Day-Wise Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Skardu

• Morning: Arrive at Skardu Airport after a short flight from Islamabad. Check in to your hotel, such as the Serena Shigar Fort or Skardu Serena Hotel.

• Afternoon: Rest and enjoy a local lunch at your hotel, featuring chapshuro (Balti meat pie) and balay (a traditional noodle dish).

• Evening: Take a peaceful walk along Satpara Lake, and later, visit Skardu Fort for panoramic views of the valley and surrounding peaks at sunset.

• Dinner: Enjoy dinner at Mountain Lodge, known for its Balti cuisine like mamtu (dumplings) and local bread served with yak butter.

Day 2: Skardu Sightseeing

• Morning: Start the day with a visit to Shangrila Lake (also known as Heaven on Earth), where you can take a boat ride or simply relax by the pristine waters.

• Afternoon: Explore the historic Kharpocho Fort, offering a glimpse into the region’s ancient past and stunning views over the Indus River. Have lunch at Cafe de Hunza Skardu, famous for its apricot cake and Balti specialties.

• Evening: Visit the Katpana Desert (Cold Desert) and enjoy a sunset view amidst the rolling sand dunes.

• Dinner: Dine at The Yak Restaurant, where you can savor yak meat dishes and Balti-style BBQ.

Day 3: Drive to Hunza Valley

• Morning: Depart from Skardu and embark on a scenic drive to Hunza Valley (8-9 hours). Along the way, admire the stunning landscapes and stop at the Indus-Gilgit River Confluence for photos.

• Afternoon: Stop for lunch at Rakaposhi Viewpoint Café, where you can enjoy a meal with views of the majestic Rakaposhi Peak.

• Evening: Arrive at 2Magpies in Hunza, an eco-friendly retreat with incredible views of the Karakoram mountains.

• Dinner: Savor a traditional meal at 2Magpies, featuring local dishes like harissa (meat porridge) and Hunza bread.

Day 4: Trekking and Exploration in Hunza

• Morning: Begin your trek to the Ultar Sar Base Camp, a popular trekking route that offers spectacular views of Ultar Sar and Ladyfinger Peak. The trek is moderately challenging and takes about 5-6 hours round-trip.

• Afternoon: Have a packed lunch amidst the mountains, with freshly baked Hunza bread, cheese, and apricots.

• Evening: Return to Karimabad for a visit to the historic Baltit Fort, which offers insight into Hunza’s royal history and incredible views of the valley.

• Dinner: Enjoy dinner at Hidden Paradise, featuring local Hunza delicacies like dowdo (noodle soup) and chamurki (nutty pancakes).

Day 5: Exploring Hunza’s Surroundings

• Morning: Visit Altit Fort and Altit Village, where you can explore the ancient stone architecture and learn about the region’s heritage. Take a leisurely stroll through the surrounding orchards.

• Afternoon: Have lunch at Altit Fort Café, enjoying local dishes such as go leigh (lentil soup) and goor da chapshuro (apricot pastry).

• Evening: Hike up to the Eagle’s Nest Viewpoint for a panoramic view of Hunza at sunset, with the snow-capped mountains in the distance.

• Dinner: Dine at Khana-e-Hunza, known for its hearty, organic meals and cozy ambiance.

Day 6: Day Trip to Passu and Attabad Lake

• Morning: Head out for a day trip to the famous Passu Cones, the iconic jagged peaks in the upper Hunza Valley. Stop by the breathtaking Attabad Lake, where you can enjoy a boat ride or simply relax by the turquoise waters.

• Afternoon: Lunch at Passu Glacier Lodge, where you can try local dishes like roghan soup and chapshuro, while admiring the stunning views of the Passu Glacier.

• Evening: Return to 2Magpies to relax and unwind.

• Dinner: Enjoy your final dinner at 2Magpies, featuring fresh, organic ingredients and local dishes with a modern twist.

Day 7: Departure

• Morning: After breakfast, take a last walk through the scenic orchards and fields around 2Magpies.

• Afternoon: Depart for Gilgit to catch your flight back to Islamabad or continue your journey through northern Pakistan.

This summer itinerary combines the adventurous spirit of trekking in Hunza with the cultural and natural beauty of the region. From exploring ancient forts to hiking iconic peaks, your stay at 2Magpies ensures a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.