide dam that created this natural wonder.

10:30 AM:

Continue the drive through the massive Pak-China Friendship Tunnels, an engineering marvel that stretches through the mountainside to reconnect the highway.

11:15 AM:

Stop in the historic village of Gulmit to visit the Bulbulik Music School, where local youth preserve the sounds of the Pamiri culture through traditional instruments.

12:00 PM:

Reach the primary Passu Cones Viewpoint to witness the iconic, serrated peaks of the Cathedral Ridges, pausing to capture photographs of one of the most dramatic mountain skylines in the world.

1:00 PM:

Enjoy a scenic lunch at the Glacier Breeze Restaurant, where you can savor local apricot soup and their famous apricot cake while overlooking the expanse of the Passu Glacier.

2:30 PM:

Experience an adrenaline rush by walking across the Hussaini Suspension Bridge, a historic rope and plank structure that stretches across the rushing Hunza River.

4:00 PM:

Drive to the tranquil Borith Lake, a high-altitude saline lake that serves as a sanctuary for migrating birds, and take a short walk to the edge of the White Glacier.

5:30 PM:

Arrive at the Passu Ambassador Hotel for check-in and relax on the outdoor terrace to watch the sunset colors paint the towering Serrated Peaks of the Passu Cones.

7:00 PM:

Head to the renowned Yak Grill in Passu to savor their famous yak burgers or steaks, a unique high-altitude delicacy specific to the Karakoram mountains.

8:30 PM:

Gather around a cozy outdoor bonfire at the Passu Ambassador Hotel, where you can engage in stargazing and admire the moonlit silhouettes of the Passu Cones.

9:30 PM:

Relax in the hotel lounge with a steaming pot of Saffron Tea, sharing travel stories and reviewing photos of the day's adventure across the Hussaini Suspension Bridge.

10:30 PM:

Retire to your suite at the Passu Ambassador Hotel for a peaceful night's rest, surrounded by the quiet majesty of the Upper Hunza wilderness.

Day 5 · Sat, Jan 31
Gilgit

Return to Gilgit via Rakaposhi Viewpoint

7:30 AM:

Enjoy a final morning gaze at the Passu Cones while having a hearty breakfast at the Passu Ambassador Hotel, featuring local apricot jam and fresh honey.

8:30 AM:

Check out and begin the southward journey on the Karakoram Highway, capturing the crisp morning light as it illuminates the jagged ridges of the Passu Glacier.

9:30 AM:

Visit the Gulmit Old House, a century-old traditional Pamiri home, to learn about the ancient architectural styles and the cultural heritage of the local Wakhi people.

11:00 AM:

Arrive at the Rakaposhi Viewpoint in Ghulmet to witness the mountain's peak in the brilliant morning sun and browse the local gemstone stalls for unique souvenirs.

11:45 AM:

Pause at the Mount Rakaposhi Tea Stall for a quick refreshment of traditional salty tea while taking in the massive icefall views before continuing the descent toward Gilgit.

12:30 PM:

Enjoy a traditional lunch at the Marco Polo Inn near Minapin, where you can savor local yak meat dishes while enjoying the final close-up views of the Rakaposhi-Haramosh Range.

2:00 PM:

Continue the drive toward Gilgit, making a brief stop at the Danyore Suspension Bridge to witness the engineering transition from ancient rope bridges to modern steel structures.

3:00 PM:

Check into the Serena Hotel Gilgit and take a brief stroll through its manicured gardens, which offer a peaceful sanctuary at the confluence of the Gilgit River and Hunza River.

4:00 PM:

Visit the Kargah Buddha, a stunning 7th-century rock-carved Buddha located in the Kargah Nala, which serves as a significant historical site from the region's ancient Buddhist era.

5:30 PM:

Explore the vibrant Gilgit Bazaar and the NLI Market, the commercial hub of the region, to shop for high-quality Pakistani pashminas, dry fruits, and local silver jewelry.

7:00 PM:

Return to the Serena Hotel Gilgit to relax in the scenic Jutial gardens, where the evening air carries the scent of pine and the distant sound of the Gilgit River.

8:00 PM:

Dine at the hotel's celebrated Dumani Restaurant, which offers a blend of international cuisine and local specialties like grilled trout and Hunza-style dumplings under a canopy of stars.

9:30 PM:

Take a leisurely evening walk around the Serena Hotel Gilgit property to observe the traditional architectural influences of the Karakoram region while the mountain peaks glow in the moonlight.

10:30 PM:

Settle into the Garden Lounge for a final nightcap of local herbal tea, conducting a brief trip review with your group to prepare for the morning flight from Gilgit Airport.

11:30 PM:

Retire to your premium suite at the Serena Hotel Gilgit for a restful night's sleep, ensuring you are refreshed for your return journey to Islamabad tomorrow.

Day 6 · Sun, Feb 1
Islamabad

Flight to Islamabad and Departure

7:00 AM:

Enjoy your final mountain-side breakfast at the Dumani Restaurant within the Serena Hotel Gilgit, savoring local organic honey and fresh apricots while overlooking the Gilgit River.

8:30 AM:

Check out of the hotel and take a private transfer to Gilgit Airport, making sure to have your cameras ready for the final views of the surrounding Karakoram peaks.

10:00 AM:

Board your Pakistan International Airlines flight back to the capital; secure a window seat on the right side for a breathtaking aerial perspective of Nanga Parbat and the deep gorges of the Indus River.

11:15 AM:

Arrive at Islamabad International Airport and collect your luggage before being greeted by your driver for a transfer back into the heart of the city.

11:45 AM:

Stop for a quick refreshment and light snack at Burning Brownie in the Beverly Centre, one of the most popular contemporary cafes in Islamabad known for its exceptional artisan hot chocolate and desserts.

1:00 PM:

Indulge in an authentic Afghan lunch at the famous Kabul Restaurant in F-7 Markaz, renowned for its signature Kabuli Pulao and succulent Lamb Chops.

2:30 PM:

Visit The Centaurus Mall, one of the city's most iconic architectural landmarks, to browse through the Khaadi flagship store for high-quality Pakistani textiles and last-minute souvenirs.

4:00 PM:

Return to the lush greenery of the Margalla Hills for a final panoramic view of the capital from Daman-e-Koh, where you can see the city's grid-like design and the distant Faisal Mosque.

5:30 PM:

Enjoy a sophisticated afternoon high tea at the English Tea House in Kohsar Market, savoring artisan pastries and gourmet coffee in one of Islamabad's most upscale outdoor settings.

7:00 PM:

Commence your final evening with a celebratory farewell dinner at Tuscany Courtyard in Kohsar Market, enjoying an elegant atmosphere and a diverse menu of Italian and Mediterranean specialties.

8:30 PM:

Take a short walk to Saeed Book Bank in F-7 Markaz, one of the most famous bookstores in South Asia, to purchase high-quality photography books or literature on the Karakoram Range and the Silk Road.

10:00 PM:

Proceed to a final private transfer to Islamabad International Airport for your late-night departure flight, bidding farewell to the majestic mountains and heritage of Pakistan.

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