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Discover Hunza Valley – A Cultural & Scenic Journey Through Gilgit Baltistan

0
  • 16 Days / 15 nights
  • Max People : 15-20
  • Arrival : Islamabad
  • Min Age : 12+
  • Departure : Islamabad

Positive Impact of This Trip

Sustainability &
Climate Action

Empowering Women

Women’s Empowerment
& Girls Education

Community Engagement

Community Engagement &
Development

Cultural Heritage

Cultural Heritage
Protection

We believe travel can do more than open your eyes to new landscapes and cultures. It can create meaningful change, support communities, and leave a positive imprint on the world. Every journey we craft carries a deeper purpose — one that connects travelers with the people, places, and causes that truly matter. Learn More

🌍

Selected journeys are guided by women or contribute profits to girls’ education and organizations helping women rebuild their lives.

✈

Departures are guaranteed to operate with a minimum of 2 guests.

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Prices are in US dollars, per person, based on double occupancy.

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Single Supplement Optional.

Overview

Welcome to a transformative journey through Hunza Valley and Gilgit-Baltistan, where soaring mountains, historic villages, and vibrant culture await. Over 16 days, you’ll explore centuries-old forts, meet welcoming local families, and witness breathtaking landscapes shaped by glaciers and rivers. Wander through stone-walled villages, hike along terraced fields, and experience the traditional Wakhi and Burusho lifestyles. This trip is curated to support women-led initiatives, sustainable tourism, and community engagement, ensuring your visit has a meaningful impact. Alongside immersive cultural encounters, enjoy fresh local cuisine, artisanal crafts, and quiet moments in nature’s grandeur. Every step offers a blend of adventure, discovery, and connection with Hunza’s rich history. Whether marveling at Baltit and Altit Forts, cruising on Attabad Lake, or walking the water channels of Karimabad, this journey provides both inspiration and insight into life in Pakistan’s northern mountains. By traveling with Venus Trails, you experience an ethical, responsible adventure that empowers local communities while revealing Hunza’s timeless charm.

Trip Highlights

  • Valleys of Giants: Journey through the breathtaking valleys of Hunza and Gilgit-Baltistan, surrounded by some of the world’s highest peaks.
  • Historic Forts: Visit Baltit and Altit Forts, where centuries of history meet stunning panoramic views over Karimabad.
  • Ancient Heritage: Explore Ganish, the oldest settlement in Hunza, known for its historic mosques and beautifully preserved stone houses.
  • Local Connections:Share meals with Hunza families and savor traditional dishes made from homegrown ingredients.
  • Cultural Immersion:Discover Gulmit’s living traditions from carpet weaving to Wakhi heritage and warm village hospitality.
  • Peaceful Trails: Hike along Hunza’s ancient water channels, shaded by apricot orchards and walnut trees.
  • Nature’s Marvel:Relax by the turquoise waters of Attabad Lake, a serene masterpiece created by nature’s power.
  • Women’s Empowerment:Support women-led cooperatives and local artisans, adding purpose and impact to your journey.
  • Timeless Villages:Wander through the quiet lanes of Passu and Chipursan Valley, where tradition and nature blend seamlessly.
  • Spirit of Hunza: Experience the region’s resilience, warmth and a deep harmony with the mountains.

Why You Will Love This Trip

  • Experience Hunza and Gilgit-Baltistan not just as destinations, but as places of genuine human connection.
  • Share traditional Hunza meals in family homes and feel the warmth of local hospitality.
  • Wander through centuries-old villages where stories, traditions, and mountain life come alive.
  • Explore the historic forts of Altit and Baltit, offering glimpses into Hunza’s rich past of trade and heritage.
  • Walk through orchards, cross glacial streams, and follow stone-lined paths that reflect a deep harmony between people and nature.
  • Travel with Venus Trails, knowing your journey supports women-led cooperatives and community education.
  • Watch women artisans in Gulmit weave carpets and preserve traditional crafts passed down through generations.
  • Dine in community homes and witness how tourism can empower and sustain local livelihoods.
  • Feel the calm and serenity of Hunza’s landscapes — a peaceful rhythm that lingers long after you leave.
  • Discover a sense of belonging through meaningful encounters, culture, and purpose-driven travel.

