Baltistan Autumn Tour

Overview

This expedition will undoubtedly be challenging, yet exceptionally beautiful. The journey's complexity arises from the fact that we'll be on the road for two weeks, traversing mountain serpentine roads and crossing numerous high mountain passes. Accommodations will be modest, ranging from simple hotels and lodges to tents, and the cuisine somewhat monotonous. Expect hot and dusty conditions. It's crucial to understand that when you decide to visit Pakistan, you won't be mere "tourists"; you'll be welcomed as guests. The expedition aims to shatter stereotypes and dispel myths about this remarkable country. In Northern Pakistan, you'll encounter a wide array of landscapes, each distinct from the other. It's truly astonishing that within this relatively small part of our planet, you'll find some of the world's highest mountains. You'll witness the icy, glistening Nanga Parbat (8125 m) and bask in the beauty of its reflection in a serene lake as the sun sets. You'll have the opportunity to touch the sky-blue, crystal-clear, and incredibly refreshing waters of Pakistan's lakes and channels.

Day	Activities	Residence
1	Arrival in Islamabad	Hotel
2	Drive to Chilas via the Karakoram Highway	Hotel
3	Drive to Skardu, enjoy views of Nanga Parbat and Indus River en route	Hotel
4	Explore Skardu: Shangrila Resort, Satpara Lake, and Skardu Bazaar	Hotel
5	Drive to Shigar Valley, visit Shigar Fort, and enjoy autumn scenery	Hotel
6	Visit Khaplu Valley: explore Khaplu Palace, Chaqchan Mosque, and apricot orchards	Hotel
7	Drive to Deosai National Park, enjoy autumn landscapes and Sheosar Lake	Camp
8	Explore Deosai Plains, then return to Skardu	Hotel
9	Drive back to Chilas	Hotel
10	Return to Islamabad, visit Taxila Museum en route (optional)	Hotel
11	Debriefing and onward journey	Fly Out

Transportation.
Airport transfers (Islamabad and Skardu).
Air-conditioned minibuses for Ministry of Tourism briefings and sightseeing.
Domestic flights (Islamabad to Skardu, PK 451).
4x4 jeeps for members and Toyota Loader for equipment (Skardu to Jhola and Hushe to Skardu).
Accommodation.
2 nights at Grand Hotel Islamabad (or similar) on bed and breakfast basis.
2 nights at Shangri-La Midway or Panorama Inn, Skardu (full board).
3 nights at Blue Sky Hotel, Masherbrum Inn, Dewan-e-Khans, or K-2 Motel, Skardu (full board).
Note: Alternative accommodations will be provided if mentioned hotels are unavailable.
Additional Services.
Low-altitude porters for luggage and equipment transport.
Porter Sirdar for way up and down.
Experienced English-speaking guide, cook, and assistant cook.
Fuel generator, dining tent, sleeping tents, and kitchen equipment.
Trekking and base camp foods (Chinese, Pakistani, Continental, and Italian cuisine).
Fresh fruits, soft drinks, and beverages.
Equipment Provided.
Sleeping tents with foam underlay and mattresses
Dining tent with inner and underlay.
Kitchen tent, mess tent, shower tent, and toilet tent.
Kitchen crockery, lamps, and cooking stoves.
Bamboo sticks for high camps.
Wooden boxes and plastic containers for food packing.
Taxes and Fees.
Trekking permit fee.
CKNP management fee.
Camping fees during trek.
Guide daily wages, kit, and equipment.
Bridge crossing fees.
$1000 pollution fee guarantee.
Documentation with Gilgit-Baltistan Council.
International air ticket reconfirmation.
Visa support letters.
Baggage Allowance.
25kg per member (extra luggage will incur a $140 porter charge).
Paradise Karakoram Treks & Tours reserves the right to adjust services due to unforeseen circumstances.
Extra days' accommodation will incur a $150 charge per night.
Note Flight cancellations due to weather conditions may affect confirmed reservations

Exclusions
International air ticket and airport taxes
Visa fee for Pakistan and personal insurance.
Cargo fee and custom charges for import/export.
Extra wages for personnel beyond our service packages.
Sleeping bags, personal clothing, and climbing gear.
Tips for drivers, local staff, and high-altitude porters.
Phone Thuraya satellite calls.
Walky-talky for above base camp service.
Soft drinks.
Laundry.
Travel Insurance.
Cancellation.
Accidents.
Health.
Emergency evacuation.
Companies like Global Rescue Travel Insurance offer suitable policies.
Cancellation Policy.
50% advance payment required 50 days prior to arrival.
Full refund if cancelled 15 days prior to departure .
25% cancellation charge if cancelled less than 15 days prior to arrival.
No refund if cancelled after arrival or during the trip.
Additional Costs.
Road blocks or unforeseen events may incur extra costs.
Clients splitting from the group will incur additional charges.
Extra hotel nights will be charged to group members.
Government fees or new conditions may incur additional costs.
Reservations and Payment.
50% advance payment required 50 days prior to arrival.
Balance payment due upon arrival in Pakistan.
Refund Policy.
Full refund if cancelled 15 days prior to departure .
25% cancellation charge if cancelled less than 15 days prior to arrival.
No refund if cancelled after arrival or during the trip.
Environmental Responsibility.
Organic waste: dispose on-site.
Non-organic waste: take off-site.
Visa Requirements.
Valid passport required.
Pakistani visa obtainable with invitation letter from .
Paradise Karakoram.
Booking Advice.
Book your trip at least 3-4 months prior to arrival in Pakistan to ensure smooth preparations.
Important Safety Advice.
For your safety and well-being, Paradise Karakoram Treks & Tours recommends.
Purchasing personal travel and health insurance..
Obtaining membership with a reputable emergency response organization..
We suggest Global Rescue Service, which provides.
Helicopter evacuation.
Medical assistance.
Travel support.
Having this membership will ensure prompt assistance in case of emergencies.