Pakistan – The Old Silk Route

Arrive at Islamabad airport. Complementary airport to hotel transfers are included for all flight times. At 6pm you will meet the group and our representative at the hotel for a briefing.

Islamabad Altitude: 540 metres (1,770 ft)
Accommodation: Hotel (D)

This morning, we aim to take the early flight from Islamabad to Gilgit (not included in the trip cost). This is one of the most scenic and exhilarating flight routes in the world. The journey offers breathtaking aerial views of Pakistan’s northern mountain ranges, including Nanga Parbat (8,125m), and on a clear day, even the distant silhouette of K2, the world’s second-highest peak.

The flight is operated using ATR 42-500 twin-engine turboprop aircraft. These planes are ideal for short-haul routes and are specifically suited to navigate the challenging approach into Gilgit Airport, which lies at 4,796 feet above sea level and has a relatively short runway at 5,400 feet.

Please note, this route is weather dependent, and while the flight is scheduled to operate, cancellations do occur, occasionally at the last minute. In the event the flight is cancelled, we will continue our journey to Gilgit by road, taking in the dramatic landscapes of the Karakoram region along the way.

Upon arrival in Gilgit—whether by air or road—you’ll be transferred to the group hotel for check-in and some time to relax.

Gilgit Altitude: 1,462m (4,796ft)
Accommodation: Hotel (L,D)

Today offers a relaxed start, with time to acclimatise and get comfortable on the bikes. We’ll take a gentle 18km warm-up ride around Gilgit, visiting the impressive 7th-century Kargah Buddha, carved into a cliff face just outside the town. Nearby, at Shuko Gah, is the site where the ancient Gilgit Manuscripts, some of the oldest Buddhist texts in the world, were discovered.

You’ll also have free time to explore the town’s bazaars or unwind at the Serena Hotel, our comfortable base in Gilgit.

Gilgit Altitude: 1,462m (4796ft)
Cycle Distance: 18km (11 miles)
Total Climb: 225m (738ft)
Total Descent: 225m (738ft)
Accommodation: Serena Hotel (B)

Today we set off on the bikes and cycle into the beautiful and remote Bagrote Valley which spans a distance of 25km and is 43km from Gilgit. Located at the heart of the Karakorum Mountains, it is surrounded by four Mountain Peaks: Rakapushi to the West, Dirn to the North, Popurash to the East and Dubani to the South East. The Bagrote River flows through the steep valley and merges with the Gilgit. The lower region of the valley has been likened to a lunar landscape and is in strong contrast to the upper valley. We cycle up the narrow road to the summer pastures passing beautiful terraced fields and meadows. The crops and orchards are irrigated by water channels from the Barchi and Hinarchi glaciers and mountain snow. Ice from the glacier is transported to Gilgit as the town has no ice factory. Chirah is the final village along the track, with a view of Hinarche Glacier and a series of ridges culminating in the Diran Peak (7270m). Nagyr is on the other side. Tonight we will be camping.

Chirah Altitude: 2,390m (7,841ft)
Cycling Distance: 34km (21 miles)
Total Climb: 1,240m (4,068ft)
Total Descent: 450m (1,476ft) Accommodation: Camping (B,L,D)

This morning we visit the local school and women’s sewing centre, a vocational training project; both are supported by redspokes LVCF charity. We have the opportunity to meet families from the community. There is time to walk around and enjoy the view of the prominent Dobani peak and the Hinarche Glacier. We cycle back to Gilgit, mainly downhill; a gentle trip compared with yesterday’s ascent up the valley. Back in Gilgit you will have time to look around, visit a tea shop or pick up some of the handicrafts for sale in the town.

Gilgit Altitude: 1,462m (4796ft)
Cycle Distance: 43km (27 miles)
Total Climb: 450m (1,476ft)
Total Descent: 1,240m (4,068ft)
Accommodation: Serena Hotel (B,L)

Shortly after leaving Gilgit, we rejoin the legendary Karakoram Highway as it begins a gentle ascent, winding through a series of small villages and terraced fields. Along the way, there are fleeting glimpses of Rakaposhi’s immense, spiraling form, but much of its grandeur remains hidden behind the ridgelines.

