Fairy Meadows Skardu Tour – 8 Days

After breakfast we begin our journey toward the mountains of Northern Pakistan. The drive follows the legendary Karakoram Highway (KKH), often described as the Eighth Wonder of the World.

The road passes through the green hills and valleys of the Hazara region, offering scenic views of rivers, forests, and mountain landscapes. After several hours of driving we stop for lunch in Besham, a small town along the Indus River.

There are two main routes to reach the northern mountains:

• Karakoram Highway Route (via Besham and Chilas) – open most of the year.
• Naran – Kaghan – Babusar Pass Route – open only from June to October due to heavy snowfall.

If the Babusar Pass route is open, we will travel through the spectacular Kaghan Valley, passing alpine meadows, rivers, and mountain villages before crossing the Babusar Pass (4,173 m) and descending toward Chilas.

Arrival in Chilas in the evening.

Overnight stay in Chilas.

After breakfast we continue driving along the Karakoram Highway toward Raikot Bridge, the gateway to Fairy Meadows.

At Raikot Bridge we transfer into 4x4 mountain jeeps for one of the most thrilling drives in Northern Pakistan. The jeep track climbs high above the Indus River on a narrow mountain road leading to Tato Village.

From Tato Village we begin a scenic 2–4 hour hike to Fairy Meadows. Porters will carry the luggage while we walk through pine forests and mountain landscapes.

Fairy Meadows is a spectacular alpine meadow located directly beneath Nanga Parbat (8,126 m), the ninth highest mountain in the world. The peaceful setting, wooden huts, and panoramic views make it one of the most beautiful places in Pakistan.

Overnight stay in wooden huts at Fairy Meadows.

Today is a free day to fully enjoy the magical environment of Fairy Meadows.

You may relax in the meadow while enjoying breathtaking views of Nanga Parbat, or take a short trek to Beyal Camp, located about 2–3 hours from Fairy Meadows.

The trail to Beyal Camp passes through lush alpine forests and open meadows with incredible mountain views. From Beyal Camp, trekkers can enjoy a closer view of Nanga Parbat’s massive north face.

Adventurous travelers may continue further toward the Nanga Parbat Base Camp viewpoint, while others can spend the day photographing the surrounding mountains, forests, and streams.

Return to Fairy Meadows for overnight stay.

Early in the morning we enjoy the sunrise view over Nanga Parbat, when the first light illuminates the snow-covered peak.

After breakfast we descend from Fairy Meadows back to Tato Village, take the jeep back to Raikot Bridge, and continue the journey along the Indus River valley toward Baltistan.

The drive offers dramatic views of deep river gorges, barren mountain landscapes, and remote villages along the ancient trade routes.

Arrival in Skardu, the capital of the Baltistan region.

In the afternoon we visit the historic Kharpocho Fort, a 16th-century fortress perched high above Skardu town. From the top, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the Indus River, Skardu city, and surrounding mountains.

Overnight stay in Skardu.

After breakfast we take a short scenic drive to Shigar Valley, located about 30 minutes from Skardu.

Shigar Valley lies on the ancient trade route leading toward the Karakoram mountains and K2. The valley is known for its fertile fields, apricot orchards, and historic settlements.

Here we visit the famous Shigar Fort, a beautifully restored palace that now serves as a heritage hotel and cultural museum. The fort reflects the unique architecture and history of the Baltistan region.

We also explore the nearby Cold Desert of Shigar, one of the highest deserts in the world, where sand dunes contrast dramatically with the surrounding mountains.

Later in the day we visit Upper Kachura Lake, one of the most beautiful lakes in Skardu. Surrounded by forests and mountains, the lake is known for its clear blue water and peaceful atmosphere.

Return to Skardu for overnight stay.

After breakfast we explore either Khaplu Valley or Deosai Plateau, depending on the season.

Option 1 – Khaplu Valley

Khaplu Valley is one of the most scenic valleys in Baltistan, located along the ancient Silk Route toward Ladakh.

The main attraction is the magnificent Khaplu Fort, a historic palace built in the 19th century by the local rulers of Baltistan. The fort has been beautifully restored and offers insight into the culture and history of the region.

Visitors can also explore the traditional village, walk through orchards, and enjoy views of the surrounding mountains.

Option 2 – Deosai National Park (Summer Option)

During the summer months, we may visit Deosai National Park, one of the highest plateaus in the world at over 4,000 meters above sea level.

Known as the “Land of Giants”, Deosai is famous for its vast grasslands, wildflowers, and wildlife including the rare Himalayan brown bear. The park also features the beautiful Sheosar Lake, with stunning views of Nanga Parbat on clear days.

Return to Skardu for overnight stay.

After breakfast we transfer to Skardu Airport for the scenic flight to Islamabad.

The Skardu–Islamabad flight is considered one of the most spectacular mountain flights in the world. During the 45-minute journey, passengers may see the towering peaks of the Karakoram and Himalayan ranges, including Nanga Parbat.

Upon arrival in Islamabad, you will be transferred to your hotel or the airport depending on your international flight schedule.

We recommend booking your international departure flight on the following day between 12-4 PM to allow flexibility in case of weather-related flight delays from Skardu.

End of tour.