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13 Days Overland Journey Through Hunza, Gojal, Swat and Gandhara Heritage of Pakistan

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Hunza, Gojal, Swat and Gandhara
Min Age : 18
Max People : 20

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13 Days Overland Journey Through Hunza, Gojal, Swat and Gandhara Heritage of Pakistan

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Hunza, Gojal & Swat to Peshawar
Exploring the Gandhara Civilization and Northern Pakistan

Embark on an unforgettable overland journey beginning in Islamabad and traveling along the legendary Karakoram Highway, famously known as the Eighth Wonder of the World. This spectacular route leads you through the breathtaking landscapes of Hunza and Gojal valleys, continuing all the way to the Khunjerab Pass, Pakistan’s dramatic high-altitude border with China.

Along the way, witness some of the world’s tallest and most awe-inspiring mountains, including the mighty Nanga Parbat (8,125 m). A truly unique highlight of this journey is the remarkable point where three great mountain ranges—the Karakoram, Himalayas, and Hindu Kush—meet, creating a landscape found nowhere else on Earth.

From Hunza, the adventure continues over the scenic Shangla Pass into the lush and tranquil Swat Valley, often referred to as the Switzerland of the East. Swat enchants visitors with its green valleys, flowing rivers, and alpine beauty, while also offering deep historical significance as a former center of Buddhist learning and the Gandhara Civilization, with ancient stupas and archaeological remains scattered across the region.

The journey concludes in the historic city of Peshawar, a vibrant cultural crossroads known for its lively bazaars, grand architecture, and centuries-old traditions. Here, explore the rich legacy of the Gandhara Civilization and experience the warm hospitality and dynamic culture of the Pashtun people.

This tour is perfect for travelers seeking a rare combination of dramatic mountain scenery, cultural immersion, and historical exploration, offering a truly authentic experience of Northern Pakistan’s natural and cultural wonders.

 

Itinerary

Day 01Islamabad → Besham / Naran

Morning flight to Islamabad, where you will be met by Rock Valley Tours. From Islamabad, we will drive 28km to Taxila, the capital of the Buddhist Gandhara civilization. It is regarded as one of the most important archaeological sites on the sub-continent. We will visit the ruins of a former city (Sirkup), a former monastery (Julian) that is built on top of a hill, and the splendid site museum that contains artifacts from the sites. Among the museum’s collection are gold and silver coins from the time of Alexander the Great (326 BC). After lunch,h we drive through the beautiful, lush green valleys of the Mansehra District towards the Karakoram Highway (KKH). The highway took 20 years to construct and was a joint effort between Pakistan and China. During this time, 300 Chinese and 600 Pakistanis lost their lives working on the project. After a 4-5 hour drive, we will stop for the night at Besham/ Narran.

Day 02Besham / Naran → Gilgit

Early morning drive to Gilgit, the capital of Pakistan’s Northern Areas. At Thakot/ Babusar Pass, we cross a Chinese-made bridge and enter the Indus River gorge. For centuries, this branch of the Silk Route was used by traders and Buddhist missionaries, and there are many rock carvings in the area dating back to these times, including the carvings at Shatial. After lunch in Chilas, we stop at Thalichi, the best viewpoint for Nanga Parbat (8125m), which is also known as the Killer Mountain and is the 9th highest peak in the world and the second-highest in Pakistan after K2. Rakaposhi (7788m) and the Haramosh range can also be viewed from here. Further north, we stop at the point where the world’s three highest mountain ranges – Karakoram, Himalayas, and Hindukush – meet; this is also the point where the Gilgit River joins the mighty Indus. We follow the Gilgit River to Gilgit and our hotel for the night.

Day 03Gilgit → Hunza (Karimabad)

After crossing a suspension bridge over the river, we reach Kargah to visit the Buddha carved into the rocks during the 7th century AD. In ancient times, the Kargah Valley was used by Buddhist monks on their way to Taxila. We drive on to the breathtaking Hunza Valley again, following the old Silk Route used by Buddhist monks and traders. There will be a short stop at the Rakaposhi (7788m) viewpoint. Overnight at Hunza View Hotel in Karimabad.

Day 04Hunza (Full Day)

A free day in Karimabad for short walks to the Altit and Baltit forts, and other parts of the valley, which is ringed with majestic peaks – Rakaposhi 7788m, Diran 7266m, Ultar 7400m, and Golden 7027m peak. There are also glimpses of the beautiful Nagar Valley on the other side of the river. The friendly, long-lived people of Hunza are mostly self-sufficient, growing wheat, maize, apricots, and walnuts, making their own clothes and shoes, along with wooden and stone bowls. An afternoon walk could take you to the Ultar Glacier, via the village irrigation channel, or you could stroll through the single-lane bazaar for better views of the soaring peaks around you. Overnight at Hunza View Hotel.

Day 05Hunza → Passu (Upper Gojal)

We travel further north into the Gojal Valley to Passu. About 70 years ago, Passu used to be the second-largest settlement in Hunza after Karimabad. However, the glacier upstream on the Hunza River advanced and created a dam across the river, which later broke, washing away houses and fertile fields. Now the river occupies most of the valley floor. We will take a morning walk to the Passu Glacier and Passu Lake (45 minutes one-way). From the snout of the glacier, there are stunning views of Shispar (7611 m) and Passu Peak (7478 m). After lunch at our lodge, we will visit the (800ft) suspension bridges of Passu that are still used by the local people. Overnight at the lodge.

