Govt. Licensed Tour Operator (DTS # ID-1994)
Signature Pakistan Journey

Shimshal Kuch Festival Tour

Experience the Shimshal Kuch Festival & trek to Shimshal Pass (4,735m) on this 17-day adventure. Witness yaks returning from Pamir pastures & explore remote Wakhi culture.

Duration
17 Days / 16 Nights
Max Elevation
4,735m
Grade / Difficulty
Moderate
Best Season
October
Accommodation
Hotel/Guest House & Camp
Group Size

Tour Overview & Experience

Personalised journeys from start to finish

Custom pacing, private certified native guides & tailored group itineraries.

Every trip helps support Conservation

Fair-wage porter insurance, Leave-No-Trace practices & local community aid.

Seamless travel, every detail perfected

All permits, deluxe accommodations, private transport & 24/7 expert logistics.

Iconic Mountain Trails Panoramic 7000m+ Vistas Deluxe High-Altitude Camps Expedition Chef Hot Meals Native Indigenous Guides Govt DTS #ID-1994

Shimshal is the remotest area of the Hunza Valley in Upper Gojal, bordering China. It covers the largest territory within Upper Hunza — from its western reaches bordered by the Hunza River, the area extends as far as Baltistan to the east, while its northern Khunjerab River demarcates the frontier with China.

Access to this valley is from the Karakoram Highway at Passu Village in Gojal, via a 53 km jeep-able link road that follows a narrow gorge. The drive takes about 3 hours from Passu. This road was opened in 2003 — before that, it was a 3-day trek from Passu. The completion of this link road, which took around 20 years, connected the people of Shimshal with the Karakoram Highway, Central Hunza, and other southern cities of Pakistan. It has brought a socio-economic revolution to the Shimshal Valley.

The people of Shimshal are Wakhi and speak the Wakhi language. Their culture and traditions are unique. Due to their remote location and difficult accessibility, much of their tradition and culture has remained intact. In ancient times, these people lived a very simple life dictated by the seasons and nature around them. Their lives revolved around festivals, which gave them entertainment and helped them pass harsh times — waiting for these traditional festivals to celebrate gave them joy.

The Kuch Tradition

Following old traditions, every year in the month of May, Shimshali people take their livestock to the high pastures of the Pamir for grazing for a period of five months (May to October) . During these five months, they take care of their yaks, sheep, and goats, and collect butter, cheese, and yeast for their families for the harsh winter season.

Most of their income comes from the sale of yaks, which are very expensive, as well as the sale of goats in the markets of Central Hunza. They also sell butter, dry cheese, and wool, and make local carpets from yak hair. They have vast pastures providing grazing for thousands of sheep and goats at high altitudes, where life is simple, natural, and hard.

Normally, Wakhi communities' livestock is cared for by the women. Women and children go to these pastures with yaks, sheep, and goats, making the high pastures lively and colorful to visit. Families go to the pastures together and live there with the animals for five months. In October, they come down together.

On these occasions — going up to the pastures in May and coming down in October — they hold festivals called "KUCH," which means "travel."

The Kuch Festival (Coming Down from the Pastures)

The coming down from the pastures takes place around 12th to 18th October each year. The day is fixed by the religious person of the village within the week. All the relatives from the village go up to the pastures and collect all the yaks from different valleys, selecting strong yaks to carry the loads.

They start to come down all together from various pastures with yaks, sheep, and goats. They put all their staff and livestock on the yaks, and small children also ride on the backs of yaks. Before entering the village of Shimshal, on the bank of the Shimshal River before the bridge, they spend one night with all these animals — like a big caravan. The women change into dresses brought for them from the village.

The next day, they enter the village all together with new dresses and thousands of cattle at the same time. Their families welcome them at the village, meeting them after five months. At this bridge, the tradition of goat sacrifice is still practiced as before.

All together, they go to the mosque and offer condolences to families who lost relatives during the five months. Then they go to their homes with their families for a program of eating and celebration.

Kuch Festival: Held annually in mid-October (around 12th-18th) when shepherds return from the Pamir pastures. The exact date is fixed by the village religious leader. Book early as accommodations are limited.

