Astore Valley Tour
Altitude
2,600m
Duration
5-10 Days
Best Season
N/A
Overview
Located in Gilgit-Baltistan and surrounded by the towering peaks of the Himalayas and Karakoram ranges, Astore Valley is a hidden paradise of green meadows, dense forests, glistening streams, and snow-capped mountains. The valley offers breathtaking views of Nanga Parbat (8,126m), along with access to glaciers, alpine lakes, and diverse trekking routes. Visitors experience a blend of natural beauty and cultural richness through encounters with welcoming local communities and traditional village life. Ideal for nature lovers, photographers, and adventure seekers, the Astore Valley Tour provides a peaceful yet inspiring escape into one of Pakistan’s most unspoiled mountain regions.
Highlights
Islamabad to Chilas via Karakoram Highway
Our journey begins with an early morning departure from Islamabad. We travel north along the Karakoram Highway (KKH), passing through the scenic towns of Mansehra, Shinkiari, and Battagram. The route follows the Indus River, taking us through Besham and Dasu, and offering views of the Diamer-Bhasha dam construction sites before we arrive in Chilas for our overnight stay. Accommodation: Hotel.
Astore Valley and Rama Lake Exploration
After breakfast, we take a 4-hour drive from Chilas into the heart of the Astore Valley, following the Astore River through traditional villages. After a brief stop at the local Astore Bazaar, we transition to 4x4 jeeps for an ascent on non-metalled roads to Rama. We will visit Rama Lake for photography and breathtaking views of Nanga Parbat. Accommodation: Hotel/Guest House in Rama or Astore.
Deosai Plateau Traverse to Skardu
Following a morning walk through the lush forest and vegetation near the Rama Polo ground, we depart early for the Deosai Plateau. We cross Bara Pani and enjoy a picnic lunch within Deosai National Park. The day includes stops at the serene Sheosar Lake and Satpara Lake/Dam before we descend into Skardu city. Accommodation: Hotel.
Kachura Lakes and Shigar Valley
Today features a visit to the iconic Shangrila Resort and the crystal-clear Upper Kachura Lake. We then drive through the unique Cold Desert to reach the Shigar Valley for lunch at the historic Shigar Fort Residence. In the late afternoon, we return to Skardu where you have the option of a 40-minute hike to the hilltop Kharpocho Fort. Accommodation: Hotel.
Ghanche and Kharmang Districts
We travel to the Ghanche district to explore Sailing village and visit the Haji Mushtaq fish farm. The journey continues to Khaplu to visit the 700-year-old Chaqchan Mosque and the restored Khaplu Fort Residence. Finally, we drive to the Kharmang district to witness the magnificent Manthokha Waterfalls before returning to Skardu. Accommodation: Hotel.
Return Journey to Naran or Besham
We begin our return journey toward Islamabad. Depending on seasonal accessibility, we will travel via the Babusar Pass into the Naran/Kaghan Valley. If the pass is closed, we will follow the Karakoram Highway back toward Besham. Accommodation: Hotel/Guest House.
Final Descent to Islamabad
On our final day, we complete the drive back to the capital city. We arrive in Islamabad in the afternoon, where our staff will provide a final drop-off at your designated location, marking the conclusion of our Astore Valley tour. End of services.
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