Day 1 - Skardu

When you land at Skardu on the morning flight from Islamabad, we will meet you and transport you to your hotel, where your bike will be waiting for you at the hotel. Feel free to jump on one of the bikes and take it for a spin around town. If you're up for it, we may go and hit the desert to play in the dunes.

In the evening, we all have dinner together to get to know each other a little, go through a few do’s and don’ts and answer any last-minute questions you may have.

Day 2 - Khaplu (~145km)

The first riding day is a nice, easy day to ease you into the trip. We set off from Skardu and head East following the mighty Indus River, on the far side of the river, you will get great views of Sarfaranga, the world's highest Cold Desert. We visit Manthoka Waterfall for lunch, a beautiful and majestic waterfall located in the Kharmang Valley with crystal clear water, before continuing to our overnight stop in Khaplu.

Day 3 - Hushe (~110km)

We travel the Hushe Valley, which is surrounded by some of the highest and most rugged peaks in the world; we have lunch with the dramatic and stunning backdrop of Masherbrum (7,821 meters) and Laila Peak (6,096 meters) in front of us at in the village of Hushe. After Lunch, we travel back via the village of Haldi at the base of the Haldi Cones, an awe-inspiring set of granite mountains that feature dramatic ridges, sharp spires, and towering cliffs, many of which have never been climbed.

Day 4 - Sarfaranga (~135km)

We retrace our steps and follow the mighty Indus River downstream before exploring the unique and stunning high-altitude desert of Sarfarange (Also known as the Katpana Desert). Sarfaranga is characterised by vast expanses of white dunes, creating a surreal and otherworldly landscape which we will optionally cross before heading back to Skardu for the night.

Day 5 - Deosai Plains National Park (~140km)

We cross the Deosai National Park. Also nick-named “Little Mongolia”, at an average altitude of 4110m it is the second-highest plain in the world, populated by Himalayan Brown Bears, Himalayan Wolves, Snow Leopards, Ibex, Marmots, and a bewildering array of migratory birds..

Day 6 - Fairy Meadows (~60km)

We take the road to Fairy Meadows, this road was classified by the World Health Organisation in 2014 as being the second deadliest road in the world, but we are not going to ride it the government will not let us ride it, we take a jeep.

The jeep gets us close, but we have to walk the final 4.5km to our accommodation, or if you don’t want to walk, you can hire a horse to ride up.

Day 7 - Nanga Parbat (The Killer Mountain)

Free day today to optionally take the 17km round trip hike to Nanga Parbat (>8,000m) basecamp, or just go for a gentle stroll to Bayal Camp for lunch and back.

The Trek to Nanga Parbat has been described as one of the most spectacular treks in the world. It is fairly easy to do with a moderate level of fitness, although it does feel more strenuous as you climb the 700m to above 4000m. The scenery is spectacular as you follow the Raikot Glacier on your left and get closer to the mountain. You are probably at serious risk of filling your camera's memory card or phone with photos along the way.

Day 8 - Besham (~260km)

Today is a big day, it may only be ~260km, but it will take us all day and we need an early start to get down from Fairy Meadows and pick up the bikes. We follow the mighty Indus River, crossing it a few times and ride to Besham for our overnight stay. Along the way we stop and visit the ancient Thalpan Petroglyphs at Chilas

Day 9 - Shangla Pass (~140km)

We leave the Indus River and cross the picturesque Shangla Pass that drops us into the awesome Swat District.

The pass offers stunning panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas and the Hindu Kush glaciers. The landscape is dotted with lush green forests of pine and cedar trees, It’s also historically important as the pass was used by Alexander the Great's army in 320 BC during his campaign in the region.

Day 10 - Swat Valley (~80km)

Often referred to as the "Switzerland of the East," this is a stunning region that has the Swat River running through the valley, creating a serene landscape. The valley also boasts the beautiful Mahodand Lake which we visit, known for its clear turquoise waters.

Swat Valley has a rich history, with archaeological sites dating back to the Gandhara civilization and is home to several ancient Buddhist stupas and monasteries, such as the famous Butkara Stupa and Udegram Buddhist Ruins.

