Astore Valley and Skardu are two of the most captivating destinations in Northern Pakistan, each with their unique charm and appeal. The seven-day tour through these regions is an opportunity to experience the natural beauty and cultural richness of this part of the country.
Astore Valley, situated in the Gilgit-Baltistan region, is known for its pristine rivers, lush green meadows, and majestic peaks. The journey to Astore Valley is an adventure in itself, with the scenic drive passing through picturesque villages, dense forests, and awe-inspiring landscapes. Once in Astore Valley, visitors can explore the breathtaking Rama Meadows, the pristine waters of Sheosar Lake, and the towering Deosai Plateau.
Skardu, on the other hand, is a bustling town nestled in the heart of the Karakoram mountain range. Known as the gateway to the world’s second-highest peak, K2, Skardu is a popular destination for adventure enthusiasts and trekkers. Visitors can also explore the ancient forts and palaces, experience the local culture and traditions, and enjoy the stunning views of the Indus River and the surrounding mountains.
Overall, the Astore Valley and Skardu tour is a perfect opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse oneself in the natural beauty and cultural richness of Northern Pakistan.
Embark on a thrilling adventure as you depart from Islamabad in the early morning and embark on a scenic journey through the beautiful valleys and mountains of Northern Pakistan. The route will take you through the charming towns of Mansehra, Shinkiari, and Battagram on the Karakoram Highway (KKH), offering stunning views of the majestic Himalayas and Karakoram ranges.
As you cross the mighty Indus River and pass through the awe-inspiring Besham, Dasu, and Diamer-Bhasha dam sites, you will witness some of the most breathtaking landscapes of the region. The drive is filled with natural wonders and fascinating glimpses of local life, making it a truly unforgettable experience.
As the day comes to a close, you will arrive at the peaceful town of Chilas where you will spend the night. Chilas is a perfect spot to relax and unwind after a long day of travel, with its serene surroundings and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Get a good night’s rest and prepare for the next day’s adventures in the beautiful Astore Valley and Skardu.
On day two of your journey through Astore Valley and Skardu, you’ll embark on an epic adventure that takes you deep into the heart of the stunning Northern Pakistan. Start your day with a delicious breakfast before heading out on a scenic four-hour drive from Chilas to Astore Valley.
As you drive along the picturesque Astore River, you’ll have the opportunity to soak up the stunning landscapes, dotted with charming villages that are home to some of the warmest people you’ll ever meet. Stop at Astore Bazaar, a vibrant market, and get a glimpse of the local culture and traditions.
Next, prepare for an exciting jeep ride to Rama, where you’ll ascend towards your hotel or guest house. Enjoy a ride on a non-metalled road that winds its way through the beautiful terrain, offering magnificent views of the surrounding mountains.
Once you’ve reached Rama, take a leisurely drive towards Rama Lake, with the option to walk in some areas for photography opportunities. Marvel at the awe-inspiring views of Nanga Parbat, one of the highest peaks in the world.
As the day draws to a close, retire to your hotel or guest house in either Rama or Astore, depending on availability. Get a good night’s rest, and prepare yourself for the next day’s adventures in the captivating Skardu.
Day three of your journey through Astore Valley and Skardu offers an enchanting experience that will leave you with lasting memories. Begin your day with a refreshing morning walk in the nearby forest or vegetation area near the Polo ground, immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the surroundings.
Next, set out on an early drive towards Deosai Plateau, an otherworldly landscape that promises to take your breath away. If you’re up for a thrilling adventure, you can opt for an early departure to cross the Bara Pani, an exciting and challenging river crossing that’s sure to get your adrenaline pumping.
Upon arrival at the Deosai National Park, enjoy a delightful picnic lunch amidst the picturesque surroundings. Take the opportunity to spot some of the wildlife that calls this national park home, including the Himalayan brown bear.
Continue your journey towards Sheosar Lake, a breathtakingly beautiful natural wonder that’s sure to captivate you with its crystal-clear waters and stunning views. You’ll also stop at Sadpara Lake or Dam, which is a popular spot for photography enthusiasts, thanks to its serene and tranquil ambiance.
