Arrive in Islamabad and check into your hotel. After a short rest, enjoy an evening detour of Saidpur Village and the magnificent Faisal Mosque, one of Asia’s largest. Briefing session with your cycling guides and support crew.
Experience the most spectacular cycling route in Asia with Travan Pakistan’s Northern Highlands Cycling Expedition, a high-altitude adventure through the heart of the Himalayas, Karakoram, and Hindukush. Starting from Islamabad’s peaceful green avenues, this 18-day journey takes you through pine forests, alpine passes, glacial valleys, and iconic landmarks — from Nathiagali and Babusar Pass to Deosai Plains and Hunza Valley, culminating at Khunjerab Pass (4,733m), Pakistan’s northernmost frontier.
The route covers over 1,200 km of breathtaking landscapes, combining steady climbs, thrilling descents, and scenic rest days. Each day blends cycling with cultural encounters — from the colonial echoes of Nathiagali to the traditional stone forts of Hunza. This expedition is tailored for seasoned cyclists seeking endurance, altitude, and unforgettable scenery across Pakistan’s northern wonders.
Arrive in Islamabad and check into your hotel. After a short rest, enjoy an evening detour of Saidpur Village and the magnificent Faisal Mosque, one of Asia’s largest. Briefing session with your cycling guides and support crew.
Morning session for cycle assembly, mechanical checks, and safety briefing. Enjoy a 25 km test ride along Margalla Hills Avenue, offering gentle climbs and beautiful foothill views.
Distance: 25 km | Altitude Gain: 250m
Start your cycling expedition! The route ascends gradually from Islamabad to Nathiagali through Abbottabad’s lush hills and pine forests.
Distance: ~95 km | Altitude Gain: 1,500m (540m → 2,100m)
Descend through scenic mountain roads toward Balakot, surrounded by pine-clad slopes and river valleys.
Distance: ~85 km | Altitude Gain: 400m (net descent overall)
Cycle through Kaghan Valley along the Kunhar River, passing Naran en route. The gradual climb offers breathtaking alpine scenery.
Distance: ~80 km | Altitude Gain: 1,100m (1,000m → 2,100m)
A challenging but rewarding stage! Conquer Babusar Top (4,173m), one of Pakistan’s highest paved passes. After a thrilling descent, reach Chillas.
Distance: ~120 km | Altitude Gain: 2,000m ascent, 2,600m descent
Follow the Indus River before turning north toward Astore Valley. The road climbs through dramatic gorges and small hamlets.
Distance: ~90 km | Altitude Gain: 1,500m (1,200m → 2,700m)
Climb onto the Deosai Plateau (4,114m), the “Land of Giants.” Visit the breathtaking Sheosar Lake, reflecting Nanga Parbat on clear days.
Distance: ~70 km | Altitude Gain: 1,400m
Ride across the rolling plains of Deosai, then enjoy a descent into the Skardu Valley through alpine meadows and river crossings.
Distance: ~90 km | Altitude Gain: 300m ascent, 1,800m descent
A long scenic stretch following the Indus River through narrow gorges and remote mountain passes.
Distance: ~200 km | Altitude Gain: 900m
Cycle along the legendary Karakoram Highway, stopping at the Rakaposhi Viewpoint. Arrive in Karimabad by evening.
Distance: ~100 km | Altitude Gain: 800m
Rest and recovery day. Explore Altit Fort, stroll through Karimabad Bazaar, and enjoy local organic cuisine.
Activity: Sightseeing & culture | Altitude: 2,400m
Continue north past Attabad Lake, Gulmit, and Passu. The ride offers some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in Pakistan.
Distance: ~75 km | Altitude Gain: 600m
Final ascent to the majestic Khunjerab Pass (4,733m) — Pakistan’s highest border crossing with China. Celebrate at the top before loading cycles into support vehicles for return.
Distance: ~85 km | Altitude Gain: 1,200m
Drive back to Gulmit for a relaxed day and success celebration with the group overlooking the Passu Cones.
Activity: Leisure & celebration
Scenic drive back to Skardu, retracing parts of the Indus route with photo stops.
Distance: ~300 km | Drive Time: 6–7 hrs
Morning flight to Islamabad. On arrival, enjoy a guided tour of Taxila Museum and Julian Monastery, key heritage sites of the Gandhara civilization.
Activity: Cultural sightseeing
After breakfast, transfer to Islamabad International Airport for your onward journey — ending an unforgettable cycling adventure across Northern Pakistan’s legendary landscapes.
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