One-Week Travel Itinerary for Northern Pakistan Under PKR 150,000
Published: 06/03/2025
Planning a trip can feel like a headache, especially if you’re new to traveling. But hey, no worries, I’ve got your back! Whether traveling solo, with family, or on a honeymoon, this one-week travel itinerary for Northern Pakistan will make your trip smooth and stress-free.
In this guide, you’ll find two travel plans, one covering Naran, Skardu, and Hunza, and the other exploring Kashmir. Plus, I’ll break down the budget, hotel options, and travel costs, so you can enjoy the trip without going over PKR 150,000. Sounds good?
Let’s plan your adventure!
Why Do You Need a Travel Itinerary?
Going on a trip without a plan? Bad idea! You’ll likely spend more money, waste time, and miss out on must-visit places. That’s why a well-planned itinerary is a game-changer.
Without a travel plan:
❌ You might overspend on transport and hotels.
❌ You could miss out on famous spots.
❌ You might end up wasting time deciding where to go next.
With a planned itinerary:
✅ Your trip will be organised and hassle-free.
✅ You’ll stick to your budget and avoid extra costs.
✅ You’ll see all the top attractions without missing anything.
Let’s get into the details of a one-week travel itinerary for Northern Pakistan!
| Travel Itinerary Overview |
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Step 1: Getting from Karachi to Islamabad
To reach Northern Pakistan, you first need to go to Islamabad. Here are the three options with estimated costs:
| Transport Mode | Duration | Fare (PKR) |
| Train (Green Line) | 20 – 21 hours | 20-21 hours |
| Bus (Daewoo, Faisal Movers) | 17-18 hours | 20,000–35,000 |
| Flight (PIA, Serene Air) | 2 hours | 8,000–12,000 |
Tip: A train or bus is more economical if you’re on a budget. But if you want to save time, take a flight.
Option 1: Naran, Skardu & Hunza Itinerary
This itinerary is perfect if you’re looking for an adventure that takes you through lush green valleys, towering mountains, and stunning lakes. From the breathtaking Saif-ul-Malook in Naran to the majestic Baltit Fort in Hunza, this trip will be packed with unforgettable experiences.
Day 1: Arrival in Islamabad & Stay in Rawalpindi
- Arrive in Islamabad and check into a budget hotel in Rawalpindi (PKR 2,000 – 5,000 per night).
- Visit Faisal Mosque, Daman-e-Koh, and Monal in Islamabad.
- Rest early for the next day’s long journey.
Day 2: Islamabad to Naran
- Early morning departure to Naran via a private car, bus, or local transport.
- Travel time: 7-8 hours.
- Visit Saif-ul-Malook Lake in the evening.
- Stay in a mid-range hotel (PKR 3,500 – 6,500 per night).
Day 3: Naran to Skardu
- Early departure to Skardu (10-12 hours).
- Sightseeing on the way: Lulusar Lake, Babusar Top.
- Stay in Skardu (PKR 4,000 – 8,000 per night).
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Day 4: Exploring Skardu
- Visit Shangrila Resort, Upper Kachura Lake, and Shigar Fort.
- Explore Cold Desert (yes, Pakistan has a desert in the mountains!).
Day 5: Skardu to Hunza
- Travel to Hunza (6-7 hours).
- Visit Attabad Lake, Passu Cones, and Hussaini Suspension Bridge.
- Stay in Hunza (PKR 5,000 – 10,000 per night).
Day 6: Hunza Sightseeing & Return to Naran
- Explore Baltit Fort, Altit Fort, Eagle’s Nest.
- Begin the return journey to Naran for an overnight stay.
Day 7: Naran to Islamabad & Back to Karachi
- Travel back to Islamabad.
- Take your preferred transport back to Karachi.
Option 2: Kashmir (Neelum Valley) Itinerary
This itinerary is a fantastic choice for those who prefer lush green landscapes, flowing rivers, and the charm of Kashmir’s valleys. You’ll explore the beautiful Neelum Valley, trek to the scenic Arang Kel, and experience the cultural richness of Muzaffarabad.
