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Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Kalash Valley in Chitral, then delve into the depths of ancient Indo-Aryan civilization as you explore modern-day Gandhara
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Easy Tours are accessible for all travelers. There will be limited periods of standing or walking during sightseeing excursions as pre-booked transportation will take passengers between destinations.
Explore the modern capital city of Islamabad, marvel at its architecture and lush greenery. Discover ancient ruins in Taxila, uncovering tales of civilizations past. Dive into the bustling markets and savory street food of Rawalpindi. Venture into the rugged terrain of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, immerse yourself in its rich culture and hospitality. Journey to the picturesque valley of Chitral, surrounded by majestic mountains and serene rivers. Visit Swat, famed for its stunning landscapes and ancient Buddhist heritage. Each destination offers a unique and unforgettable experience, promising a glimpse into the diverse beauty of Pakistan.
Prices for this tour are per person, based on a twin / double room sharing basis.
A Single supplement is available starting at USD 599 per person.
Make your own way to the airport to depart for your overnight flight to Islamabad in Pakistan. Enjoy in-flight meals and services.
Welcome to Islamabad! Our representative will meet you and transfer you, along with your luggage, to the hotel.
Today you will visit the Faisal Mosque and the Lok Visra Museum.
Faisal Mosque: Faisal Mosque, located in Islamabad, Pakistan, is a significant religious landmark and a symbol of the city. It is one of the largest mosques globally, accommodating many worshippers. Designed by Turkish architect Vedat Dalokay, the mosque showcases a unique blend of modern and traditional architecture. Its striking white marble structure and tall minarets make it visually stunning. Inside, the prayer hall features exquisite calligraphy and elegant chandeliers, creating a peaceful atmosphere for worship. With its picturesque setting amidst the Margalla Hills, Faisal Mosque attracts visitors from around the world, offering them a chance to admire its beauty and cultural significance.
Lok Visra Museum: The Lok Virsa Museum also known as the Folk Heritage Museum run by the National Institute of Folk & Traditional Heritage represents art works towards preserving the living folk and traditional culture and crafts of Pakistan. It is located near Shakarparian Hills and has a large display of embroidered costumes, jewelry, woodwork, metalwork, block printing, ivory and bone work. Traditional architecture facades exhibiting such skills as fresco, mirror work and marble inlay; tile, mosaic and stucco tracery are also displayed.
Overnight in Islamabad
Today after breakfast, you will visit UNESCO World Heritage Site Taxila and Raja Bazaar. Taxila, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located about 35 km from Islamabad, is known for its rich cultural history and archaeological significance. The site was once home to the Gandhara civilization, which flourished here between the 6th century BCE and the 5th century CE. Taxila was also a major centre for Buddhist learning, attracting scholars from all over the world. The Taxila UNESCO World Heritage site is spread across thirty different archaeological sites in the region, including the ancient city of Taxila itself, as well as the nearby sites of Dharmarajika, Mohra Moradu, and Sirkap. Together, these sites provide a fascinating glimpse into the history and culture of the ancient Gandhara civilization. The site is home to numerous Buddhist monasteries and stupas, as well as Hindu and Jain temples, dating back to the Mauryan and Gupta empires. The ruins of ancient universities and libraries, including the famous Taxila University, are also a major draw for visitors interested in the history of education in the region. In addition to its historical significance, Taxila is also an important site for the study of ancient languages and scripts. The city was home to a number of different cultures and faiths, and as a result, scholars have discovered inscriptions in a variety of languages, including Kharosthi, Greek, and Brahmi.
Taxila Museum: Taxila Museum, located in the ancient city of Taxila in Pakistan, is a treasure trove of historical artifacts and archaeological wonders. It showcases the rich cultural and historical heritage of the region, dating back to the Gandhara civilization. The museum houses a remarkable collection of sculptures, pottery, coins, jewelry, and other relics excavated from the Taxila archaeological sites. Visitors can marvel at the intricately carved Buddhist statues, admire the exquisite craftsmanship of Gandhara art, and gain insights into the ancient civilizations that thrived in this region.
