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TCS PRIVATE LIMITED – TRAVEL & TOURS SERVICES EXPLORE MESMERIZING PAKISTAN BEAT THE HEAT WITH AFFORDABLE DEALS

TCS PRIVATE LIMITED TRAVEL & TOURS SERVICES · TCS PRIVATE LIMITED – TRAVEL & TOURS SERVICES EXPLORE MESMERIZING PAKISTAN ... Half an hour’s journey north of Bahrain crosses the

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TCS PRIVATE LIMITED – TRAVEL & TOURS SERVICES

EXPLORE MESMERIZING PAKISTAN

BEAT THE HEAT WITH AFFORDABLE DEALS

5 DAY HERITAGE RETREAT TO BALTISTAN – SKARDU, KHAPLU & SHIGAR

Per Adult: PKR 27,500/-

Per Child: PKR 14,800/-

Day 1 After arriving in Skardu, drive to Khaplu. On arrival check in to the hotel and enjoy a light lunch. In the afternoon take a short walking tour with a local guide of the: Khaplu Palace, the village and the Khanqah (a place of spiritual retreat which also housed journeymen). Overnight stay at the hotel. Day 2 Today take a jeep ride to Macholo valley (60-75 minutes) where you will be surrounded by spectacular mountain scenery, and orchards filled with the Spring blossoms of cherry, apricot and apple trees. Enroute one will also have a view of the uniquely shaped Masherbrum Peak (7,821meters). Enjoy a picnic lunch and wander around the area before returning to the hotel.. Overnight at the hotel. Day 3 Begin with an early morning transfer via a 3 hour road journey to Shigar. Arrive and check in to the hotel. In the afternoon, take a walking tour with a local guide of the 14th century Amburiq Mosque that received a UNESCO award for restoration, the quaint maze like bazaar and the restored Khanqah. Overnight at the hotel. Day 4 Today explore Skardu town and its environs. Check out and drive to Skardu Town (30-45 minutes), and proceed to the PTDC motel where you may visit the Italian K2 Museum before having a cup of tea in the lovely lawn of the hotel.  Later drive to Satpara Lake (now transformed into a dam that supplies 17 MW power as well as drinking water to Skardu Town). On the return from Satpara, visit the Skardu Buddha, also known as Manthal (dating from 7th century AD) carved on a huge boulder which is evidence of Buddhist history of the region. After a break, visit Kharpocho Fort (optional-it is half an hour’s steady uphill walk) and then visit Purana (Old) Bazaar before returning to Shigar. Overnight at the hotel in Skardu. OPTIONAL PROGRAM: (Deosai Plains excursion at extra cost – Deosai Park, at an average elevation of 4,114 meters (13,497 ft) above sea level, is one of the highest plateaus in the world. The park protects an area of 3,000 square kilometers. It is well known for its rich flora and fauna of the Karakorum-West Tibetan Plateau alpine steppe eco region. In spring, it is covered by sweeps of wildflowers and a wide variety of butterflies. The Deosai Plains are also home to the Himalayan ibex, red fox, golden marmot locally called Phia, gray wolf, the Ladakh urial, the snow leopard, and over 124 resident and migratory birds. This option can only be taken up from June to mi-September). Day 5 Leave Skardu today and proceed with your onward journey

