Pakistan Explorer: Mughals, Mystics & Mountains

Embark on an overnight flight to Lahore, connecting via Doha or Istanbul. 

Upon arrival, transfer to the Pearl Continental for a three-night stay. Stroll through the historic Mall and visit the revered Lahore Museum, established in 1865. The museum, designed by Sir Ganga Ram, boasts Rudyard Kipling's father, John Lockwood Kipling, as one of its most famous curators.
(B, L, D)

Begin with a visit to Anarkali Bazaar's food street, one of the oldest surviving markets with over 200 years of history. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Shalimar Gardens built in the 17th-century as a Persian style paradise garden. From the Shalimar Gardens we travel to the tomb of emperor Jahangir, a remarkable blend of Mughal and Persian architectural styles. Later, transfer to Wagah to witness the colourful and theatrical Wagah border ceremony.
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Explore Lahore's Old City, starting with the Shahi Hammam before visiting the richly adorned Wazir Khan Mosque, Badshahi Mosque, and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Lahore Fort. In the evening, immerse yourself in the soulful strains of a Qawali performance.
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Travel to Islamabad, stopping en route at the Himalayan Salt Mine in Khewra, a historical site dating back to Alexander's army. Visit the 3rd-century Katas Raj Temple Complex before continuing to Islamabad for a two-night stay at the Serena Hotel (The 108 Hotel for Solo Departures).
(B, L, D)

Discover the UNESCO World Heritage site of Taxila, filled with ancient Buddhist ruins and Greco-Bactrian remnants. Visit the peaceful gardens of Gandhara Resource Centre, created as a residential facility for visiting scholars and monks equipped with a library, and a gallery of Gandhara and Potohar. Later, enjoy a vibrant truck art workshop showcasing traditional Pakistani craftsmanship.
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Take a morning flight to the beautiful, isolated region of Skardu and drive through picturesque landscapes to the Khaplu Valley. Check into former residence of the royal family, Serena Khaplu Palace Hotel for a two-night stay, surrounded by views of soaring peaks.
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Begin the day with a visit to the ancient wooden Khanqah-i-Chaqchan Mosque, a mix of Persian, Kashmiri, and Tibetan architecture. Drive to the tranquil Machlu Village, with picturesque stops along the way. Have lunch at a trout farm before returning to Khaplu.
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Enjoy an optional morning walk to Thoqsikhar Palace before travelling to Shigar Valley, stopping at the Bara Wool Spinning Centre. Upon arrival, enjoy a leisurely lunch at Serena Shigar Fort Hotel before checking in for an overnight stay. Afternoon and evening at leisure.
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Choose an optional hike to Shigar Rock, ending at the ruins of a 17th-century fort, then visit the serene Amburiq Mosque, a UNESCO site. Drive to Skardu and explore Kharpocho Fort before heading to the picturesque alpine Kachura Lakes. Enjoy an optional hike or drive to upper Kachura Lake, with a possibility of a boat ride on the lake. Spend the night at Shangrila Resort located on Kachura Lake. 
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Travel to Hunza, enjoying breathtaking views of Rakaposhi and a traditional tea stop in Gilgit and Gulmet. Check into Serena Hotel by Altit Fort for a three-night stay (4-star Ambiance Resort Hunza for Solo Departures), with time for evening exploration.
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Visit the dramatic Baltit Fort and the ancient village of Ganish. Meet the inspiring women of CIQAM, also known as Hunza Women's Social Enterprise at Altit Fort before heading to Eagle Nest View Point for panoramic sunset views. End the day with traditional music and dance performances.
(B, L, D)

Explore the striking Passu Cones, a series of jagged mountain peaks located along the famed Karakoram Highway and visit the women's Carpet Weaving Centre in Gulmit. After lunch enjoy a hike to the Ondra Poygah viewpoint before experiencing the serene Attabad Lake with a boat ride, tea and snacks. Return to Hunza for the night.
(B, L, D)

Drive to Gilgit, stopping to see the 7th-century Kargah Buddha. Check into Serena Gilgit Hotel for lunch and an overnight stay. Spend the afternoon watching a thrilling freestyle polo match in a spectacular mountain setting.
(B, L, D)

Take an early morning flight to Islamabad and explore its landmarks, including Faisal Mosque, Pakistan National Monument, and Lok Virsa Museum. Check into Serena Hotel (The 108 Hotel for Solo Departures) for two nights, with the afternoon free for leisure and an evening visit to Faisal Mosque.
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Spend the day at leisure or join an optional excursion to Rawalpindi, known for its colonial influence and bustling bazaars. Celebrate your last night in Islamabad with a farewell dinner.
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Transfer to the airport for your return flight home.
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