Hunza & Skardu Autumn Tour – 10 Days of Golden Colors
10Days
Tour Overview
Autumn in Northern Pakistan is nothing short of magical. From September to October, the valleys of Hunza and Skardu are painted in shades of gold, red, and orange as apricot, mulberry, and poplar trees change colors. This 10-day Hunza & Skardu Autumn Tour from Islamabad is designed for travelers who want to capture the best of both valleys in one trip.
With clear skies, mild weather, and fewer tourists, autumn is considered the best season for photography and cultural exploration. This package covers iconic landmarks such as Baltit & Altit Forts, Attabad Lake, Passu Cones, Shangrila Lake, Shigar Fort, and Khaplu Palace, all framed by breathtaking autumn foliage.
Major Attractions
Hunza Autumn Colors – Golden and crimson landscapes around Karimabad, Altit, and Duikar.
Baltit & Altit Forts (Hunza) – Centuries-old forts surrounded by apricot and mulberry trees.
Attabad Lake – Turquoise waters enhanced by autumn reflections.
Passu Cones & Glacier – Iconic pointed peaks along the Karakoram Highway.
Duikar (Eagle's Nest) – Panoramic sunset views over autumn valleys.
Skardu's Shangrila & Upper Kachura Lakes – Crystal-clear lakes framed by golden trees.
Shigar Fort & Valley – Blossom orchards in spring, golden groves in autumn.
Khaplu Palace – A historic gem in the heart of Khaplu Valley.
Sarfaranga Cold Desert – Unique landscapes with autumn backdrops.
Itinerary
Day 1: Islamabad to Chilas/Gilgit
Early morning departure from Islamabad via Hazara Motorway.
Travel through Naran–Babusar (if open) or Besham–Chilas (winter route).
Overnight stay in Chilas or Gilgit.
Day 2: Gilgit to Hunza
Stop at Rakaposhi Viewpoint en route.
Arrive in Karimabad by afternoon.
Evening free walk in Karimabad Bazaar. Overnight in Hunza.
Day 3: Hunza Autumn Colors & Forts
Morning visits to Baltit & Altit Forts with autumn landscapes.
Afternoon tea at Altit Royal Garden under golden trees.
Overnight stay in Hunza.
Day 4: Upper Hunza Excursion
Drive to Attabad Lake for boating and photography.
Continue to Passu Cones & Glacier viewpoint.
Cross the Hussaini Suspension Bridge.
Return to Hunza in evening.
Day 5: Duikar Viewpoint & Hopper Valley (Optional)
Relaxed morning with light walks in surrounding villages.
Afternoon trip to Duikar (Eagle's Nest) for sunset views.
Optional excursion to Hopper Valley in Nagar. Overnight in Hunza.
Day 6: Hunza to Skardu
Scenic drive along Indus River to Skardu.
Arrive by evening, check into hotel.
Day 7: Skardu Lakes & Bazaar
Visit Shangrila Lake (Lower Kachura) and Upper Kachura Lake.
Free evening to explore Skardu Bazaar. Overnight in Skardu.
Day 8: Shigar Valley Excursion
Full-day trip to Shigar Fort, orchards, and Sarfaranga Cold Desert.
Return to Skardu in evening.
Day 9: Khaplu Valley Tour
Drive to Khaplu Palace, old mosques, and autumn groves.
Lunch in Khaplu. Return to Skardu for overnight stay.
Day 10: Skardu to Islamabad
Morning flight to Islamabad (weather permitting) or drive back via KKH.
Tour ends with lifetime autumn memories.
Inclusion & Exclusion
Inclusions
Privately booked Vehicle (Air Conditioned/Heated)
2 Meals per day
Services of a Professional Tour Guide
Parking & Road Taxes
Hotel Accommodation
Complimentary breakfast at Hotels
Entry tickets at Forts, museums, and parks
Visa Invitation Letters (If needed)
Musical Events in Hunza/Skardu
Exclusions
Extras at hotels like hot/soft drinks, Clothes Pressing etc.
Tips to Hotel staff/Driver/Guide/Musicians
Extra expenses due to the acts of nature and political reasons etc.
Insurance and liability
Visa Fee
4x4 Jeep rides (if required)
Any item not mentioned above in "Inclusions"
FAQs
Q1: When is the best time for Hunza & Skardu autumn tours?
Mid-September to late October, when valleys are covered in golden leaves.
Q2: Which is more beautiful in autumn — Hunza or Skardu?
Both! Hunza is known for its apricot groves and Duikar sunsets, while Skardu offers lakes, deserts, and historic forts framed by autumn colors.
Q3: Is this tour suitable for photographers?
Yes, autumn is the most photogenic season, with crystal-clear skies and colorful valleys.
Q4: Are flights available to Skardu?
Yes, Islamabad–Skardu flights (≈1 hr) are available but depend on weather. By road, the trip is covered in 2 days.
Q5: Can this tour be customized?
Absolutely. We can add Fairy Meadows, Deosai, or extend Hunza/Skardu stays upon request.
Q6: Is this tour family-friendly?
Yes, it's designed for families, couples, and groups. Roads are long but safe and accommodations are comfortable.
Hunza & Skardu Autumn Tour – Scenic Travel Route
You Can Send Your Enquiry Via The Form Below.
Your Trip, Your Rules
Your journey should be as unique as you are. That’s why we give you the freedom to design a tour that perfectly fits your travel style, interests, and budget.