It’s only when we arrive at the newly opened Dumani Nagar Hotel & Resort, nestled almost at the mountain’s base, that Rakaposhi reveals itself in all its breathtaking glory. This elegant 5-star retreat offers sweeping panoramic views and is surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens filled with cherry and apricot trees. Seamlessly blending modern comfort with the wild, dramatic beauty of the Hunza Valley, it’s a stunning addition to the region and a truly unforgettable setting.

Jafarabad Altitude: 925m (3,035ft)
Cycle Distance: 57.9km (36 miles)
Total Climb: 1,530m (5,019ft)
Total Descent: 1,150m (3,772ft)
Accommodation: Hotel and Resort (B,L,D)

We begin the day crossing the Hunza River en route to Hussain Abad, a peaceful Ismaili Muslim village known for its strong sense of community and commitment to education and social development, inspired by the values of the Aga Khan.

In 2010, the village was hit by devastating floods and a landslide that displaced 50 families. With support from redspokes donors and in collaboration with the Aga Khan Foundation, new homes were built on safer ground. When redspokes founder Dermot MacWard returned with a group of cyclists in 2013, they received a warm and emotional welcome, captured in this video.

From Hussain Abad, we follow a stunning stretch of road along the north side of the Hunza River, with dramatic views of the valley below. The day ends in the beautiful town of Karimabad, nestled high above the valley with sweeping views of Rakaposhi, Ultar Sar, and Ladyfinger Peak—a perfect place to unwind after a meaningful day’s ride.

Karimabad Altitude: 2,400m (7,874ft)
Cycle Distance: 46.75km (29 miles)
Total Climb: 1,230m (4,035ft)
Total Descent: 890m (2,919ft)
Accommodation: Hunza Serena Hotel (B)

Although it’s a rest day, Karimabad has a way of pulling you out to explore. With its rich history and incredible setting, it’s unlikely you’ll stay still for long.

You can visit the iconic Baltit Fort, perched above the town with commanding views and centuries of Hunza history within its stone walls. Nearby, the Sacred Rocks of Hunza, covered in ancient petroglyphs and inscriptions, offer a glimpse into the region’s role along the old Silk Road.

For those feeling adventurous, a trek up to Hon Village rewards you with stunning views over the Nagar Valley and the surrounding peaks. Or simply wander the village, sip chai, and soak up the scenery—Rakaposhi, Ultar Sar, and Ladyfinger Peak keeping watch in the distance.

Karimabad Altitude: 2,400m (7,874ft)
Accommodation: Hunza Serena Hotel (B)

Refreshed from our time in Karimabad, we set off north along the Karakoram Highway through the striking upper Hunza region. The ride takes us past the vivid turquoise waters of Attabad Lake, created by a landslide in 2010, and through dramatic tunnels carved into the mountainside.

We’ll make a stop at the photogenic Hussaini Suspension Bridge before continuing to Passu, a quiet village nestled beneath the iconic Passu Cones. Surrounded by glaciers, jagged peaks, and the winding Hunza River, this is one of the most breathtaking sections of the journey.

Passu Altitude: 2,480m (8136ft)
Cycle Distance: 51.4km (32 miles)
Total Climb: 1,220m (4,002ft)
Total Descent: 1,100m (3,641ft)
Accommodation: Hotel (B,L)

Today we leave the main road behind and head deep into the remote Shimshal Valley. The journey into this secluded mountain region is by vehicle, though those seeking a serious challenge can choose to cycle unsupported along the narrow, winding track—carved dramatically into the cliffs above the Shimshal River. It’s an incredible route, often described as a miracle of engineering.

As we ascend into the valley, the scenery becomes increasingly rugged. Dry stone walls divide fields of barley and potatoes, while mud-and-stone houses blend into the rocky landscape. If visibility is good, we may catch a glimpse of Odver Sar (6,303m) in the distance. The people of Shimshal are Wakhi, a hardy and hospitable community whose way of life is closely tied to the mountains. Many still practice traditional herding, with yaks, goats, and sheep moved between high pastures and the valley floor depending on the season.

Accommodation here is basic, but the experience of staying in one of Pakistan’s most isolated mountain communities is a rare and special one.