Shimshal Access: The 53 km link road from Passu to Shimshal is rough and requires a 4x4 jeep. The drive takes approximately 3 hours through a narrow gorge.

Wakhi Culture: The Shimshali people are Wakhi-speaking and have preserved their unique traditions. Respect their culture and always ask permission before photographing people or their homes.

Weather: October in Shimshal is cool, with temperatures dropping at night. Pack warm layers, a jacket, and sun protection.

“Along the ancient Silk Road, every fortress, stone bazaar, and welcoming mountain hearth tells centuries of timeless history and vibrant living heritage.”

Tour Highlights

  • Shimshal Valley – Explore the remotest valley in Upper Hunza, bordering China
  • Shimshal Kuch Festival – Witness the ancient tradition of shepherds returning from Pamir pastures
  • Yak Caravans – See hundreds of yaks, sheep, and goats entering the village
  • Shimshal Pass (4,735m) – Trek to this high mountain pass with panoramic views
  • Wuch Furzeen & Shuizherav – Camp at pristine alpine pastures
  • Wakhi Culture – Experience the unique traditions of the Shimshali people
  • Attabad Lake – Cross this stunning turquoise lake by boat
  • Baltit & Altit Forts – Explore the historic forts of Karimabad
  • Duikar (Eagle's Nest) – Witness panoramic sunset views of Rakaposhi, Diran & Ultar
  • Karakoram Highway – Travel one of the world's most spectacular mountain roads
  • Gulmit Village – Explore the historic Wakhi settlement, Ondra Fort & the old Summer Palace of the Mir of Hunza
  • Taxila or Rohtas Fort – Optional visit to these UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Day-by-Day Itinerary (17 Days / 16 Nights)

Complete Route & Daily Program
Day 01

Arrival Islamabad

Arrive at Islamabad International Airport. Meet and greet by our guide, then transfer to hotel. Rest of the day free to relax. Overnight at hotel. Altitude: 540m

Hotel Alt: 540m / 30 km
Day 02

Islamabad – Gilgit (By Air) or Chilas (By Road)

Fly to Gilgit (weather permitting) or drive on the Karakoram Highway to Chilas (12-14 hours). The flight offers spectacular views of Nanga Parbat. If driving, follow the Indus River through dramatic gorges. Overnight at hotel. Altitude: 1,500m (Gilgit) / 1,250m (Chilas)

Hotel Alt: 1,500m
Day 03

Gilgit/Chilas – Karimabad, Hunza

Drive to Karimabad, the capital of Hunza Valley. En route, stop at Rakaposhi Viewpoint for magnificent views of Rakaposhi (7,788m). Arrive in Karimabad and check in at hotel. Overnight at hotel. Altitude: 2,500m | Drive: 2-3 hours (from Gilgit) / 5-6 hours (from Chilas)

Hotel Alt: 2,500m
Day 04

Karimabad – Free Day for Local Visits

A full day free at Karimabad for local visits. Explore Baltit Fort (700 years old), Altit Fort (900 years old), Karimabad Bazaar, and the water channel walk. In the evening, visit Duikar (Eagle's Nest) for panoramic sunset views of Rakaposhi, Diran, and Ultar peaks. Overnight at hotel. Altitude: 2,500m (Duikar: 2,800m)

Hotel Alt: 2,800m
Day 05

Karimabad – Gulmit (via Attabad Lake)

Continue to Gulmit in Upper Hunza. Drive to the newly formed Attabad Lake and cross by boat. Continue to Gulmit and check in at hotel. Explore the historic Wakhi village, Ondra Fort, and the old Summer Palace of the Mir of Hunza. Overnight at hotel. Altitude: 2,465m | Drive: 1-2 hours

Hotel Alt: 2,465m
Day 06

Gulmit – Shimshal (Depending on Kuch Start)

Drive to Shimshal, depending on the start of the Kuch Festival. The 53 km jeep track from Passu follows a narrow gorge and takes approximately 3 hours. Arrive at Shimshal, the remotest village in Upper Hunza. Overnight at hotel/guesthouse. Altitude: 3,100m | Drive: 3 hours

