Hunza Valley Through China
Tour snapshot
9 Days / 8 Nights
Overland Journeys
Summer
Tours
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Overview
Journey from China into the enchanting Hunza Valley, an ancient mountain kingdom cradled by the mighty Karakorams. As you cross the awe-inspiring Khunjerab Pass — the world’s highest border crossing at 4,693 — you are welcomed by snow-crowned peaks, crisp alpine air, and breathtaking vistas. Descending into Hunza, you discover a valley steeped in history, culture, and natural splendor, guarded for centuries by towering glaciers and mountains that seem to touch the sky. Once a princely sta...
Show MoreHighlights
- Cross the Khunjerab Pass, the world’s highest paved border crossing.
- Drive along the spectacular Karakoram Highway (KKH), the “Eighth Wonder of the World.”
- Explore the ancient Baltit Fort and Altit Fort in Hunza Valley.
- Visit the Danyore Chinese Graveyard, Karga Buddha, and ancient petroglyphs in Gilgit.
- Witness the Junction Point of the Himalaya, Karakoram, and Hindukush mountain ranges.
- Experience the serene beauty of Skardu and Shigar Valley, and visit Shigar Fort.
- Fly over the Karakorams on a scenic flight to Islamabad.
- Discover Islamabad’s iconic Faisal Mosque, Pakistan Monument, and viewpoints.
- Explore the incredible Khewra Salt Mines — one of the world’s largest.
- Immerse in Lahore’s Mughal heritage at Badshahi Mosque, Lahore Fort, and the Walled City.
- Enjoy diverse cultures, history, and warm hospitality throughout the journey.
What's Included
- Pick up from and drop off at the Sost Customs (arrival and departure station from and to China)
- Hotel accommodations on a twin-sharing basis throughout the trip.
- All ground transportation during the tour, including airport transfers.
- All meals as outlined in the itinerary—breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
- Light refreshments such as coffee, green tea, cookies, and nuts.
- Bottled water provided throughout the journey.
- Entry tickets and admission fees for all sites and attractions mentioned in the itinerary.
- Services of a professional English-speaking tour guide, with support staff if required.
- Porterage at hotels and airports.
- All applicable tolls, local taxes, and parking charges.
- Basic first aid kit available for emergency use.
- Visa assistance, including the provision of a Letter of Invitation (LoI) for the Pakistan Tourist Visa.
Exclude
- Domestic and international airfare, airport taxes, and visa application fees.
- Personal travel insurance (mandatory for international participants).
- Visa processing costs and related documentation.
- Beverages not mentioned in the itinerary, including soft drinks and alcoholic beverages.
- Personal clothing, gear, and equipment (e.g., jackets, footwear, backpacks).
- Additional hotel nights beyond those specified in the itinerary.
- Personal expenses such as laundry, phone calls, and souvenirs.
- Tips and gratuities for guides, drivers, porters, and support staff.
- Costs arising from delays, cancellations, or unforeseen events beyond human control.
- Any extra services or items not clearly listed under the “Services Included” section.
Itinerary
Your adventure begins as you cross into Pakistan at the Khunjerab Pass and reach Sost, the border town in upper Hunza. After immigration formalities, you drive to the beautiful village of Passu, known for its dramatic mountain backdrop and the iconic Passu Cones.
After breakfast, set out to explore the serene surroundings of Passu. Visit Gulmit, an ancient village with rich cultural heritage, and hike to Borith Lake, a peaceful alpine lake surrounded by snowy peaks. Stop at the famous Hussaini suspension bridge, an adventure in itself, before continuing to Attabad, home to the stunning Attabad Lake formed after a landslide.
Depart Attabad and drive to Karimabad, the heart of Hunza Valley. This charming town offers breathtaking views of Rakaposhi and Ultar peaks and serves as the perfect base for exploring the region.
Spend a full day discovering Hunza’s unique culture and history. Visit the 700-year-old Baltit Fort and the even older Altit Fort, stroll through local bazaars, and soak in the panoramic views from Eagle’s Nest at sunset.
Retrace your route to Sost, stopping again at Attabad Lake to enjoy its striking turquoise waters and perhaps a boat ride.
After breakfast in Sost, cross back into China through the Khunjerab Pass, bringing your incredible Hunza Valley adventure to a close.