Silk Route Sampler & Karakoram Highway to Kashgar

Embark on a dual-route cultural expedition blending two legendary Silk Route journeys—via Skardu and the Karakoram Highway. Explore historic forts, glacial valleys, and high mountain passes before entering China through the Khunjerab Pass and reaching the ancient city of Kashgar. This 14-day tour combines aerial and overland routes for a full sampling of the Silk Route heritage in Pakistan and Western China.

Tour Overview

Islamabad – Skardu – Khaplu – Shigar – Gilgit – Hunza – Sost – Tashkurgan – Kashgar / OR Islamabad – Besham – Gilgit – Hunza – Sost – Tashkurgan – Kashgar

Why Choose This Tour?

Epic Mountain Scenery

Journey along the Karakoram Highway, one of the world’s highest roads, with breathtaking views of K2 and the Himalayas

Silk Road Heritage

Explore ancient trading hubs like Kashgar’s Sunday Bazaar and historic forts in Hunza and Skardu

Cross-Border Adventure

Traverse the Khunjerab Pass (4,693m) into China, following the footsteps of Silk Road caravans

Cultural Diversity

Experience Balti, Uighur, and Tajik cultures through local villages, food, and traditions

Detailed Itinerary

Day 01

ISLAMABAD – SKARDU

Arrival and domestic flight to Skardu (1 hr), local sightseeing

Day 02

SKARDU

Full-day excursion exploring Skardu and surrounding valleys

Day 03

SKARDU – KHAPLU

Drive to Khaplu (3 hrs), explore Khaplu Fort and town

Day 04

KHAPLU

Free day for optional trip to Machulu Valley or village walks

Day 05

KHAPLU – SHIGAR – SKARDU

Drive via Shigar Valley back to Skardu (5 hrs)

Day 06

SKARDU – GILGIT

Scenic drive along the Indus Valley to Gilgit (8 hrs)

Day 07

GILGIT – KARIMABAD

Drive to Hunza and check-in at Karimabad (3 hrs)

Day 08

KARIMABAD

Explore Baltit Fort, Altit Fort, and local villages

Day 09

KARIMABAD – GULMIT

Travel by boat on Attabad Lake to Gulmit (2 hrs)

Day 10

GULMIT – KHUNJERAB PASS – TASHKURGHAN

Drive to China via Khunjerab Pass (8 hrs)

Day 11

TASHKURGHAN – KASHGAR

Continue to Kashgar through scenic Xinjiang (8 hrs)

Day 12

KASHGAR

Free day to explore Old Town and mosques

Day 13

KASHGAR

Visit the famous Sunday Bazaar and local markets

Day 14

KASHGAR – DEPARTURE

Transfer to airport for onward international flight

What's Included

Assistance upon arrival/departure
3 to 4 star hotel accommodations with full board meals
Domestic airfare (Islamabad – Skardu) as per itinerary
All ground transport and transfers as per itinerary
English speaking guides in Pakistan and China
Sightseeing entrance fees and permits

What's Not Included

Kashgar onward international airfare
Photo and video permits at museums and monuments
Medical, immunization, and helicopter rescue costs
Room service, laundry, beverages, and personal items
Folk shows in Kashgar & Hunza
Visa fees for China and Pakistan
Khunjerab National Park entry fee
Tips for guides and drivers

Photo Gallery

Fixed Departure Dates

Contact for Price

per person

Duration

14 Days

Season

May to September

Group Size

6-12 people

Difficulty

Moderate

Silk Route Sampler & Karakoram Highway to Kashgar

Tour Overview