End of Tour

4 DAY FAMILY TOUR TO MURREE—THE QUEEN OF THE HILLS

Per Adult: PKR 22,800/- Per Child: PKR 11,500/-

Day 01: After being picked up from your residence/guest house/hotel, drive to Murree a hilly and popular resort station, which was once the famous summer hill station for the British Army during colonial rule. The British army built some very high standard school & colleges, such as Lawrence College and Jesus & Mary Convent. The British had a key role in the development of the area. Murree is situated at an altitude of 2300 m above sea level and the scenic journey takes less than two hours. A vast panorama of forest clad ridges and majestic pines on thickly wooded slopes are a feast for the eyes. Upon arrival take some rest then stroll on famous Mall Road of Murree. After noon sightseeing to Kashmir point and Pindi point. Overnight at the lodging establishment. Day 02 Full day excursion to Nathia Gali, which is nearly 2600 m above sea level. With its range of green hills covered by forests of pine and fir, Nathiagali offers a fine view of the snowcapped peaks of Kashmir and Kohistan. The drive from Murree to Nathiagali is superb and will be more interesting for the families to see dozens of monkeys on the road or along the road in the jungle. After spending time in Nathia Gali and its environs, drive back to Murree en-route visiting Ayubia, a complex of four small hill resorts. One of these hills is equipped with an electric chairlift capable of taking you to the top of the peak. Return to Murree for overnight. Overnight in Murree. Day 03 After breakfast take a tour of Patriata, a resort about 15 km from Murree, offering breath taking views of the densely populated forests, which are home to many monkeys and leopards . With its pleasant climate, the resort is equipped with a chairlift and cable car system which one can enjoy. Return to Murree for overnight. Day 04 Morning free at leisure. In the afternoon drive back to Islamabad and arrive at your residence/guest house/hotel.

End of Tour

5 DAYS FAMILY TOUR TO AZAD JAMMU AND KASHMIR – THE HIDDEN JEWEL

Per Adult: PKR 29,800/-

Per Child: PKR 15,000/-

Azad Jammu & Kashmir (AJK) is the least known area of Northern Pakistan. This is a pity, as its valleys rival those of Kaghan and Swat in splendor and claim noteworthy alpine scenery. AJK has three major rivers passing through it whose valleys are still heavily forested, and sparsely populated. The Jhelum, Neelum and Poonch rivers afford one ample opportunities for fishing and the river banks offer innumerable sites for picnics.

Day 01 In the morning drive to Muzafarabad, the capital, via Murree, The drive through alpine forests and meadows is enthralling and offers a glimpse of the scenic beauty that awaits. After checking in and a short rest, proceed for an excursion to Pir Chinasi. This tourist spot is located 30 km east of Muzafarabad city on the top of hills at an elevation of 2900 meters. From here we have breath taking views of the Muzaffarabad Valley. Return to the hotel for overnight. Day 02 After breakfast drive to Keran, 95 km away and a 3 hours’ drive. Keran is a beautiful village on the banks of the Neelum River. Surrounded by lush greenery and thick forests, Keran will be our base as we explore the Upper Neelum Valley. After checking in to our guest house in Keran, the rest of the day will be at leisure to enjoy the village and the views. Day 03 Today one will take a full day excursion to Sharda, in the upper Neelum Valley (40 km and one and half hour drive). Sharda, overshadowed by two peaks of Shardi and Nardi, is a scenic spot situated at an altitude of 1981 meter above sea level. In addition to the breath taking views, there are ruins of a Buddhist Monastery for one to explore. Return in the late afternoon to Keran for overnight at the guest house. Day 04 Return today to Muzafarabad, via a side excursion to Kutton, an angler’s paradise, whose swift streams and alpine views allow one to view nature at its serene best. The small bazaar here offers unique carved walnuts, and of course, Kashmiri shawls. Sometimes it is possible to get good bargain! After enjoying the beautiful vistas, return to Muzafarabad for overnight at hotel. Day 05 After a relaxed breakfast check out from the hotel for your return to Islamabad. On the way, a short stop at Muzafarabad view point allows one to enjoy the last glimpses of Azad Kashmir. Arrive Islamabad and transfer to one’s hotel or guest house.