Raja Bazaar: Raja Bazar is a bustling marketplace located in the heart of Rawalpindi, Pakistan. It is one of the oldest and busiest bazaars in the city and is known for its wide variety of shops and vendors selling everything you can imagine, from clothing and accessories to electronics and household items. The bazaar is a popular destination for both locals and tourists and offers a unique shopping experience that is unlike any other. Its narrow, winding streets are filled with colourful stalls and shops, and the lively atmosphere is enhanced by the constant hustle and bustle of shoppers and vendors. In addition to its shopping options, Raja Bazar is also home to several street food vendors, who offer a variety of delicious snacks and meals. Shoppers can choose from an array of mouth-watering dishes such as paaye, nihari, bun kebab, and samosas.
Overnight in Islamabad
After breakfast at the hotel, we will drive from Islamabad to Kalash Valley. It is a long drive covering most part of the day with a few breaks which also include lunch at a local restaurant. The drive is beautiful with several high peaks along the way.
Overnight in Chitral
Today’s itinerary includes visiting the Kalash Valley in detail. After breakfast at the hotel, we will visit the valley. The Kalash Valley is a unique and enchanting region nestled within the mountains of Pakistan's Chitral District. Home to the indigenous and culturally rich Kalash people, this captivating haven is steeped in history, folklore, and charm. The Kalash people are known for their unique customs, vibrant festivals, and distinct belief system. The Kalasha follows an ancient form of polytheism, worshipping various deities, spirits, and natural elements. They celebrate three major festivals annually – Chilim Josh, Uchal, and Choimus, which showcase their rich culture through lively dance, music, and ritual. Inhabiting the lush Rumbur, Bumburet, and Birir valleys, the Kalash people live in harmony with their natural surroundings, employing traditional methods to cultivate crops and rear livestock. Their livelihoods depend upon handicrafts, agriculture, and animal husbandry. Interestingly, the Kalash people bear unique features, with many boasting fair skin, blue eyes, and light-coloured hair, which sets them apart from the surrounding ethnic groups. This element of their appearance has sparked various theories about their ancestry, including claims of descent from Alexander the Great's ancient army. The Kalash Valley presents a fascinating glimpse into a largely unspoiled world and the extraordinary lives of its indigenous people, who have preserved their vibrant and ancient culture amidst the breathtaking landscape of northern Pakistan.
Overnight in Chitral
After breakfast, experience the culture of Chitral at this beautiful lodge, situated on a hilltop. The location is complemented by wood carvings and local art. The hotel is known for its excellent local cuisine and hospitality.
Chitral Fort: Chitral Fort, situated on the banks of the Chitral River and commands a strategic location overlooking the river. It was initially built in 1774 during the reign of Mohtaram Shah Katur II and then restored in 1911 by Sir Shuja ul-Mulk of the Katur dynasty who ruled the princely state of Chitral for 41 years until his death in 1936. The Katur dynasty ruled Chitral from 1571 until it was merged into Pakistan's Northwest Frontier Province in 1969. The fort gained further prominence during the Great Game, a political and military rivalry between the British Empire and the Russian Empire in Central Asia during the 19th century. The fort was a key location in the region, and both the British and Russian armies vied for control of Chitral and its surrounding areas. The fort's strategic location made it an ideal location for the British to establish a presence in the region, and they eventually gained control of Chitral and the surrounding areas. Today, the fort stands as a testament to the region's rich history and serves as a popular tourist destination.
GoI National Park: Gol National Park is a stunning nature reserve located in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan. It is one of the country's largest national parks, covering an area of over 1,700 square kilometres. The park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including several endangered species such as the Himalayan snow leopard, Asiatic black bear, and markhor. The landscape is a mix of rugged mountains, deep valleys, and scenic waterfalls. Visitors to Gol National Park can enjoy hiking, bird and animal watching, as well as taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.
Garam Chasma UNESCO Bioshpere: Garam Chashma, is a unique and captivating UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. The site sustains the populations of a wide range of near-threatened or vulnerable species, including the Kashmir Markhor and Siberian Ibex, two wild species of goat, the Ladakh Urial, a wild species of sheep, and the Snow Leopard. The site comprises highly diversified ecosystems, including sub-alpine meadows and conifer forests, moist temperate forests and subtropical pine forests. As a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Garam Chashma is recognized for its significant contribution to the conservation of biodiversity, as well as for promoting sustainable development and research. The reserve serves as a living laboratory where scientists and conservationists can study the interactions between humans and the environment and develop models for sustainable resource management.
Over night in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
Today after breakfast, you will travel from Chitral to Swat Valley and check-in at the Rock City Hotel. Rock City Hotel Swat is a luxurious hotel located in the scenic Swat valley in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan. The hotel offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and lush greenery, providing guests with a serene and peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The hotel boasts modern and well-appointed rooms and suites that are equipped with all the necessary amenities for a comfortable stay. The hotel also features a variety of dining options, including a restaurant and a coffee shop, serving delicious local and international cuisine.
