Tour Overview
Embark on a unique women's expedition through Pakistan, guided by a local female leader. This journey offers an immersive experience into the country's rich culture and breathtaking landscapes. Begin in Islamabad, exploring the UNESCO-listed Taxila ruins and vibrant truck art workshops. Venture into the remote mountain villages, sharing meals and stories with local families. Hike to the stunning Borith Lake and Passu Glacier, and visit the strikingly blue Attabad Lake. Discover the historic forts of Karimabad and enjoy traditional music and dance in Gulmit. Experience the vibrant markets of Rawalpindi and the serene beauty of the Katpana Desert. This tour promises an unforgettable adventure, blending cultural exploration with natural wonders, all while supporting local women-led enterprises. Enjoy the comfort of traditional guesthouses and homestays, offering a genuine taste of Pakistani hospitality. ...more ...less
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Islamabad
Location: Islamabad, Lake View Park, Islamabad, Lok Virsa Museum, Islamabad
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Meals Included: Dinner
Khush amdeed! Welcome to Pakistan. Your adventure begins in capital city of Islamabad. The ‘City of Islam’ was built in the 1960s to replace Karachi as the nation’s capital and is divided into eight zones including the commercial district, educational sector, diplomatic enclave, residential areas and green area. It’s an extensively (and successfully) planned city on a site chosen for its accessibility to the rest of the country and its location close to the army headquarters and disputed Kashmir area. You'll have a welcome meeting tonight at 6 pm, but if you arrive early, maybe check out Lake View Park and the Lok Virsa Museum, dedicated to the preservation, documentation and promotion of Pakistan’s cultural heritage. After the meeting, you’ll have a group dinner at the hotel.
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Day 2: Islamabad
Location: Taxila, Islamabad, Faisal Mosque, Islamabad
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today, you’ll explore Islamabad with your local female leader, who will teach you about some of the history of both the city and Pakistan as a whole. First, drive to the Taxila ruins – a UNESCO World Heritage-listed complex that’s not only the largest Buddhist site in the country, but also an important witness to years of cultural evolution. Then, stop by a truck art workshop where you can see trucks being decorated with the vibrant art known on Pakistani roads. As you carry on, stop to see the ‘shalwar kameez’ – the traditional dress of loose-fitting trousers and a long shirt, worn in various forms by men, women and children. Be sure to cover up for your final stop today – visit to the female-only section of the Faisal Mosque, which was the largest mosque in the world upon its completion in 1986, said to hold 10,000 worshippers.
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Day 3: Skardu
Location: Skardu, Kharpocho Fort, Katpana Desert, Manthal Rock Buddha, Skardu Bazaar
Accommodation Name: Traditional Guesthouse
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Depart Islamabad this morning on a flight to Skardu. Being the gateway to the Karakoram Mountain Range, it’s a popular spot for hikers and outdoorsy types, and your day will be spent exploring all that Skardu has to offer. First, head to Kharpocho Fort (translating to The King of Forts), then head to see the epic sight of the Katpana Desert in Skardu Valley. These wide open desert dunes are backdropped by the snowy mountain peaks and are really a sight to behold. Then, it’s on to the Manthal Rock Buddha – a sculpture dating back to the 8th century – and the Skardu Bazaar, where you can pick up any snacks or souvenirs that might be calling your name.
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Day 4: Gulmit (2465m)
Location: Karakoram Highway, Rakaposhi Mountain, Gulmit
Accommodation Name: Traditional Guesthouse
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Travel north on the Karakoram Highway to Gulmit today – also known as the China-Pakistan Friendship Highway, the road was built in conjunction with China and connects the two countries at the Khunjerab Pass. Passing through the Karakoram Mountain Range, it’s sometimes referred to as the Eighth Wonder of the World thanks to the level of engineering that went into its construction, not to mention the phenomenal views on either side of the road. Stop at a viewpoint along the way, where you can see the 7788 m Rakaposhi Mountain. For dinner tonight, indulge in some local yak burgers and the region’s famous apricot cake.
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Day 5: Gulmit (2465m)
Location: Gulmit, Ondra Fort, Hunza Valley
Accommodation Name: Traditional Guesthouse
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Spend the day exploring the village of Gulmit with the other women in your group. Located in a deep valley by the Hunza River, Gulmit has existed for hundreds of years and is surrounded by mountains and glaciers.
Trek out to the ruins of Ondra Fort, which sits atop a rocky outcrop above Gulmit and would’ve once commanded views of several strategically important passes in the area, though there’s no doubt the sentries of old were just as distracted by the jaw-dropping scenery as you will be. Then pop into the home of a local family to enjoy some tea together while you chat with your hosts about life in this remote part of Pakistan.
Take a walk through town and visit a carpet-weaving centre run by the local women, and a one-of-a-kind salon in one of the oldest houses in town.
Tonight, you’ll be treated to a traditional performance by a band who will play their local instruments, sing songs with you and teach you some traditional dance moves.
