This 19-day tour takes you to Nepal, India and Pakistan. Visit Lord Shiva's temple in Kathmandu and others at Vranasi and Delhi. The splendour of Taj Mahal awaits you at Agra. Journey through Lahore to unravel Moghal glory and relive the Gandharan period in Peshawar, Swat valley & Taxila. Hunza-the land of Rakaposhi-and Gilgit, on the crossroads of Silk Route, provide the respite before the end of the tour in Islamabad.Cities visited on this programme are: Karachi, Kathmandu, Pokhara, Varanasi, Agra, Delhi, Peshawar, Swat, Chilas, Hunza, Gilgit, Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Lahore
Your Itinerary
Day 1:
Arrival in Karachi where you will be met by our representative and check in to your hotel. Transfer to the airport for your flight to Kathmandu.
Arrive and transfer to Hotel. Overnight at the hotel.
(L) (D)
Day 2:
After breakfast proceed for fullday sightseeing tour.
Visit Pahupatinath, Hindu Temple (dedicated to Lord Shiva) Bodhanath-Colossal Stupa (one of the largest in the world) and Patan (tour Durbar square). Krishna Temple and a Tibetan camp.
Overnight at the hotel.
(B) (L) (D)
Day 3:
After breakfast transfer to airport for your flight to Pokhara.
Upon arrival transfer to the hotel.
Afternoon sightseeing of Pokhara.
Overnight at the hotel.
(B) (L) (D)
Day 4:
After breakfast transfer to the airport for your return flight to Kathmandu.
Upon arrival transfer to the hotel.
Overnight at the hotel.
(B) (L) (D)
Day 5:
After breakfast transfer to the airport for your flight to Varanasi / India.
Upon arrival transfer to the hotel.
Varansai is the holy city of the Hindus on the bank of the river Ganges. A center of civilization and learning for over 2,000 years.
Day 6:
Early morning drive to the river Ganges where you will board a boat to witness a spectacle of religious practice performed by pilgrims.
In the afternoon you will visit major temples, then transfer to the airport for your fliht to Agra (home of the Taj Mahal).
Upon arrival transfer to the hotel.
Overnight at the hotel.
(B) (L) (D)
Day 7:
After breakfast visit the Taj Mahal and Fatahpur Sikri (now deserted) which Mughal Emperor Akbar briefly made his imperial captial.
Overnight at hotel.
(B) (L) (D)
Day 8:
After breakfast at hotel drive to Delhi, capital of India.
Arrive Delhi and transfer to hotel.
Afternoon visit 12th century Qutub Minar, Birla Temple, the War Memorial , President's house, Parliament, 17th century Jama Masjid and Red fort.
Delhi is on the bank of the river Jumna and is major gateway to the country. Contemporary Delhi is a bustling metropolis which successfully combines in its folds both the ancient and the modern.
Overnight at hotel.
(B) (L) (D)
Day 9:
After breakfast proceed to visit old Delhi and then transfer to the airport for your flight to Lahore ( Pakistan ) where you will catch a connecting flight to Peshawar.
Lahore is the city of saints and is studded with shrines. It stands on the bank of the Ravi river at an elevation of 902 feet above sea level, and covers an area of 115 square miles. Lahore merely means Loh-Awar, a fort as strong as iron. The Lahore Fort has 13 gates. Lahore rose to its importance during Ghazanavid period. It was developed and enlarged under Ayaz, the favourite of Mahmud. Ayaz was for serveral years the Governor of Lahore and lies buried there. Lahore attained its glory and flourished under the Moghul period. Akbar made Lahore his capital from 1584 to 1598. Jahangir had great love for the city and his tomb and the tomb of his wife Nurjahan are in Lahore. Shah Jahan was born at Lahore and did much to embellish the city of his birth. He gave the city Shalimar Gardeens in 1647. Aurangzeb gave the town the Badshahi Mosque. After the Moghal glory there were several invasions, the most destructive beign the Ranjit Singh invasion. He ruled the city for fifty years and stripped its monuments of practically all the ornaments and transferred them to Amritsar. During the British rule from 1849 to 1947, Lahore acquired a renewed look. The Supreme Court, the High Court and the Govermment College were constructed and are some of the fine examples of colonial British architecture -a strangely attractive mixture of Moghal, Gothic and Victorian styles. In 1940, the Pakistan resolution was passed at a site that later became the Pakistan Minar - a tower built to denote the passage of the resolution. After the partition in 1947, Lahore became the capital of the West Punjab. In 1970, on the disintegration of Pakistan as one unit and into four provinces, Lahore became the capital of the Punjab province.
Upon arrival transfer to the hotel.
Peshawar is the capital of the North West Frontier Province, strategically situated at the mouth of the Khyber Pass. Known as the ancient and historical city of Central Asia, Peshawar is a city of many secrets. Her story is the story of many cultures, peoples, traditions, and customs. It has seen countless epochs of invaders, conquerors and emperors. The inhabitants of this city - the legendary Pathans - have thus evolved into a daring and fearless race. The bazaar is known as the Qissa Khawani (Story Tellers) bazaar: Years ago, caravans used to travel from Russia and China into Persia, and Peshawar used to be the Gateway. All kinds of people used to meet and exchange stories and brag about their exploits - hence the name.
Until the mid-fifties, Peshawar was enclosed within walls having sixteen gates. On the Eastern approach to the city lies the mighty Bala Hisar fort, built by Babar, the first of the Moghals. On the Eastern aproach, lies the sombre Jamrud fort, which today still is used as part of the second defence perimeter. In the heart of the city lies the Mahabat Khan mosque, built in 1680 by Mahabat Khan, the then Governor of the province. The architect attempted to copy the mighty Badshahi Mosque of Lahore, and constructed six small minarets in between two huge minarets towering 110 feet into the air.
