Pakistan... The civilizations of the Indus Valley
Valley to the Roof of the World
October 20 - November 14, 2024
Led by Tour Lecturer Iain Shearer
Pakistan, a country located on the western side of the Indo-Gangetic Plains, has a rich, diverse terrain consisting of high mountain ranges, plateaus, and the Indus River Plain. Its long history includes a section of the ancient Silk Road (Karakoram Highway) that runs through the country over the famous Khyber Pass. There are many fascinating ancient archaeological and UNESCO World Heritage sites waiting to be discovered. On this amazing adventure, We will visit mountain villages to meet the hardy souls that live in a stunningly beautiful landscape under harsh conditions. Travel the Karakoram Highway through high-mountain valleys and passes. Explore ancient archaeological sites and wander through the streets of interesting and culturally enriched cities.
Can be combined with Afghanistan tour (November 14 - November 25, 2024)
Tour Cost (Land Only): $11,495.00
per person sharing in double occupancy
Single supplement: $1,295.00
Price based on group size minimum of 6 participants and maximum of 14 participants
Trip Grade: III Lodging Level: **-****
Tour Includes
Airport/hotel/airport transfers.
Accommodation in Hotels mentioned or similar on bed and breakfast basis.
All meals as mentioned in the itinerary (B: Breakfast, L: Lunch and D: Dinner).
Travel by modern & air-conditioned motor coach.
Escort of lecturer throughout the trip (provided minimum number of travelers is reached).
Service of Gov’t licensed, experienced and English speaking guides, drivers, any porters needed, any support staff, during the trip.
Entry fees to Museums, forts and National Park Areas or any taxes, and any other applicable taxes on any service.
Visa support letter and approval.
Water on the bus on touring days.
Gratuities to guide, drivers, and porters (provided minimum number of travelers is reached).
Tour Does Not Include
International Airfare USA/Karachi and Islamabad/USA.
Pakistan Visa Fee (approx. $160.00 - subject to change).
Beverages with or without meals.
Items of a personal nature (camera fees, laundry, emails, excess luggage, etc.).
Transfers if not arriving/departing on scheduled tour dates.
Dayroom/overnights necessitated by changes in airline schedules.
Trip surcharge to operate below required minimum participants.
Travel protection insurance. (HIGHLY RECOMMENDED)
Trip Grade:
III Challenging – Parts of the trip are physically challenging, involve hiking on rough terrain or in sand or at high altitudes. There may be very long drives on rough roads; weather conditions will be cold in the north and warm in the south. You may have simple picnic lunches, primitive bathroom facilities along the road, and remoteness from modern towns or cities.
LODGING Level:
✶✶ - ✶✶✶✶ Basic to Superior: Lodges and hotels with additional amenities, refined service and comfort level acceptable to western standards (2 or 4 stars in some small cities and a few 5 stars in the larger cities.)
Special Trip Remarks:
Moderately Rigorous Touring - Anyone joining this trip must understand that in many places, the tourist infrastructure (roads, restaurants and bathrooms) is very primitive. Some days are long and hard, and the level of services will not match those offered in most touristic locations. Elevations vary from 5,000 feet to 10,000 feet, and the Khunjerab Pass is 16,000 feet high. The hotels and lodges are comfortable but some lack the luxuries provided in the West. Security checkpoints can be annoying, but travelers must be flexible and patient. Many roads are in a bad state of repair and journeys can be long and tiring. You need to be flexible and accepting any necessary changes. By signing up for this tour, you acknowledge your complete understanding and acceptance of all terms and conditions and assert that you are in good physical and mental health and that you will maintain an open mind, a sense of adventure, and a tolerant and patient spirit during all aspects of the tour.