Shimshal Altitude: 3,100m (10,170ft)
Cycle Distance: 59km (37 miles)
Total Climb: 2,310m (7,578ft)
Total Descent: 1,720m (3,280ft)
Accommodation: Guest House (B,L,D)

After experiencing life in Shimshal, we begin our descent—this time on two wheels. The ride out of the valley is spectacular, passing through remote alpine terrain with barely a trace of permanent settlement. We cycle past the icy tongue of the Mulungutti Glacier and weave through a landscape shaped by water, stone, and time.

Apart from the occasional shepherd’s hut, the valley is wild and untouched. Herds of yak, goats, and sheep roam the slopes, watched over by herders who follow age-old seasonal routes.

Eventually, we cross the Hunza River via a suspension bridge and rejoin the Karakoram Highway, around 6 km north of Passu. From here, we transfer by vehicle to Gulmit, a peaceful village set beneath the dramatic peaks of Upper Hunza.

Passu Altitude: 2,480m (8136ft)
Cycle Distance: 59km (37 miles)
Total Climb: 1,720m (3,280ft)
Total Descent: 2,310m (7,578ft)
Accommodation: Hotel (B,L)

Today we continue cycling south along the Karakoram Highway, retracing our route through the dramatic landscapes of the Hunza Valley. With towering peaks above and the Hunza River below, this stretch is every bit as scenic the second time around.

The road is lined with apricot trees and small stone-built villages, with warm waves from locals as we pass. Along the way, we enjoy another spectacular view of Rakaposhi (7,788m)—one of the tallest mountains on Earth when measured from base to summit, rising nearly 6,000 metres in a single sweep.

By late afternoon, we arrive once again in Jafarabad, where we settle back into the comfort of the Dumani Nagar Hotel & Resort for the night.

Jafarabad Altitude: 1,983m (6,505ft)
Cycling Distance: 85.3km (53 miles)
Total climb: 1,680m (3,280ft)
Total descent: 2,170m (7,119ft)
Accommodation: Hotel and Resort (B,L,D)

We will trek around the local area this morning. We are surrounded by steep hillsides where small conifers grow. The village of Minapin is a popular destination as it provides the easiest access to three peaks that mountaineers are fond of scaling: the 7,788m Rakaposhi peak, the 7,266m Diran peak and the Miachar peak in the Karakoram Range. The valley’s natural beauty and the hospitality, culture and traditions of the locals all contribute to its popularity. The valley is also known for an abundance of fruit production, including apricots, apples, mulberry, walnuts and pomegranates.

Jafarabad Altitude: 1,983m (6,505ft)
Accommodation: Hotel and Resort (B,L,D)

This morning, the group will begin the journey back to Islamabad by road — a scenic but long drive that typically takes around 14 hours.

Alternatively, you may choose to book a morning flight from Gilgit to Islamabad (not included in the tour cost). This flight is currently scheduled to depart at 09:05 am, with a flight time of approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. Flying offers a more relaxed return, giving you the opportunity to spend the afternoon exploring some of Islamabad’s key attractions — such as the iconic Faisal Mosque, the fascinating Lok Virsa Museum, or the nearby UNESCO World Heritage site of Taxila.

Please be aware that in the unlikely event of flight cancellation, the return journey will be made by road instead.

To allow for any unforeseen delays, we strongly recommend booking your international departure flight no earlier than 12:00 pm (midday) on the final day of the itinerary.

Accommodation: Hotel (B)

Transfer to airport for our late afternoon/evening flight home.

(B)

The above itinerary is intended as a working guide. Although every effort will be made to adhere to it, changes may be made because of weather conditions, transport failure or other unforeseen events.

• Each tour requires a minimum number of participants to run
• Tour status updates automatically as bookings are received
• Do not book flights until the tour status is marked Guaranteed

Tour Status Definitions

• Guaranteed – Tour is confirmed and open for booking
• Guaranteed – Limited – Confirmed, with limited spaces remaining
• Available – 2 More to Guarantee – Needs two more bookings to confirm
• Available – Open for booking but not yet confirmed
• Contact – Please get in touch to discuss availability
• Fully Booked – No places remaining

Booking & Payments

• A £350 deposit confirms your place on the tour
• Deposits are refundable until the tour becomes Guaranteed
• Final balance is due 56 days before the tour start date
• By booking, you agree to our booking conditions (please read in full)

Small Group Note

For groups of fewer than four participants, the guide may lead from the support vehicle rather than cycling with the group, ensuring full logistical and guiding support.