Hotel / Guest House Alt: 3,100m
Day 07

Trek to Wuch Furzeen

Begin your trek from Shimshal to Wuch Furzeen. The trail climbs gradually through alpine pastures and rocky terrain, with panoramic views of the Shimshal Valley. Overnight camping. Altitude: 3,800m | Trek: 6-8 hours

Camp Alt: 3,800m
Day 08

Trek to Shuizherav

Continue trekking to Shuizherav. The trail crosses high pastures and streams, with views of the Shimshal Pamir. Overnight camping. Altitude: 4,200m | Trek: 6-8 hours

Camp Alt: 4,200m
Day 09

Trek to Shimshal Pass

Trek to Shimshal Pass (4,735m), a high mountain pass connecting the Shimshal Valley to the Pamir. Enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers. Overnight camping. Altitude: 4,735m | Trek: 3-4 hours

Camp Alt: 4,735m
Day 10

Shimshal Pass – Free Day for Exploration

A full day free for local exploration at Shimshal Pass. Hike to nearby viewpoints, photograph the pristine landscape, or simply relax in the high alpine environment. Overnight camping. Altitude: 4,735m

Camp Alt: 4,735m
Day 11

Trek down to Arbab Pureen

Begin the descent, trekking down to Arbab Pureen. Enjoy the reverse views of the Shimshal Pass and surrounding valleys. Overnight camping. Altitude: 4,000m | Trek: 5-6 hours

Camp Alt: 4,000m
Day 12

Trek to Shimshal Village

Trek down to Shimshal Village. Arrive at the village and transfer to a local guesthouse. Celebrate the completion of the trek with the local community. Overnight at hotel/guesthouse. Altitude: 3,100m | Trek: 5-6 hours

Hotel / Guest House Alt: 3,100m
Day 13

Shimshal – Gulmit

Continue to Gulmit, driving back through the Shimshal Gorge. Arrive at Gulmit and check in at hotel. Rest and relax after the trek. Overnight at hotel. Altitude: 2,465m | Drive: 3 hours

Hotel Alt: 2,465m
Day 14

Gulmit – Gilgit

Drive to Gilgit. En route, stop at Attabad Lake and Karimabad for photography. Arrive at Gilgit and check in at hotel. Explore Gilgit Bazaar and visit the Kargah Buddha. Overnight at hotel. Altitude: 1,500m | Drive: 3-4 hours

Hotel Alt: 1,500m
Day 15

Gilgit – Islamabad (By Air) or Besham (By Road)

Fly to Islamabad (weather permitting) or drive to Besham. If flying, arrive in Islamabad and transfer to hotel. If driving, arrive at Besham and check in at hotel. Overnight at hotel. Altitude: 540m (Islamabad) / 850m (Besham)

Hotel Alt: 850m
Day 16

Islamabad – Free Day / Besham – Islamabad

A full day free at Islamabad to visit Taxila (UNESCO World Heritage Site) or Rohtas Fort. Alternatively, continue from Besham to Islamabad. Overnight at hotel. Altitude: 540m

Hotel Alt: 540m
Day 17

Departure

Transfer to Islamabad International Airport for your departure.

What's Included & Excluded

Package Inclusions

  • Transport & Transfers: All domestic flights and ground transportation included.
  • Accommodations: Twin-sharing hotel stays and high-grade trekking camps (including D3V sleeping tents, toilet tents, and shower tents).
  • Meals & Catering: Full board (daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner) prepared by our dedicated camp cook and kitchen staff.
  • Permits & Official Fees: Complete government trekking permits, official paperwork, bridge tolls, campsite fees, and mandatory waste management dues.
  • Logistics & Camp Gear: Comprehensive trekking logistics, communal gear, and non-personal equipment.
  • Dedicated Crew: Licensed professional mountain guide, kitchen assistants, and porters (up to 15 kg personal luggage allowance per guest).
  • Safety & Emergency Support: Comprehensive first-aid medical kit and satellite phone connectivity for emergency communication.