Overnight in Swat Valley
After breakfast at the hotel, you will visit the Swat Museum.
Swat Museum: Visit the Swat Museum with its excellent collection of Gandhara statuettes and friezes depicting the lives of the Buddha along with seals, small reliquaries, and other treasures, mostly from Butkara and Udegram archeological sites. There are also pre-Buddhist artefacts, and an ethnographic gallery with traditional carved Swati furniture, jewelry and embroideries.
Walk to Fort Raja-Gera: The Fort of Raja-Gera, an ancient stronghold steeped in rich history, stands proudly amidst the rugged landscape as a testament to the architectural prowess of its creators. It is believed that the Fort was built during the reign of Mauryan Empire, which existed from 322 BCE to 185 BCE. Boasting a series of unyielding walls and imposing watchtowers, the Fort of Raja-Gera was strategically positioned atop a hill, providing its inhabitants with a commanding view of the surrounding terrain. The fort's formidable defences were further enhanced by its intricate network of secret passages and underground tunnels, which confounded any would-be attackers. Today, the Fort of Raja-Gera remains a symbol of the region's rich cultural heritage and serves as an enduring reminder of the resilience of its people. As visitors tread along its ancient pathways, they are transported back in time, captivated by the fort's remarkable story and its indelible mark on the annals of history.
Takht-i-Bahi Buddhist Monastery: Takht Bhai Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site stands as a profound symbol of the Gandhara civilization's zenith. Founded between the 1st century BCE and 1st century CE, it epitomizes the fusion of Greek and Indian artistic influences in the region. This Buddhist monastic complex served as a hub of religious and academic pursuit, reflecting the era's rich cultural and religious exchange along the Silk Road. Visitors can explore the well-preserved stupas, monastic cells, and meditation halls, each telling stories of the daily lives of Buddhist monks centuries ago. Its strategic hilltop location, intricate stupa, and monastic cells offer insights into ancient Buddhist practices and the cross-cultural interactions of the time, marking Takht Bhai as a critical repository of South Asian history and heritage.
Overnight in Islamabad
In the morning after breakfast, you will be transferred to the Islamabad International Airport to board your flight back home.
Attractively set in the Blue Area district of Islamabad, The 108 Hotel is situated 4.4 km from Shah Faisal Mosque, 11 km from Lake View Park and 20 km from Ay?b National Park. Boasting room service, this property also welcomes guests with a restaurant and a terrace. The accommodation features a 24-hour front desk, airport transfers, a shared kitchen and free WiFi. The hotel will provide guests with air-conditioned rooms offering a desk, a safety deposit box, a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom with a shower. At The 108 Hotel rooms are fitted with bed linen and towels. Taxila Museum is 37 km from the accommodation, while Safa Gold Mall is 3.7 km from the property. The nearest airport is Islamabad International Airport, 33 km from The 108 Hotel.
On the premises of the Ayun Fort is a 14 bedroom guest-house made for family outings. The place has been given a touch of local architecture with traditional old pillars and wood work. Construction is properly done but added to it is local stonework and a finish of mud coat. The rooms are comfortable with marble flooring and good quality baths. Encircling this is the farm and an orchard with apricots, peaches, apples, grapes, pears, plums and pomegranates. On one side of the orchard a sheer cliff drops to the gushing blue Ayun stream full of fish. Hanging on the cliff top is the herbal and botanical garden of Prince Khush Ahmed ul Mulk the owner. The farm house has its own supply of clear spring water and electricity from a small hydroelectric station on the premises. Here, besides the regular cuisine on demand, you are also provided with local home-made traditional food that cannot be served in hotels. The farm is organically run and produces fresh milk, poultry, fruit, herbs and vegetables besides wheat, rice and maize.
Hindukush Heights is a family-run hotel that has focuses on the uplift of the local community and its surroundings by taking active measures toward social responsibility and environmental sustainability.
Built by a local workforce over a 5 year period, primarily using materials sourced in Chitral; those self-same local workers were then given the opportunity to be retrained as service staff at the hotel. The emotional bond of these local Chitralis with Hindukush Heights has been the foundation upon which our success is based.