Price Includes

  • Accommodation in handpicked 5-star boutique hotels, heritage palaces, or luxury lodges
  • Domestic flights (where mentioned in the itinerary)
  • Daily gourmet breakfast, lunches and selected fine dining experiences as mentioned in the itinerary
  • Private air-conditioned vehicle with professional driver for all transfers and excursions
  • Services of expert local guides, historians, and cultural specialists
  • Exclusive or private access at select sites (where available)
  • Entrance fees to all listed monuments, museums, and attractions
  • Airport meet-and-greet and VIP transfers on arrival and departure
  • All government taxes, service charges, and porterage
  • Daily bottled water and refreshing towels during sightseeing
  • 24/7 VENUS on-ground assistance and concierge support

Price Excludes

  • International flights (unless specified)
  • Visa fees, travel insurance, and vaccinations
  • Meals and beverages not mentioned in the itinerary
  • Personal expenses such as laundry, phone calls, and spa treatments
  • Photography or filming permits at certain sites
  • Tips and gratuities for guides, drivers, and hotel staff
  • Optional activities or experiences not listed in the program
  • Early check-in or late check-out (unless pre-arranged)
  • Additional costs from flight delays, cancellations, or unforeseen events

Itinerary

Day 1 Islamabad: Arrival and Gentle Introduction

Welcome to Islamabad, the capital of Pakistan, known for its modern elegance and natural beauty. After a comfortable transfer to your hotel, enjoy a relaxed introduction over a warm cup of tea. In the afternoon, explore nearby highlights, including the Faisal Mosque, Lok Virsa and the Margalla Hills. Venus Trails will host your welcome dinner at a women-led local restaurant, your first taste of authentic Pakistani hospitality while supporting female entrepreneurship. Later, attend a full briefing covering safety, cultural etiquette, and the environmental practices we follow on every trip.

Travel Distance: 30 km (from airport to the hotel)

Travel Time: 40 minutes

Main Attraction: Faisal Mosque, Margalla Hills, Lok Versa

Accommodation: Hotel in Islamabad

Meals: Dinner

Day 2 Islamabad to Naran

Depart Islamabad after breakfast and drive through the scenic Margalla hills and Hazara plains into the Kaghan Valley. Stop at viewpoints along the way and visit the Katas Raj Temples, a historic Hindu site, before reaching Naran. Enjoy a relaxed evening in a mountain lodge, surrounded by the lush green valley and rivers.
Travel Distance: 300 km
Travel Time: Approx. 7–8 hours
Main Attraction: Katas Raj Temples & Kaghan Valley
Accommodation: Lodge in Naran
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3 Naran to Gilgit: Along the Karakoram Highway

Travel north along the Karakoram Highway into Gilgit, passing rivers, waterfalls, and alpine meadows. Stop for lunch at local eateries, meet communities along the road, and enjoy the first views of towering Karakoram peaks. Evening arrival in Gilgit allows a short exploration of the town’s bazaar and dinner at a local restaurant.

Travel Distance: 220 km
Travel Time: Approx. 6–7 hours
Main Attraction: Karakoram Highway & mountain scenery
Accommodation: Hotel in Gilgit
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4 Gilgit to Passu: Cones & Glaciers

Drive along the Hunza River to Passu, stopping to admire glaciers and the dramatic Passu Cones. Visit small villages en route to experience local culture and daily life. Evening in Passu is a relaxed introduction to high-altitude village life, with stunning views of surrounding peaks at sunset.

Travel Distance: 140 km

Travel Time: Approx. 4–5 hours

Main Attraction: Passu Cones & local village walk

Accommodation: Guesthouse in Passu

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5 Passu to Shimshal: Into the Remote Valley

Journey into Shimshal, an isolated high-altitude village, home to resilient communities. Learn about the traditional Wakhi lifestyle, herding practices, and seasonal crops. Enjoy the quiet beauty of the valley and interact with local families, seeing firsthand the balance of life with nature.