End of Tour

5 DAYS FAMILY TOUR TO SWAT BETTER KNOWN AS THE ‘SWITZERLAND OF THE

EAST’

Per Adult: PKR 34,200/-

Per Child: PKR 17,500/-

Swat is a land that shines with fruit laden orchards, flower filled slopes, meandering rivers, tumbling streams and is surrounded by the mighty ranges of the Hindu Kush and the Karakoram. The valley is 1200 meters above sea level and Saidu Sharif and Mingora are the towns that form the twin capital of this area. Kalam, 98 Kilometers from Saidu Sharif, is the last town accessible by car. It is at a height of 2200 meters, and is surrounded on all sides by the snow peaks of the Hindu Kush range, dense forests of pine, fir, deodar and wild flowers, dotted with orchards of walnut and borders the Ushu stream.

Day 01 After being picked up from your place of stay drive to Swat via Motor Way or GT road. The Swat valley is easily reached by road from Islamabad. However it is necessary to pass through the mouth of the Peshawar valley. One has to follow the GT Road or Motor way to Mardan and then head North to Takht –i–Bahi, Dargai, Malakand Pass, Chakdara, Butkhela and Saidu Sharif. Upon arrival transfer to your hotel for check in and short rest. In the afternoon you will visit Mingora Bazzar, which is the commercial center worth visiting, for there you will find emeralds for which Swat is famous. Then continue to Murghzar where you will behold the old white palace constructed from white marble and adorned with ornate carvings. Return to your hotel for overnight.

Day 02 After breakfast at the hotel, set out for Kalam valley, situated 98 kilometers from Saidu Sharif and one of the most popular Pakistani holiday resorts. Enroute pass by the towns of Madyan and Bahrain. 56 kilometers north of Saidu Sharif is the charming town of Madyan, lying at an elevation of 1650 meters. The town borders the Swat river, and trout fishing is a favorite pastime. 11 kilometers further up is the town of Bahrain, whose natural beauty and fabulous wood carving makes it a must. Half an hour’s journey north of Bahrain crosses the great gap in the eastern valley wall, Mankia Khwar. After this point, the road gradually disintegrates due to weather and slides (it is usually closed in winters). Reach Kalam at an elevation of 2070 meters. Kalam was the center of an independent state in the 19th century. It was later taken by Chitral, and then given to Swat after partition. Upon arrival transfer to the hotel for overnight. Day 03 After breakfast at the hotel depart for Ushu using local 4 x 4 vehicles. Just North of Kalam the Ushu River joins to form the Swat River. The scenery is alpine and heavily forested. In the Northeast about 8 kilometers away from Kalam is the village of Ushu at an altitude of 2290 m. The road is paved to Ushu village, but then jeepable to Lake Mohdand, about 25 kilometers from Kalam. Enjoy the breath-taking scenery and the unobstructed views of Swat’s highest peak, 5918m Falaksair. Return to Kalam in the late afternoon for overnight.

Day 04 This morning retrace your route back to Saidu Sharif, and enroute visit Malam Jabba. At the head of this photogenic valley 45 kilometers north east of Mingora is the newly rebuilt ski resort, already open to public. A Buddhist stupa and monastery are a 15 minutes’ walk away. At 3000m, the views of swat valley and east to Karakorum are excellent. After a full day activity return continue drive to Mingora/Saidu Sharif for overnight.

Day 05 After a relaxed breakfast check out from the hotel for your return to Islamabad. On the way, a short stop at Swat Museum and the remains of the Butkara Monastery remains will be your last glimpses of Swat. Arrive Islamabad and transfer to the place of your choice.

End of Tour

4 DAYS FAMILY TOUR TO KAGHAN – THE VALLEY OF THE GLITTERING LAKES

Per Adult: PKR 35,500/-

Per Child: PKR 18,000/-

The Kaghan valley is a 150 kilometer long scenic wonderland, whose collection of Himalayan peaks, lakes, waterfalls and glaciers from an un spoilt paradise. Naran, the valley’s main town, acts as a base camp for trekkers, trout fishers and adventure lovers. Lakes Saiful Muluk and Lalusar are nestled among vales, ringed by the Himalayas and the Babusar Pass, 4200 meters high, which provides access to Gilgit-Baltistan.

