Sustainability &
Climate Action
Women’s Empowerment
& Girls Education
Community Engagement &
Development
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.
Prices are in US dollars, per person, based on double occupancy.
Single Supplement Optional.
Experience the best of Northern Pakistan on this 24-day journey through the Karakoram and Hindu Kush ranges. Hike to Nanga Parbat Base Camp, explore Passu Glacier, and visit ancient forts in Hunza. Discover the unique cultures of the Kalash and Wakhi communities, and engage with local women-led initiatives. From lush valleys to high mountain passes, this trip combines adventure, cultural immersion, and sustainable travel.
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.
Drive through the scenic Kunhar River Valley to Naran, stopping at viewpoints along the way. Take short walks in the valley and interact with local vendors. Evening at leisure in Naran.
Travel Distance: 240 km
Travel Time: Approx. 6–7 hours
Main Attraction: Naran Valley
Accommodation: Hotel in Naran
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Travel to Fairy Meadows with a short hike to reach this stunning alpine plateau. Enjoy the sunset over Nanga Parbat and the surrounding peaks. Relax at your campsite for the evening.
Travel Distance: 120 km
Travel Time: Approx. 5 hours
Main Attraction: Fairy Meadows
Accommodation: Camp at Fairy Meadows
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Full-day trek to Nanga Parbat Base Camp with spectacular glacier and mountain views. Moderate difficulty; return to Fairy Meadows for overnight stay. Opportunity for photography and light exploration around the campsite.
Travel Distance: 16-17 km (roundtrip)
Travel Time: 6–7 hours
Main Attraction: Nanga Parbat Base Camp
Accommodation: Camp at Fairy Meadows
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Drive to Rama Lake through alpine forests and charming villages. Take a short walk to enjoy the serene lake views. Picnic lunch by the lake and evening at your guesthouse.
Travel Distance: 120 km (Jeep trek & Drive)
Travel Time: Approx. 7-8 hours
Main Attraction: Rama Lake
Accommodation: Guesthouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Scenic ride to Deosai National Park, witnessing wildlife and open plains. Arrive in Skardu for check-in and evening rest. Enjoy the mountain scenery along the route.
Travel Distance: 200 km
Travel Time: Approx. 6 hours
Main Attraction: Deosai National Park
Accommodation: Hotel in Deosai
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Journey to Khaplu, passing riverside villages and scenic viewpoints. Explore Khaplu Fort and learn about its history as a regional hub.Spend the evening at leisure in town or meet local women to experience their traditional crafts and stories.
Travel Distance: 130 km
Travel Time: Approx. 4–5 hours
Main Attraction: Khaplu Fort
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Travel to Shigar, explore the historic Shigar Fort, and take in sweeping mountain views. Spend the afternoon discovering local craft workshops and village life, with the chance to meet women artisans preserving traditional skills.
Travel Distance: 40 km
Travel Time: Approx. 1–2 hours
Main Attraction: Shigar Fort
Accommodation: Hotel in Shigar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Optional half-day hike in the surrounding valleys for glacier and mountain views. Gentle trek suitable for most travelers. Return to hotel in Shigar for a relaxing afternoon.
Travel Distance: N/A
Travel Time: 3–4 hours
Main Attraction: Shigar Valley
Accommodation: Hotel in Shigar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Drive to Gilgit, the main hub of Northern Pakistan. Stop at riverside viewpoints and village markets along the way. Evening is free to explore local streets.
Travel Distance: 120 km
Travel Time: Approx. 3–4 hours
Main Attraction: Gilgit
Accommodation: Hotel in Gilgit
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Arrive in Karimabad for afternoon sightseeing. Explore Baltit Fort, discover Hunza’s rich culture, stroll through fruit orchards, and take in golden sunset views over the valley.
Travel Distance: 60 km
Travel Time: Approx. 2 hours
Main Attraction: Baltit Fort
Accommodation: Guesthouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Spend the day exploring Karimabad’s villages, with a home-hosted lunch with a local Hunzai family to learn about their traditions. In the afternoon, enjoy serene garden strolls or capture the valley’s beauty through your lens.
Travel Distance: Approx. 5–10 km (local exploration)
Travel Time: 3–4 hours of sightseeing, cultural activities
Main Attraction: Hunza Village
Accommodation: Guesthouse/Hotel in Karimabad
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Set out on a hike to the striking Passu Glacier, framed by the iconic Passu Cones. The moderate trail offers plenty of opportunities for photography and glacier exploration. Overnight stay in the serene Passu village.
Travel Distance: 120 km
Travel Time: 2–3 hours
Main Attraction: Passu Glacier
Accommodation: Guesthouse/Hotel in Passu
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Travel to Khunjerab Pass, the highest paved border crossing, surrounded by snow-capped mountain scenery. Return to Gulmit village to experience Wakhi traditions and the delicate art of carpet weaving, ending the day with a warm stay at a local guesthouse.