Package Exclusions

  • Travel & Visas: International airfare, airport departure taxes, and Pakistan visa fees.
  • Insurance: Comprehensive personal travel, medical, and emergency evacuation insurance.
  • Accommodations & Upgrades: Single room supplement (available upon request).
  • Separate Transfers: Airport transfers for participants arriving or departing outside the group schedule.
  • Personal Gear & Expenses: Sleeping bags, room service, laundry, phone/internet charges, beverages (soft drinks, mineral water, and alcoholic drinks), and items of a purely personal nature.
  • Custom Activities: Optional excursions, extra sightseeing, or custom deviations from the fixed itinerary.
  • Gratuities: Tips for mountain guides, camp staff, porters, and drivers.
  • Unlisted Services: Any expense or service not explicitly specified in the "Included" section.

Trek & Route Map

Topographical Trek Route

Interactive geographical route & terrain map for Shimshal Kuch Festival Tour

Open in Google Maps

Terms & Conditions

Hunza Adventure Tours promulgates its terms and conditions for all tours, treks, expeditions, and safaris operated by the company in Pakistan.

Reservation & Advance Payment Requirements

  • 50% advance deposit is required upon confirmation to secure permits, hotel rooms, transport, and certified mountain guides.
  • The full balance settlement must be cleared upon arrival in Pakistan before departure.
  • Advance deposits can be directly wired to our official corporate bank account at Bank Alfalah.

Official Corporate Bank Account Details

Direct all international wire transfers to our official account at Alfalah Bank Pakistan:

Bank Name Bank Alfalah Limited
Account Title HUNZA ADVENTURE TOURS
Account Number 1006067881
Branch Code 0407
SWIFT / BIC Code ALFHPKKA
IBAN Number PK09ALFH0407001001006067881
Branch Address ISE Tower, Jinnah Avenue, Blue Area, Islamabad, Pakistan
Policy 01: Refund & Cancellation

A 50% advance deposit is required upon confirmation. Deposits are non-refundable in case of client cancellation, but 100% refundable if the company encounters unforeseen logistical impediments.

Policy 02: Single Supplement Charge

All tour packages provide hotel rooms on a twin-sharing basis. A single room supplement charge applies for single occupancy requests.

Policy 03: Incomplete Tour

No refunds will be made to participants who voluntarily leave the tour before completion for any unused nights, transport, or meals.

Policy 04: Guide Authority

Our certified tour directors hold complete operational authority. Disruptive or unlawful behavior may result in immediate dismissal from the tour group.

Policy 05: Travel Insurance

All participants are advised to secure comprehensive international travel insurance covering emergency medical expenses and trip cancellation prior to arrival.

Policy 06: Passport & Visa Formalities

Passports must be valid for at least 6 months. We issue official DTS-licensed LOI documentation for the Pakistan online eVisa portal within 24 hours of booking.

Packing & Travel Essentials

Footwear
  • Sturdy trekking boots / trail walking shoes
  • Comfortable slip-on shoes for camps & lodges
  • 3-4 pairs of wool/synthetic socks
Layering & Clothing
  • Thermal base layers & warm fleece jacket
  • Waterproof & windproof outer shell
  • Sun hat, warm beanie, and lightweight gloves
Optics & Sun Care
  • High SPF 50+ sunscreen & polarized sunglasses
  • Camera / action cam with extra batteries
  • Portable power bank & universal adapter

Frequently Asked Questions

Can We Customize Trips?

We loves to customize personal trips for you, your friends, or organization. Our published land costs are typically based on number of individuals, so the number in your party may affect your land costs. Just give us a call/contact us and let us know what you’re interested in, and we’ll do our best to Make It Happen.

What if i want to arrive earlier or depart later than the trip dates?

We are happy to help you arrange accommodations before and after your trip. We can recommend side excursions and restaurants for the extra time.

Who will be picking me up and where?

Our guide or representative will pick you up at the airport on the scheduled arrival date. We can help you arrange accommodations if you arrive earlier, and we are happy to make suggestions for transportation, restaurants and sightseeing.

Who will my guide be?

