16-Day Pakistan Epic Journey: The Ultimate Luxury Escape
Pakistan is a land of dramatic contrasts, where the ancient Silk Road meets modern luxury. This 16-day journey is designed for those who seek the thrill of the world's highest mountains without compromising on comfort. From private jet-prop flights over the Himalayas to five-star heritage stays in restored forts, you will experience the legendary hospitality of Pakistan in its most refined form.
Our route takes you from the organized greenery of Islamabad into the heart of the Gilgit-Baltistan mountains, then down to the cultural soul of Lahore, and finally to the bustling Arabian Sea coast in Karachi. Expect private guided tours, chauffeured 4x4 excursions, and fine dining that spans traditional Mughlai feasts to contemporary international cuisine.
Day 1: Islamabad - Arrival in the Capital
VIP Arrival at Islamabad International
Enjoy a seamless arrival with VIP meet-and-greet services. Your private chauffeur will transfer you to the iconic Serena Hotel, an architectural masterpiece of Islamic design.
Private Tour of Faisal Mosque
Visit the world-renowned Faisal Mosque, a gift from King Faisal of Saudi Arabia. Its unique desert-tent design and white marble floors offer a serene start to your journey.
Sunset Dinner at Monal Restaurant
Drive up the Margalla Hills to Monal. Enjoy a premium terrace table overlooking the entire illuminated city while savoring traditional seekh kebabs and fresh naan.
Day 2: Islamabad - Culture & Greenery
Saidpur Heritage Village
Explore this ancient village nestled in the hills, featuring a Hindu temple and a Sikh gurdwara, showcasing Pakistan's diverse religious history.
Lunch at The Tea House
A high-end lunch in the heart of Islamabad, known for its colonial charm and artisanal teas.
Lok Virsa Museum
A private guided tour of the National Institute of Folk and Traditional Heritage, highlighting the intricate crafts and textiles of Pakistan's provinces.
Day 3: Skardu - Into the Karakoram
Scenic Flight to Skardu
Board a PIA flight for one of the world's most scenic journeys, flying past Nanga Parbat and K2. Your mountain guide will meet you at Skardu Airport.
Check-in at Shangrila Resort
Relax at the 'Heaven on Earth' resort, situated on the banks of Lower Kachura Lake. The resort features a unique restaurant built inside a crashed aircraft.
Upper Kachura Lake Excursion
A short private drive to the deeper Upper Kachura Lake for a quiet afternoon of boating and local trout tasting.
Day 4: Skardu - High Deserts & Royal Forts
Sarfaranga Cold Desert
Experience the world's highest cold desert. Opt for a luxury Jeep safari over the white sand dunes framed by snow-capped peaks.
Shigar Fort Lunch
Travel to the Shigar Valley for lunch at the 17th-century Serena Shigar Fort, a restored palace that blends heritage with luxury.
Blind Lake (Jarba Xho)
Visit the hidden Blind Lake, a turquoise gem surrounded by massive granite walls, accessible via a comfortable private 4x4.
Day 5: Hunza Valley - The Mountain Kingdom
Skardu to Hunza via Karakoram Highway
A 5-hour drive in a luxury SUV along the Indus River. You will witness the junction of the three highest mountain ranges: the Himalayas, Karakoram, and Hindu Kush.
Arrival at Hunza Serena Inn
Check into your suite overlooking the Rakaposhi mountain. The gardens here offer the best views of the Hunza River valley.
Stroll through Karimabad Bazaar
Browse high-end boutiques for local gemstones, pashmina shawls, and sun-dried apricots.
Day 6: Hunza - Ancient History
Baltit Fort Private Tour
Explore the 700-year-old Baltit Fort, inspired by Tibetan architecture. Your private guide will explain the history of the Mirs (rulers) of Hunza.
Lunch at Kha Basi Cafe
Dine at the base of Altit Fort, sampling 'Chapshuro' (Hunza-style pizza) made with organic local ingredients.
Altit Fort & Royal Garden
Visit the oldest monument in the valley and walk through the ancient apricot orchards that have fed the community for centuries.
Day 7: Attabad Lake - The Turquoise Jewel
Attabad Lake Private Boating
Rent a private speed boat to cruise the vibrant blue waters of Attabad Lake, created by a massive landslide in 2010.
Luxus Hunza Lunch
Enjoy a lakeside lunch at the Luxus Hunza, the most modern luxury hotel in the region, featuring floor-to-ceiling glass windows.
Passu Cones Observation
Drive further north to witness the dramatic 'Cathedral Ridge' of the Passu Cones, one of the most photographed mountain ranges in Asia.
Day 8: Khunjerab Pass - The Roof of the World
Drive to Khunjerab Pass
Ascend to 15,397 feet to the highest paved border crossing in the world (Pakistan-China border). Keep an eye out for Himalayan Ibex and Golden Marmots.
Picnic at the Border
Your hotel will provide a luxury picnic hamper to enjoy amidst the high-altitude peaks.
