Cherry Blossom Bloom in Hunza

Discover the breathtaking beauty of northern Pakistan with a 7-day journey through Skardu and the Hunza Valley during the spring cherry blossom season of 2025. The vivid pink and white cherry blossoms, contrasted against the snow-capped peaks of the Karakoram, make this a magical time to visit. Immerse yourself in the natural splendor, rich culture, and warm hospitality of this region. After two nights in Skardu, with its serene lakes and historic forts, travel to Hunza Valley to stay at 2Magpies, a luxury eco-retreat, and enjoy the unparalleled views, vibrant local cuisine, and springtime beauty.

Day 1: Arrival in Skardu

  • Morning: Arrive at Skardu Airport (via flight from Islamabad) and check in to your hotel, such as the Serena Shigar Fort or Skardu Serena Hotel.
  • Afternoon: Rest and enjoy lunch at your hotel with local specialties such as chapshuro (meat pie) and balay (noodle soup).
  • Evening: Take a leisurely walk along the shores of Satpara Lake or enjoy the views from Skardu Fort at sunset.
  • Dinner: Dine at Mountain Lodge for traditional Balti cuisine, featuring dishes like giyaling (local bread) with butter and tea.

Day 2: Skardu Sightseeing

  • Morning: Start your day with a visit to the stunning Shangrila Lake, also known as “Heaven on Earth” for its crystal-clear waters. Take a boat ride or relax by the shore.
  • Afternoon: Explore the ancient Kharpocho Fort overlooking the Indus River. 
  • Evening: Visit the Katpana Desert (Cold Desert) for sunset photography amidst the rolling sand dunes.
  • Dinner: Enjoy an intimate dinner by the Indus River.

Day 3: Drive to Hunza Valley

  • Morning: Depart Skardu and embark on a scenic drive to Hunza Valley (about 8-9 hours). Along the way, you’ll pass through dramatic landscapes, including the meeting point of the Indus and Gilgit Rivers.
  • Afternoon: Stop for lunch in Gilgit at Rakaposhi Viewpoint Café, where you can enjoy a meal with stunning views of the towering Rakaposhi Peak.
  • Evening: Arrive in Hunza Valley and check in to 2Magpies, a luxurious eco-friendly retreat with panoramic views of the cherry blossoms and surrounding mountains.
  • Dinner: Savor a homemade, organic dinner at 2Magpies, featuring locally sourced ingredients and traditional dishes like Hunza bread and harissa.

Day 4: Cherry Blossom Immersion in Hunza

  • Morning: Take a scenic walk through Karimabad village, where the streets are lined with blooming cherry trees. Visit the Baltit Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to learn about the region’s history and enjoy views of Ultar Sar Peak.
  • Afternoon: Enjoy lunch at Cafe de Hunza in Karimabad, known for its apricot cake, walnut cake, and views of the valley.
  • Evening: Take a short hike to the Eagle’s Nest Viewpoint to watch the sunset over the Hunza Valley, with the cherry blossoms in full bloom below.
  • Dinner: Have dinner at Hidden Paradise, a local restaurant offering Hunza delicacies like chamurki (nutty pancakes) and dowdo (thick soup with homemade noodles).

Day 5: Exploring Hunza’s Surroundings

  • Morning: After breakfast at 2Magpies, visit the Altit Fort, an ancient fort showcasing the heritage of Hunza. Walk through the Altit Village, known for its stone houses and friendly locals.
  • Afternoon: Have a traditional Hunza lunch at Altit Fort Café, with specialties like go leigh (lentil soup) and goor da chapshuro (apricot-filled pastry).
  • Evening: Visit the beautiful Hopper Glacier and surrounding orchards before returning to your hotel.
  • Dinner: Enjoy dinner at 2Magpies, with a focus on fresh, locally grown vegetables, apricots, and wild herbs.

Day 6: Day Trip to Passu and Attabad Lake

  • Morning: Head out for a day trip to Passu Cones, the iconic jagged peaks in the upper Hunza region. Stop along the way to admire the surreal beauty of Attabad Lake, formed by a landslide in 2010.
  • Afternoon: Lunch at Passu Glacier Lodge, sampling roghan soup and chapshuro while taking in the views of the Passu Glacier.
  • Evening: Return to 2Magpies for some relaxation, enjoying the blossoming trees and fresh mountain air.
  • Dinner: Dinner at Khana-e-Hunza, a local restaurant known for its hearty, organic meals and cozy atmosphere.

Day 7: Departure

  • Morning: After breakfast, take a final walk through the cherry blossom orchards before checking out of 2Magpies.
  • Afternoon: Begin your drive back to Gilgit/Skardu to catch a flight to Islamabad.

This itinerary offers an unforgettable experience, combining the natural beauty of northern Pakistan with cultural exploration and immersion in the cherry blossom season. Your stay at 2Magpies in Hunza ensures luxury and relaxation amidst one of the world’s most scenic landscapes.

Inclusions

  • Transportation in a
    coaster
  • Hotel accommodation
  • Daily Breakfast
  • Dinners as per itinerary
  • Fuel, Parking Fees & Tolls
  • Tour guide

Exclusions

  • Air tickets
  • Pakistan Visa
  • Lunch
  • Ancillary hotel charges (eg laundry, room service, etc)
  • Personal trekking equipment/clothing
  • Personal travel insurance
  • Ancillary charges at tourist areas (eg drinks, snacks, etc)
  • Tips & gratuities

Pricing

Land Package: Call for Quote

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