The Soul of Pakistan: Stories of Heritage, Mountains, and Partition Spring Tour
Travel like you’ve never done before with unique immersive experiences
Come join us as we take you on a cultural adventure to this South Asian gem. To support humanitarian causes and better understand the region, we will also be meeting with local activists. If you are curious and interested in TRULY learning about Pakistan beyond the headlines, adventure travel, and connecting with other like-minded travelers, this trip is for you.
The immersive experience with The Hybrid Tours, merging culture and education, broadened my understanding of historical events, giving me a more nuanced perspective of the complexities and contexts behind them. Interacting with knowledgeable guides, first-hand witnesses and historians brought stories to life, filling in gaps and answering questions that I never knew I had. – Michelle, USA
Start
End
Islamabad
Meals
12 breakfasts, 11 lunches, 1 dinner
Transport
Private Bus, Domestic Flight (Skardu to Islamabad), 4×4
Group size
1 – 15
Days
13
Accommodation
We’ll be staying in a a mix of quality hotels and mountain lodges
Dates
May 4-16th, 2026
Physical activity
Moderate: Expect extended walking and standing for site visits, stairs or uneven surfaces. All hiking and intense activities are optional.
Trip highlights
Lahore | Islamabad | Skardu | Hunza | Chillas | Katpana Desert | Basho Valley
✔️ Lahore’s Cultural Side – Explore the vibrant energy of Lahore in a fun, unique way; witness the unforgettable Wagah Border ceremony at the crossroads with India, and stroll through stunning mosques and forts that showcase the city’s rich history and architecture.
✔️ Skardu’s Mountain Gateway – Discover Skardu, the heart of Pakistan’s adventure scene, where mountains meet crystal-clear lakes. Explore ancient forts, hike scenic trails (optional), and experience what life is like here.
✔️ Hunza’s Timeless Beauty – Journey through the breathtaking Hunza Valley, where peaks, fields, and welcoming communities create a landscape straight out of a fairytale. Visit historic forts, meet the locals, and take in the incredible mountain views.
✔️ Katpana Desert’s Cold Sands – Stay overnight at the Katpana Desert, where dunes meet snow-capped peaks. This high-altitude desert offers a landscape unlike any other, making for a truly unforgettable experience.
✔️ Historical Insights – What was the Partition of India and Pakistan? How did colonization’s lasting effects shape this region? How did a hastily drawn border in a map divide communities and force millions into displacement? With The Hybrid Tours, learn and challenge the media narratives.
Why this trip is for you
Pakistan is one of the most underrated and misunderstood countries in the world, and through our expertise and contacts, we’re here to take you on this journey. We’re including the must-see highlights, along with some off-the-beaten-path spots that most tourists miss!
Explore the stunning mountainous landscapes, incredible valleys, and iconic landmarks.
Learn about Pakistan beyond the news headlines by engaging with local communities and activists.
Marvel at the breathtaking architecture of old Lahore.
Indulge in traditional Pakistani food and desserts!
Not only have we been to the country on multiple occasions, but one of our founders is Pakistani!
If you’re looking to discover a new part of the world, check off some bucket-list experiences, travel in a unique way, support meaningful causes, and immerse yourself in a rich culture, then join us from May 4th – 16th, 2026, as we embark on an unforgettable journey through Pakistan!
Itinerary
Arrival at Allama Iqbal Lahore International Airport (LHE). Meet and assist at the airport. Transfer to hotel. Airport transfer available all day.
We suggest arriving in the morning of 4th to make it on time for the Lahore Tour! There are plenty of flights from the UAE/Qatar/Istanbul to Lahore in the early morning. If the timing is not suitable for you, no worries! You can arrive the night before and we can arrange an extra hotel night for you. This is very common among our guests to get some rest and be ready for Day 1 so you won’t be the only one!
After your arrival, we’ll set off to explore Lahore – the Fort, Badshahi Mosque (a beautiful structure that’s from the 16th century Mughal Era) and more in a very FUN way, you’re in for a surprise!
