A nine‑day overland circuit from Islamabad to Hunza, Phander and Shandur that combines high mountain passes, lakes formed by landslides and cultural stops along the Karakoram Highway. Practical route, altitude, and timing advice for planning the trip.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Morning light slices across terraced apricot orchards as the Karakoram Highway unfurls like a worn ribbon through steep canyon walls. Travelers arrive from Islamabad and, over nine days, trade plains for glaciers, stopping where rivers dare to gouge new passages and where high passes open views that put scale into perspective.
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
9 days
Fitness Level
Moderate to good cardiovascular fitness for long drives, short hikes, and coping with altitude changes.
Wildlife
History
The Karakoram Highway follows old Silk Road corridors and transformed the region after its construction in the 1970s–80s, linking Pakistan and China through high passes like Khunjerab.
Conservation
The high-mountain environment is fragile—pack out waste, avoid single-use plastics, and support local businesses to keep tourism benefits local and minimize ecological impact.
Reserve your spot on the 9 Days Tour to Hunza, Phandar and Shandur from April to October today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Acclimatize before Khunjerab
Spend the first full day at lower elevation (Gilgit/Hunza) to reduce altitude sickness risk before ascending to Khunjerab Pass.
Carry sufficient cash
ATMs are limited outside Gilgit and Karimabad; bring enough Pakistani rupees for food, tips, and roadside purchases.
Expect long drives
Daily transfers can be 4–8 hours on mountain roads—bring motion-sickness remedies and plan breaks for stretching.
Respect local customs
Dress modestly in villages and ask before photographing people or religious sites to avoid cultural offense.
Layered insulating jacket
Warm mid- to outer-layer for cold nights and high-pass exposure.
spring
Sturdy hiking shoes
Supportive footwear for uneven village paths and short walks to viewpoints.
summer
Sun protection (hat, SPF 30+)
High-altitude sun is strong—protect skin and eyes during daytime outings.
summer
Reusable water bottle with filter
Tap water can be uncertain in remote spots; a filter or purification tablets reduce waste and risk.