Fully supported cycling holiday

• Support vehicle for luggage transport and rider assistance
• Accommodation throughout the tour (twin share unless stated)
• Most meals (see itinerary using the BLD key below)
• Snacks and mineral water on cycling days
• Airport transfers on the first and last day of the tour
• English-speaking local guide(s)
• Mechanical assistance for minor bike repairs

Meal Key (used in the itinerary)

• B = Breakfast
• L = Lunch
• D = Dinner
• Example: B, L means breakfast and lunch are included that day.
• Special dietary requirements can usually be catered for with advance notice. Please advise us at the time of booking.

• International flights
• Domestic flights (£130/$180 return – contact us for details)
• Travel insurance (mandatory)
• Visa fees (if applicable)
• Alcoholic drinks
• Meals not specified in the itinerary
• Tips for guides and support staff
• Bike hire
• Single room supplements
• Sleeping bag

Tour Start

• Start location: Islamabad
• Airport transfers included on the tour start date, regardless of arrival time
• Early arrivals may need to wait for hotel check-in (subject to availability)

Tour End

• End location: Islamabad
• Airport transfers included if departing on the final tour day
• Extra nights and transfers can be arranged at additional cost

Flights

• International flights are not included
• Our local agent will book the domestic flight between Islamabad and Gilgit (approximately £130/$180 return)
• We are happy to advise on suitable arrival and departure airports
• Your return flight should be scheduled for no earlier than 12:00pm on the final day of the itinerary. This is important due to potential changes in logistics, as well as the possibility of delays or cancellations on your return flight from Gilgit.

• We choose accommodation on the basis of comfort rather than luxury. Our prices are based on sharing a twin room. Should you wish to have a room all to yourself there is a single supplement option on the majority of our tours. For more information on the additional costs please see dates and prices.
• The majority of the accommodation for this trip is in either Guest House or Hotel with one night of camping
• Some Hotels will have En suite facilities and Air Conditioning.

• Breakfasts, lunches, and many dinners are included in your trip price. On rest days, breakfast is provided, while other meals are at your own leisure.
• Please check the itinerary for full details on which meals are included each day.
• If you have any special dietary requirements, please let us know at the time of booking. Most diets can be accommodated, but advance notice is essential.

• A support vehicle accompanies the group throughout the tour
• Transports main luggage between overnight stops
• Available for rest breaks or if you need a lift
• Typically stops every 20 km / 12 miles

On-Ride Support

• Guides carry tools for minor repairs
• You only need a small daypack while riding

Helmet Policy

• Helmets are mandatory while cycling
• Helmet hire cannot be guaranteed locally
• You must bring your own helmet

• We are unable to offer bike hire for this trip. Please see the section below for details on the most suitable bike to take on this tour

• Yes, for this tour we recommend a good tough mountain bike as the roads can be very rough.
• Front suspension will help with the washboard tracks and potholes, but it is not essential.
• Full-suspension is OK, but may be hard work on the tarmac stretches.
• If you have flat bars, fitting bar ends will give you a different hand position and help with the climbs.
• The trip can be done on a traditional touring bike, but it is important to ensure it has strong enough wheels, sufficiently wide tyres (37mm is about the minimum) and low enough gearing.
• It’s worth investing in a pair of 36 spoke, hand-built wheels, using a good quality rim (e.g. Sun Rhyno, Mavic or RigidaLow geared such as a 22-tooth granny cog on the front crank driving an 11-32/34 block on the back should do the trick.
• Comfort is a key factor as there are some long days so it is essential your saddle and riding position are comfortable.
• The route is a mixture of poorly maintained tarmac and very rough gravel tracks.
• The best tyre for the job is probably the Schwalbe Marathon XR. It’s very tough and hardwearing, and has a decent tread for the gravel without being too knobbly for tarmac.

Pre-trip bike servicing
We strongly recommend having your bike fully serviced before travelling. Please make sure:

• All bearings are properly greased
• Wheel spokes are correctly tensioned
• Gear and brake cables are functioning well
• All nuts and bolts are tightened securely
• Chain, tyres and quick-release clamps are checked
• New inner tubes are installed
• Wheel rims are not excessively worn
• If you are unsure, ask your local bike shop to carry out a pre-tour inspection.