Overnight at the hotel.
(B) (L) (D)
Day 9:
After breakfast proceed to visit old Delhi and then transfer to the airport for your flight to Lahore ( Pakistan ) where you will catch a connecting flight to Peshawar.
Lahore is the city of saints and is studded with shrines. It stands on the bank of the Ravi river at an elevation of 902 feet above sea level, and covers an area of 115 square miles. Lahore merely means Loh-Awar, a fort as strong as iron. The Lahore Fort has 13 gates. Lahore rose to its importance during Ghazanavid period. It was developed and enlarged under Ayaz, the favourite of Mahmud. Ayaz was for serveral years the Governor of Lahore and lies buried there. Lahore attained its glory and flourished under the Moghul period. Akbar made Lahore his capital from 1584 to 1598. Jahangir had great love for the city and his tomb and the tomb of his wife Nurjahan are in Lahore. Shah Jahan was born at Lahore and did much to embellish the city of his birth. He gave the city Shalimar Gardeens in 1647. Aurangzeb gave the town the Badshahi Mosque. After the Moghal glory there were several invasions, the most destructive beign the Ranjit Singh invasion. He ruled the city for fifty years and stripped its monuments of practically all the ornaments and transferred them to Amritsar. During the British rule from 1849 to 1947, Lahore acquired a renewed look. The Supreme Court, the High Court and the Govermment College were constructed and are some of the fine examples of colonial British architecture -a strangely attractive mixture of Moghal, Gothic and Victorian styles. In 1940, the Pakistan resolution was passed at a site that later became the Pakistan Minar - a tower built to denote the passage of the resolution. After the partition in 1947, Lahore became the capital of the West Punjab. In 1970, on the disintegration of Pakistan as one unit and into four provinces, Lahore became the capital of the Punjab province.
Upon arrival transfer to the hotel.
Peshawar is the capital of the North West Frontier Province, strategically situated at the mouth of the Khyber Pass. Known as the ancient and historical city of Central Asia, Peshawar is a city of many secrets. Her story is the story of many cultures, peoples, traditions, and customs. It has seen countless epochs of invaders, conquerors and emperors. The inhabitants of this city - the legendary Pathans - have thus evolved into a daring and fearless race. The bazaar is known as the Qissa Khawani (Story Tellers) bazaar: Years ago, caravans used to travel from Russia and China into Persia, and Peshawar used to be the Gateway. All kinds of people used to meet and exchange stories and brag about their exploits - hence the name.
Until the mid-fifties, Peshawar was enclosed within walls having sixteen gates. On the Eastern approach to the city lies the mighty Bala Hisar fort, built by Babar, the first of the Moghals. On the Eastern aproach, lies the sombre Jamrud fort, which today still is used as part of the second defence perimeter. In the heart of the city lies the Mahabat Khan mosque, built in 1680 by Mahabat Khan, the then Governor of the province. The architect attempted to copy the mighty Badshahi Mosque of Lahore, and constructed six small minarets in between two huge minarets towering 110 feet into the air.
Overnight at the hotel.
(B) (L) (D)
Day 10:
After breakfast proceed for halfday excursion to Khyber Pass
[PLS NOTE THAT KHYBER PASS EXCURSION IS SUBJECT TO GOVERNMENT'S PERMISSION AND WE NEED FULL PASSPORT DETAILS ATLEAST 21 DAYS BEFORE ARRIVAL TO APPLY FOR PERMIT]
This famous pass has been a silent witness to the countless number of invaders, pleasure seekers, adventures and soothsayers that have filtered through its narrow gateway over the centuries. The historic Khyber Pass begins at a distance 15 miles west of Peshawar at the Babi-Khyber watchtower, which acts as a gateway to the Pass. You then begin a winding journey through a tribal area,passing the Jamrud fort, and for 36 miles are another `invader`,witnessing the stark and severe beauty of this passage hewn through great rocks. The pass ends at the Torkham Border, passing the smugglers` bazaar,Landikotal, which at a height of 3518 feet straddles the top of this historical passageway. At Torkham the Durand line separates Pakistan from Afghanistan.
After tour return to the hotel.
After a short rest proceed for halfday city sightseeing of Peshawar.
We begin by visiting the rich museum of Peshawar,which houses treasures of the Gandhara period.
Proceed to old Peshawar through the Kabuli Gate - one of the sixteen - to the Qissa Khawani bazaar, " the street of story tellers", and witness unusual and unforgetable sights. We will also visit the coppersmith's bazaar, which flourished from the 1st century B.C. to the 5th century A.D. Continue to Mahabat Khan's mosque, built in 1670 by the Governor of Peshawar under Moghal Emperor Shah Jahan. Our
Tour will pass by Balar Hisar Fort, built by Babar in 1526 - 30, and rebuilt by Hari Singh Nalva, under the guidance of French engineers in 1830.
Overnight at the hotel.
(B) (L) (D)
Day 10:
After breakfast proceed for halfday excursion to Khyber Pass
[PLS NOTE THAT KHYBER PASS EXCURSION IS SUBJECT TO GOVERNMENT'S PERMISSION AND WE NEED FULL PASSPORT DETAILS ATLEAST 21 DAYS BEFORE ARRIVAL TO APPLY FOR PERMIT]
This famous pass has been a silent witness to the countless number of invaders, pleasure seekers, adventures and soothsayers that have filtered through its narrow gateway over the centuries. The historic Khyber Pass begins at a distance 15 miles west of Peshawar at the Babi-Khyber watchtower, which acts as a gateway to the Pass. You then begin a winding journey through a tribal area,passing the Jamrud fort, and for 36 miles are another `invader`,witnessing the stark and severe beauty of this passage hewn through great rocks. The pass ends at the Torkham Border, passing the smugglers` bazaar,Landikotal, which at a height of 3518 feet straddles the top of this historical passageway. At Torkham the Durand line separates Pakistan from Afghanistan.
