Lahore is one of the great centres of Mughal Architecture. With its magnificent Islamic monuments, spectacular reminders from the era of British rule, chaotic old city bazaar and modern status, Lahore remains high on the list of Pakistan's unmissable sights, including the UNESCO World Heritage sites of the Jahangir Tomb and Shalimar Garden. This afternoon drive on to the Wagah border where you will join the patriotic crowds to witness the extraordinary – and very bizarre – Wagah Border Ceremony.

From the cultural “capital” Lahore we will drive west to the capital of Pakistan, the city of Islamabad, half way we make a stop to visit the Katasraj Temple and explore the Khewra Salt Mines. Dinner & overnight at hotel in Islamabad Katasraj Mandir is a Hindu mandir or temple complex situated in Katas village near Choa Saidanshah dedicated to Shiva. The smaller temples, built in pairs around the larger central temple, were built around 900 years or so ago, although the earliest of them dates back to the latter half of the 6th century AD. The Katas site houses the Satgraha, a group of seven ancient temples, remains of a Buddhist stupa, a few medieval temples, havelis and some recently constructed temples, scattered around a pond considered holy by Hindus. The Khewra Salt Mine (or Mayo Salt Mine) is located in Khewra, is Pakistan's largest and oldest salt mine and the world's second largest. Its history dates back to its discovery by Alexander's troops in 320 BC, but it started trading in the Mughal era.

Flight from Islamabad to Skardu. Upon arrival, you'll be welcomed by our local team of Adventure Pakistan and then transferred by minibus to the hotel.

Start with a short warm-up hike to the village of Nangsoq (approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes round trip). On the return journey, make a climb to the Khorpocho fortress to witness the sunset.

Nangsoq holds the distinction of being Pakistan's first eco-village, celebrated for its natural beauty and the presence of a wetland where a village with traditional houses and hospitable people resides. Located on the banks of the Indus River, the village lies at an approximate walking distance of 2 km from Skardu. It was once part of the royal gardens during the reign of King Ali Sher Khan Anchan.

The 17th-century fortress of Karpocho stands atop a hill, towering more than 1400 meters above Skardu. A 30-minute ascent leads us to this fortress, providing a panoramic view of the city on one side and the Indus River on the other. Constructed by Ali Sher Khan Anchan (1560-1625 AD), a ruler of the region during the 17th century, the fortress holds a beautiful little mosque within its wooden structure, positioned in what seems to have been the fort's inner courtyard.

Today you will take a jeep ride to Machulo valley (approximately 1 hour) for spectacular mountain scenery, including a view of the uniquely shaped Masherbrum Peak (7,821m). Enjoy a picnic lunch and wander around the area before returning to the hotel in Khaplu.

After breakfast drive westwards through the 140km long, spectacular Rondu Gorge of the mighty Indus. Stop en route for lunch before travelling a further few hours to the newly restored Karakorum Highway. The smooth road will bring you to Gilgit, where you will check into your accommodation and enjoy a free evening.

After breakfast stop off in town to visit the Christian cemetery before yet another amazing drive, past the titanic form of Mount Rakaposhi, takes you on to Hunza. You will have lunch on the way at the Rakaposhi View Restaurant, providing views (weather dependent) of the longest uninterrupted mountain flank on earth (6000m). Arrive into Karimabad and check into your hotel. Later this afternoon, you will visit the 800-year-old Baltit Fort, once the stronghold of the Ayasho Dynasty and now renovated to a very high standard by UNESCO. Finally, explore the local market, including a stop at 'Cafe De Hunza' - famous for delicious walnut cake and a variety of coffees.

A slower pace today allows you to recover from a busy few days. This morning you will be transferred to the neighbouring 'twin' village of Altit. Here, you will visit the restored Altit Fort and the women's workshop 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 Cafe;, cooked by a women's community village organisation. Return to the hotel for the rest of the day at leisure to take in the magnificent views of the valley and Rakaposhi.

Today you will drive out to Nagar Valley to take a short walk on the Hoper Glacier, followed by a visit to the lake at Attabad. In January 2010 a massive landslide blocked the Hunza River, which submerged 22km of the KKH by forming a beautiful azure lake. Here you can take a boat ride towards the northern shore giving a great opportunity to photograph the famous cathedral peaks. Time permitting, stop en route to visit Ganish Heritage Village - one of the oldest settlements of Hunza which has been very well-preserved by Aga Khan Cultural and Heritage services. Late afternoon, return to Gilgit for the evening.

This morning you will be transferred to the airport in time to catch your onward flight.