Shangri La and the Khyber Pass
- Shangri La and the Khyber Pass
- Region
- Period
- Region
- Comfort
Tour Details
- Tour Ref: KKE CT 019
- Duration: 13 Days
- Main Places: Taxila, Takht i Bahi, Khyber Pass, Swat Valley, Karakorum Highway, Hunza, Gilgit, Skardu, Islamabad
- Best Season: April to October
OVERVIEW & ITINERARY
Details
Travel to the land immortalized in James Hilton novel Lost Horizon. Today Shangri-La is a region of snowy peaks and awesome valleys. This trip begins in the frontier town of Peshawar, whose medieval bazaar is the center of the towns life. Tour the historic Khyber Pass along the Afghanistan border. Depart north to the lovely Swat Valley, visiting ancient Buddhist monasteries en route. Cross awesome mountain passes as you travel along the Karakorum Highway. Explore Gilgit and the Hunza Valley. Meet local Hunzakuts and Nagaris whose ancestors once ruled mighty mountain kingdoms. Carry on to Skardu, the alpine town that attracts mountaineers from all over the world, hoping to scale K2. Gently explore the charms of the lower altitude attractions surrounding Skardu. From here, you will board a breathtaking flight (subject to weather conditions) over the mountains to the Pakistani capital of Islamabad, where your journey ends.
ITINERARY – Shangri La and the Khyber Pass – 13 Days
Arrive in Peshawar. Transfer to hotel and rest.
Visit the historic Khyber Pass followed by sightseeing in Peshawar.
Drive to Swat Valley with a stop at Takht i Bahi Buddhist monastery.
Drive over Shangla Pass to Chilas through scenic mountain landscapes.
Travel along the Karakorum Highway to Hunza Valley.
Full day excursion in Hunza Valley exploring villages and viewpoints.
Day trip to Hoper Valley and glacier area.
Drive to Gilgit with stops for river and mountain views.
Drive to Skardu, the gateway to the Karakoram peaks.
Sightseeing around Skardu with a visit to Shigar Fort.
Fly to Islamabad subject to weather conditions.
Sightseeing in Islamabad and Rawalpindi.
Transfer to airport for onward destination.
HIGHLIGHTS
Shangri La and the Khyber Pass
Historic Khyber Pass and Peshawar bazaars
Ancient Buddhist heritage of Takht i Bahi
Green valleys of Swat and Shangla Pass
Legendary Karakorum Highway journey
Hunza Valley culture and mountain views
Skardu and Shigar Fort experience
Scenic mountain flight to Islamabad
Prices & Other Options – Shangri La and the Khyber Pass
| Trekking Options in Shimshal | Price (USD) | Deposit | Min Pax |
|---|---|---|---|
| Short Treks | |||
| K 2 Expedition Tour (12 days) | US$1,560 | US$450 | 4 pax |
| Shimshal Pass Trek (10 days) | US$1,200 | US$350 | 4 pax |
| Minglik Sar Peak (9 days) | US$1,050 | US$300 | 4 pax |
| Medium & Hard Treks | |||
| Trango Base Camp Trek (14 days) | US$1,890 | US$500 | 4 pax |
| Minglik Sar Peak (9 days) | US$1,050 | US$300 | 4 pax |
| Climb Trekking Peaks | |||
| Minglik Sar Peak (9 days) | US$1,050 | US$300 | 4 pax |
| Minglik Sar Peak (9 days) | US$1,050 | US$300 | 4 pax |
Map/Route – Shangri La and the Khyber Pass
Drive through Murree, once a British hill station, then continue to Islamabad.
Transfer to airport for onward destination.
Drive via Abbottabad and Nathia Gali to Ayubia hill station.
Full day in Hunza. Explore Karimabad and surroundings.
Drive along the Indus River to Gilgit, then onward to Hunza Valley.
Drive via Shangla Pass to join the Karakorum Highway. Continue to Chilas.
Drive toward Swat Valley. Enroute visit the Buddhist monastery ruins of Takht I Bahi. Continue to Swat.
Day excursion to the historic Khyber Pass. Return to Peshawar.
Drive to Peshawar. Enroute visit Taxila, the center of Gandhara civilization.
Arrive in Islamabad and transfer to hotel.
GALLERY
- Region
- Period
- Region
- Comfort
Tour Details
- Tour Ref: KKE CT 019
- Duration: 13 Days
- Main Places: Taxila, Takht i Bahi, Khyber Pass, Swat Valley, Karakorum Highway, Hunza, Gilgit, Skardu, Islamabad
- Best Season: April to October
Frequently asked questions
This is a cultural and scenic tour with a strong focus on mountains and history.
Yes, it offers a balanced introduction to culture, history, and landscapes.
No, there is no trekking involved, only light walking during sightseeing.
Yes, the Skardu to Islamabad flight is included, weather permitting.
Yes, it is a well known route with experienced drivers.
Basic fitness is enough as the tour is not physically demanding.
Yes, the itinerary can be adjusted according to travel needs and interests.