After tour return to the hotel.
After a short rest proceed for halfday city sightseeing of Peshawar.
We begin by visiting the rich museum of Peshawar,which houses treasures of the Gandhara period.
Proceed to old Peshawar through the Kabuli Gate - one of the sixteen - to the Qissa Khawani bazaar, " the street of story tellers", and witness unusual and unforgetable sights. We will also visit the coppersmith's bazaar, which flourished from the 1st century B.C. to the 5th century A.D. Continue to Mahabat Khan's mosque, built in 1670 by the Governor of Peshawar under Moghal Emperor Shah Jahan. Our
Tour will pass by Balar Hisar Fort, built by Babar in 1526 - 30, and rebuilt by Hari Singh Nalva, under the guidance of French engineers in 1830.
Overnight at the hotel.
(B) (L) (D)
Day 11:
After breakfast drive to Swat enroute visit Takht-e-Bahi.
Takht-Bahi, situated 500 feet high on a rocky spur. This site, dating back to 45 A.D. has produced sculptures in stone and stucco that are uniquely arranged on small shrines that surround the main stupa.
After visiting the site continue drive to Swat.
Upon arrival transfer to the hotel.
The Greeks fought for its beauty, the Buddhist inhabited it because of its eternal beauty and peace,the Moghals envied its lush green valleys and fast flowing rivers and today it is coveted by the Pathans, the Kohistanis and the Gujars. Over two thousand years ago, this prosperous valley of Swat - originally known as Udyan - was the home of well-settled people, living within magnificently planned towns. In 327 B.C., Alexander the Great fought his way to Udigram and Barikot and settled a good part of his army here. Later, the Buddhists came, they preached, converted, fought and stayed to worship. Graphic remains of the Buddhist culture date back to the 2nd century. In the 11th century Mahmud of Ghazni invaded Swat after having advanced through Dir, and defeatd Gira, the local ruler, near Udigram. After him followed the Moghals, under Babar and his grandson Akbar, yet they were unable to conquer the valley. There is evidence that by then the Yusufzai Pathans - fierce, proud and resolute warriors - defended their soil against all invaders, including the British. Winston Spencer Churchill, in his account of the Malakand campaign, narrates a colourful tale. Swat, a land that shines with fruit-laden orchards, flower-filled slopes, meandering rivers, tumbling streams and is surrounded by the mighty ranges of the Hindu Kush and the Karakoram. The valley is 3250 feet above sea level and Saidu Sharif and Mingora are the towns that form the twin capital of this area. Kalam, 64 miles from Saidu Sharif,is the last town accessible by road. It is at a height of 6800 feet, and is surrounded on all sides by the snow-covered peaks of the Hindu Kush,dense forests of pine, fir deodar and wild flowers,dotted with orchards of walnut and borders the Ushoo stream.
After checking into the hotel proceed for city sightseeing of Swat. You will visit Swat Museum, Butkara Monastery and Mingora Bazaar. Butkara - the remains of one of the most important
Buddhist shrines in the valley. This site consists of a main stupa around which jostle 215 votive stupas in apparently glorious disarray. The main stupa was believed to contain some ashes of Lord Buddha and to have been built by the Mauryan Emperor Ashoka. It is difficult to imagine it as it must have been once,all painted and gilded and topped by stone umbrellas.You can still see the statues of lions crouching on
their haunches. They probably fell off the tops of the tall columns which once stood near the stupa.
After visiting the Butkara Monastery visit Swat Museum.Then you will visit Mingora Bazaar, which is the commercial centre well-worth visiting, for there you will find emeralds for which Swat is famous.
Overnight at the hotel.
(B) (L) (D)
Day 11:
After breakfast drive to Swat enroute visit Takht-e-Bahi.
Takht-Bahi, situated 500 feet high on a rocky spur. This site, dating back to 45 A.D. has produced sculptures in stone and stucco that are uniquely arranged on small shrines that surround the main stupa.
After visiting the site continue drive to Swat.
Upon arrival transfer to the hotel.
The Greeks fought for its beauty, the Buddhist inhabited it because of its eternal beauty and peace,the Moghals envied its lush green valleys and fast flowing rivers and today it is coveted by the Pathans, the Kohistanis and the Gujars. Over two thousand years ago, this prosperous valley of Swat - originally known as Udyan - was the home of well-settled people, living within magnificently planned towns. In 327 B.C., Alexander the Great fought his way to Udigram and Barikot and settled a good part of his army here. Later, the Buddhists came, they preached, converted, fought and stayed to worship. Graphic remains of the Buddhist culture date back to the 2nd century. In the 11th century Mahmud of Ghazni invaded Swat after having advanced through Dir, and defeatd Gira, the local ruler, near Udigram. After him followed the Moghals, under Babar and his grandson Akbar, yet they were unable to conquer the valley. There is evidence that by then the Yusufzai Pathans - fierce, proud and resolute warriors - defended their soil against all invaders, including the British. Winston Spencer Churchill, in his account of the Malakand campaign, narrates a colourful tale. Swat, a land that shines with fruit-laden orchards, flower-filled slopes, meandering rivers, tumbling streams and is surrounded by the mighty ranges of the Hindu Kush and the Karakoram. The valley is 3250 feet above sea level and Saidu Sharif and Mingora are the towns that form the twin capital of this area. Kalam, 64 miles from Saidu Sharif,is the last town accessible by road. It is at a height of 6800 feet, and is surrounded on all sides by the snow-covered peaks of the Hindu Kush,dense forests of pine, fir deodar and wild flowers,dotted with orchards of walnut and borders the Ushoo stream.
