DESCRIPTION OF NORTHERN PAKISTAN HOLIDAY

This Northern Pakistan holiday takes you on a small group adventure to one of Asia’s most fascinating regions, home to jaw dropping landscapes and diverse ethnic groups whose traditions have remained unchanged for centuries.

The tour kicks off with a tour of the lively, modern capital Islamabad before heading northwest to Chitral, a wild, remote and beautiful region next to the Afghanistan border, home to the unique Kalash people, who are sometimes described as pagans thanks to their cultural beliefs. On this trip you’ll be able to see their ancient ways in action at the vibrant annual Uchal Festival.

Next, you’ll head overland through the Hindu Kush to Gilgit, a truly memorable journey during which you’ll cross the famous Shandur pass with a backdrop of stunning snowcapped mountain peaks. Then you’ll make your way to the region of Hunza, home to friendly people and landscapes so beautiful they’re said to have inspired the legend of Shangri La.

Here you’ll visit ancient forts, view massive glaciers and get to know a land that will shatter any preconceptions you have about Pakistan. Highlights include a ferry journey across Lake Attabad to visit Hunza’s former summer capital of Hunza; an exploration of Baltistan, whose landscapes are reminiscent of Tibet; and a journey across the rugged Deosai Plateau, where wolves, bears and other wildlife roam.

Taking the Karakoram Highway back south, you’ll visit the legendary Buddhist site of Taxila before finishing in Islamabad for your flight home.