Start your journey in Islamabad, the capital city of Pakistan. In the morning, visit the Faisal Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world, and admire its stunning architecture. Afterward, explore the beautiful Shakarparian Park and enjoy panoramic views of the city. In the afternoon, head to Daman-e-Koh, a viewpoint in the Margalla Hills, for breathtaking vistas of Islamabad. As the evening sets in, take a stroll along the Centaurus Mall, a popular shopping destination.
Faisal Mosque: Free, 1-2 hours
Shakarparian Park: Free, 1-2 hours
Daman-e-Koh: Free, 2-3 hours
Centaurus Mall: Cost varies, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Breakfast: Café Melange is a cozy cafe located in the heart of Islamabad, offering a delicious breakfast menu with a variety of options. Average cost for a meal is about 300 PKR per person.
Lunch: The Monal Restaurant is a popular dining spot located at Daman-e-Koh, offering both Pakistani and international cuisines. Enjoy your lunch with stunning views of Islamabad. Average cost for a meal is about 1500 PKR per person.
Dinner: Texas Steak House is a renowned restaurant in Islamabad, known for its mouthwatering steaks and vibrant ambiance. Average cost for a meal is about 2500 PKR per person.
Wednesday, August 16: Hunza
Leave Islamabad early in the morning and embark on a scenic drive to Hunza. Along the way, make a stop at the famous Karakoram Highway, one of the highest paved international roads in the world. Arrive in Hunza in the afternoon and visit the stunning Baltit Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the evening, take a leisurely walk in the charming Hunza Valley and enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
Karakoram Highway: Free, 8-10 hours
Baltit Fort: Cost varies, 1-2 hours
Hunza Valley: Free, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at Cafe de Hunza, located in the heart of Hunza. This cozy cafe offers a variety of freshly baked goods and traditional breakfast options. The average cost for a meal is about 300 PKR per person.
Satisfy your appetite for lunch at Hunza Darbar, a local restaurant renowned for its authentic Hunza cuisine. Indulge in a range of flavorful dishes, including Hunza pulao and local specialties. The average cost for a meal is about 500 PKR per person.
For a memorable dinner experience, head to Eagle's Nest Restaurant. Perched high above the valley, this restaurant offers panoramic views of the majestic mountains and serves delectable local and international dishes. The average cost for a meal is about 800 PKR per person.
Thursday, August 17: Sakardu
Continue your journey to Sakardu, a picturesque town nestled in the Karakoram mountain range. In the morning, visit the beautiful Shangrila Lake, known for its crystal-clear waters and serene surroundings. Afterward, explore the historic Kharpocho Fort and learn about its rich history. In the evening, take a boat ride on the Indus River and enjoy the tranquility of the region.
Shangrila Lake: Cost varies, 2-3 hours
Kharpocho Fort: Cost varies, 1-2 hours
Indus River Boat Ride: Cost varies, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
The Sunrise Cafe is a cozy breakfast spot known for its delicious omelettes and freshly baked pastries. Average cost for a meal is about $8 per person.
The Lakeside Bistro offers a wide variety of lunch options, from traditional Pakistani dishes to international cuisines. Average cost for a meal is about $12 per person.
For dinner, The Mountain View Restaurant is a top choice, offering stunning panoramic views of the Karakoram mountains while dining on mouthwatering grilled meats and local delicacies. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Friday, August 18: Gilgit
Leave Sakardu and head towards Gilgit, another scenic destination in Northern Pakistan. In the morning, visit the historic Gilgit Fort and marvel at its architectural beauty. Afterward, explore the colorful bazaars of Gilgit and indulge in some local shopping. In the afternoon, take a drive to Naltar Valley, famous for its enchanting lakes and picturesque landscapes. Enjoy the serene beauty of the valley before returning to Gilgit in the evening.
Gilgit Fort: Free, 1-2 hours
Gilgit Bazaars: Cost varies, 2-3 hours
Naltar Valley: Cost varies, 3-4 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Hunza Cafe, known for its delicious local cuisines. Average cost for a meal is about 300 PKR per person.
For a tasty lunch, head to Oasis Restaurant where you can savor mouthwatering Pakistani and Chinese dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 500 PKR per person.
In the evening, dine at Riveria Restaurant and enjoy their scenic outdoor seating area while relishing their delicious continental meals. Average cost for a meal is about 700 PKR per person.
Saturday, August 19: Gilgit
Spend an additional day in Gilgit to explore more of its beauty and surrounding areas. In the morning, visit the mesmerizing Fairy Meadows and enjoy a hike amidst lush green meadows and stunning views of Nanga Parbat, the ninth highest mountain in the world. In the afternoon, take a jeep safari to the picturesque Hunza Valley and witness the magnificent Attabad Lake. Return to Gilgit in the evening and relax by the riverside.
Fairy Meadows: Cost varies, 4-6 hours
Hunza Valley and Attabad Lake: Cost varies, 6-8 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, try out Cafe de Hunza, a cozy little cafe with a charming atmosphere. They serve a variety of breakfast items including fluffy omelettes, freshly baked pastries, and aromatic coffee. The average cost for a meal is about 300 PKR per person.
If you're looking for a delicious lunch spot, head over to Marco Polo Restaurant. They offer a diverse menu featuring local and international cuisines. Don't miss out on their signature Hunza trout dish. The average cost for a meal is about 600 PKR per person.
For dinner, check out Silk Route Restaurant. Known for its elegant ambiance and exquisite Chinese and Pakistani dishes, this restaurant is sure to leave you satisfied. Be sure to try their delectable chicken karahi. The average cost for a meal is about 800 PKR per person.
Sunday, August 20: Gilgit
Continue exploring Gilgit and its surroundings. In the morning, take a trip to Khunjerab Pass, the highest paved international border crossing in the world. Marvel at the scenic beauty and panoramic views of the Karakoram mountain range. In the afternoon, visit the ancient rock carvings of Ganish Village and learn about the region's rich cultural heritage. Spend the evening by the Gilgit River, enjoying the tranquility of the surroundings.
Khunjerab Pass: Cost varies, 8-10 hours
Ganish Village: Free, 1-2 hours
Gilgit River: Free, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Gilgit is Cafe de Hunza, known for its delicious omelettes and fresh bread. The average cost for a meal is about 300 PKR per person.
For lunch, try the local cuisine at Balti Express, which offers a variety of traditional dishes cooked with authentic spices. The average cost for a meal is about 500 PKR per person.
In the evening, enjoy a fine dining experience at River View Restaurant, offering a stunning view of the Gilgit River. Indulge in their flavorsome grilled trout and other continental dishes. The average cost for a meal is about 800 PKR per person.
Monday, August 21: Departure
End your trip and depart from Gilgit, taking back memories of the stunning landscapes and warm hospitality of Northern Pakistan.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Northern Pakistan, don't miss the opportunity to visit the picturesque village of Passu in Hunza Valley. Known for its stunning landscapes and friendly locals, Passu offers breathtaking views of the Passu Cones and the Batura Glacier. Another hidden gem is the Nagar Valley, located near Gilgit, where you can witness the beauty of Rush Lake, one of the highest alpine lakes in the world. These off the beaten path attractions will leave you in awe of the natural wonders of Northern Pakistan.