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Day 6: Gulmit
Location: Borith Lake, Passu Glacier, Passu, Hunza Valley
Accommodation Name: Traditional Guesthouse
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Enjoy some time in Pakistan’s fresh mountain air as you trek out to Borith Lake and Passu Glacier. The lake sits at an altitude of 2600 m and you can soak up some sun or go for a swim (it’s saltwater) after trekking to Passu Glacier. It wasn’t so long ago that walking was the primary means of transport here, with some villages in the region only gaining road access as late as 2003. After lunch, travel to the village of Passu, located on the banks of the Hunza River. When you arrive, wander the streets filled with stone houses and fruit trees before heading to a local’s home. Here, the women of the house will teach you how to make some local Hunzai dishes like molida (a mixture of buttermilk, cheese and bread), graal (pancakes usually served with apricot or walnut oil and mulberry sauce), dawdo (noodle soup) or chaapshuro (flatbread stuffed with meat).
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Day 7: Aliabad (2200 m)
Location: Lake Attabad, Karimabad, Baltit Fort, Altit Fort, Hunza Valley, Aliabad
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning, you’ll visit Lake Attabad – formed in 2010 after a massive landslide that killed 20 people and displaced thousands. The landslide essentially dammed the Hunza River for five months, creating a lake that measures some 21 km across. Thankfully, the dam held and the lake is now a popular tourist destination renowned for its intensely blue water. After your visit, travel to Karimabad – the capital of the Hunza District, known for its locally made handicrafts and scenic views. Take a short walk to Baltit and Altit forts, which were restored by the Aga Khan Foundation and have stood in the region for over 700 years. The Aga Khan Foundation also runs several projects focusing on empowering local women. There’ll be an opportunity to visit one of the groups and chat to them about their work, followed by lunch at cafe run by the local women. After spending the day exploring Hunza valley, you'll head to Aliabad and spend the night in a female owned hotel.
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Day 8: Aliabad (2200 m)
Location: Hopar Valley, Hopar Glacier
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Visit the strikingly black Hopar Glacier this morning. On a short hike, you’ll head near the glacier for remarkable views over the Hopar Valley. Then, spend the afternoon in here in a local's home, where you'll make lunch together, learning some more traditional recipes and a bit about their lives and culture. Enjoy the meal together with your hosts, then head back to your hotel for the night.
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Day 9: Skardu
Location: Skardu
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning, you’ll travel back to Skardu by private vehicle. It will be another long travel day, so get stuck into your podcast or favourite playlist as you watch the scenery out the window. Along the way, you’ll make a few stops to stretch your legs and appreciate the views.
Day 10: Islamabad
Location: Islamabad, Golra Railway Station, Islamabad, Pakistan Monument, Islamabad
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today, board your flight to Islamabad. When you arrive, you’ll see evidence of the British colonial period at Golra Railway Station – built in 1882 in a Victorian style, this is a working station and popular museum, established in 2003 and celebrating the past 150 years of rail travel in Pakistan. Then, see the Pakistan Monument – a national symbol that commemorates the unity and heritage of the country. Shaped like a blooming flower, the monument features four large petals representing Pakistan's four main cultures (Punjabi, Sindhi, Pakhtun and Balochi) and three smaller petals symbolising its minority regions. Inside, the intricate artwork and murals depict significant moments and figures from Pakistan's history. The panoramic views of Islamabad from the monument make it a picturesque spot.
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Day 11: Islamabad
Location: Rawalpindi, Markazi Jamia Masjid, Rawalpindi, Rawalpindi Markets, Rawalpindi, Saidpur Village, Islamabad
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Spend your final full day in Pakistan exploring the nearby city of Rawalpindi. Visit the Markazi Jamia Masjid – one of the oldest mosques in the city. With beautiful frescos, mosaics and paintings, the mosque is a cultural icon. Then, head to the Rawalpindi markets to pick up any souvenirs you’d like to take home. This afternoon, you’ll visit a local beauty salon where you can chat to the local women and learn about their work, lives and culture. While you’re here, you may like to treat yourself to a facial or manicure. Lastly, head to the 500-year-old Saidpur village, known for its varied religious and cultural heritage for a final dinner with your group.
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Day 12: Islamabad
Location: Islamabad
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your expedition comes to an end today and you’re free to leave the accommodation at any time after breakfast. If you’d like to extend your stay, just get in touch with your booking agent ahead of time.
What's Included
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Islamabad - Welcome Dinner
Enjoy a welcome dinner in Islamabad to kick off your adventure.
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Islamabad - Faisal Mosque (women's only section)
Visit the women's only section of the Faisal Mosque in Islamabad.
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Islamabad - Taxila Museum & archaeological sites
Explore the Taxila Museum and archaeological sites in Islamabad.
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Islamabad - Truck art workshop
Participate in a truck art workshop in Islamabad.
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Skardu - Manthal Buddha Rock
Visit the Manthal Buddha Rock in Skardu.
