The Shangri-La
Breathtaking Mountain Vistas, Vibrant Culture, and Serene Atmosphere
Overview
Embark on this spectacular voyage at Islamabad, the political and administrative city of Pakistan. Guarded by Karakoram giants, Hunza Valley nestles itself in the lap of snow-capped mountains which makes it a tourist delight. The enchanting Hunza’s beauty reaches its peak in the apricot and cherry blossom in spring, the valley turns green in summer and leaves change their colours to red, yellow and orange in the autumn season.
The magical Karimabad (Baltit), the formal capital of Hunza Valley has a charm of its own, encircled by breathtakingly beautiful snow-capped peaks, lush green fields, fruit orchards, and the singing Hunza River, the feeling of being here is unmatchable. Views from a fairytale like Baltit Fort, the old residence of the Mirs of Hunza standing atop Karimabad are incredibly beautiful. A walk along the Barbar irrigation channel with striking views of Rakaposhi, Diran Peak and Golden Peak add more essence to your journey.
The beautiful Gulmit valley surrounded by high mountains and glaciers, and the Passu village known for Passu Glacier, Batura Glacier and Passu Cones are worth visiting. The smiling, welcoming and friendly inhabitants of Hunza truly make your stay at home. The trip can be combine with a visit to Lahore the cultural capital of Pakistan.
Vista Tour Facts
Tour Name: The Shangri-La
Tour Code: ATP-SNG-02
Tour Duration: 7 days/6 nights
Route: Islamabad-Gilgit-Karimabad Hunza-Atta Abad–Gulmit-Passu-Borith Lake-Gilgit-Islamabad.
Best time: Late March to Mid November
Tour Grade: Easy
Visa Category: Tourist Visit Visa
Gallery
Itinerary
Arrival at the Islamabad International Airport, transfer to hotel. City tour of Islamabad.
Key Attractions:
Shah Faisal Mosque – the largest mosque in Pakistan
Lok Virsa (Folk Heritage) Museum
Pakistan National Monument
Daman-e-Koh (Islamabad View Point)
Golra Sharif Rail Museum or Pakistan Railways Heritage Museum
External view of Parliament House, President House, Prime Minister House & the Supreme Court of Pakistan.
Islamabad-Gilgit: 1 hour’ flight
Gilgit–Karimabad Hunza: 104 kms/2 hours’ drive
A morning flight to Gilgit. Upon arrival drive to Karimabad Hunza. After lunch half day sightseeing.
Key Attractions:
Rakaposhi View Point Ghulmet
Baltit Fort
Karimabad Bazaar
Walk Along Barbar Water Channel
Full day for exploring central Hunza & Nagar valleys.
Key Attractions:
Hoper Nagar Valley
Stop at Ultar & Lady Finger View Point
Optional Walk to Barpu Glacier
Altit Fort
Altit Cluster/Altit Village
Sunset from the Eagle’s Nest View Point in Duiker
Karimabad-Atta Abad Lake: 30km/40 minutes’ drive
Drive to Atta Abad Lake. Visit Gulmit, Hussaini Bridge, & Passu.
Key Attractions:
Ganish Cluster- the oldest settlement in Hunza
Dong Rock Inscriptions
Atta Abad Lake
Gulmit Village
Hussaini Bridge
Passu Cones/Passu Cathedrals
Atta Abad Lake-Gilgit: 135 km/2.30 hours’ drive
In the morning hike to Passu Glacier View Point. After lunch, drive to Gilgit. Visit Kargah Buddha in the afternoon.
Key Attractions:
Borith Lake
Passu Glacier View Point
Suspension Bridge
Kargah Buddha Gilgit.
Flight to Islamabad (1 hr.) or drive to Islamabad (12-14 hours).
If flight operates, visit Taxila & Raja Bazaar Rawalpindi.
Key Attractions:
Taxila Museum-showcasing antiques and artifacts of Gandhara civilization
Julian Buddhist Stupa & Monastery
Dharmarajika complex and stupa
Truck Painting in Taxila
Raja Bazaar Rawalpindi.
Transfer to the Islamabad International Airport for home bound flight.