Day 01 Depart early in the morning for Naran, the main town of Kaghan Valley. The journey takes around 6 -7 hours, and enroute we will pass Abbottabad, a pretty hill station at a height of 1450 meters, founded in 1853, and named after James Abbott, the first British Deputy Commissioner. We will continue through Mansehra before arriving at Balakot near the Kunhar River, the gateway to Kaghan. Arrive and transfer to your hotel. Later depart for Lake Saif ul muluk in local 4 x 4 jeeps. The lake is at height of 3200 meters and the shortest ride there take you through the top of the picturesque valley and the lake itself. Guarded by the Himalayas, the crystal clear waters of the lake mirror the azure sky and Malika Parbat, (Queen of Mountains) and gracefully capture the serene beauty that is so awe-inspiring. Return to the hotel in late afternoon for overnight. Day 02 After an early Breakfast start your day long excursion to the famous Lalusar Lake and Babusar pass, 68 kilometers from Naran. The Kaghan Valley’s most dramatic scenery is beyond Naran, At Battakundi, 16 kilometers up the valley you will come to the junction point to Lalazar Plateau, and will continue your drive to Burawai and on to Lalusar, the biggest natural lake in the entire region of Hazara and the source of Kunhar River. On a side trip, you can continue to Gittidas, where from an uphill drive takes you to the famous Babusar pass. Enjoy the breath taking views before returning to Naran. Overnight at the hotel. Day 03 Today you will drive to Shogran, another picturesque village in Kaghan. Shogran commands views down to a carpet of forest and up majestic peaks – including the 5290 meter Malika Parbat (Queen Of Mountains) tallest in the Kaghan valley, and the brooding, 3900 meter high Koh-i-Marka. In the afternoon proceed to a nearby small lake and beautiful meadows of Siri and Paya, 9 kilometers beyond Shogran up a rough jeep able road. Return to Shogran for overnight. Day 04 After a relaxed morning start retrace your route to Islamabad, arriving in the early evening.

End of Tour

7 DAY FAMILY HOLIDAY IN GILGIT-HUNZA VIA THE FABLED KARAKORAM

HIGHWAY (SHAHRAH-E-RESHAM)