Travel Distance: 130 km
Travel Time: 4–5 hours
Main Attraction: Khunjerab Pass & Gulmit
Accommodation: Guesthouse in Gulmit
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Optional hike to Hapkun Viewpoint for mountain views. Later, explore Minapin’s village life. Share stories with locals, witness age-old traditions and experience the warmth of genuine mountain hospitality.
Travel Distance: 20 km
Travel Time: 1–2 hours
Main Attraction: Hapkun Viewpoint
Accommodation: Guesthouse in Minapin
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Known for its lush fields, warm-hearted people, and timeless mountain charm,Yasin Valley is a hidden gem of the Gilgit-Baltistan region. It offers a glimpse into authentic and simple village life. Enjoy meaningful interactions along the way, before a peaceful evening at leisure in this serene valley.
Travel Distance: 210 km
Travel Time: 6–7 hours
Main Attraction: Yasin Valley
Accommodation: Guesthouse in Yasin
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Travel through winding river valleys and charming villages en route to Mastuj. Explore the town’s rich culture and history, then enjoy a relaxed evening surrounded by the tranquility of the mountains.
Travel Distance: 130 km
Travel Time: 5–6 hours
Main Attraction: Mastuj Valley
Accommodation: Guesthouse in Mastuj
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Drive along Chitral River to the vibrant town of Chitral, known for its majestic Hindu Kush peaks, rich traditions, and warm hospitality. Spend the afternoon exploring lively markets and observing daily life, before a peaceful night at your guesthouse.
Travel Distance: 130 km
Travel Time: 4–5 hours
Main Attraction: Chitral Town
Accommodation: Guesthouse in Chitral
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Drive to Kalash Valleys, where scenic paths lead through villages and orchards. Spend time with local artisans to understand their traditions and end the day immersed in the unique culture of the Kalash with an overnight stay in a charming guesthouse.
Travel Distance: 80 km
Travel Time: 2–3 hours
Main Attraction: Kalash Villages
Accommodation: Guesthouse in Kalash
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Full day exploring Kalash villages, orchards, and cultural rituals. Experience the unique culture of the Kalash people, renowned for their vibrant festivals, colorful attire, and ancient traditions that set them apart as one of Pakistan’s most unique indigenous communities. Spend the evening in a welcoming Kalash guesthouse.
Travel Distance: Local
Travel Time: 3–4 hours
Main Attraction: Kalash Culture
Accommodation: Guesthouse in Kalash Valley
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Drive to Ayun Valley, winding past pine forests and terraced fields. Stop in villages along the way to connect with locals and experience their way of life. Settle in for a peaceful evening embraced by the valley’s natural beauty.
Travel Distance: 90 km
Travel Time: 3–4 hours
Main Attraction: Ayun Valley
Accommodation: Guesthouse in Ayun
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Travel through mountain roads and river valleys to reach Swat. Spend the afternoon gently exploring the town and its serene surroundings.
Travel Distance: 250 km
Travel Time: 6–7 hours
Main Attraction: Swat Valley
Accommodation: Hotel in Swat
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Explore the ancient wonders of Takht-e-Bahi Monastery and the historic ruins of Taxila. Conclude your adventure in Islamabad with a farewell dinner, savoring local flavors while reflecting on the journey.
Travel Distance: 250 km
Travel Time: 5–6 hours
Main Attraction: Takht-e-Bahi & Taxila
Accommodation: Hotel in Islamabad
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, transfer to Islamabad International Airport for your homebound flight, leaving with memories of mountains, glaciers, rivers, villages, and cultural experiences throughout Northern Pakistan. Carry home not only photos but also experiences of responsible travel and cultural immersion.
Have a safe journey!!
The ideal months are May to October, when mountain routes are open, and weather conditions are favorable for trekking and travel.
This is a moderate to challenging trip involving treks, high-altitude drives, and mountain walks. A reasonable fitness level is recommended.
Accommodations include boutique lodges, heritage guesthouses, and eco-friendly campsites offering comfort and local hospitality.
Yes, most meals are provided, featuring regional cuisines from Hunza, Swat, and Kalash Valleys, prepared by local chefs and families.
Absolutely. The trip is organized and guided by a women-led team, ensuring a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment for all travelers.
Pack layered clothing, trekking boots, a warm jacket, reusable water bottle, sunscreen, and a hat for sun and wind protection.
Venus Trails supports tree-planting programs, plastic-free travel, and local women entrepreneurs, ensuring your journey benefits the environment and communities.
Yes — you’ll visit homes, meet artisans, dine with families, and participate in community-led experiences throughout the trip.
Yes, vegetarian, vegan, and other dietary requests can be arranged with prior notice.
It’s a once-in-a-lifetime expedition that combines Pakistan’s most spectacular landscapes with cultural depth, responsible tourism, and authentic human connection.