What to bring
We recommend packing the following essential items:

• Multi-tool
• Tyre levers
• Pump
• Spare inner tubes
• Spare spokes
• Chain links or quick links
• Spare brake pads (ensure compatibility with disc or rim brakes)
• Any specialist tools, fluids or parts specific to your bike, such as a bleed kit.

Travelling with your bike
Your bike will need to be packed within your luggage allowance. A bike packed in a cardboard box typically weighs between 15–20 kg, and some airlines may charge excess baggage fees.

If you would prefer not to travel with your own bike, bike hire is available — simply request this when booking.

• The official currency in Pakistan is the Pakistani Rupee (PKR). All purchases—hotels, restaurants, and local shops—must be made in rupees. Foreign currencies are not accepted for transactions.
• What to Bring
  Bring a Visa or Mastercard debit/credit card for ATM access (cash preferred in rural areas)
• Travellers from the UK, Europe, US, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand should bring USD, EUR, or GBP
• Ensure notes are clean and undamaged—older, worn bills may be rejected
• Bring plenty of small denominations for tips and purchases in villages
• Where to Exchange: At Islamabad International Airport (ISB):
• Currency exchange counters and ATMs are located in the Arrivals hall
• Exchange a small amount (e.g. PKR 10,000–20,000 / £30–£60) to cover initial expenses
• Airport rates are typically lower—better rates can be found at licensed exchange offices in the city
• Your redspokes guide will assist with finding trusted ATMs and currency exchange services during the tour

Spending Money

• We recommend budgeting around £250 / $340 for the tour, depending on how much you spend on drinks, snacks, and souvenirs.

Staff Tipping

• Tipping is appreciated and customary to thank your guides and support crew for their work.
• Recommended: £60–£80 per person or $80–$100 equivalent
• Tips are usually collected at the end of the tour and distributed fairly by the lead guide.
  redspokes ensures all local teams are paid well—tips are a gesture of personal thanks for great service.

• Single room supplement
• Extra nights before or after the tour
• Additional airport transfers
• Optional excursions or rest-day activities

• Solo travellers are very welcome
• Prices are based on twin-share accommodation
• We will pair solo travellers with someone of the same gender where possible
• Single rooms are usually available for an additional charge

• You must hold a valid passport in order to travel. Your passport should be valid for at least 6 months from the date of your return from any overseas destination.
• Visa and entry requirements for most countries can and do change from time to time and so we strongly recommend that you consult the government travel website for where your passport was issued.
• For UK nationals, please visit the gov.uk website for up to date information about entry requirements for Pakistan. The website also provides vaccination advice as well as the option to sign up for Alerts so that you are aware if requirements have changed.
• Pakistan E-Visa Information.
  All travellers from the UK, EU, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and the USA require a visa to enter Pakistan. For most of our international customers, Pakistan offers a convenient e-visa system, making the visa application process straightforward and accessible.
• Who needs a visa?
  You can check whether you need, and obtain, an e- visa on the Pakistan Online Visa System – Government of Pakistan.
• Important notes
  Please travel with the same passport that you used for your e-visa application and also carry a printed copy of your e-visa with you.

Travel Insurance

Mandatory for all participants and must cover:

• Medical expenses and emergency evacuation
• Cycling and adventure activities
• Loss or damage to luggage and hired equipment
• Trip cancellation or curtailment
• Insurance should be taken out at the time of booking

Health & Vaccinations

• Consult your GP or travel clinic at least 8 weeks before departure
• Follow advice from official travel health authorities

• Pakistan has a continental climate with significant temperature variations between regions, seasons, and even between day and night.
• Much of this tour takes place at high altitude, where the climate is generally cold and the northern mountains remain snow-covered for long periods.
• The best time to travel this route is April to May and September to early October, when conditions are most stable and temperatures are more comfortable for cycling.

Staying Hydrated on Hot Rides – 6 Tips for Cyclists
As a cycling company, we know how important proper hydration is—especially when you’re out riding in hot conditions. Below are some general hydration tips that riders find helpful for staying fuelled and feeling strong on the bike.