Per Adult: PKR 56,400/-

Per Child: PKR 28,500/-

Day 1 Depart Islamabad early and drive through Haripur and Mansera to join the Karakoram Highway (KKH) at Thakot. We would visit the Ashoka rock inscriptions along the way. The KKH is a marvel of modern engineering and it is being reconstructed jointly by the FWO and our Chinese brothers. From Thakot to Khunjerab, the KKH winds over 700 kms through breath-taking mountain terrain. Shortly after Thakot we will stop to view the FWO monument before arriving at our night stop in Besham (driving time approximately 7-8 hours). Overnight at the hotel. Day 2 Leaving Besham early this morning, we would continue on the fabled Shahrah-e-Resham towards Gilgit (driving time of approx. 7-8 hours), passing the towns of Pattan—the administrative center of Kohistan—and Chilas on the way. Spectacular scenery is our companion and we will cross the sites of two important under construction dams at Dassu and Diamar-Basha. At Chilas there are world famous petroglyphs (rock carvings) left by Buddhist Monks on their way to China. Shortly before arriving at Gilgit, we will also see the meeting point of the greatest mountain ranges on Earth, the Karakoram, the Himalaya and the Hindu Kush. Overnight at our hotel in Gilgit. Day 3 From Gilgit, we begin a scenic drive northwards towards Hunza on the Karakorum Highway. After an hour of driving, pause at Rakaposhi view point for a cup of tea. The view of this North face of Rakaposhi allows one to view the longest un-interrupted mountain flank on earth (6000m), starting from the river bank. Continue the drive to Karimabad and check in to the hotel. In the afternoon visit the 800 year old Baltit Fort, once the stronghold of the Ayasho Dynasty, and today a wonderfully restored museum that has won many awards, including ones from UNESCO and British Airways. Explore the local tourist market, including ‘Café De Hunza’ famous for delicious walnut cake and a variety of coffees. Overnight at the hotel. Day 4 Today will be a ‘light’ day to ‘recuperate’ from the early morning start of the previous day. We begin this morning with a few minutes’ drive that takes us to the neighboring ‘twin’ village of Altit. Here we will visit the restored Altit Fort and the women’s work shop where they make wooden furniture and handicrafts. Enjoy the garden and heavenly orchard annexed to the restored Altit Fort and try the local Hunza cuisine at the Altit Café, cooked by a women’s community village organization. Return to the hotel for the rest of the day at leisure to take in the magnificent views of the valley and Rakaposhi. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 5 After breakfast rejoin the Karakorum Highway and drive to Gulmit, in Upper Hunza, along the banks of the newly, but tragically formed Attabad Lake, a significant addition to the natural beauty of Hunza. The road link has been recently restored by a 7.9 km long tunnel system. Gulmit is a peaceful and serene village that formerly served as winter capital of the Hunza Kingdom. Here one will walk through the village, visit a 900 year-old house, and see local women weaving carpets and making several other traditional handicrafts. After lunch at the Marco Polo Inn managed—by the former Raja’s family—drive to Passu Village. Enjoy fabulous views of Tupupdan Sar, Passu Peaks, Shispare and Boyohagur, all exceeding 7000 meters. Enjoy refreshments at the local hotel aptly named the Caravan Sarai, before returning to the Karakoram Highway and heading to Gilgit. Upon arrival transfer to the hotel. Day 6 After breakfast we will visit Gilgit in the ‘old style’ using an open roof 4×4 Willys jeep, which for many years was the ‘workhorse’ for the region. Ride first to the Kargah Buddha rock carving, which was carved in the 7th century. There was a monastery and three stupas here as this served as a rest stop for Buddhist pilgrims travelling from China to the Buddhist monasteries located in the Swat Valley. From here we will go to the Gilgit Bazaar with its kaleidoscopically arrayed shops, and then on to the Chinar Bagh (Garden) with its memorial to those who fought for independence. Next proceed on a harrowing ride across Asia’s longest vehicular suspension bridge, 182 meters long and 2 meters wide, which leads to a tunnel before emerging along the river bank road. Continue on to the Chinese cemetery, the final resting place for the scores of Chinese workers and engineers who died during the construction of the Karakoram Highway in the 1970’s. Return to the hotel for the rest of the afternoon to enjoy the wonderful views. Overnight at the hotel Day 7 After an early start, depart for your return journey to Islamabad via the KKH (12-16 hours depending on road condition).