Day 11 - Kumrat Valley (~80km)

We ride Badgoi Pass, also known as Badogai Pass, a high mountain pass (>3,500m). From the summit, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Swat Valley, Utror Top, and the surrounding mountains

The Kumrat Valley is a hidden gem and is renowned for its natural beauty and tranquil environment, it is famous for its verdant meadows and wildflowers, creating a serene and picturesque landscape. The valley is surrounded by the towering peaks of the Hindu Kush and many beautiful waterfalls.

Day 12 - Lowari Tunnel (~170km)

An early start today as we head to the Kalash Valley via the Lowari Tunnel which itself is a remarkable engineering feat that connects the districts of Dir and Chitral. It consists of two separate tunnels, with a combined length of 10.4 kilometres. Construction began in 1975 but faced multiple interruptions until it was finally completed and opened to traffic in July 2017

Day 13 - Kalash Valley (Free Day)

The Kalash Valleys, consist of Bumburet, Rumbur, and Birir.

The valleys are characterized by lush green landscapes, picturesque meadows, and dense forests of pine and deodar trees with clear, sparkling rivers and streams flowing through them.

The valleys are home to the Kalash people, one of the smallest ethnoreligious communities in Pakistan. They have a distinct culture, language, and animistic religion. They are known for their vibrant traditional attire. Women wear brightly coloured dresses adorned with intricate embroidery and beadwork, along with distinctive headpieces.

Day 14 - Booni (~114km)

Today we start to head East and climb to a higher altitude following the Kunar River as we head to Booni a charming town bordered by the lush green Qaqlasht high-altitude meadows,

On the way, we stop at Chitral and optionally visit the Chitral Fort which has served as a seat of power for local rulers for centuries. It offers a glimpse into the region's rich history and provides stunning views of the town and surrounding mountains, and the Shahi Mosque was built in the Mughal architectural style and is a prominent religious and cultural landmark in Chitral.

Day 15 - Qalasht Meadows/Hike

Two options for you today, explore the Qaqlasht Meadows, a stunning, expansive high-altitude meadow that offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Hindu Kush mountain range, known for vast, open spaces, which makes it an ideal spot for photographers. The meadows are surrounded by small villages you are free to explore and interact with the people of the local Wakhi and Khowar communities.

There are also opportunities to hike to the Booni Gol Glacier where you will pass the stunning Booni Gol Waterfall and the magnificent Booni Zom Peak.

Day 16 - Mastuj Valley (<240km)

Mastuj Valley is a hidden gem in northern Pakistan, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, adventure, and cultural richness. It's a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the wonders of the Chitral District—if we can get permission.

The valley features the ruins of an ancient fortress built in the early 18th century, which has been rebuilt several times.

If we cannot get permission to travel to Lasht, then we may decide to bypass and explore more of the Yasin Valley or ride both Chapursan and Khunjerab Pass later.

Day 17 - Shandur Pass (~121km)

Shandur Pass, often referred to as the "Roof of the World," is a high mountain pass at approximately 3,7000m that connects the districts of Chitral and Ghizer.

The pass is known for its vast, flat meadows, which are surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Hindu Kush and Karakoram ranges. A serene alpine lake, is a prominent feature of the landscape, reflecting the surrounding mountains and sky.

The Pass is famous for hosting the Shandur Polo Festival, held every July. This unique event features traditional polo matches played between teams from Chitral and Gilgit-Baltistan on what is considered the highest polo ground in the world.

Day 18 - Gilgit (~170km)

We continue heading East following the ever-growing Gilgit River with a detour to the Yasin Valley, also known as Babaye-i-Yasen, a beautiful and serene valley, with its rich history it was once part of the ancient trade routes that connected Central Asia with the Indian Subcontinent.

Yasin is home to numerous diverse ethnic groups, including Wakhi, Khowar, and Burusho communities. Each group has its unique traditions, languages, and customs.

Gilgit has a good bazaar that opens around 11 am till late into the night if you want to pick some souvenirs to take home.