After checking into the hotel proceed for city sightseeing of Swat. You will visit Swat Museum, Butkara Monastery and Mingora Bazaar. Butkara - the remains of one of the most important
Buddhist shrines in the valley. This site consists of a main stupa around which jostle 215 votive stupas in apparently glorious disarray. The main stupa was believed to contain some ashes of Lord Buddha and to have been built by the Mauryan Emperor Ashoka. It is difficult to imagine it as it must have been once,all painted and gilded and topped by stone umbrellas.You can still see the statues of lions crouching on
their haunches. They probably fell off the tops of the tall columns which once stood near the stupa.
After visiting the Butkara Monastery visit Swat Museum.Then you will visit Mingora Bazaar, which is the commercial centre well-worth visiting, for there you will find emeralds for which Swat is famous.
Overnight at the hotel.
(B) (L) (D)
Day 12:
After an early breakfast drive to Chilas over Shangla Pass through Alpuri Valley into the Indus Valley. There you will join the Karakurm Highway at Besham.
The journey during the day is an experience of great diversities. Immediately turning off from Swat valley towards east, we start climbing the Shangla Pass (altitude 2042 Mtrs). The top presents the most beautiful views of the surrounding mountains whose slopes are ladden with alpine forests. Far with the distance, the Swat Valley with the river is also visible.
Arriving at Besham we are at the bottom edge of Indus valley with alluring view of the lion river and the famous road known as the Karakoram Highway (KKH) which also is dubbed as the eighth wonder of the world. The stretch of our journey from Besham to Thakot is just a little glimpse of the wonders and awe inspiring values that this road has in store for its travellers who take their journey with it on
upstream direction.
The journey from Besham to Chilas or vice versa on Karakoram Highway (KKH), along the narrow gorged Indus formed by Karakoram range, provides a wonderland. The landscape changes almost after every mile. Along the road there are scores of sites and scenes which deserve careful study and observation and there are things which cannot be described in words alone. KKH passes through Komila, Dassu and Shatial where a bridge opens the way to the once
remote vallyes of Darel and Tangir. These valleys hide a wealth of old forts, graves, tombs and mosques with beautiful wood carvings. At Shatial by the roadside, one will see one of the most exquisite rock carvings from 5th century A.D.
Upon arrival transfer to the hotel.
Chilas was on the ancient caravan trail over the Babusar Pass into India and on the Indus trail of Besham, and many rock engravings were left by travellers in this area. Chilas is standing under the shadow of world famous Nanga Parbat.
Overnight at the hotel.
(B) (L) (D)
Day 12:
After an early breakfast drive to Chilas over Shangla Pass through Alpuri Valley into the Indus Valley. There you will join the Karakurm Highway at Besham.
The journey during the day is an experience of great diversities. Immediately turning off from Swat valley towards east, we start climbing the Shangla Pass (altitude 2042 Mtrs). The top presents the most beautiful views of the surrounding mountains whose slopes are ladden with alpine forests. Far with the distance, the Swat Valley with the river is also visible.
Arriving at Besham we are at the bottom edge of Indus valley with alluring view of the lion river and the famous road known as the Karakoram Highway (KKH) which also is dubbed as the eighth wonder of the world. The stretch of our journey from Besham to Thakot is just a little glimpse of the wonders and awe inspiring values that this road has in store for its travellers who take their journey with it on
upstream direction.
The journey from Besham to Chilas or vice versa on Karakoram Highway (KKH), along the narrow gorged Indus formed by Karakoram range, provides a wonderland. The landscape changes almost after every mile. Along the road there are scores of sites and scenes which deserve careful study and observation and there are things which cannot be described in words alone. KKH passes through Komila, Dassu and Shatial where a bridge opens the way to the once
remote vallyes of Darel and Tangir. These valleys hide a wealth of old forts, graves, tombs and mosques with beautiful wood carvings. At Shatial by the roadside, one will see one of the most exquisite rock carvings from 5th century A.D.
Upon arrival transfer to the hotel.
Chilas was on the ancient caravan trail over the Babusar Pass into India and on the Indus trail of Besham, and many rock engravings were left by travellers in this area. Chilas is standing under the shadow of world famous Nanga Parbat.
Overnight at the hotel.
(B) (L) (D)
Day 13:
After breakfast drive to Karimabad ( Hunza ) over Karakuram Highway is rewarded with the view of 8,125 meter Nanga Parbat - known among climbers as Killer Mountain and spectacular views of majestic Rakaposhi (7,788 meters high).You will also see the confluence of the gilgit and Indus rivers,
as well as ancient Buddhist inscriptions and petroglyphs.
Upon arrival transfer to the hotel.
Karimabad is the delightful old capital of the Hunza Kingdom. From Karimabad, with its souvenir shop,post office and thea shop, you can botain a magnificent view of the valley laid out below you and of the peaks behind. The Aliabad/Karimabad area is sprinkled with wild flowers and blossoming fruit orchards. We will spend half our day in these two towns enloying he greenery and delighting in the sound of babbling brooks.
Overnight at the hotel.
(B) (L) (D)
Day 13:
After breakfast drive to Karimabad ( Hunza ) over Karakuram Highway is rewarded with the view of 8,125 meter Nanga Parbat - known among climbers as Killer Mountain and spectacular views of majestic Rakaposhi (7,788 meters high).You will also see the confluence of the gilgit and Indus rivers,
as well as ancient Buddhist inscriptions and petroglyphs.
Upon arrival transfer to the hotel.
