Karakorum Highway

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15 Tage

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Islamabad

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Karakorum-Gebirge

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Skardu

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Pakistan

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2,000 km

Overview

On- and off-road adventures through the most spectacular landscapes of Northern Pakistan.

This 15-day guided motorcycle tour through Pakistan takes you across some of Asia’s most impressive high-mountain regions—from lush green valleys to the raw, dramatic heights of the Karakoram Range.

The journey begins in Islamabad, where we explore key sights and ease into the adventure. From here, we head north toward Naran and cross the breathtaking Babusar Pass (approx. 4,200 m), followed by an unforgettable ride along the legendary Karakoram Highway, widely regarded as one of the most scenic mountain roads in the world.

In Gilgit, we visit the ancient Karga Buddha rock carvings before continuing into the Hunza Valley. Here, vibrant bazaars, centuries-old forts, and sweeping views of some of the world’s highest peaks define the landscape. The route then climbs to the majestic Khunjerab Pass (4,693 m), the highest paved border crossing on Earth, before descending into the peaceful village of Passu, surrounded by striking glaciers and jagged peaks.

From Passu, the ride continues into the Astore Valley and onward to the vast Deosai Plains—one of the highest plateaus in the world. Glamping under a star-filled sky in this remote high-altitude wilderness is one of the tour’s true highlights. After descending from Deosai, we reach Skardu, where there is time to relax, explore the surroundings, and reflect on the journey before flying back to Islamabad to conclude this extraordinary adventure.

This motorcycle tour through Northern Pakistan balances demanding riding days with comfort and recovery. After each stage, we unwind in carefully selected boutique hotels, lodges, and unique accommodations, offering tranquility and comfort amid Pakistan’s untamed mountain landscapes.

Experience an exceptional Karakoram motorcycle adventure with Asia Bike Tours (ABT)—authentic, immersive, and far beyond the beaten path.

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At A Glance

Category	Details
Region	Karakoram Mountains & Himalaya, Northern Pakistan
Duration	15 days / 14 riding days
Total Distance	Approx. 2,000 km motorcycle journey through Northern Pakistan
Maximum Altitude	4,693 m (Khunjerab Pass – the highest paved border crossing in the world)
Difficulty Level	Moderate to challenging – suitable for experienced riders with good physical fitness and prior high-altitude riding experience
Terrain	Asphalt, gravel, sand, river crossings, and spectacular high-mountain roads in the Karakoram Range
Motorcycles	Honda CB150 or CFMOTO 450 (well-suited for high-altitude touring)
Accommodation	Double occupancy – hotels, lodges, boutique hotels, and authentic guesthouses along the route
Group Size	8–12 participants (average 9–10 riders)
Included	Personal on-site welcome and full local support Private airport transfers All domestic flights as per itinerary Motorcycle including fuel and tour guide Basic spare parts, tools, and first-aid kit Support vehicle for luggage and technical assistance All parking fees, entrance fees, and government taxes Professional English-speaking tour guide Full-time mechanic throughout the tour Bottled mineral water on riding days Half board plus daily lunch snack
Not Included	International flights to/from Pakistan Tips for drivers, guides, and crew Drinks, laundry services, and personal expenses Personal travel, health, and accident insurance Costs related to emergency evacuation Visas, vaccinations, and official permits Additional costs outside the official tour dates

ITinerary

Day	Description
Day 1	Arrival in Islamabad. Personal welcome by the local team, transfer to the hotel, and time to recover after the international flight.
Day 2	Islamabad – Mansehra/Balakot – Batakundi. Journey north by minibus (approx. 3 hours), handover of the motorcycles, and the first riding kilometers through lush green valleys to Batakundi at around 2,600 m.
Day 3	Batakundi – Nomal (Gilgit). Crossing the spectacular Babusar Pass (4,173 m) with wide alpine views, followed by a ride along the legendary Karakoram Highway to Nomal.
Day 4	Nomal – Passu. Motorcycle ride through the Hunza Valley with views of the mighty Rakaposhi. Arrival in Passu, framed by the iconic Passu Cones. Overnight stay with glacier and mountain views.
Day 5	Passu – Khunjerab Pass – Passu. Day ride to the Khunjerab Pass (4,693 m), the highest paved border crossing in the world. Pure high-altitude riding before returning to Passu.
Day 6	Passu – Karimabad via the remote Hoper Valley. Detour into the secluded Hoper Valley with views of the Hoper Glacier, then onward to Karimabad, the cultural heart of Hunza.
Day 7	Exploration day in Hunza. Visits to the historic Baltit and Altit Forts, a walk through Karimabad’s bazaar, and time for cafés, viewpoints, and local handicrafts.
Day 8	Karimabad – Rama Meadows (Astore Valley). Ride along the Karakoram Highway into the Astore Valley. Arrival at the Rama Meadows (approx. 3,300 m) with views of Nanga Parbat—weather permitting, an unforgettable panorama.
Day 9	Rama – Tarishing. Deeper ride into the Astore Valley, passing rivers, forests, and small villages to reach Tarishing—the gateway to the southern face of Nanga Parbat. Overnight in a simple, authentic lodge.
Day 10	Tarishing – Skardu via Deosai National Park. Crossing the high-altitude Deosai Plateau (above 4,000 m), also known as the “Land of Giants.” With some luck, wildlife sightings along the way. Descent into the Skardu Valley.
Day 11	Excursion to the Shigar Valley and the Sarfaranga Cold Desert. Visit the historic Shigar Fort (now a heritage hotel) and ride through the surreal dunes of the Sarfaranga Desert.
Day 12	Off-road adventure into the Basho Valley. Riding through forests, river crossings, and remote terrain. Picnic or tea stop en route before returning to Skardu.
Day 13	Skardu – Khaplu – Skardu. Scenic ride along the Shyok River to Khaplu, visit to the Khaplu Palace, and lunch on site. Return to Skardu in the afternoon.
Day 14	Flight to Islamabad and city exploration. Visits to the Faisal Mosque, Pakistan Monument, Daman-e-Koh, and the old quarters of Rawalpindi. Farewell dinner at a traditional restaurant.
Day 15	Departure from Pakistan. Transfer to the airport and return journey home. End of an extraordinary motorcycle adventure through the Karakoram and the Himalaya.