Day 19 - Passu (~160km)

We ride the glorious Karakorum Highway to Passu via the Hunza Valley, a breathtakingly beautiful region which has been described as one of the most exotic places in Pakistan, renowned for its stunning landscapes, featuring towering mountains, lush green terraces, and sparkling rivers. It is surrounded by some of the world's highest peaks, including Rakaposhi (7,788 meters), Ultar Sar (7,388 meters), and Ladyfinger Peak (6,000 meters)

Along the way we stop for Lunch at the remarkable Rakiposhi viewpoint which offers the closest view of Rakaposhi, the world's 27th-highest peak

Day 20 - Shimshal (~160km)

We ride the Shimshal Valley Road, a highlight of the trip; this road is both a remarkable and challenging route that was only completed in 2003 after 18 years of construction, until which Shimshal was inaccessible by motor vehicle, requiring a three-day trek over high passes, the road has been described as a man-made ledge clinging to the side of the mountain hundreds of feet above the river.

Shimshal itself was founded around four centuries ago by Mamu Singh and his wife Khadija. The village has a rich history and is known for its vibrant culture.

The people of Shimshal are primarily Wakhi and speak the Wakhi language. They belong to the Ismaili sect of Shia Islam and follow the spiritual leader Aga Khan.

Day 21 (Option 1) - Chapursan (~210km)

One of our favourite valleys, whilst not as dramatic at Shimsla, Chapursan, due to its remote location, remains relatively untouched by mass tourism, preserving its natural beauty and cultural integrity. It is a real hidden treasure, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, and cultural richness.

Chapursan is home to the Yazghil Glacier, which offers breathtaking views and Lupghar Sar, standing at 7,200 meters which provides a stunning backdrop to the valley.

CHapursan is inhabited by the Wakhi people, who are known for their warm hospitality and rich cultural traditions. They speak their own Wakhi language and follow the Ismaili sect of Shia Islam.

Day 21 (Option 2) - Kunjerab Pass (~240km)

We ride the sealed Karakorum Highway North, this section is often referred to as the Eight Wonder of the World, offering a scenic and adventurous journey through some of the most dramatic landscapes onto Khunjerab Pass.

Khunjerab Pass is a high-altitude mountain pass that forms the border between Pakistan and China (the highest paved international border crossing in the world). It is also one of the most significant and picturesque passes in the world, surrounded by towering and offering breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains, glaciers, and vast high-altitude plateaus.

Day 22 - Hoper Glacier (~175km)

We start to retrace our steps South and along the way visit the Hoper Glacier, which is part of the larger Baltoro Glacier system and is surrounded by high peaks such as Spantik (Golden Peak) and Rush Peak, there are also great views back to the peaks of the Hunza Valley.

This is also a great place to pick up some souvenirs of your trip, just don’t try to pick and bring back some of the hemp/cannabis plants that are cultivated extensively in this valley.

We stay overnight in GIlgit, the capital of GIlgit-Baltistan where you have further opportunity to visit the local bazaar for souvenirs.

Day 23 - Naltar Valley (~120km)

The Naltar Valley is one of the most picturesque and serene regions in Gilgit-Baltistan. The road is rugged and leads to several beautiful lakes, known as the Naltar Lakes or Bashkiri Lakes. These include:

Satrangi Lake (Seven Colors Lake): Known for its multicoloured reflections.

Blue Lake: Famous for its deep blue waters.

Green Lake: Characterized by its greenish hue.

The valley is surrounded by towering snow-capped peaks, providing a stunning backdrop to the lush landscape.

Day 24 - Skardu (~210km)

After visiting the exact point where the Hindu Kush, Karakorum and the Himalayas converge, we ride Strategic Highway 1 (S-1) that connects Gilgit with Skardu.

The road offers great views of the Indus River, the surrounding mountains, and picturesque valleys.

The road is winding and, in some places, only wide enough for one vehicle to pass at a time. There are also sections with steep cliffs and no guardrails, making it one of the most dangerous roads in the world.

In the evening we will have a goodbye feast and reminisce on all the things we have seen and done.

Day 25 - Ismalabad

Today is a sad day as we drop you at Skardu Airport for your return flight to Islamabad. We hope you have had a fantastically memorable time.