Karimabad is the delightful old capital of the Hunza Kingdom. From Karimabad, with its souvenir shop,post office and thea shop, you can botain a magnificent view of the valley laid out below you and of the peaks behind. The Aliabad/Karimabad area is sprinkled with wild flowers and blossoming fruit orchards. We will spend half our day in these two towns enloying he greenery and delighting in the sound of babbling brooks.
Overnight at the hotel.
(B) (L) (D)
Day 14:
After breakfast proceed for halfday excursion to Nagar Valley and Hoper.
A short jeep ride will take us to Nagar, the valley across from Karimabad. Enjoy a walk around the town,talking to the locals and trying to learn the secret of their longevity. Indeed, perhaps it is the stark beauty that surrounds them that allows them to live life to the fullest. Revel in the beauty of the village fruit orchards, and enjoy the many mountain
flowers that dot the landscape before returning to Karimabad.
After tour return to the hotel.
After a short rest proceed for halfday city sightseeing of Karimabad.
[PLS NOTE THAT BALTIT FORT IS NOW A MUSEUM]
Baltit fort was the old palace of the Mirs of Hunza and was inhabited until 1960. It is about 400 years old. Baltit is a curious ramblingold place, four storeys high, sturdily built of stones, sun-dried mud and timber. Baltit is built on a cliff edge; behind it is a ravine and then the Ultar glacier glinting in the sunshine. The architecture here, as at Altit Fort, reflects a Tibetan influence. The local people say that a Princess of Baltistan married a reigning Mir and brought with her Balti masons, carpenters and
craftsmen to build Baltit and Altit as part of her dowry. In the 'museum room' are coats of mail,weapons and the warning drums that sounded the alarm in an attack. The view from the top of the fort is well worth the climb.
Altit fort is even more impressive and is probably 100 years older than Blatit. It is perched on a huge rock cliff that falls 300 metres (1000 ft) sheer into the Hunza river. A 3 km jeep ride or 2 km walk from Karimabad. The road passes through an arch in the aqueduct feeding Karimabad just above the Mir's new house and winds, in a series of terrifying hairpin
bends, over a frail suspension bridge, across a polo ground to Altit village. The fort has a maze of small rooms. The whole is guarded by a watch tower dated 909 AH (1531 AD) with carved doors and windows and surmounted by a picasso-like wooden goat with ibex horns which has a naked light bulb suspended under its chin. The view from the top is rewarding especially that up the Hunza river towards China and
down over the ' battlements' into the river.
Overnight at the hotel.
.
(B) (L) (D)
Day 14:
After breakfast proceed for halfday excursion to Nagar Valley and Hoper.
A short jeep ride will take us to Nagar, the valley across from Karimabad. Enjoy a walk around the town,talking to the locals and trying to learn the secret of their longevity. Indeed, perhaps it is the stark beauty that surrounds them that allows them to live life to the fullest. Revel in the beauty of the village fruit orchards, and enjoy the many mountain
flowers that dot the landscape before returning to Karimabad.
After tour return to the hotel.
After a short rest proceed for halfday city sightseeing of Karimabad.
[PLS NOTE THAT BALTIT FORT IS NOW A MUSEUM]
Baltit fort was the old palace of the Mirs of Hunza and was inhabited until 1960. It is about 400 years old. Baltit is a curious ramblingold place, four storeys high, sturdily built of stones, sun-dried mud and timber. Baltit is built on a cliff edge; behind it is a ravine and then the Ultar glacier glinting in the sunshine. The architecture here, as at Altit Fort, reflects a Tibetan influence. The local people say that a Princess of Baltistan married a reigning Mir and brought with her Balti masons, carpenters and
craftsmen to build Baltit and Altit as part of her dowry. In the 'museum room' are coats of mail,weapons and the warning drums that sounded the alarm in an attack. The view from the top of the fort is well worth the climb.
Altit fort is even more impressive and is probably 100 years older than Blatit. It is perched on a huge rock cliff that falls 300 metres (1000 ft) sheer into the Hunza river. A 3 km jeep ride or 2 km walk from Karimabad. The road passes through an arch in the aqueduct feeding Karimabad just above the Mir's new house and winds, in a series of terrifying hairpin
bends, over a frail suspension bridge, across a polo ground to Altit village. The fort has a maze of small rooms. The whole is guarded by a watch tower dated 909 AH (1531 AD) with carved doors and windows and surmounted by a picasso-like wooden goat with ibex horns which has a naked light bulb suspended under its chin. The view from the top is rewarding especially that up the Hunza river towards China and
down over the ' battlements' into the river.
Overnight at the hotel.
.
(B) (L) (D)
Day 15:
After breakfast drive to Gilgit.
Upon arrival transfer to the hotel.
For the adventure-loving tourist, be he a hiker,angler, art lover, mountaineer or polo enthusiast, or be he merely interested in exotic people and their lifestyles, there are a few places in the world that can compare to Gilgit. Gilgit is an old tribal town that acted as a rest stop for weary travellers on the silk route - the famous road from China to the Arabian sea. It has flourished over the centureies,
lying practically unmolested by the teeming herds of conquerors. Gilgit is located in the heart of the Karakoram range, surrounded by lofty peaks, the most majestic being Rakaposhi. Gilgit is both accessible by road and by air; the road, newly constructed along the path of the ancient silk route, is an unforgetable journey through winding valleys and tumbling waterfalls. By air, the PIA flight follows
the Kunhar river as it winds through the Kaghan valley, and beyond that it follows a narrow cleft in the mountains before alighting at Gilgit.
Afternoon proceed for halfday city sightseeing of Gilgit.
You will visit rock carved Kargha Buddha, Gilgit Bazaar and suspension bridge.