Travel Distance: 60 km
Travel Time: Approx. 2–3 hours
Main Attraction: Shimshal Village Life
Accommodation: Guesthouse in Shimshal
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6 Shimshal: Day Hike & Local Cuisine

Take a moderate day hike around Shimshal’s trails, enjoying glacial views and alpine meadows. Stop for lunch with a local family, sampling homemade traditional dishes. Return in the evening for tea and storytelling with community members, highlighting women’s roles in daily life and culture preservation.

Travel Distance: Minimal local travel
Travel Time: 4–5 hours hiking
Main Attraction: Alpine trails & cultural immersion
Accommodation: Guesthouse in Shimshal
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7 Shimshal to Sost: Silk Route Traditions

Descend from Shimshal to Sost, the last major town before the Chinese border. En route, enjoy stunning views of glaciers and mountain passes. In Sost, explore the local market, meet traders, and learn about cross-border commerce along this historic Silk Route region.

Travel Distance: 100 km
Travel Time: Approx. 3–4 hours
Main Attraction: Silk Route Trade & Sost Bazaar
Accommodation: Guesthouse in Sost
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8 Sost to Chipursan: Life in a Remote Valley

Venture into the remote Chipursan Valley, meeting shepherds and experiencing traditional high-altitude village life. Walk through villages surrounded by towering peaks, learning about sustainable farming and community life. Interactions with families provide insight into how locals adapt to this harsh but beautiful environment.

Travel Distance: 80 km
Travel Time: Approx. 3 hours
Main Attraction: Chipursan Valley & Village Life
Accommodation: Guesthouse in Chipursan
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9 Chipursan: Baba Gunda Shrine & Village Exploration

Walk to the Baba Gunda Shrine in the morning, paying homage at this sacred local site. Spend the afternoon exploring nearby villages, observing traditional homes, and enjoying the quiet rhythm of high-altitude life. Interactions with families highlight local crafts and customs.

Travel Distance: Minimal local travel
Travel Time: 3–4 hours walking
Main Attraction: Baba Gunda Shrine & village walks
 Accommodation: Guesthouse in Chipursan
 Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 10 Chipursan to Gulmit: Wakhi Traditions

We leave Chipursan and descend into Gulmit, a historic Hunza village known for its Wakhi heritage. Visit a traditional Wakhi home, meet women artisans weaving carpets, and enjoy a local lunch. Afternoon strolls through the village reveal terraced orchards and the community’s daily life, framed by dramatic peaks in the distance.

Travel Distance: 110 km
Travel Time: 4–5 hours
Main Attraction: Wakhi traditions, carpet weaving, Gulmit village
Accommodation: Guesthouse in Gulmit
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 11 Gulmit to Karimabad: Forts & Lake Views

Travel along the Karakoram Highway to Karimabad, stopping at Attabad Lake for photos of the turquoise waters. Explore Baltit Fort, learning about Hunza’s royal history. Take a gentle hike along the water channels and share a home-cooked lunch with a local family. Evening free for strolls in Karimabad’s lanes.

Travel Distance: 50 km
Travel Time: 2–3 hours
Main Attraction: Attabad Lake, Baltit Fort, village hike
Accommodation: Guesthouse in Karimabad
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 12 Karimabad: Altit Fort, Ganish & Minapin

Visit Altit Fort, an ancient fortress showcasing Hunza’s history. Explore Ganish, the oldest village in Hunza with stone houses and mosques. Afternoon drive to Minapin, experiencing the scenic roads and terraced landscapes. Evening at leisure in Minapin guesthouse.

Travel Distance: 40 km
Travel Time: 2–3 hours
Main Attraction: Altit Fort, Ganish Village
Accommodation: Guesthouse in Minapin
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 13 Minapin: Hapakun Hike & Return to Gilgit

Morning hike to Hapakun for panoramic views. Afternoon drive to Gilgit, passing mountain scenery, rivers, and orchards. Evening arrival allows a rest and optional exploration of the town’s local markets.