Rock City Resort in Mingora has 4-star accommodation with a garden, a terrace and a restaurant. Boasting a kids' club, this property also provides guests with a children's playground. There is free private parking and the property offers paid airport shuttle service. All rooms have air conditioning, a wardrobe and a flat-screen TV, and some units at the hotel have a balcony. Rock City Resort offers a continental or Asian breakfast. Guests at the accommodation will be able to enjoy activities in and around Mingora, like hiking. With staff speaking English, Punjabi and Urdu, non-stop information is available at the reception.
Please refer to the following link(s) for important information about your specific destination.
Pakistan
Click here to check our recommended travel protection plan.
All children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Minimum age for children on escorted tours is 8. Minimum age on Safaris is 8. Minimum age for game drives in Kruger National Park (South Africa) is 12. Minimum age for Uganda programs is 15.
Please note that many countries have adopted practices to prevent international abductions of children. If a person under the age of 18 years will be travelling with an adult other than his/her parents, or with only one parent, a notarized letter, granting authorization to travel, including the dates of travel should be carried.
We offer many Solo-Friendly trips with no mandatory single supplement. For all other tours, a single supplement will apply for solo travelers.
For the rates on these tours, please refer to the Price and Dates section on each tour page.
Please refer to the following link(s) for important information about your specific destination.
Pakistan
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Go to our website and click on the register button found on the upper right hand side to create your Indus Travel account and start booking tours!
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You will not be able to access your invoice immediately upon booking. You will be notified by email when it is available for you, normally within 48 business hours of booking. You can find your invoice and all other details of the tours you booked by logging on to your account and going to the Tour Booking History page.
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Simply login to your Indus Travel account, go to your tour of choice and click on Book Now. You will then confirm the details and your preferences about the tour and finally pay through our secure online payment platform.
What forms of payment does Indus Travel accept?
We accept US & CA Dollar check, bank check, money order, direct deposits, wire transfer, Visa, and Master credit cards. Third-party credit cards are not acceptable. Payments made by wire transfer must include an additional $30 wire transfer fee. There is a $50 fee for returned checks.
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Cheque payments should include your Reservation number in the memo section and be made payable to Indus Travels Ltd and mailed to:
233 - 11951 Hammersmith Way,
Richmond, BC, V7A 5H9,
Canada
When is my final payment due?
Your exact final payment date is indicated on your invoice which may be viewed by signing into your account. In general, final payment is due 75 days prior to departure with some exceptions where payment is due earlier.
How much is my final payment?
The amount of your final payment will be noted on your invoice and can be accessed by logging into your account online.
Can I send a bank cheque or money order?
Yes. Indus accepts US & CA Dollar cheque, bank cheque, money order, direct deposits, wire transfer, Visa & Master credit cards. Third-party credit cards are not acceptable. Payments made by wire transfer must include an additional $30 wire transfer fee. There is a $50 fee for returned cheques.
To whom should I write the cheque?
Cheque payments should include your Reservation number in the memo section and be made payable to Indus Travels Ltd.
Can I pay with a debit card?
No. Indus does not accept payments with Debit card.
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You will be notified by email that your payment was received and applied to your reservation. You may also access your reservation by logging into your account online
When will I receive my e-Documents?
Once final payment has been received and processed, documents will be sent via email approximately 21 days prior to the beginning of your tour services.
Can I get paper documents?
Paper documents may be sent upon passenger request. There is a shipping and handling fee of $30 for each set of paper documents: These paper documents will be delivered between 14-21 business days prior to the beginning of your tour. In some instances, a paper voucher/ticket is required by our vendor. In these instances, the costs for shipping and handling will be shouldered by Indus Travels.
How do I access and print my documents?
Your documents may be accessed by logging into your Indus Travel account and checking your Tour Booking History.
Do I receive anything else with my e-documents?
Indus e-document package includes all local contact details, daily itinerary, airline e-ticket information, service vouchers, and travel tips which should be everything you require to go on your trip.
How do I know where to find my airline ticket?
With a few exceptions, international airline tickets are issued electronically. The airline confirmation number and ticket numbers stated in your documents represent your airline "ticket(s)." Some domestic Arline tickets which can only be issued at destination will be given to you upon your arrival in the local destination.
If I need one, who is responsible to obtain my visa?
You are responsible for obtaining the proper travel documents for the destinations on your itinerary, including having a passport that is valid for at least 6 months before the date of departure and a visa if required. Please check the Visa section in the Know Before You Go document for the countries you will be visiting.
