Islamabad to Kashgar: 18 Days Silk Road Adventure

Begin your journey as you arrive in Islamabad, the capital city of Pakistan and the gateway to the Silk Route Tour. After meeting with your guide, you will embark on a fascinating drive through Taxila’s ancient Gandhara Buddhist remains. This will offer you a glimpse into history as you explore the ruins of this ancient civilization. As you travel through the Himalayas, you’ll catch glimpses of different cultures and landscapes, making for a truly unique experience.

Time: About 8 hours. Distance: 315 km.

Enter the enchanting Swat Valley, known for its rich cultural heritage and art. You will have the opportunity to visit the local museum and markets, where you can experience the vibrant culture of the region. This will prepare you for the journey on the Karakoram Highway (KKH), which is considered one of the most scenic routes in the world.

Time: About 8 hours. Distance: 250 km.

Dedicate a day to discovering Swat’s hidden gems, including the Gandhara heritage and the vibrant markets. You will then transition to the Karakoram Highway (KKH) for more remarkable experiences. You will witness the breathtaking beauty of the region as you make your way through the Karakoram Mountains.

Time: About 8 hours. Distance: 200 km.

On this day, you will travel to Chilas on a captivating drive, passing through the Shangla Pass and the stunning Karakoram Highway. Witness the grandeur of nature as you make your way to Chilas. This leg of the journey will take you through some of the most beautiful and awe-inspiring landscapes in the world.

Travel to Gilgit from Chilas on the Karakoram Highway, stopping at Thalpan rock inscriptions and the Nanga Parbat viewpoint. You will have the opportunity to explore the local bazaar upon arrival, where the mountains meet and cultures blend. This will give you a chance to experience the unique blend of cultures that characterizes the region.

Time: About 8 hours. Distance: 230 km.

Start the day by visiting Kargha Buddha, a peaceful and tranquil site. You will then continue to Karimabad Hunza, where you can enjoy scenic spots like the Chinese Graveyard and Rakaposhi viewpoint before reaching Hunza. This will allow you to take in the stunning views that the region has to offer, and experience the morning peace of this beautiful place.

Time: About 8 hours. Distance: 140 km.

On this day, you will embark on a day trip to Hoper Glacier, which includes visits to Altit Fort, Baltit Fort, and the charming Hoper Valley. You can hike, marvel and return to Hunza, where nature’s playground awaits. This will give you the opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the region up close, and explore the rich cultural heritage that characterizes the area.

Time: About 6 hours. Distance: 90 km.

Continue to Sust, crossing into China at Khunjerab Pass (4734 M). This leg of the journey will take you through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world, and you will feel the thrill of borders changing and cultures blending. This will provide a unique opportunity to experience the blend of cultures that characterizes the region.

Time: About 6 hours. Distance: 160 km

Head to Kashgar, enjoying views of historic mountains like Muztag Ata. Lunch at Karakole Lake adds to the scenic journey. You will arrive in Kashgar after a 5-hour drive, giving you a peek into China and the opportunity to experience the unique culture of the region.

Time: About 5 hours. Distance: 240 km.

Experience Kashgar’s Sunday market, which is a photographer’s dream. Visit Eidgah Mosque, Abakh Hoja Tomb, and the old town to discover the wonders of Kashgar’s treasures. This will give you an opportunity to experience the unique blend of cultures that characterizes the region, and to explore the rich history of the area.

Time: Flexible.

Take the opportunity to relax and explore the local market and savor local food. This will give you time to take in the local culture and experience the unique blend of cultures that characterizes the region.

Time: Flexible.

Drive to Karakul Lake for a stunning view of Mustaghata Mountain. You will arrive at Karakul Lake for photography before an evening drive to Tashkurgan. Spend the night in Tashkurgan, surrounded by mountains and lakes. This will give you the opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the area up close.

Time: About 5 hours. Distance: 210 km.

After customs and Immigration formalities, drive to Sost over Khunjerab Pass (4750 m). On arrival at Sost, meet your Pakistani guide and drive to Gulmit. Check-in at the hotel upon arrival and cross the borders again. This will provide another opportunity to experience the unique blend of cultures that characterizes the region.

Time: About 8 hours. Distance: 270 km.

Drive to Hussaini Village, visit Hussaini suspension bridges, and drive up to Borith to cross over the Gulkin Glacier. Drive back to Gulmit, exploring the Upper Hunza Valley, and spend the night in Gulmit after a day of exploration. This will give you the opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the area up close, and explore the rich cultural heritage that characterizes the region.

Time: About 5 hours. Distance: 80 km.

Embark on a morning hike up to Ondra Poygah for a stunning view. Return to the hotel for freshening up and lunch. In the afternoon, proceed to Gilgit along the Karakoram Highway. Transfer to the hotel for dinner and an overnight stay, surrounded by scenic views. This will provide a final opportunity to experience the unique beauty of the region up close.

Time: About 6 hours. Distance: 140 km.

Bid farewell to the enchanting landscapes as you take a flight to Islamabad or embark on a scenic drive to Besham for an overnight stay, marking the end of your journey. This will give you time to reflect on your experiences and to take in the beauty of the region one last time.

Distance: By Air or 310 km by Road.

Enjoy a leisurely day in Islamabad or explore the city if you’ve driven from Besham. Take the time to savor the last moments in Pakistan, and to reflect on the unique experiences that you’ve had during your journey.

Time: Flexible.

As your remarkable journey concludes, bid farewell and fly back to your homeland, carrying cherished memories of a lifetime. This will be a bittersweet moment as you say goodbye to the region that has captured your heart, but you will leave with memories that will last a lifetime.

Time: Flexible.