Driving to Kargha is an experience in itself, for our jeep bumps and lurches in a wild arid landscape that is dotted with massive chunks of rock. We are at our destination when abruptly around a bend we find ourselves facing a huge carving of Buddha on a rock. It is not exactly known when the carving appeared, but its workmanship reveals a talented master. We will then resuming our wild ride back to Gilgit.
We will then drive through the bazaar in order to familiarize ourselves with the customs of the Gilgitis, a stop at the co-operative store, where Chinesse goods are bought on the barter system will allow us to glance at Chinese treasures. we will then take a hair-raising drive across Asia's longest suspension bridge - 600 feet long and wide enough only for one jeep at a time.
Overnight at the hotel.
(B) (L) (D)
Day 15:
After breakfast drive to Gilgit.
Upon arrival transfer to the hotel.
For the adventure-loving tourist, be he a hiker,angler, art lover, mountaineer or polo enthusiast, or be he merely interested in exotic people and their lifestyles, there are a few places in the world that can compare to Gilgit. Gilgit is an old tribal town that acted as a rest stop for weary travellers on the silk route - the famous road from China to the Arabian sea. It has flourished over the centureies,
lying practically unmolested by the teeming herds of conquerors. Gilgit is located in the heart of the Karakoram range, surrounded by lofty peaks, the most majestic being Rakaposhi. Gilgit is both accessible by road and by air; the road, newly constructed along the path of the ancient silk route, is an unforgetable journey through winding valleys and tumbling waterfalls. By air, the PIA flight follows
the Kunhar river as it winds through the Kaghan valley, and beyond that it follows a narrow cleft in the mountains before alighting at Gilgit.
Afternoon proceed for halfday city sightseeing of Gilgit.
You will visit rock carved Kargha Buddha, Gilgit Bazaar and suspension bridge.
Driving to Kargha is an experience in itself, for our jeep bumps and lurches in a wild arid landscape that is dotted with massive chunks of rock. We are at our destination when abruptly around a bend we find ourselves facing a huge carving of Buddha on a rock. It is not exactly known when the carving appeared, but its workmanship reveals a talented master. We will then resuming our wild ride back to Gilgit.
We will then drive through the bazaar in order to familiarize ourselves with the customs of the Gilgitis, a stop at the co-operative store, where Chinesse goods are bought on the barter system will allow us to glance at Chinese treasures. we will then take a hair-raising drive across Asia's longest suspension bridge - 600 feet long and wide enough only for one jeep at a time.
Overnight at the hotel.
(B) (L) (D)
Day 16:
After breakfast transfer to the airport for flight to Islamabad (subject to weather condition and backlog).
Upon arrival transfer to hotel.
Rawalpindi and Islamabad are twin cities situated at the edge of the Potohar plateau.
Rawalpidi was originally known as Fatehpur Boari. It was destroyed during the 14th century by a Moghal invasion and remained deserted for a number of years. 350 years ago, during the reign of Emperor Jehangir, a sikh by the name of Rawal Jogi came to the deserted Fatehpur Boari and was instrumental in recreating the glory of
the city. In appreciation, the town became known as Rawalpindi. Today, Raja Bazaar is the main shopping centre, where business is carried out on a wholesale basis. The cantonment area, created by the British,is a comparatively new establishment. It has a Saddar Bazaar with modern shops and has subsequently become the hub of all shopping. Islamabad on the other hand, is a city that is barely two decades old.
Two sleepy villages, Saidpur and Nurpur, existed here prior to the sudden sprouting of buildings. The Margala Hills ( passage of the serpent)provided an ideal backdrop and the naturally hilly terrain caught the government`s eye when they were in search of a place to construct a new capital. Islamabad belongs
to the rare class of capital cities built entirely to plan, such as Washington, Brazil and Canberra. Some of the world`s most distinguished architects were called upon to provide their ideas for the city; names such as Doxiaees, Ponti and Edward Durell Stone figured heavily in the final plan.
Around the twin cities there are many places of interest and recreation bleended with scenic beauty and history. Places like Murree - 42 miles from Islamabad at an elevation of 7517 feet above sea level, thronged by visitors during the summer because of its pleasant atmosphere - and Taxila - situated 35 miles away from
Islamabad, the ancient Gandhara centre of learning, philosophy and art, which flourished from the 5th century B.C.to 450 A.D.
Rest of the day free at leisure.
Overnight at hotel.
(B) (L) (D)
Day 16:
After breakfast transfer to the airport for flight to Islamabad (subject to weather condition and backlog).
Upon arrival transfer to hotel.
Rawalpindi and Islamabad are twin cities situated at the edge of the Potohar plateau.
Rawalpidi was originally known as Fatehpur Boari. It was destroyed during the 14th century by a Moghal invasion and remained deserted for a number of years. 350 years ago, during the reign of Emperor Jehangir, a sikh by the name of Rawal Jogi came to the deserted Fatehpur Boari and was instrumental in recreating the glory of
the city. In appreciation, the town became known as Rawalpindi. Today, Raja Bazaar is the main shopping centre, where business is carried out on a wholesale basis. The cantonment area, created by the British,is a comparatively new establishment. It has a Saddar Bazaar with modern shops and has subsequently become the hub of all shopping. Islamabad on the other hand, is a city that is barely two decades old.
Two sleepy villages, Saidpur and Nurpur, existed here prior to the sudden sprouting of buildings. The Margala Hills ( passage of the serpent)provided an ideal backdrop and the naturally hilly terrain caught the government`s eye when they were in search of a place to construct a new capital. Islamabad belongs
to the rare class of capital cities built entirely to plan, such as Washington, Brazil and Canberra. Some of the world`s most distinguished architects were called upon to provide their ideas for the city; names such as Doxiaees, Ponti and Edward Durell Stone figured heavily in the final plan.