In the evening, we’ll have our official welcome dinner at Haveli Restaurant with the best views of Lahore.
Meals included: dinner
Overnight in Lahore
After breakfast, we’ll be driving to Islamabad via the Lahore-Islamabad Motorway.
Once we arrive in Islamabad, we’ll visit the Lok Virsa Museum to get a better understanding of the different ethnic groups in the country. We have a long day ahead of us so we’ll be taking it easy today.
After Lok Virsa, you’re free to roam around the city, or you can get some rest to get ready for our big day tomorrow when we start heading up north.
Meals: breakfast and lunch
Overnight in Islamabad
We gotta be up early today! We’ll drive out to Gilgit and stay overnight in Naran to break down the drive. Not to worry! This way we’ll get a chance to go through small picturesque towns and stunning views as we ascend into northern Pakistan. This is also very important to avoid altitude sickness.
We’ll be making regular stops for tea and stopping at local towns. We’ll also get a chance to make stops to view some of the highest peaks in the world.
Meals: breakfast and lunch
Overnight in Naran and Gilgit
Today, we’ll be visiting two iconic sites that you cannot miss while in Pakistan. We’re all about showing you the best spots mixed in with hidden gems, after all!
We’ll visit the iconic Altit Fort, one of the oldest forts in the Hunza Valley, which dates back over 900 years, and it offers a fascinating glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region.
We’ll also stop at Rakaposhi Viewpoint so you can start admiring some of the highest peaks in the world. As the day winds down, we’ll head to the Karimabad market for an evening visit. Here you’ll get a chance to browse the local handicrafts, and interact with the friendly vendors. The market is a perfect place to pick up souvenirs!
Meals: Breakfast and lunch
Overnight in Hunza
Throughout these 2 days, we’ll visit Gulmit village – which is known for its views of the surrounding mountains and the Hunza River. For those of you avid hikers, there will be an optional hike to Baskochi Top for views of Attabad Lake (subject to weather conditions). We’ll also be offering an optional sunrise hike to Eagle’s Nest.
Next up is the infamous Hussaini Suspension Bridge, one of the most thrilling bridges in the world. This bridge hangs over a deep gorge and is completely optional to cross for those who want a bit of adrenaline.
We’ll be visiting some spots which include women-led businesses. Travel is all about breaking stereotypes, and by learning about their unique traditions and lifestyle, you’ll be able to do so. It’s a wonderful opportunity to experience the hospitality of the communities and gain insights into the local way of life.
Meals: Breakfast and lunch
Overnight in Hunza Region
Gilgit-Baltistan was voted by CNN among the best places to visit in 2025, and we can see why.
Today, we’ll be leaving Hunza and driving to Skardu, for another day of scenic drives. Our first stop will be Kachura Lake, which is known for its crystal-clear waters. We will also get a different view from the lake from the nearby Shangrila Resort, often referred to as “Heaven on Earth.”
Towards the end of the day, we’ll be making it to the Kampana Desert, which we’ll be exploring the next day. Imagine the beautiful contraste between the sand dunes and the mountains!
Meals: Breakfast and lunch
Overnight in Skardu
We’re starting the day right in the cold desert of Skardu! We’ll be exploring the area in the morning. If you get up early enough, you might even catch the amazing sunrise this place has to offer: a photographer’s dream.
From the cold desert, we’ll head to the historic Shigar Fort, a 400-year-old fort, also known as “Fong-Khar” (Palace on the Rock), which has been restored and now serves as a museum and boutique hotel.
Our final stop for the day will be the stunning Manthoka Waterfall, one of the most picturesque waterfalls in the region. This is one of our favorite days since it shows you the variety of landscapes that can be found only with a few hours drive.
Meals: Breakfast and lunch
Overnight in Skardu
We’re kicking off the day with a fun 4×4 jeep ride into the Basho Valley, a hidden gem of Skardu known for its lush greenery. Going by jeep will allow us to go off-road to explore more of this area.