Travel Distance: 130 km
Travel Time: 4–5 hours
Main Attraction: Hapakun hike & scenic drive
Accommodation: Hotel in Gilgit
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 14 Gilgit to Islamabad: Mountain or Air Journey

Fly to Islamabad (weather permitting) or begin a scenic drive through the Kaghan Valley. Stop at viewpoints and enjoy meals en route. Evening arrival in Islamabad with hotel check-in and rest.

Travel Distance: Flight: 1 hour, Drive: 600 km
Travel Time: Flight: 1 hour, Drive: 12–13 hours
Main Attraction: Scenic return to Islamabad
Accommodation: Hotel in Islamabad
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 15 Taxila or Scenic Drive: Ancient Ruins or Mountain Roads

If flying from Gilgit yesterday, explore Taxila, visiting Sirkap, Dharmarajika Stupa, and the Taxila Museum showcasing Gandharan art. If driving, continue to Islamabad through beautiful mountain and plains scenery. Farewell dinner in the evening.

Travel Distance: Flight: 35 km to Taxila, Drive: 280 km
Travel Time: Flight: Full-day excursion, Drive: 7–8 hours
Main Attraction: Taxila ruins & museum or scenic drive
Accommodation: Hotel in Islamabad
Meals: Breakfast

Day 16 Departure from Pakistan

After breakfast, transfer to Islamabad International Airport for your homebound flight, leaving with memories of mountains, rivers, villages, and the people of Hunza. Carry home not only photos but also experiences of responsible travel and cultural immersion.

Have a safe journey!!

Packing List

  • Clothing: Comfortable layers for varying mountain weather (light shirts, warm fleece, down jacket, and a waterproof outer layer).
  • Footwear: Sturdy walking shoes or light hiking boots for village walks and day hikes, plus a pair of sandals or casual shoes for evenings.
  • Accessories: Sun hat, sunglasses, scarf or shawl (useful for cultural sites and chilly evenings).
  • Travel Essentials: Reusable water bottle (preferably with a filter), sunscreen, insect repellent, and a small daypack.
  • Electronics: Camera or smartphone with extra memory cards, power bank, and universal adapter (220V).
  • Toiletries & Health: Personal medications, basic first-aid kit, hand sanitizer, wet wipes, and eco-friendly toiletries.
  • Cultural Sensitivity: Modest clothing (long trousers, loose shirts, light scarf) for visits to villages and cultural sites.
  • Optional Comforts: Travel journal, binoculars for spotting wildlife, or a book for peaceful evenings in the mountains.
Got a Question?
“Have a different budget in mind? Let’s connect & create the right travel experience for you.”
  • +92 3420767096
  • info@venustrails.com

Map

Trip FAQs

What is the difficulty level of this trip?

This trip is moderate. Most hiking is gentle to moderate, with short day hikes and easy village walks. Some trails have uneven surfaces, so sturdy shoes are recommended.

What is the best way to reach Hunza?

Travelers can fly from Islamabad to Gilgit (weather permitting) or drive along the scenic Karakoram Highway. Both options offer unique experiences and spectacular views.

Are meals included?

Yes, all meals are included, focusing on local cuisine and fresh, seasonal ingredients. Opportunities to dine with local families provide immersive cultural experiences.

How should I prepare for high-altitude areas?

Stay hydrated, take your time while hiking, and dress in layers. Your Venus Trails guide monitors the group for altitude wellness throughout the trip.

Is this trip suitable for solo travelers or women travelers?

Absolutely. Venus Trails emphasizes safety, community engagement, and women-led initiatives, making it welcoming for solo and female travelers.

What type of accommodation is provided?

Guests stay in excellent hotels, boutique stays, and family-run guesthouses, offering comfort while reflecting local architecture and culture.

Will I have access to Wi-Fi and phone networks?

Wi-Fi and mobile coverage are limited in remote valleys like Chipursan, Shimshal, and Passu. This is an opportunity to disconnect and fully enjoy the mountains.

Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?

Yes. Please inform Venus Trails in advance so we can arrange meals that meet dietary needs while showcasing local flavors.

Booking Process

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