End of Tour

12 DAY FAMILY TOUR TO DISCOVER SHANGRI-LA – SKARDU, HUNZA AND GILGIT

Per Adult: PKR 92,500/-

Per Child: PKR 46,500/-

Day 1 Depart Islamabad early and drive through Haripur and Mansera to join the Karakoram Highway (KKH) at Thakot. We would visit the Ashoka rock inscriptions along the way. The KKH is a marvel of modern engineering and it is being reconstructed jointly by the FWO and our Chinese brothers. From Thakot to Khunjerab, the KKH winds over 700 kms through breath-taking mountain terrain. Shortly after Thakot we will stop to view the FWO monument before arriving at Besham. After a short rest, proceed further up on the KKH trough the towns Pattan and Dassu before reaching Chilas, our overnight stop (driving time approximately 10-12 hours). Overnight at the hotel. Day 2 An early morning start will see us pass the Rakhiot bridge, where one can travel to the fabled Fairy Meadows with its breath taking views of the Nanga Parbat massif, which at 8126 meters high is the 9th highest mountain in the world. We will pass the village of Jaglot and from near here if the weather is clear we will get great views of Naga Parbat. Continue until we see the confluence of the Gilgit and Indus rivers, before turning eastwards on the Indus Highway. This is an interesting drive as our road hugs the mountain side, with sheer drops down to the Indus River below. Arrive Skardu and check in to our hotel (driving time approximately 8-10 hours). Day 3 After a relaxed breakfast, begin the tour with a visit of historical Kharpocho Fort that was built by Ali Sher Khan the most celebrated ruler of the Anchan Dynasty. After enjoying the vista from the Fort’s vantage point, follow the steep trail just below the Fort for 20 minutes before descending to the left bank of the mighty Indus River. Another half an hours walk will bring one to Nansoq Village, a cluster of hamlets that were declared the first organic village of Gilgit/Baltistan. Prince Charles himself inaugurated this project, which was supported by the Aga Khan Rural Support Programme. After enjoying a picnic lunch at the bank of the Indus, continue on to visit Skardu bazaar and, if open, the small K-2 museum before returning for overnight at the hotel. Day 4 This morning set out for Deosai Park, at an average elevation of 4,114 meters (13,497 ft) above sea level, making it one of the highest plateaus in the world. The park protects an area of 3,000 square kilometers. It is well known for its rich flora and fauna of the Karakorum-West Tibetan Plateau alpine steppe eco region. In spring, it is covered by sweeps of wildflowers and a wide variety of butterflies. The Deosai Plains are also home to the Himalayan ibex, red fox, golden marmot locally called Phia, gray wolf, the Ladakh urial, the snow leopard, and over 124 resident and migratory birds. On the way, visit Sadpara Lake now transformed into a dam that supplies 17 MWs of power besides 13 Cusecs of drinking water to the Skardu Town. On the way back visit huge image of Manthal Buddha, carved on face of Skardu Rock, dating form 9th century AD. Afterwards drive to Khaplu located 105 kilometers east of Skardu. We initially follow Indus valley and then for 40 km and then switch Shyok River Valley all the way to Khaplu. It is a spectacular drive and contrast of oasis like green patches of villages and rugged mountain makes it look even more dramatic. Arrive Khaplu and check in to our hotel