Around the twin cities there are many places of interest and recreation bleended with scenic beauty and history. Places like Murree - 42 miles from Islamabad at an elevation of 7517 feet above sea level, thronged by visitors during the summer because of its pleasant atmosphere - and Taxila - situated 35 miles away from
Islamabad, the ancient Gandhara centre of learning, philosophy and art, which flourished from the 5th century B.C.to 450 A.D.
Rest of the day free at leisure.
Overnight at hotel.
(B) (L) (D)
Day 17:
After breakfast proceed for excursion to Taxila
Situated 35 miles from Rawalpindi, Taxila was once the seat of Oriental culture. It was first mentioned as a satrapy of the Archemenian empire in 6th century B.C. It was invaded by Alexander the Great and passed along to other rulers until finally reaching the hands of Ashoka the Great, who moulded the city into a center of learning. The creative Gandhara
period followed shortly thereafter and Taxila remained the centre of learning, philosophy and art.
It came to a disasterous and pathetic end when sacked by the White Huns. Today, Taxila is an archaeologist's paradise: there is a well-maintained museum here and eight sites scattered around a very short radius. Amongst the best preserved are Sirkap,Jaulian ( the University) and Mohra Moradu.
After tour return to hotel. After a short rest proceed for city sightseeing of Rawalpindi & Islamabad.
We will begin at the old city of Rawalpindi, at the Raja (King) Bazaar. A stop in the silver and gold bazaars will allow us to catch traditional craftsmen at work. We will then continue on the main street linking the Twin cities - Murree Road - before arriving at the gleaming new capital. We pass
shining new buildings and thousands of park areas - a full 50 percent of the 350 square mile site is set aside for parks. We will then stop at the Shakar Parian, " Sweet Hills" to catch a bird's eye view of Islamabad. Our next stop will be Shah Faisal Mosque which is the landmark of Islamabad.
In Islamabad we will start our tour from Damn-e-Koh passing through Constitution Avenue and Margallah Road. Damn-e-Koh is situated at an altitude of 1100 Mtrs which provides bird's eye view of Islamabad, the beautiful capital of Pakistan. Then we will drive to Shah Faisal Mosque. Our next stop will be at the
Shakar Parian, " Sweet Hills" to catch a bird's eye view of Islamabad from eastern side, before returning to the hotel.
Overnight at hotel.
(B) (L) (D)
Day 17:
After breakfast proceed for excursion to Taxila
Situated 35 miles from Rawalpindi, Taxila was once the seat of Oriental culture. It was first mentioned as a satrapy of the Archemenian empire in 6th century B.C. It was invaded by Alexander the Great and passed along to other rulers until finally reaching the hands of Ashoka the Great, who moulded the city into a center of learning. The creative Gandhara
period followed shortly thereafter and Taxila remained the centre of learning, philosophy and art.
It came to a disasterous and pathetic end when sacked by the White Huns. Today, Taxila is an archaeologist's paradise: there is a well-maintained museum here and eight sites scattered around a very short radius. Amongst the best preserved are Sirkap,Jaulian ( the University) and Mohra Moradu.
After tour return to hotel. After a short rest proceed for city sightseeing of Rawalpindi & Islamabad.
We will begin at the old city of Rawalpindi, at the Raja (King) Bazaar. A stop in the silver and gold bazaars will allow us to catch traditional craftsmen at work. We will then continue on the main street linking the Twin cities - Murree Road - before arriving at the gleaming new capital. We pass
shining new buildings and thousands of park areas - a full 50 percent of the 350 square mile site is set aside for parks. We will then stop at the Shakar Parian, " Sweet Hills" to catch a bird's eye view of Islamabad. Our next stop will be Shah Faisal Mosque which is the landmark of Islamabad.
In Islamabad we will start our tour from Damn-e-Koh passing through Constitution Avenue and Margallah Road. Damn-e-Koh is situated at an altitude of 1100 Mtrs which provides bird's eye view of Islamabad, the beautiful capital of Pakistan. Then we will drive to Shah Faisal Mosque. Our next stop will be at the
Shakar Parian, " Sweet Hills" to catch a bird's eye view of Islamabad from eastern side, before returning to the hotel.
Overnight at hotel.
(B) (L) (D)
Day 18:
After breakfast transfer to the airport for flight to Lahore.
Upon arrival and transfer to Hotel.
Lahore is the city of saints and is studded with shrines. It stands on the bank of the Ravi river at an elevation of 902 feet above sea level, and covers an area of 115 square miles. Lahore merely means Loh-Awar, a fort as strong as iron. The Lahore Fort has 13 gates. Lahore rose to its importance during Ghazanavid period. It was developed and enlarged under Ayaz, the favourite of Mahmud. Ayaz was for serveral years the Governor of Lahore and lies buried
there. Lahore attained its glory and flourished under the Moghul period. Akbar made Lahore his capital from 1584 to 1598. Jahangir had great lovefor the city and his tomb and the tomb of his wife Nurjahan are in Lahore. Shah Jahan was born at Lahore and did much to embellish the city of his
birth. He gave the city Shalimar Gardeens in 1647.
Aurangzeb gave the town the Badshahi Mosque. After the Moghal glory there were several invasions, the most destructive beign the Ranjit Singh invasion. He ruled the city for fifty years and stripped its monuments of practically all the ornaments andtransferred them to Amritsar. During the British
rule from 1849 to 1947, Lahore acquired a renewed look. The Supreme Court, the High Court and the Govermment College were constructed and are some of the fine examples of colonial British architecture -a strangely attractive mixture of Moghal, Gothic and
Victorian styles. In 1940, the Pakistan resolution was passed at a site that later became the Pakistan Minar - a tower built to denote the passage of the resolution. After the partition in 1947, Lahore
became the capital of the West Punjab. In 1970, on the disintegration of Pakistan as one unit and into four provinces, Lahore became the capital of the Punjab province.