Day 1: Arrival in Islamabad & Stay in Rawalpindi
(Same as Option 1)
Day 2: Islamabad to Muzaffarabad
- Travel time: 3-4 hours.
- Visit Pir Chinasi and stay overnight (PKR 3,500 – 6,500 per night).
Day 3: Muzaffarabad to Keran
- Travel time: 4-5 hours.
- Visit Dhani Waterfall, Neelum River.
- Stay in Keran (PKR 4,000 – 7,000 per night).
Day 4: Keran to Sharda & Kel
- Visit Sharda Peeth, Kel Village.
- Stay overnight in Kel (PKR 3,500 – 6,500 per night).
Day 5: Arang Kel Trek
- Trek to Arang Kel (takes 2-3 hours).
- Enjoy the stunning views and return to Kel.
Day 6: Kel to Muzaffarabad
- Begin the return journey.
- Stay in Muzaffarabad for the night.
Day 7: Muzaffarabad to Islamabad & Back to Karachi
- Travel back to Islamabad.
- Take a train, bus, or flight back to Karachi.
Budget Breakdown for a 7-Day Trip
| Expense | Estimated Cost (PKR) |
| Transport (Karachi – Islamabad – North) | 15,000 – 35,000 |
| Hotels (7 nights) | 25,000 – 50,000 |
| Food (7 days) | 15,000 – 25,000 |
| Sightseeing & Activities | 10,000 – 20,000 |
| Miscellaneous | 10,000 |
| Total | PKR 100,000 – 150,000 |
| Tips for a Smooth Trip |
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✅ Book transport & hotels in advance (especially in peak season, June–July). ✅ Carry cash, as many areas don’t have ATMs. ✅ Pack warm clothes, even in summer (Northern Pakistan gets cold at night!). ✅ Travel light, but don’t forget power banks and extra batteries. ✅ Download offline maps, as signals can be weak in remote areas. ✅ Be flexible; the weather in the mountains can change your plans! |
Final Words
So, guys, in this article, we’ve covered the travel itinerary for Northern Pakistan in detail, ensuring you can enjoy an amazing trip without exceeding your budget. A well-planned itinerary helps you explore all the must-see places without unnecessary expenses.
Personally, I find both itineraries exciting. If you’re into adventure, crystal-clear lakes, and historic forts, Skardu and Hunza are an amazing choice. The beauty of Attabad Lake, the charm of Baltit Fort, and the thrill of exploring Skardu’s Cold Desert make this route unforgettable.
But if you prefer lush green valleys, scenic rivers, and breathtaking hilltops, then Kashmir should be on your list. Neelum Valley, Sharda Peeth, and Arang Kel offer a peaceful escape into nature.
This guide will give you a complete travel experience while staying within PKR 150,000 if you are traveling solo or with family and friends. You can enjoy every moment stress-free with thoughtful planning, budget-friendly accommodations, and affordable transport options.
No matter which itinerary you choose, an incredible adventure awaits! Need any help with planning? Drop your questions below, and let’s sort it out together!
FAQs
A travel itinerary, or advance travel planning, is a detailed trip plan that includes destinations, transport, accommodations, activities, and a budget. It helps travelers stay organized, save time, and manage expenses effectively.
Yes, PKR 150,000 is a reasonable budget if you plan wisely. It covers transport, hotels, food, and sightseeing. However, costs may vary based on your travel style and choice of hotels.
Both are amazing! If you love adventure, high mountains, and lakes, choose Skardu & Hunza. If you prefer lush green valleys, rivers, and peaceful spots, go for Kashmir.
The best time is from May to October when the weather is pleasant. June–August is peak season, so book hotels early. September and October offer fewer crowds and beautiful autumn colors.
Travel by bus or train instead of flights. Stay in budget hotels or guesthouses, and eat at local restaurants. Avoid unnecessary expenses like luxury transport or high-end hotels.
Yes! The itinerary is family-friendly, but long travel hours can be tiring. If traveling with kids, plan extra rest days and choose comfortable transport.
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- Be Respectful
- Stay Relevant
- Stay Positive
- True Feedback
- Encourage Discussion
- Avoid Spamming
- No Fake News
- Don't Copy-Paste
- No Personal Attacks