Please note: We are not medical professionals and this information should not replace advice from a qualified healthcare provider. Each cyclist is different, so if you have specific health concerns or conditions, it is always best to consult your doctor and adhere to their advice.

1. Prioritize Gut Health

• Why it matters: A healthy gut boosts absorption of water and nutrients.
• How to do it: Feed your microbiome with probiotics (yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut) and prebiotics (garlic, onions, bananas) to keep digestion and hydration strong.

2. Time Your Hydration

• Why it matters: When you drink can matter as much as how much.
• How to do it: Start the day with a big glass of water—add lemon or a pinch of sea salt for an extra boost.

3. Hydrate Beyond Water

• Why it matters: Water isn’t the only way to stay hydrated.
• How to do it: Include coconut water, bone broth, or other nutrient-rich drinks to hydrate and replace electrolytes—especially during long rides or after heavy sweating.

4. Don’t Forget the Minerals

• Why it matters: Minerals like sodium, calcium, and magnesium help retain water.
• How to do it: Eat mineral-rich foods such as salted nuts, seeds, and dairy—or take a quality mineral supplement if needed.

5. Absorb Water Better

• Why it matters: Drinking water too fast can flush out nutrients and reduce absorption.
• How to do it: Sip steadily throughout the day. Add a pinch of sea salt to your bottle and eat water-rich foods like watermelon, cucumbers, and pineapple.

6. Keep Your Electrolytes in Check

• Why it matters: Electrolytes regulate fluid balance, nerve function, and muscle contractions.
• How to do it: Eat potassium- and magnesium-rich foods like bananas, avocados, and leafy greens. Add electrolyte tablets or sea salt to your water after intense sweat sessions.

• In terms of clothing we have provided a rough guide as to what to bring. This guide is entirely flexible and should be tailored to your specific needs and preferences.
• Please note that there is a dress code for this trip. Women will need to carry with them a shawl or wrap large enough to cover their head and shoulders, to use when not cycling.
• Also, baggy shorts will need to be worn by everyone when not cycling, rather than Lycra shorts.
• Cycle helmet (manadatory and to be worn at all times when cycling)
• Cycle lights
• Sunglasses
• Water bottles or camelbak
• Base layer tops
• Fleece jacket/ pullover
• Waterproof cycling jacket (breathable fabric)
• Baggy padded cycling shorts
• Cycling shoes/ trekking shoes
• Lightweight socks & heavyweight socks
• Trekking Shorts
• Trousers
• T-shirts– lightweight
• Long-sleeved thermal shirt
• Fingerless cycling gloves
• Warm gloves
• Warm fleece hat
• Buff
• Towel
• Lipbalm/ sunscreen
• Thermal Long Johns
• Headlamp
• Sleeping bag (3-4 season)

First Aid Kit

Our guides carry first aid supplies, however we recommend you bring your own first aid kit which should contain the following items:

• Paracetamol/ Ibuprofen (or whatever you prefer for headache)
• Lomotil or Diacalm
  Rehydration salts (Dioralite)
• Antiseptic cream
• Throat lozenges
• Plasters (band aids)
• Nasal spray
• Eye drops
• Ear plugs
• Anti bacterial hand wash
• Antiseptic wet wipes
• Insect Repellent

Miscellaneous

• Energy Bars (gels, power bars)
• Energy/recovery drinks
• Camera
• Travel adapter plug (universal)
• Portable power bank

• Pakistan uses 230 volts / 50 Hz electricity supply.
• The most common plug types are Type C and Type D, with Type G (UK style) also found in some hotels.
• Many hotels in larger towns have UK-style three-pin sockets, but this is not guaranteed.
• We recommend bringing a universal travel adapter to ensure compatibility.

• Islamic Republic of Pakistan – Capital: Islamabad
• Population 197 million
• Area 796,095 sq km (307,374 sq miles), excluding Kashmir
• Major languages English, Urdu, Punjabi, Sindhi, Pashto, Balochi
• Major religion Islam
• Life expectancy 66 years (men), 68 years (women)
• Currency Pakistani Rupee

Our professional cycling tops are designed with three rear elasticated pockets to give you plenty of space for your cycling essentials and comes with a silicone bottom hem.  Lined with COOLMAX ® to keep you cool and comfortable and ensure moisture wicking.  Available in varies sizes so please refer to size charts for more information.