Please note: Passengers who are not U.S. or Canadian citizens must check with the respective consulate or a visa agency to determine what personal identification is required. Passengers who enter, leave and then re-enter the same country on their itinerary should check if they require a double-entry visa.
How do I know if I need a visa?
Please check the Before You Book section found on every tour to access the country specific Know Before You Go document to know about Visa and other important information about the countries you will be visiting.
How do I obtain a visa?
A visa may be obtained by using a visa service or by contacting the embassy or consulate of the nation you are visiting prior to departing from your home country.
Please check the Before You Book section found on every tour to access the country specific Know Before You Go document to know about Visa and other important information about the countries you will be visiting.
How much does a visa cost?
There will be different costs that will be specific per embassy/consulate and whether you have used a visa service or not. These costs often change with little notice. We recommend that you contact the appropriate embassy or consulate directly for the most up to date information.
You may find the contact information for consulates/embassies in the Visa section of the Know Before You Go document available for the country you will be visiting.
What are optional sightseeing tours?
Optional tours are offered to travelers interested in additional experiences, sightseeing, meals or activities to supplement the included components of our tours. You may choose to participate in some, all or none of the optional tours which are priced individually. Complete descriptions and prices for each optional tour are listed on the itinerary section of the tours on our website.
When can I add optional tours?
Optional tours are available for purchase any time up to 45 days before departure.
Can I purchase optional tours locally?
Yes. When traveling on an escorted tour, optional tours may be purchased locally from the Tour Manager. However, Indus cannot guarantee the rate and availability of these services when purchased locally. Please note that tours purchased locally are subject to current exchange rates and may cost up to 10% more.
Can I add optional tours for only select individuals on my reservation?
Yes. For assistance on this matter, please contact Indus Travel sales and reservations staff.
What coverage does Travel Insurance provide?
For complete details on Travel Insurance, check our Travel protection page.
When can I purchase Travel Insurance?
American Residents can purchase Trawick Insurance with us at the time of booking or anytime prior to departure. After booking, Canadian Residents will receive an email with a referral to TuGo Insurance which can be purchased anytime prior to departure.
When is Travel Insurance active?
Travel Protection coverages will take effect on the later of 1) the date the plan payment has been received by the Policyholder; 2) the date and time you start your Covered Trip; or 3) 12:01 A.M. Standard Time on the Scheduled Departure Date of your Covered Trip.
I need to cancel my trip and have not purchased insurance, what do I do?
Penalties for cancellation will depend on the tour you have purchased and how close to departure you are at the time of cancellation. For more information, visit our terms and conditions.
Why is it important that I give my name as it appears on my passport when booking a tour?
Due to increased travel security and policies around the world, it is now a requirement that your airline ticket matches your first and last name exactly as it reads on your passport. Please note that any changes to the details of your air booking, could be subject to a change fee, penalties or cancellation.
Can I reserve a seat assignment?
For our packages that include flights, we do not usually assign seats. In most cases, you can request specific seats, but this may incur a small fee payable to the airline. For more information, contact our sales and reservations staff.
Once confirmed, are airlines seats always guaranteed?
In most cases, seat assignments are firm. However, airlines may sometimes reassign seats for operational reasons. This often happens at the last moment and is controlled by airline staff, with Indus Travel not being notified. Passengers are encouraged to reconfirm their seat assignments and any other special requests directly with their airline prior to departure.
Should I check-in online?
It always recommended and more convenient to check in online. It will shorten your waiting time at the airport, secure your seat assignments and other reservations.
Can I request a special meal on the flight?
Requests may be made for special meals. These requests will be sent on your behalf to the airline so long as Indus receives these request prior to your documents being issued. The availability of special meals will be based upon the specific airlines and will be at their discretion.
Can I use my frequent flier miles?
Accrued frequent flier miles cannot be used toward the purchase of Indus Travels’ airfare or used for class upgrades. However, airfare purchased through Indus Travels may qualify to earn you additional miles.
What is required when I check-in?
Ticketed passengers must show correct identification at check-in. Children must have a parent present at check-in and all tickets must be in each passenger's name.
What is required with International travel?
An international trip may require valid travel documents such as passport, visa, re-entry permit, health certificate, inoculation record, a ticket for the return journey or continuance of your trip, or ANY combination thereof. Passengers are responsible for the proper documentation. Concerns about the required travel documents may be resolved by contacting the appropriate consulate or embassy.
