12 Days Cultural Crusade

On July 26th, 2024, our adventure begins as all guests arrive in Islamabad. The day kicks off with a warm welcome dinner at a family guest house. Explore the capital city, marvel at the iconic Faisal Mosque, and savor local cuisine at Saidpur village. A perfect prelude before our mountainous escapade.

Our journey accelerates as we depart Islamabad in our support van, reaching Balakot in about 3 hours. Your eagerly awaited motorcycles await, and any adjustments needed will be seamlessly handled. Enjoy an early night at a Balakot guest house, ensuring you're revitalized for the thrilling ride that awaits tomorrow!

The first thrilling day of motorcycle exploration. Starting early from Balakot, we beat the traffic and delve into the mountains. Enjoy a breakfast at a hidden roadside gem and ride alongside the famous Kunhar River. We ride for 5 hrs today to Batakundi. Explore Naran Bazaar and relish a night in scenic mountain accommodation.

On July 29, venture into the mountains from Naran, a gateway to breathtaking landscapes. Conquer the majestic 13,700ft high Babusar Pass and thrill to the iconic Karakoram Highway—the world-famous road awaits. Revel in local cuisine during the 7-hour ride to Hunza, where the night unfolds at Mountain Story Lodge, offering charming separate huts nestled in an apple orchard.

Discover the treasures of Hunza, boasting the vibrant Karimabad Bazaar, a hub of cultural richness in Gilgit-Baltistan. Delight in ancient jewels, handcrafted artifacts, exquisite silk carpets, and traditional attire. Indulge in the renowned Walnut cake at Cafe de Hunza. Explore 1000-year-old forts steeped in history, including an all-women furniture factory—a testament to Hunza's 95% literacy rate, among the country's highest.

An exhilarating ride up Karakorum highway to the Pakistan/China Border 15,400ft above sea level is a real treat to experience on two-wheels. You might also get lucky and see the super rare Markhor, Ibex or even the snow leopard.

Explore upper Hunza, Hussainy suspension bridge or maybe a short hike up Passu glacier. Visit the all women weaving centre.

Shimshal stands as one of the most remote valleys in the Gilgit-Baltistan province. Riders will embark on a thrilling journey from Passu to Shimshal Valley. This is the only off-road trail we ride. Highlights include navigating challenging terrains and interacting with local women in Shimshal and possibly play a football game with the local girls football team. Accommodations for the night offer a basic guesthouse experience without internet access.

We will ride the same road back from Passu from Shimshal. Upon arrival in Passu indulge in a unique lunch featuring Yak grill, savoring the local flavors. The adventure includes a visit to the Ghulkin school, proudly supported by ADA. As evening descends, unwind in a comfortable local lodge equipped with hot water and internet, ensuring a restful night.

Before the journey, explore the enchanting wonders of Hunza and relish a delightful lunch at Khao Palao. The route to Gilgit promises picturesque landscapes, providing a memorable ride. As night falls, unwind in a comfortable Gilgit local lodge.

Descending to Islamabad, you'll traverse the breathtaking Babusar Pass once more! The ascent from Chillas offers a spectacular view, creating the illusion of a completely new journey along this road.

You can ride all the way to Islamabad if you feel like, however the traffic congestion gets insane and we prefer to end the ride in Balakot and then hop in the van for a easy ride back into Islamabad.

Fly Home! Write to us once you reach home. Safe travels.