Mountain weather can change quickly; conditions shown are planning guidance for the destination area.
The Hunza valley in late October, when the apricot and poplar terraces above <a href='/destinations/karimabad/'>Karimabad</a> turn every shade from yellow to deep red against bare Karakoram rock. A private road journey up the Karakoram Highway with unhurried time in upper Hunza, timed for peak colour and the clearest skies of the year.<br><br><span class='ptlinks'>Plan your trip: <a href='/destinations/hunza/'>Hunza travel guide</a></span>
Quick Facts
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Day by Day Itinerary
Days 1 to 2, Islamabad to Hunza
Drive north on the Karakoram Highway with an overnight at Besham or Chilas, reaching Karimabad on Day 2 as the valley colour comes into view.
Day 3, Karimabad & Baltit Fort
Explore Baltit and Altit forts and the old Karimabad lanes, with the terraced orchards at full autumn colour below.
Day 4, Eagle's Nest Sunrise
Pre dawn drive to Duikar for sunrise on Rakaposhi, Ultar and Golden Peak. Afternoon free in Karimabad.
Day 5, Attabad Lake & Passu
Upper Hunza day, the turquoise of Attabad against autumn slopes, Passu Cones, the Hussaini suspension bridge and Borith Lake.
Day 6, Khunjerab Pass
Drive to the 4,693m Khunjerab Pass on the Chinese border, the highest paved border crossing in the world.
Day 7, Hopper Valley & Nagar
Cross to Nagar for the Hopper glacier viewpoint and the quieter side of the valley, with strong colour along the approach.
Days 8 to 9, Return to Islamabad
Two day drive back down the KKH with a night en route, arriving Islamabad on Day 9.
Tour Highlights
Karimabad Autumn TerracesAttabad Lake & Passu ConesKhunjerab Pass at the China BorderEagle's Nest Sunrise over RakaposhiAltit & Baltit Fort Orchards
What's Included
Private vehicle and driver throughout
Hotel accommodation with breakfast daily
English speaking guide
Khunjerab National Park entry
Airport transfers and e visa invitation letter
Not Included
International flights
Pakistan visa fee
Lunches and dinners
Personal expenses
Travel insurance
Tour Information
Duration
9 Days / 8 Nights
Travel Mode
By Road (Karakoram Highway)
Group Size
2 to 10 people
Best Time
Late October mid November
Physical Level
Easy, long driving days
Visa Support
Invitation letter provided
Where You'll Stay
Karimabad hotel
5 nights in central Karimabad with valley and Rakaposhi views.
KKH stopovers
3 nights at comfortable roadside properties in Besham or Chilas.
Questions About This Tour
The KKH drive takes the better part of two days each way. Nine days gives five clear days in the valley itself rather than spending most of the trip in a vehicle, which is the difference between seeing Hunza and rushing it.
Usually yes, though it closes with the first heavy snow and can shut at short notice. We check conditions daily and substitute upper Hunza alternatives if the pass is closed.