Dinner at Eagle's Nest
Head to Duikar for sunset views and dinner. It's the highest point in Hunza accessible by car, offering 360-degree views of 11 peaks.
Day 9: Gilgit - The Silk Road Hub
Drive to Gilgit
A relaxing 2-hour drive back towards the regional capital. Stop at the Rakaposhi viewpoint for tea with a view of the 7,788m peak.
Karginah Buddha
Visit the 7th-century rock-carved Buddha in Kargah Nallah, a testament to the region's Buddhist heritage.
Gilgit Serena Hotel Check-in
Relax in the luxury of the Serena, set within lush gardens near the Gilgit River.
Day 10: Return to Islamabad - Rest & Retail
Flight to Islamabad
Take the return morning flight to the capital. Use the afternoon to rest or indulge in a spa session at the hotel.
Shopping at Centaurus Mall
Visit the premium floors of the Centaurus Mall for high-end local fashion brands like Khaadi Khaas and Sana Safinaz.
French Dining at Marriott
Enjoy an exquisite fine-dining experience at Jason's Steak House or the French restaurant inside the Marriott.
Day 11: Lahore - The Heart of Pakistan
Luxury Drive to Lahore
A 4-hour drive via the M2 Motorway in a private executive car. The motorway is one of the best in South Asia.
Pearl Continental Check-in
Arrive at the PC Lahore, the city's premier luxury hotel, famous for its grand lobby and high-tea service.
Shalimar Gardens
Explore the UNESCO-listed Mughal gardens built by Emperor Shah Jahan, featuring three-level terraces and hundreds of fountains.
Day 12: Lahore - Mughal Grandeur
Walled City Tour
Enter via the Delhi Gate. Visit the Shahi Hammam and the breathtaking Wazir Khan Mosque, covered in intricate tile mosaic.
Lahore Fort & Badshahi Mosque
A private guide will take you through the Sheesh Mahal (Palace of Mirrors) and the iconic red sandstone Badshahi Mosque.
Dinner at Cooco's Den
Dine on the rooftop of this famous art gallery/restaurant with an unrivaled view of the Badshahi Mosque's illuminated domes.
Day 13: Lahore - Border & Feasts
Lahore Museum
View the 'Fasting Buddha' and an extensive collection of Gandhara art and Mughal miniature paintings.
Wagah Border Ceremony
Experience the high-energy flag-lowering ceremony at the Pakistan-India border. Your guide will arrange VIP seating for the best view.
Food Street Experience
Visit the Fort Road Food Street for high-end dining at Haveli, offering traditional recipes in a restored haveli setting.
Day 14: Karachi - The City of Lights
Flight to Karachi
Fly south to the coastal metropolis of Karachi. Transfer to the Avari Towers, overlooking the city center.
Mohatta Palace Museum
Visit this stunning pink stone palace built by a wealthy Hindu businessman in 1927, now a premier art museum.
Dinner at Kolachi
Experience the ultimate Karachi dining at Do Darya. Kolachi offers premium seafood and grilled meats on a pier over the Arabian Sea.
Day 15: Karachi - Coastal Elegance
Quaid-e-Azam Mausoleum
Visit the white marble tomb of Pakistan's founder, Mohammad Ali Jinnah, a symbol of the city's modern identity.
Lunch at Café Flo
Indulge in high-end French cuisine at Karachi's most prestigious bistro, a favorite for diplomats and executives.
Clifton Beach & Boat Club
Enjoy a private sunset boat ride from the Marina Club to see the Karachi skyline from the water.
Day 16: Karachi - Final Farewells
Empress Market & Last Shopping
A quick visit to the colonial-era Empress Market for high-quality local spices and hand-woven fabrics.
Farewell Brunch
A lavish Sunday brunch at the Movenpick Hotel, featuring a mix of Pakistani specialties and international favorites.
Transfer to Airport
Your chauffeur will ensure you arrive at Jinnah International Airport in plenty of time for your flight home.
Best Time to Visit Pakistan
The ideal time for this nationwide journey is between September and October or April and May. During these months, the northern mountain passes are open and the weather in the south (Lahore and Karachi) is pleasantly warm rather than scorching. If you prefer lush greenery and fruit blossoms in the north, spring (April) is spectacular. For the golden hues of autumn in Hunza, aim for late October.
Currency & Money
The local currency is the Pakistani Rupee (PKR). While luxury hotels and high-end restaurants in major cities accept international credit cards (Visa and Mastercard), cash is still king in the northern areas and local bazaars. It is recommended to carry a mix of cash and cards. Tipping is customary in Pakistan; a 10% tip at high-end restaurants and small gratuities for drivers and guides are greatly appreciated.
Getting Around Pakistan
For a luxury itinerary, domestic flights are the preferred method for long distances (Islamabad to Skardu/Gilgit and Lahore to Karachi). For intercity travel like Islamabad to Lahore, a private chauffeured SUV via the motorway is the most comfortable option. Within cities, private car rentals or the 'Business Plus' class on the Pakistan Railways (for a nostalgic experience) are available, though private cars offer the most flexibility and security.
