Pakistan: Karakoram Highway, Local Eats & Village Life

Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.

Tour the incredible city of Lahore, visiting notable, historic places like the Tomb of Allama Iqbal and Badshahi Mosque. Explore the walled city of Lahore, through narrow stone streets and colorful bazaars.

Visit the popular Food Street in the historic Haveli Khalil Khan, on the Fort Road Food Street. Dig into a delicious meal while overlooking the Badshahi Mosque.

Every evening, thousands of people gather to watch the famous parade and the ceremonial lowering of their national flags by the Indian and Pakistani armies at sunset. Witness this event in the stands and cheer on as the two countries showcase their national pride. This vibrant ceremony symbolizes the long-standing rivalry between the two nations, making it a significant cultural and historical landmark

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Hike the 4 km easy hike through Ayubia National Park. Enjoy views of lush alpine green mountainsides and giant rock slabs. A perfect introduction to Pakistan's natural side.

Hike to Mirajani Peak, standing at approx 3,000 meters. It is highest peak in the Galyat Region. The moderate 5km (650m Ascent) hike offers stunning views of lush forests and valleys, ideal for novice and experienced hikers.

Enjoy a free afternoon in beautiful Nathia Gali.

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Take an adventurous local jeep ride to Lake Saif-ul-Muluk on a scenic, off-road path. The lake, nestled in Pakistan's Kaghan Valley, is a stunning alpine gem surrounded by snow-capped peaks. Its crystal-clear waters mirror the towering Malika Parbat, creating a serene, fairy-tale-like setting. In fact, the lake itself is named after a fairy tale called Saiful Maluk, about a legendary Egyptian prince who fell in love at the lakeside.

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

A local host family will warmly welcome you to Hunza in traditional style, inviting you to participate in various village activities. You'll gain valuable insights into life in lower Hunza. A delicious traditional lunch, served in the traditional way, awaits your arrival

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Drive through the breathtaking Khunjerab National Park, home to many rare and endangered species. Snow capped mountains glisten above the protected long-horned Marco Polo sheep and Siberian Ibex grazing on the rocky mountain slopes. This park is also known to have the highest density of snow leopards in the world, so keep your eyes peeled as you drive.

Experience local village life of Khyber Village at Upper Hunza, renowned for its delicious fruits and organic farming. Pick and taste truly organically grown local fruits and veggies, like fresh cherries in June, or sweet apricots in July and August. A true farm to mouth experience.

Borith Lake is renowned for its migratory birds and serves as a sanctuary for various wildfowl, attracting birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. Spend some free time exploring this beautiful place.

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Visit the Korgah Carpet Center, which aims to empower women in Hunza through traditional carpet weaving. Located in a 400-year-old Wakhi house, the center features engraved wooden pillars, a bukhari stove for heating and cooking and floors covered in yak hair sharmas. Engage with the women entrepreneurs working there, who will share their inspiring stories. Experience the process of making traditional woolen caps, where everyone can try on caps and adjust them to fit their heads perfectly and keep the cap you create as a memorable keepsake.

Enjoy lunch at Old House, a charming local restaurant run by a woman who serves delicious regional cuisine. All the staff are local women supporting their families. The food is fantastic, and you'll love the authentic atmosphere in this welcoming setting

Hike to the renowned Passu Glacier, which begins after a 10-minute drive from Borith Lake. The initial five minutes of the hike are steep, followed by a relatively flat section leading to the glacier. To experience walking on the glacier, we’ll descend onto the moraine and walk on the pristine ice. Take your time to relax and appreciate the natural beauty surrounding you.

Enjoy a guided tour of Gulmit Old House, renowned for its intricately carved doors and windows. Over six centuries old, it showcases the heritage of the Gojal Valley, where most residents speak Wakhi and belong to the Shia Ismaili sect. The house features ancient artifacts, including bronze utensils and traditional clothing, displayed in a museum on the ground floor. The double-story structure is built from stone, mud, and wood, reflecting the region's rich cultural history. The renovation of the house was funded by the woman-owned Old House Cafe, and the Old House was in fact the owners family home before serving as an important piece of Pakistani cultural heritage.

Explore the town of Karimabad during a full day of discovery.

Hike to the Baltit fort from Karimabad Bazaar, a 20-minute walk through charming old settlements and handicraft shops. The fort offers stunning views of the valley and Khun (settlement). If you're interested, you can opt for a guided tour of the fort by purchasing tickets on-site.

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Visit Khanabad Village and receive a traditional welcome by the host family upon arrival. Join our village guide on a walk through the village, sharing insights about their home. Visit the water flour mill, water distribution channel, and the Youth Garden, a tree plantation project with over 50,000 trees planted by local youth. You'll interact with locals, hear stories from the host family, and enjoy a traditional lunch, offering an authentic glimpse into the village's culture and hospitality.

Visit the ancient Ganish settlement on a guided tour that takes you back in time. Derived from the Burushaski word "Genish," meaning gold, Ganish boasts four 300–400-year-old mosques, recognized with a UNESCO Heritage Award in 2002, showcasing its architectural and cultural significance. Serving as one of the original overnight stops on the Silk Road, the settlement is steeped in history and has an incredible story to tell.

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Visit the unique Kaiwai Abshar Waterfall for lunch. Here, you can relax by taking off your shoes and sitting on a local charpai while dipping your feet in the refreshing cold water. Enjoy the vibrant

Enjoy a free evening in Islamabad.

Eat your way through Melody Food street. A popular, bustling culinary hotspot known for its diverse street food offerings.Enjoy a variety of authentic Pakistani delicacies, including spicy kebabs, flavorful biryanis, and savory rolls.

Visit the renowned Truck Art workshops and engage with the local artists. Watch the artists at work, creating vibrant and intricate designs. Meet the shopkeepers as they craft beautiful truck art stickers and explore their souvenir shops. Then sit down for a cup of tea served in a traditional truck art-themed setting.

Visit Saidpur village, a charming village nestled in the Margalla Hills of Islamabad, rich in Mughal heritage and cultural diversity. The village has witnessed various civilizations, including Gandhara, the Maurya Empire, and the Mughal Empire. It features an animal market, shops selling pottery and handicrafts, and historical sites, including a gurdwara, mosque, and Mandir, showcasing interfaith harmony.

Enjoy a visit to Faisal Mosque, Pakistan's national mosque, one of the largest in the country and in the world. Listen and experience the spiritual ambiance during prayer time.

Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.