Day 5 After breakfast. take a ride to Macholo valley (60-75 minutes) where you will be surrounded by spectacular mountain scenery, and orchards of cherry, apricot and apple trees. Enroute one will also have a view of the uniquely shaped Masherbrum Peak (7,821meters). Enjoy a picnic lunch and wander around the area before returning to the hotel. In the late afternoon take a short walking tour with a local guide of the: Khaplu Palace, the village and the Khanqah (a place of spiritual retreat which also housed journeymen). Overnight at the hotel. Day 6 Begin with a morning transfer via a 3 hour road journey to Shigar. After checking in at the hotel and enjoying a light lunch, take an hour’s hike up to KARI DONG the famous Shigar Rock where the first fortress of this small fiefdom was built. Besides the remains of the Fort one can see the ruins of an old mosque, a Buddhist Monastery and various inscriptions dating from the 5th century AD. From this point enjoy majestic views of the entire Shigar Valley guarded by the dominating Haramosh Range of mountains in the West. Return to Shigar for a walking tour of the 14th century Amburiq Mosque which received a UNESCO award for restoration, the quaint maze like bazaar and the restored Khanqah. Overnight at the hotel. Day 7 As we depart Baltistan this morning, drive back towards Skardu and then follow the Hargissa River that flows down from the spectacular Satpara Lake (now transformed into a dam that supplies 17 MW power as well as drinking water to Skardu Town). Enroute visit the Skardu Buddha (dating to the 7th century AD) carved on a huge boulder. Continue driving westwards towards Gilgit through the Rondu Gorge following the mighty Indus. Stop at Istak village for lunch and continue for a few hours on the Indus and Karakoram Highway before arriving at Karimabad, the capital town of Hunza. Overnight at the hotel. Note this will be a long 11/12 hour day with driving of 7/8 hours (depending on the road conditions). Day 8 Today will be a ‘light’ day to ‘recuperate’ from the long drives of the previous days. We begin this morning by visiting the 800 year old Baltit Fort, once the stronghold of the Ayasho Dynasty, and now a wonderfully restored museum that has won many awards, including ones from UNESCO and British Airways. We then take a few minutes’ drive to the neighbouring ‘twin’ village of Altit. Here we will visit the restored Altit Fort and the women’s work shop where they make wooden furniture and handicrafts. Enjoy the garden and heavenly orchard annexed to the restored Altit Fort and try the local Hunza cuisine at the Altit Café, cooked by a women’s community village organization. Return to the hotel for the rest of the day at leisure to take in the magnificent views of the valley and Rakaposhi. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 9 Begin with a pre-dawn drive to the Duikar summer settlement in order to have a breath-taking view of sunrise over the lofty peaks of Hunza. After having breakfast at “Eagle’s Nest Hotel”, proceed to the Karakorum Highway drive to Gulmit, in Upper Hunza, along the banks of the newly, but tragically formed Attabad Lake, a significant addition to the natural beauty of Hunza. The road link has been recently restored by a 7.9 km long tunnel system. Gulmit is a peaceful and serene village that formerly served as winter capital of the Hunza Kingdom. Here one will walk through the village, visit a 900 year-old house, and see local women weaving carpets and making several other traditional handicrafts. After lunch at the Marco Polo Inn managed by the former Raja’s family, drive to Kamaris Village and commence a traversing hike to Borit Lake, across the the Gulkin glacier (approximately 3 hours). From the lake one will be picked by your vehicle that will bring one to Passu Village where we will check in to the hotel. Day 10 From Passu, enjoy fabulous views of Tupupdan Sar, Passu Peaks, Shispare and Boyohagur, all exceeding 7000 meters. Drive to Khunjerab, and the Pak-China border, We will pass the border crossing town of Sust, and after completing formalities continue on to enter the Khunjerab National Park before arriving at the Khunjerab Pass at an elevation 4,693 metres or 15,397 feet and the actual border line. Khunjerab derives its name from two words of the local Wakhi language: ‘Khun’ means Home and ‘Jerav’ means a creek coming from spring water/water falling. Here in this National Park reside, amongst other animals, the snow leopard, Himalayan Ibex, Marco Polo sheep and the pesky Golden Marmot. After enjoying the visats, return to Sust for a short stop, and then continue the drive to Gilgit, pausing at the foot of Rakaposhi Peak for tea. The view of this North face of Rakaposhi allows one to see the longest un-interrupted mountain flank on earth (6000m), starting from the river bank. Time permitting, hike down to the Rakaposhi glacier. Upon arrival at Gilgit, transfer to the hotel. Day 11 After breakfast we will visit Gilgit in the ‘old style’ using an open roof 4×4 Willys jeep, which for many years was the ‘workhorse’ for the region. Ride first to the Kargah Buddha rock carving, which was carved in the 7th century. There was a monastery and three stupas here as this served as a rest stop for Buddhist pilgrims travelling from China to the Buddhist monasteries located in the Swat Valley. From here we will go to the Gilgit Bazaar with its kaleidoscopically arrayed shops, and then on to the Chinar Bagh (Garden) with its memorial to those who fought for independence. Next proceed on a harrowing ride across Asia’s longest vehicular suspension bridge, 182 meters long and 2 meters wide, which leads to a tunnel before emerging along the river bank road. Continue on to the Chinese cemetery, the final resting place for the scores of Chinese workers and engineers who died during the construction of the Karakoram Highway in the 1970’s. Return to the hotel for the rest of the afternoon to enjoy the wonderful views. Overnight at the hotel

Day 12 After an early start, depart for your return journey to Islamabad via the KKH (12-16 hours depending on road condition).

End of Tour

For any further details please contact us:

TCS PRIVATE LIMITED, TRAVEL & TOUR SERVICES KARACHI

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LAHORE

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PESHAWAR - KPK

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