On day four of your Astore Valley and Skardu adventure, you’ll embark on an exciting journey to explore some of the most enchanting sites in the region. Begin your day with a drive to the renowned Shangrila Resort, an idyllic location nestled amidst the lush greenery of the Northern Pakistan.
Continue your journey by visiting the Upper Kachura lake, a serene and peaceful natural wonder that’s sure to captivate you with its stunning beauty. As you drive through the Cold Desert, you’ll be surrounded by a stark and contrasting landscape that’s a sight to behold.
Next, you’ll visit the iconic Shigar Fort Residence, which is a perfect blend of traditional architecture and modern-day luxury. Enjoy a delicious lunch at this historic location, while taking in the fascinating history and culture of the region.
After lunch, you can opt for a hike to the Kharpocho fort, a beautiful and historic fort perched atop a hill. The hike takes around 40 minutes and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
On day five of your Astore Valley and Skardu tour, you’ll explore the enchanting Ghanche district, which is known for its stunning natural beauty and cultural landmarks.
Begin your day by visiting the charming Sailing village located below the Khaplu valley. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to visit the Haji Mushtaq fish farm and learn about the local fishing industry.
Next, drive to Khaplu and visit the iconic Chaqchan Mosque, a historic mosque that is over 700 years old. You’ll also get the chance to explore the Khaplu Fort Residence, a beautiful and historic location that is managed by the Aga Khan Cultural Services Pakistan.
Afterward, you’ll drive to the picturesque Kharmang district and visit the Manthoka waterfalls, which is a natural wonder that is sure to leave you spellbound. You’ll enjoy a packed lunch amidst the tranquil surroundings and the soothing sound of cascading water.
On day six of your Astore Valley and Skardu tour, you’ll begin your journey back towards Islamabad. Depending on the weather and road conditions, you’ll either drive through Babusar Pass, a scenic route that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, or take the Karakoram Highway (KKH), which is known for its spectacular scenery and winding roads.
As you travel through this picturesque region, you’ll have the chance to stop and admire the natural beauty of the area. You may even want to take some time to capture the stunning landscapes with your camera or simply enjoy the fresh mountain air.
As the day comes to an end, you’ll reach Naran/Kaghan or Besham, where you’ll spend the night at a comfortable hotel. You can take this opportunity to reflect on the amazing experiences and memories you’ve made during your Astore Valley and Skardu tour before continuing your journey back to Islamabad the following day.
On the final day of your Astore Valley and Skardu tour, you’ll bid farewell to the stunning landscapes and friendly locals that have made your trip so memorable. After breakfast, you’ll begin your journey back to Islamabad, with a mix of emotions ranging from nostalgia to excitement.
As you travel back to the bustling city, take some time to reflect on the memories you’ve made, the new friends you’ve met, and the unique experiences you’ve had in the last few days.
Upon arrival in Islamabad, your tour guide will drop you off at your hotel or preferred location, and you can spend the rest of the day exploring the city or simply relaxing.
As your tour comes to an end, take a moment to dream about your next adventure, whether it’s exploring another part of Pakistan or traveling to a completely different part of the world. The possibilities are endless, and the memories you’ve made on this journey will stay with you forever.
Given below is the holiday information for Hunza Valley Tour for honeymooners and solo travelers.
❖ Road Condition:
➔ The road journey between Gilgit and Besham is quite lengthy and the road condition is not optimal.
➔ In the event that Babusar Top is open and the route through Naran-Kaghan valley is taken, the road condition is improved.
❖ Hot Water Timings in The North:
➔ There are three hours set aside in the evening (6:00 pm-9:00 pm) and three hours in the morning (7:00 am-10:00 am) for your convenience.
➔ In the North, many hotels do not have heaters, but you can request double blankets if needed. Some hotels may also provide heating mattresses.
