This 14-day high-intensity cycling expedition by Travan Pakistan is designed for seasoned riders who want the full Northern Pakistan experience in a tighter schedule. Starting in Islamabad and flying straight to Skardu, the adventure begins in the heart of the mountains. The route blends acclimatization rides with high-altitude climbs, including Deosai Plains, the road to Astore, the legendary Karakoram Highway, and the ultimate ascent to Khunjerab Pass (4,733m). Covering over 900 km, this expedition delivers dramatic terrain — from alpine meadows and river gorges to glaciers, plateaus, and ancient forts.
A compact, powerful route for cyclists seeking altitude, endurance, and breathtaking scenic rewards.
Arrive in Islamabad and transfer to the hotel. After a short rest, take an evening city detour to Saidpur Village and the stunning Faisal Mosque. Meet your cycling guides for an orientation and safety briefing.
Altitude: 540m | Activity: Sightseeing & briefing
Stay: Ambiance Hotel
Take a morning flight to Skardu, landing amidst dramatic granite peaks. Transfer to your hotel and begin cycle assembly, mechanical checks, and route briefing. Afternoon at leisure for rest and hydration.
Altitude: 2,230m | Activity: Setup & acclimatization
Stay: PC Legacy Hotel
A gentle but high-altitude warm-up ride. Cycle toward Soq Valley and continue to the wide meadows of Chunda Valley, offering panoramic views of the Skardu basin. Return before evening.
Distance: 35–40 km | Altitude Gain: ~400m
Stay: PC Legacy Hotel
The expedition officially begins! Climb toward the Deosai Plateau, one of Earth’s highest grasslands. Ride past alpine streams and rolling meadows before reaching Bara Pani for the night.
Distance: ~65 km | Altitude Gain: 1,300m (2,230m → 3,500m)
Stay: Glamp Pakistan
Ride across the wild, wide-open landscapes of Deosai and descend into the dramatic valleys leading toward Astore. Expect rivers, plateaus, and rugged switchbacks.
Distance: ~70 km | Altitude Gain: 500m ascent, large descent into Astore
Stay: Wazir Mahal Guest House
Cycle through valleys and river canyons toward Gilgit. The route follows dramatic landscapes and small hamlets lining the river.
Distance: ~120 km | Altitude Gain: ~1,000m
Stay: Riverdale Resort
Cycle along the legendary Karakoram Highway, stopping at the iconic Rakaposhi Viewpoint. Ride into the beautiful terraced settlements of Karimabad by evening.
Distance: ~100 km | Altitude Gain: 800m
Stay: The 2 Magpies Resort
Relax, restore, and explore. Visit Altit Fort, walk through the historic Royal Gardens, and enjoy free time in Karimabad Bazaar for culture and local food.
Altitude: 2,400m | Activity: Culture & recovery
Stay: The 2 Magpies Resort
Continue north along turquoise valleys and dramatic cliffs. Ride past Attabad Lake, Gulmit, and the iconic Passu Cones as you reach Ghalapan.
Distance: ~75 km | Altitude Gain: 600m
Stay: Moksha Serenity Resort
Your most significant ascent — the climb to Khunjerab Pass (4,733m). Celebrate your achievement at the top before bicycles are loaded into support vehicles for the return.
Distance: ~85 km | Altitude Gain: 1,200m
Stay: Moksha Serenity Resort
Drive back to Atabad Lake for a relaxed celebration overlooking the spectacular Atabad Lake. Free evening for rest, photos, and team celebrations.
Activity: Leisure & celebration
Stay: Zen by the lake
A scenic full-day drive retracing the Indus River through high mountains and dramatic gorges.
Distance: ~300 km | Drive Time: 8–9 hours
Stay: PC Legacy
Morning flight from Skardu to Islamabad. Visit the Taxila Museum and the nearby Julian Monastery, important sites of the ancient Gandhara civilization.
Activity: Cultural sightseeing
Stay: Ambiance Hotel
After breakfast, transfer to Islamabad International Airport for your onward journey, completing an unforgettable 14-day high-altitude cycling expedition.
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