We’ll stop for lunch right in the middle of the valley, yet another meal with incredible views. Afterwards, we’ll continue exploring the area, and potentially even meet with locals! In the late afternoon, we’ll head back to our accommodation.
Meals: Breakfast and lunch
Overnight in Skardu
We’re starting our last full day up north with a drive to Khaplu. Our first stop is the historic Khaplu Fort, also called Yabgo Khar, which is a great example of Balti architecture. This restored 19th-century fort is now a heritage museum.
Next, we’ll visit the serene Khaplu Mosque, one of the oldest mosques in the region, known for its unique Tibetan, Persian, and Balti architectural influences. This mosque is a great example of the cultural diversity that is present in this region.
To finish the day, we’ll make our way to the Masherbrum Viewpoint, where you’ll be able to see the iconic Masherbrum peak, also known as K1, one of the most famous mountains in the world.
Meals included: Breakfast and lunch
Overnight in Skardu
Start the day with an early morning breakfast before heading to the airport, where we’ll catch a one-hour flight back to Islamabad. Depending on our arrival time, you’ll get a chance to explore the city at leisure!
We suggest booking your return flights for AFTER 10 PM LOCAL TIME on MAY 16th to account for any possible delays. Departure should be booked from Islamabad Airport (ISB). If you need to book an extra night of accommodation, we can obviously arrange that for you.
Thank you for being part of this amazing adventure. We hope you’ll have a fantastic time and look forward to our journey together!
All the best,
The Hybrid Tours Team
Inclusions
Exclusions
- Accommodation: We’ll be staying in a a mixture of quality hotels and mountain lodges
- Activities: All activities are included except those that involve high levels of adrenaline
- Small groups: For the best immersive travel experiences, we pride ourselves in having no more than 15 people per group
- Transport: Transportation is provided for the duration of the trip in a private vehicle.
- Airport Transfers: Airport pick-ups/drop-offs are included on May 4th + 16th.
- Meetings with activists: You’ll be learning about history from activists. We expect guests to remain courteous.
- Domestic Flight: One domestic flight included
- Entry fees: All entry fees listed in the itinerary are included.
- Visa paperwork: There is visa on arrival and electronic visas included. We’ll arrange the paperwork and guide you through the process.
- Local tour guides: Professional English-speaking tour guides.
- Meals: All breakfast and lunches are included. Budget $5-15 for each dinner. Although you might be stuffed and not need it!
- Travel insurance: All participants are required to have travel insurance
- Personal expenses: We recommend bringing at least $200-300 USD for all of your personal expenses throughout the trip and extra activities. This does not include the tips.
- Extra Meals: Meals outside of those stated in the itinerary.
- Tips for Guides: Not included. We recommend $10/day to your guide and half of this to your driver.
- Visa Fees: Visa fees for Pakistan and required in countries en-route to Pakistan are not included.
- Activities not listed: Adrenaline-filled activities such as zip-lining, jet ski...
- International Flights: International flights are not included
- Beverages: Water will be provided as we travel through Pakistan. Other beverages are not included.
Logistics ✈️
Pick up is anytime on May 4th, from Lahore International Airport.
The airport code is LHE. We suggest arriving in the am to not miss out on the pm activities, plus our welcome dinner!
If the flight schedules do not align, we will be happy to arrange extra hotel nights & airport transfers if needed! Please reach out directly to help you out 🙂
The departure should be booked on May 16th after 10 pm from Islamabad International Airport, airport code ISB.
If you’re looking to visit a new part of the world, travel in a completely different way, enjoy breathtaking nature, get to meet new people and immerse yourself in a new culture, then come and join us!
Why should you join us?
- You’re tired of tourist traps and want to discover something real
You’re curious about history, culture, and human stories
You want to connect deeply with locals and fellow travelers
You’re interested in learning about countries and their history beyond the statistics, headlines and biases
Read what our guests have to say!