All of our guides are highly skilled experienced professionals who have been selected based on their careful judgment, local knowledge, understanding of our client’s needs, patience and supportive guiding styles, and great personalities. In addition to their impressive personal achievements in the field, our guides bring a wealth of natural history, cultural anthropology and linguistic knowledge for their group’s enlightenment. Our international guides and staff surpass the needs of our clientele and make the trip enjoyable beyond expectations.

Who will i meet on my arrival in Pakistan?

You will be greeted by our representative at airport on your arrival. He shall be holding a placard of your name for identification. We shall also provide you list of emergency 24 hours contact numbers for any emergency.

Reserving a trip: how quickly do the trips fill up?

There is no way to know how quickly our trips are going to fill up. Many of our trips fill up months in advance. So send in your application and a deposit as soon as you have decided which trip date you want.

Do I need a visa to travel to Pakistan?

This must be obtained before arrival and we recommend that you contact your local Pakistani embassy or consulate when planning your trip.

How is Gilgit Baltistan as a destination? Which places can we see in winter?

Gilgit Baltistan is a beautiful destination. So much so, that one should definitely plan a visit. With beautiful lakes and treks to offer, Gilgit Baltistan is a must-visit place to go to. In winter, the temperature in Gilgit Baltistan drops down severely and becomes even more picturesque. One can visit the frozen lakes , if not the Baltoro trek, one can do the trek in Hunza Valley, visit Gilgit Baltistan festivals that help you interact with the locals as well.

What do i need to bring?

A complete clothing and equipment list specific to your trip will be sent to you in a dossier. Every year, after assessing feedback from our clients and guides, we review and update our lists so they are as complete and up-to-date as possible. Every list has a description of each item, however feel free to call us if you have questions or need help locating any of the items on the list. It is extremely important that you adhere strictly to the equipment list.

Can i request single accommodations?

All accommodations are based on double or triple occupancy. If you are traveling solo and wish to share accommodations, we will pair you with another traveler of same gender. If you request single accommodations or a roommate cannot be assigned, you will be responsible for paying the single supplement fee.

Are there any restrictions for the Photography in Pakistan?

Pakistani people love to take pictures and photograph themselves !
Do not forget your camera !
Photography is a great fun in Pakistan as you will have enough sunlight most of the time. In some of the monuments one has to pay fee for the photography. Our guide will suggest you where it is worth to photograph and where not. At some of the locations photography is not allowed. It is prohibited to photograph military installations, which can include some the train stations, bridges and airports also.Do not photograph these objects otherwise your film can be confiscated.

Should I tip my guide?

Tipping is always a personal choice, but is greatly appreciated by your guides. Check your departure packet for details.

How do i sign up for a trip?

You can sign up for the trip directly on our website. To secure your place on this trip, please click on the BOOK NOW button at the side of the page, or the dates tab to the right. You will also need to have the below information to hand:
• Name as per Passport
• Home Address
• Email Address
• Telephone Number
• Date of Birth

Before you embark on your trip, it is essential that we receive your passport, travel insurance, next of kin, medical details and dietary requirements (if applicable). If you have any medical conditions to declare or are over the age of 65, you will be required to complete a medical declaration form, signed and stamped by your GP. If you don’t have all this information to hand, you can still register your place today, and then re-log into the form before you depart by using your email address and the password you create upon registration.

What is the deposit amount to hold my space?

For the trip confirmation you need to pay us the 40% payment in advance and the remaining 60% payment on arrival in Pakistan and for an
application alone won’t reserve a space

What happens if Hunza Adventure Tours has to cancel my trip?

If we cancels a trip due to any reason, you will receive a full refund.

Is it safe to travel in the Karakorum region?

The incidence of personal violent crime is certainly almost none despite sensational headlines and occasional saber rattling. The Karakorum region is known for centuries of peaceful coexistence.