Afternoon proceed for city sightseeing of Lahore.
Our tour includes visit to Lahore Fort, a marvel of Moghal architecture begun in the 11th century and completed finally by the end of the 16th century.
Amongst the Emperors who contributed to its splendour are Emperors Akbar, Jahangir and Shah Jahan. We will visit the beautiful palace of Mirrors, Shah Jahan's Quadrangle and the Pearl Mosque. Overlooking the Fort is the Badshahi mosque - the world's largest -and it is our next stop. It was constructed during the reign of Emperor Aurangzeb. Pakistan's famous poet-philosopher, Dr. Mohammad Iqbal, lies buried outside the mosque. We will visit also the Pakistan Day Memorial.
We drive through Lahore's crowded streets to the Shalimar Gardens, designed by Ali Mardan of Persia and set out in the Persian style with marble pavilions, a marble waterfall and more than 400 fountains in an area of 42 acres. Emperor Shah Jahan ordered the construction of this " Garden of Heaven" in 1642. Next we proceed to the Anarkali Bazaar,named after a pretty dancer named Anarkali who was
put to death by Emperor Akbar for having an affair with Prince Salim, who later became Emperor Jehangir.
We will also visit Wazir Khan's Mosque, constructed under the stewardship of the Governor in 1643, and Jehangir's tomb.
We will drive to the National Museum which contains one of the finest collections of Buddhist Art from the Gandhara period. Here one is able to view the original Fasting Buddha statue. In front of the museum is the Zam-Zama, the gun immortalized by Rudyard Kipling and the campus of the Punjab
University. We will also visit the Town Hall,a yelow building with bulbous silver domes.
Overnight at the hotel.
(B) (L) (D)
Day 18:
After breakfast transfer to the airport for flight to Lahore.
Upon arrival and transfer to Hotel.
Lahore is the city of saints and is studded with shrines. It stands on the bank of the Ravi river at an elevation of 902 feet above sea level, and covers an area of 115 square miles. Lahore merely means Loh-Awar, a fort as strong as iron. The Lahore Fort has 13 gates. Lahore rose to its importance during Ghazanavid period. It was developed and enlarged under Ayaz, the favourite of Mahmud. Ayaz was for serveral years the Governor of Lahore and lies buried
there. Lahore attained its glory and flourished under the Moghul period. Akbar made Lahore his capital from 1584 to 1598. Jahangir had great lovefor the city and his tomb and the tomb of his wife Nurjahan are in Lahore. Shah Jahan was born at Lahore and did much to embellish the city of his
birth. He gave the city Shalimar Gardeens in 1647.
Aurangzeb gave the town the Badshahi Mosque. After the Moghal glory there were several invasions, the most destructive beign the Ranjit Singh invasion. He ruled the city for fifty years and stripped its monuments of practically all the ornaments andtransferred them to Amritsar. During the British
rule from 1849 to 1947, Lahore acquired a renewed look. The Supreme Court, the High Court and the Govermment College were constructed and are some of the fine examples of colonial British architecture -a strangely attractive mixture of Moghal, Gothic and
Victorian styles. In 1940, the Pakistan resolution was passed at a site that later became the Pakistan Minar - a tower built to denote the passage of the resolution. After the partition in 1947, Lahore
became the capital of the West Punjab. In 1970, on the disintegration of Pakistan as one unit and into four provinces, Lahore became the capital of the Punjab province.
Afternoon proceed for city sightseeing of Lahore.
Our tour includes visit to Lahore Fort, a marvel of Moghal architecture begun in the 11th century and completed finally by the end of the 16th century.
Amongst the Emperors who contributed to its splendour are Emperors Akbar, Jahangir and Shah Jahan. We will visit the beautiful palace of Mirrors, Shah Jahan's Quadrangle and the Pearl Mosque. Overlooking the Fort is the Badshahi mosque - the world's largest -and it is our next stop. It was constructed during the reign of Emperor Aurangzeb. Pakistan's famous poet-philosopher, Dr. Mohammad Iqbal, lies buried outside the mosque. We will visit also the Pakistan Day Memorial.
We drive through Lahore's crowded streets to the Shalimar Gardens, designed by Ali Mardan of Persia and set out in the Persian style with marble pavilions, a marble waterfall and more than 400 fountains in an area of 42 acres. Emperor Shah Jahan ordered the construction of this " Garden of Heaven" in 1642. Next we proceed to the Anarkali Bazaar,named after a pretty dancer named Anarkali who was
put to death by Emperor Akbar for having an affair with Prince Salim, who later became Emperor Jehangir.
We will also visit Wazir Khan's Mosque, constructed under the stewardship of the Governor in 1643, and Jehangir's tomb.
We will drive to the National Museum which contains one of the finest collections of Buddhist Art from the Gandhara period. Here one is able to view the original Fasting Buddha statue. In front of the museum is the Zam-Zama, the gun immortalized by Rudyard Kipling and the campus of the Punjab
University. We will also visit the Town Hall,a yelow building with bulbous silver domes.
Overnight at the hotel.
(B) (L) (D)
Day 19:
After breakfast tranfer to the airport for your home bound flight.
(B)
Day 19:
After breakfast tranfer to the airport for your home bound flight.
(B)
Notes:
Airfare is not included in the tour price.
Also see tour packages in:
Asia
Nepal
India
Pakistan
History Whiz
Archeology/History
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