Backpacking Across Pakistan – A 30-Day Journey Through Mountains, Culture & Chaos

Pakistan is one of the world’s last great backpacking frontiers—a land of Himalayan giants, ancient Silk Road cities, and hospitality that defies stereotypes. This 30-day itinerary covers the best of Pakistan for adventurous travelers, from chaotic bazaars to serene valleys, all on a budget.

Pre-Trip Essentials

✔ Visa: Apply for e-tourist visa (30-90 days).
✔ Budget: $25-$40/day (hostels, local transport, street food).
✔ Packing List: Trekking shoes, power bank, scarf (for mosques), and a sturdy backpack.
✔ Safety: Register with your embassy; avoid sensitive border areas.

Week 1: Lahore & The Karakoram Highway

Days 1-3: Lahore – Mughal Grandeur & Food Galore

Stay: Backpackers’ Inn (Fort Road) – $8/night.

Do:
- Sunrise at Badshahi Mosque.
- Walled City tour (start at Delhi Gate).
- Food crawl: Gawalmandi Kebabs, Phajja Siri Paye.
- Sufi night at Data Darbar.

Days 4-6: Islamabad to Gilgit (Karakoram Highway)

Bus: Daewoo to Islamabad (3hrs), then NATCO to Gilgit (16hrs, $15).

Stop at:
- Naran (if open): Hike to Saif-ul-Mulook Lake.
- Raikot Bridge for views of Nanga Parbat.

Week 2: Hunza & The China Border

Days 7-10: Gilgit & Karimabad (Hunza Valley)

Stay: Old Hunza Inn ($10) or Eagle’s Nest (camping).
Do:
- Trek to Ultar Meadows (day hike).
- Visit Baltit & Altit Forts.
- Cafe hopping for apricot cake (Cafe de Hunza).

Days 11-14: Passu & Khunjerab Pass

Stay: Passu Travellers Inn ($7).

Do:
- Passu Cones hike (2hrs, epic views).
- Day trip to Khunjerab Pass (China border, need permit).
- Yak butter tea with locals.

Week 3: Skardu & The Hidden Valleys

Days 15-18: Skardu & Shangrila

Jeep: Gilgit-Skardu (6hrs, shared ride $10).
Stay: Tibet Guesthouse ($6).

Do:
- Boat ride on Shangrila Lake.
- Katpana Desert stargazing.
- Mano Ponds for reflection shots.

Days 19-21: Khaplu & Hushe Valley

Stay: Khaplu Palace (splurge at $30) or homestays ($5).
Do:
- Hike to Gondogoro La basecamp (day trek).
- Visit Chaqchan Mosque (600 years old).

Week 4: The Wild West & Karachi

Days 22-24: Quetta & Ziarat (Balochistan)

(Note: Check security advisories)

Bus: Skardu-Quetta (24hrs, $20).
Stay: Bloomstar Hotel ($12).
Do:
- Hanna Lake paddle boating.
- Visit Ziarat’s juniper forest (world’s 2nd largest).

Days 25-27: Karachi – Chaos & Beaches

Flight: Quetta-Karachi (1hr, $50).

Stay: Backpackers’ Hostel ($10).
Do:
- Clifton Beach at sunset.
- Burns Road food street (try Rabri Falooda).
- Mohatta Palace art exhibit.

Days 28-30: Makli Necropolis & Farewell

Day trip: Thatta’s Makli Necropolis (UNESCO site).

Final night: Live music at The Second Floor (T2F).

Budget Breakdown (30 Days)

Accommodation: $200 ($7/night avg).
Food: $150 ($5/day – street food + occasional cafe).

Transport: $250 (buses, shared jeeps).
Extras (permits, souvenirs): $100.
Total: ~$700 (excluding flights in/out).

Challenges & Tips

⚠ Mountain Travel: Roads close due to landslides (always check conditions).
⚠ Language: Learn basic Urdu phrases (“Kitna hua?” = How much?).
⚠ Haggling: Expected in bazaars; start at 50% of quoted price.
⚠ Solo Females: Dress modestly; consider joining group tours in remote areas.