❖ Immunization / Personal Medication:
➔ There are no mandatory vaccinations for entry into Pakistan. However, if you are taking medication for conditions like diabetes or heart problems, it is recommended that you carry the necessary medicines in your carry-on luggage to ensure that you have them with you in case your main luggage is delayed.
❖ Temperature:
➔ During the spring and autumn seasons, the average daytime temperature in Northern Pakistan is around 15-20 Celsius, while the average nighttime temperature is around 10-15 Celsius. In the summer, the average daytime temperature in Northern Pakistan is around 20-30 Celsius, while the average nighttime temperature is around 15-25 Celsius. In Islamabad, the average daytime temperature during spring and autumn can be 25-30 Celsius, while the nighttime temperature is around 15-25 Celsius.
❖ Money:
➔ Islamabad accepts credit cards such as Visa and Master Card, but it’s advisable to carry cash in Pakistani Rupee while traveling outside the capital. The official currency in Pakistan is Pakistani Rupees (PKR), and carrying a small amount of cash can come in handy while buying snacks, fruits, drinks, or souvenirs on the way. If you need to convert foreign currency, you can do so in Pakistan. However, it’s important to note that any US dollars issued earlier than 1996-2009 will be considered 15% less than their actual value. Also, torn, dirty, or stamped notes can decrease their value by at least 10%. Therefore, it’s recommended to bring US dollars issued after 2009 to avoid any inconvenience.
❖ Tipping Etiquette:
➔ When it comes to tipping, it is customary to give 4-5 USD per day to your local guide and driver in Pakistan. However, you are free to give more based on the quality of their service. Keep in mind that this amount may seem small to you, but it is highly valued by the locals. As for tipping hotel and restaurant staff, it is recommended to give at least 100 PKR directly to them if they have provided you with any additional services that have made your stay more enjoyable. Other tipping is at your discretion.
❖ Meals & Special Food Requirements:
➔ Throughout the tour, you’ll have the opportunity to savor the diverse and delicious food that the region has to offer. We provide breakfast and dinner during the tour, and the food menu is mostly similar to Indian cuisine. We offer a rotation of chicken, beef, mutton, vegetables, rice, and soups every day. We also provide local and Western breakfast options, along with tea. However, if you have a preference for certain foods or get tired of the same menu every day, we recommend bringing your comfort food such as sambal, canned food, or instant noodles.
❖ Voltage:
➔ In the region, the standard voltage is 230 V and the frequency is 50 Hz. Type C (2 round pin) and type D (3 round pin) plugs are commonly used for electronic devices. It is recommended to bring appropriate adapters for your devices if they are not compatible with these plug types.
❖ Laundry service:
➔ You can find laundry facilities in many hotels and towns during the trip. However, it’s recommended to plan ahead and choose a two-night stop to ensure you have enough time to get your laundry done and returned to you in time.
❖ Altitude:
➔ The guided tour will take you to the highest altitude of approximately 4793 meters at the Khunjerab Pass – the border between Pakistan and China. The visit to this place will be limited to a maximum of one hour for photography. The average elevation in Northern Pakistan during the tour will be between 1000-2000 meters. The highest altitude during a Trekking Tour, on the other hand, will depend on the itinerary decided for the tour.
❖ Packing:
➔ We suggest bringing a small or medium-sized suitcase with wheels. For weight restrictions, if you are flying with Thai Airways for your international flight, you are allowed one checked bag of up to 25 kg and a carry-on bag weighing up to 7 kg. For domestic flights with PIA Pakistan Airlines, you are allowed one checked bag weighing up to 20 kg and a carry-on bag weighing up to 7 kg.
❖ Clothing:
➔ It’s important to wear comfortable and sturdy walking shoes with good support, particularly if you’re planning to explore the Northern regions of Pakistan. If you’re traveling during the spring, it’s advisable to bring along a windproof jacket, sweater, jeans, rain jacket, scarf, cotton socks, and comfortable walking shoes. It’s also recommended to pack some T-shirts with both long and short sleeves to protect yourself from the strong UV rays, as well as lightweight cotton trousers.
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