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Skardu - Skardu market visit
Explore the local market in Skardu.
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Skardu - Kharpocho Fort visit
Visit the historic Kharpocho Fort in Skardu.
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Skardu - Katpana Desert
Experience the unique Katpana Desert in Skardu.
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Ghulmet - Rakaposhi Viewpoint
Stop at the Rakaposhi Viewpoint for stunning views.
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Hunza Valley - Passu's famous apricot cake and yak burgers
Taste the famous apricot cake and yak burgers in Hunza Valley.
What's Not Included
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs and additional activities are not included.
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International Flights
International flights to and from Pakistan are not included.
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Visa Fees
Visa fees for entry into Pakistan are not included.
Mode of Transport
Transportation in Pakistan includes private vehicles with experienced drivers, local auto rickshaws, and internal flights. Roads can be busy, and driving times may be longer than expected. Safety is prioritized, and seat belts are recommended. Weather conditions may affect flight schedules.
Accommodation
Accommodation on this tour includes stays in local guesthouses and homestays, offering a mix of air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned rooms. Some accommodations have shared bathroom facilities with cold water only, and power outages may occur. Homestays provide a unique cultural exchange experience with local families. ...more ...less
Important Information
- 1. An optional single supplement is available on this trip and includes all hotel stay nights. The nights in the traditional guesthouse in Gulmit are excluded. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.
- 2. Passport scans are required at the time of booking to secure domestic flights and arrange a Letter of Invitation which is required for visa applications. Please see the Essential Trip Information for more information.
- 3. We use Pakistan Airlines for the included internal flights.
Check out our Q&As
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What type of accommodation can I expect during the tour?
Accommodation on this tour includes stays in local guesthouses and homestays, offering a mix of air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned rooms. Some accommodations have shared bathroom facilities with cold water only, and power outages may occur. Homestays provide a unique cultural exchange experience with local families. ...more ...less
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What kind of transportation is used during the tour?
Transportation in Pakistan includes private vehicles with experienced drivers, local auto rickshaws, and internal flights. Roads can be busy, and driving times may be longer than expected. Safety is prioritized, and seat belts are recommended. Weather conditions may affect flight schedules. ...more ...less
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Are there any unique cultural experiences included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes several unique cultural experiences such as visiting a women-run carpet weaving center in Gulmit, participating in a Pakistani home cooking class in Hunza Valley, and enjoying a traditional music performance in Hunza Valley. Additionally, there is a visit to a local salon in Islamabad where you can chat with local women and learn about their work and culture. ...more ...less
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What activities are included in the Hunza Valley?
In the Hunza Valley, you will have the opportunity to hike to the Passu Glacier and Borith Lake, participate in a Pakistani home cooking class, visit the Ciqam Women's Social Enterprise, and enjoy lunch at a women-run cafe. You will also visit the famous Attabad Lake and explore the historic Baltit and Altit Forts. ...more ...less
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What is the significance of the Faisal Mosque visit?
The visit to the Faisal Mosque includes access to the women's only section. The mosque was the largest in the world upon its completion in 1986 and is said to hold 10,000 worshippers. It is a significant cultural and religious site in Islamabad.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Intrepid Travel has been taking travellers around the world for over 30 years
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Since 2002, The Intrepid Foundation has supported over 130 organisations across the world. We’re creating positive impact through the joy of travel, community and connection.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Over 50% of traveller travel solo with Intrepid. You can choose to share a room with another solo travelle of the same sex for no additional charge, or choose to pay a single supplement if you’d like your own room. Please request this when booking, and we will secure you a single supplement wherever possible. Please note, if you are booking a last-minute trip, it may be harder for us to secure a single room
Reviews of this operator
1 Select your preferred date
Sunday - Thursday
Apr 27, 2025 - May 08, 2025Book with Confidence
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Free Date Changes
Intrepid Travel allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 56 days before the start of the tour.
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Intrepid Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform intrepid travel, 56 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
Intrepid Travel requires a minimum deposit of 400 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 56 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of intrepid travel charges.
Up to 56 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 55 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.
At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
Pakistan: Women's Expedition
12 Days Starting and ending in Islamabad, Pakistan
Visiting: Islamabad, Lake View Park, Islamabad, Lok Virsa Museum, Islamabad, Taxila, Faisal Mosque, Islamabad, Skardu, Kharpocho Fort, Katpana Desert, Manthal Rock Buddha, Skardu Bazaar, Karakoram Highway, Rakaposhi Mountain, Gulmit, Ondra Fort, Hunza Valley, Borith Lake, Passu Glacier, Passu, Lake Attabad, Karimabad, Baltit Fort, Altit Fort, Aliabad, Hopar Valley, Hopar Glacier, Golra Railway Station, Islamabad, Pakistan Monument, Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Markazi Jamia Masjid, Rawalpindi, Rawalpindi Markets, Rawalpindi, Saidpur Village Islamabad ...more ...less
Tour operator:
Specialist Group:
Women Only
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 12
Age range:
15-99