Day 06Passu → Khunjerab Pass → Passu

Drive overland to the highest border crossing in the world at 4733m – the Khunjerab Pass between Pakistan and China. The pass also marks the end of the Karakoram mountain range and the beginning of the Pamir Range. We stop first at Sust, the last check post in Pakistan for customs and immigration formalities, then continue along the Karakoram Highway beside the Khunjerab River. At Dhee is the start of the Khunjerab National Park, where one can see ibex, Marco Polo sheep, and snow leopards. After a short stay at the pass, we’ll drive back to Passu. Overnight at Lodge.

Day 07Passu → Besham

Today we drive back down the Hunza River valley on the Karakoram Highway, enjoying new views of the amazing array of mountain peaks. Overnight at Besham on the banks of the Indus River.

Day 08Besham → Swat (Mingora)

We leave the KKH at Besham to drive towards Swat, through the Shangla Pass. The valley of Swat (3250ft above sea level and surrounded by the mighty Hindu Kush and Karakoram ranges) is a land rich with fruit-laden orchards, flower-filled slopes, meandering rivers, and tumbling streams. The towns of Saidu Sharif and Mingora form the twin capitals of the area. Overnight in a Mingora hotel.

Day 09Upper Swat Valley Excursion

After breakfast, we head for Kalam, 2000m above sea level in the Upper Swat Valley, with a visit en route to Bahrain, a town beside the Swat River where trout fishing is a favorite pastime. Drive back to Mingora to stay overnight.

Day 10 Swat → Peshawar

It is about a three-hour drive from Swat to Peshawar, and when we reach the city, we will have lunch and freshen up at our hotel. In the afternoon, we will take a city tour. Peshawar has played a vital role in the history of the sub-continent because of its location near the Khyber Pass and the Gandhara civilizations on the Indus River plains. The city is now known more for its unique frontier town atmosphere. There will be time to visit the street of the storytellers (Kissa Khawani bazaar), the street of gold (Kasera bazaar), Karavan Serai, and the Mahabat Khan Mosque. The museum of Peshawar, known for its collection of Gandhara artifacts, is also well worth a visit. Dinner & overnight at Shelton House.

Day 11Peshawar → Khyber Pass → Peshawar

Morning excursion to the Khyber Pass after obtaining permission from the tribal authorities. The Khyber Pass is one of the most important historic and strategic land routes into the Indian sub-continent. Many invaders, including Alexander the Great, have used this route on their way to explore the wonders of the fertile lands that lay to the east. We may be allowed to go up to Michni Post, from where there is a panoramic view of the Pak-Afghan border and the Jalalabad province of Afghanistan beyond. Lunch at Peshawar. (45km one way)

Day 12Peshawar → Islamabad

We travel along the Grand Trunk Road, which was first constructed by the Pathan Emperor of the United Indian Empire, Sher Shah Suri. There is a chance to stop where the road crosses the Indus River at Attock to take a photograph of the meeting point of the Indus and Kabul rivers. We reach Islamabad in the evening.

Day 13Departure

Transfer to the airport for onward flight.

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What's included

  • Accommodation: 3-Star Hotel – Breakfast Included
  • Transportation: Car and Guide
  • Guide: Licensed English-Speaking Guide
  • Entry Tickets: Forts and Museums Entry Tickets
  • Invitation Letter: Tourist Visa Invitation Letter

What's not included

  • Food
  • Tip
  • Personal Equipments
  • International and Domestic flights
  • Insurance

Visa Guide

  • Apply for Pakistan tourist Visa Here: Visa Website 
  • Download Visa Guide
  • If you’re having trouble with your visa application, reach out to us for help and guidance.

FAQ

Do I Need a Visa to Travel to Pakistan?

If you’re traveling to Pakistan, you’ll need a visa. Depending on your nationality, you can get it on arrival or apply online before your trip. You can also go to your local Pakistani embassy for a tourist visa. The length of stay varies: e-visas can be up to 3 months (extendable to 6 months), while visas on arrival are valid for 30 days. Make sure to check visa requirements with the authorities, as they might change.

What to wear in Pakistan?

In Pakistan, what you wear depends on when and where you’re going. In hot areas, wear light, loose clothes like a shirt and trousers. For cold places, bring warm clothes like a jacket and layers. When visiting mosques, cover your head, arms, legs, and shoulders. Dress modestly and avoid shorts. If you’re unsure, it’s best to dress conservatively.

What is the weather like in Pakistan?

  1. June–September: Monsoon season with unpredictable rains, reaching over 45°C (113°F) in June. Floods can occur.

  2. October/November: Post-monsoon season with decreasing temperatures and rainfall. Days are warm, nights cool.

  3. December–February: Winter months with pleasant daytime temperatures around 20°C (68°F) and colder nights, especially in the northern mountains where it snows.

  4. March–May: Hot and dry season with temperatures in the mid-30s°C (95°F) in low-lying areas, getting hotter towards the north.

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