The incidence of personal violent crime is certainly almost none than in anywhere in the world despite sensational headlines and occasional saber rattling. The Karakorum region is known for centuries of peaceful coexistence.

we have continued to operate trips in the region each year and we are confident that these regions remains one of the most beautiful, compelling and welcoming places on earth.
The major concentrations of troubles are in the western parts of Pakistan and 100s of miles to the Islamabad. Their major concentrations are in areas which have had little or no tourism (investment, hard currency, etc) which is one of the reasons that their message has played well in these very poor districts. By comparison, the K2 Region is a very well and worldly part of Pakistan.
That said, whenever you travel in Pakistan (or anywhere in the world for that matter), you should definitely use personal caution. We avoid any known dangerous situations. We monitor political situations posted by the government Office and ground reports from our staff and network of contacts. As when traveling in any region, make sure to keep an eye on your possessions and take certain common-sense measures to prevent theft or dangerous situations.
The first rule of trekking K2 Base Camp is to step to the wall side when you meet a mule, since otherwise you can be knocked off the edge.
The main danger for most people doing the straight-in, straight-out route is altitude sickness(AKA Acute Mountain Sickness or AMS). For most people, this can be avoided by sleeping no more than 300 metres higher than you did the night before and taking an acclimatisation day every 1000 metres. Serious AMS is more common in folk doing group tours than in independent trekkers.
Other common injuries are twisted ankles and sprains. Rock falls, moraine and glacier crossings add significant risk to longer treks involving crossing high passes such as the Gondogoro-La. As always, it’s unwise to trek solo in case you fall and can’t extricate yourself: Do note, that it is illegal to trek solo.

What is the recommended age and denomination of USD bills?

There is no specific age of USD bills, however, we recommend the guests to carry new crisp bills when traveling. All denominations are acceptable, however, it is easier if you have smaller denominations of 5’s, 10’s and 20’s.

Can i drink the tap water ?

Pakistani tap water is not safe to drink. Bring water purifying tablets or a water purifying stickto save money and the environment. Note that at higher elevations during the coldest times of year the water will freeze, so you’ll need to use boiled water.Buy a decent thermos flask or plastic water container, so that you can top up with hot, boiled water at the beginning of the day – starting with hot water will stop it freezing.

Can I extend my trip ?

Yes – why not stay on and explore more of what Pakistan has to offer! We can request with to change your return date with the airline. Places are limited and all arrangements are subject to availability.

How is Hunza Adventure Tours able to offer such competitive prices?

Our unique style of off the beaten track, face-to-face travel is the only way to really experience a destination, but it also serves to keep the costs down. We spend your money providing an authentic experience, instead of on lavish hotels and expensive western-style meals. We pass these savings on to you with our low prices. Another thing you’ll notice are the inclusions. While we don’t include everything, we do throw in the major highlights of a destination, the things that everyone goes to see. On every trip page we show you the ‘Included Highlights’ of your trip, things that many other companies charge locally for. We leave many other activities as options, to provide you the freedom and flexibility to choose what you want to do on a daily basis.

What is a customized itinerary?

In brief a customized itinerary is an itinerary prepared according to your personal needs. After all, you would have requested this to us as part of the process of customization. Your specific interest, preferences and needs are weighted with our knowledge of logistics and highlights of the area.

What currency is used in Pakistan and where can I exchange money?

The Pakistani currency is the rupee, which is made of 100 paisa. Major currencies such as US dollars, British pounds and Euros are easily exchanged throughout Pakistan. Most international airports of the country have the money exchange counters, and also some selected larger hotels and resorts have this facility to their customer.

Can I use my credit card in Pakistan?

Of course the most regularly used cards are Visa and MasterCard, but neither American Express nor Dinner’s Club are broadly accepted in Pakistan. While you are going out of the main cities to the small places, it is recommended that you carry enough Pakistani currency for purchasing and tipping purpose.

Is Pakistan a good destination for family traveler?

With its many diverse landscapes and attractions, Pakistan is an admirable destination for the family traveler. Some of the good options are beach holidays and wildlife adventures in the national parks, while many monuments have sight and light shows that will capture children’s imagination. For teenagers, the many outdoor activities, such as camel safari and trekking, are an illustrative card. Without the second thinking, the big challenge for families travelling in this country might be the distances that need to be covered between cities. Air travel and railway journeys are usually the most comfortable forms of traveling, and are strongly recommended to those with the young children.

