Fly to Islamabad, Pakistan

Pakistan - Travel to Islamabad, Pakistan

Arrival at Islamabad Airport and Fly to Skardu or Drive to Dassu-Shigar/Hotel or Camp

Dassu - If arriving in Islamabad in the morning, there is an option to fly to Skardu on the same day. Shigar Valley, nestled in the heart of Baltistan, is renowned for its captivating gemstone mining. With its stunning landscapes, rugged mountains, and mineral-rich deposits, it attracts miners, geologists, and adventurers in search of precious stones.

Visit Mines and Return to Skardu/Hotel

Skardu - Visit the mines, engage with miners, and converse with local dealers who frequent the mines. Explore Skardu’s gemstone shops to view locally sourced stones.

Drive to Gilgit, a 4-5 Hour Journey, with a Possible Visit to Shangus Mines (Access is Challenging), Overnight at Hotel in Gilgit

Continue to Karimabad Hunza/Hotel

Visit Ruby Mines at Donaydas-Ganish and Explore Passu, Return to Karimabad/Hotel

Drive to Summyar, End of the Road, and Trek 1 Hour to Madurkoshi/Tent

Trek 2-3 Hours Down and Drive to Karimabad/Hotel

Drive to Besham on Karakoram Highway

Besham City - After breakfast, travel on the Karakoram Highway (KKH) along the Indus River via Chilas and Kohistan, covering approximately 400 km in 8-9 hours. Overnight stay at a hotel in Besham.

Drive 2-3 Hours to Swat Valley, Visit Market

Swat - Journey from Besham to Swat Valley via Shangla Pass, a 2-3 hour drive covering around 60 km. Upon arrival in Swat, visit the Bazaar and meet with gemstone dealers.

Full Day Visit to Emerald Mines and Surrounding Areas

Swat - Swat, Pakistan, is renowned for its exceptional emerald mines, particularly in the Mingora region. These mines produce high-quality emeralds known for their deep green color and clarity, often compared to the famous Colombian emeralds.

Drive to Peshawar and Visit Namak Mandi (Small International Gemstone Market)

Peshawar - The Namak Mandi Gemstone Market in Peshawar is one of Pakistan’s most renowned markets for precious and semi-precious gemstones. With a rich history of gemstone trade, it is globally recognized for its high-quality stones sourced from the mountains of Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Tajikistan. Skilled artisans and gem cutters work in the area, crafting stones into jewelry or custom shapes for clients. Prices are generally lower than international markets due to local sourcing.

Drive Back to Islamabad

Islamabad - In the afternoon, drive from Peshawar to Islamabad, a 180 km journey taking approximately 2 hours. Visit some gemstone shops in Islamabad, with an overnight stay at a hotel.

Departure (Drop to the Airport)

Islamabad - Departure (Drop to the Airport)

• Wages of the porters for trekking
• Transportation based on group size: Car, Grand Cabin, or 21-seat Coaster (minibus) as per itinerary
• Lunch
• Dinner
• Breakfast
• All Fees and Taxes
• Domestic flight ticket from Islamabad to Skardu

• Room service, laundry, beverages, personal calls, and other personal expenses are not included.
• Personal insurance and first aid kit
• International flight ticket
• Rescue Helicopter Covrage

NORTH PAKISTAN ADVENTURE provides exhilarating tours to gemstone mines set in the stunning scenery of Northern Pakistan. Traverse the challenging terrain with skilled guides and interact with local miners to understand their age-old methods.

Uncover the allure of distinctive gemstones and relish an unforgettable journey. Whether you’re passionate about gems or simply an inquisitive traveler, embark on an adventure in the captivating North of Pakistan!

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.