What kind of food will I be able to eat in Pakistan?

Pakistani cuisine has several variations, with each region famous for its own techniques, ingredients and spices. In northern regions, meat dishes are very popular, which are usually made with chicken, mutton or lamb whereas in southern part vegetarian cuisine is most favored. In addition, seafood is also readily available, particularly at the coast. While Pakistani cuisine tends to be spicy, most restaurants will gladly prepare a milder variation of the meals on the request of their customer.

Do you have experienced guides in different cities of Pakistan ?

We have English speaking guides all over Pakistan. At many places , we also have french , German , Spanish ,Italian and Japanese and other language speaking guides. We can also provide accompanying foreign language speaking tourist guides for individuals and groups. The availability of foreign language speaking guides can be confirmed at the time of reservation.

Can women travel alone?

Every year hundreds of women travel alone into the remote valleys of Pakistan. Many of them can be seen in the streets of Hunza, Gilgit and Baltistan. To take a safer holidays in Pakistan we advice you to wear modest dress which cover whole of their body. Secondly before starting a trek or tour with local guide in the wilderness, please report about your program to the nearest police station or to your embassy with the identity/contact of your local guide/company.

How do I communicate?

English is Pakistan’s official language and widely spoken throughout Pakistan. Most of the signboards are in English. All our drivers, guides and even peoples in the remote valley can understand and speak English.

How to get information about the Weather?

The weather report can be obtained online from internet you can seach the destinations where you will be going.

What is the distance of hotel from the Airport?

Normally it takes 15-30 minutes from the Islamabad International Airport to the city hotels. However it depends upon the condition of the traffic at the time of the day. The distance varies from 15 to 30 kilometers.

What to bring?

Hunza Adventure Tours will provide all necessary accommodation, meal and transportation requirements outlined in the specific tour itineraries (exceptions will be notified). For our trekking and climbing programs, trekkers will be requested to provide personal equipment, appropriate mountain attire and medical supplies.

Who will brief the guests about their further program at the destination?

Our local agent or their representative or the guides will inform the guest’s of their further program at the destinations on daily basis mostly in the evening about the next day’s program.

How much tips to be given to the porters, drivers and the guests?

Tips are dependent of the services provided. A small amount of money can be given at each service to insure prompt and reliable service. For guides it depends on how informative, knowledgeable, helpful they are.

Whether it is good and cheap to eat outside the hotel (restaurants)?

Some of the restaurants are cheaper and frequently visited by the local people. So sometimes yes, it is a good experience to eat outside the hotels and get to meet the local population.

If the domestic air tickets for all sectors are confirmed and in case any sector is waitlisted, what alternate option we will give them?

We offer alternative arrangements in case the flight tickets are not confirmed nor have no chances of getting confirmed. Railway Journey or by surface. We always look at various factors such as the condition of the roads, time of travel and the time taken to cover the distance, comfort and offer the best possible option with consultation, acceptance and agreement with the guest.

About the bank processing charges?

Bank Processing charges are levied on the payment collected on or through the credit cards. It is usually 3.5% of the total amount to be collected or of the invoice raised by us.

How to go about the procedures to get the lost baggage?

In case a bag is lost in transit by the airlines. We file a lost baggage report with the airlines. If the guest continues with the journey, we collect the baggage from the airlines for the guest. For the collection of a lost baggage we need the following: We need an authorization from the guest authorizing Hunza Adventure Tours, and their representative to collect the baggage on their behalf.
A photocopy of the passport of the guest, a letter addressed to the Superintendent customs. The keys of the lost bag for custom clearance.
The original copy of the lost baggage report lodged with the airlines. We will deliver the bag at the doorstep and bill the guest for the services provided. The amount of the invoice can be collected from the airlines at home.

Will the airline pay for the damage and temporary compensation?

Yes, the airlines pay an inconvenience allowance to buy personal effects. They even offer the baggage delivery charges or sometimes offer to deliver the baggage by themselves at the doorstep.

How to take the claim for the damages?

Before walking through the airport exit gates, you must locate your airline's Baggage Service Counter or Lost and Found Desk in the arrivals area.