Salam guys,
I have seen so many great articles here and now I need your opinion.
Somehow I can not acces my old account so I had to create this one.
My friend and I plan to see the beauty of Northern pakistan this August or September.
Included has to be staying at the Khaplu and Shigar fort. Does anyone have any contact there to negotiate the prices?
My itinerary so far looks like this:
Day 1
Skardu
(50 minute scenic flight)
Khaplu
(2 1⁄2 hour?s drive)
Check in at Khaplu Palace & Residence
Arrive in time for a late lunch.
Take a guided historical tour of the beautifully restored Khaplu Palace & Residence.
Spend the afternoon soaking in the historical & cultural beauty of Khaplu Palace.
You have just arrived so we suggest you take it easy today.
Day 2
climb to Thoqsikhar, panoramic view point and ancient seat of Yabgo rulers where ruins of the 400 year old castle are visible. (2 hour return walk)
continue on walking along the high ridge and carry onto Hanjor Broq ? an alpine pasture dwelling of lush green fields, domestic livestock and spectacular views of Khaplu. (2 hour walk).
Visit the imposing historic Khaplu Khanqah and its newer addition being built by the community in tradition style.
View the UNESCO award winning tomb of the saint ?Astana Mir Muhammad?.
Witness the game of the kings when the locals of Khaplu jump on their horses for a chukka or two of authentic Polo.
Day 3
Still at Khaplu Khaplu Palace & Residence
Macholo Valley - vernacular architecture and spell bounding landscape. A photographers dream.
Take a short walk to see one of Central Asia?s largest Buddhist Stupa?s and rock carvings.
Enjoy a magnificent picnic lunch by the Shyok River surrounded by towering mountains and overlooking Khaplu. Devour deliciously cooked trout from the local trout farm and other BBQ treats.
Afternoon at leisure.
Day 4
Thalley Valley
(2 1⁄2 hour?s drive)
Camping or Traditional Home Stay in Thalley Broq. The choice is yours! (Full board)
First stop is Bara ? a small village just 20 minutes from Khaplu. Visit a wool spinning & weaving centre that trains & supports local women. Purchase a local Baltistani topi!
Drive up through the Thalley Valley ? possibly one of the most spectacular & interesting valleys in Pakistan filled with terraced agricultural fields, local men & women attending to their wheat & potato crops, high altitude yaks & mules and towering jagged mountain peaks.
Spend the afternoon wondering around the traditional village of Thalley Broq.
5
Departure for Shigar valley- gateway to the great mountain peaks of the Karakorams, i.e Gahserbrum Peak & K2. Visit of 400 years old wooden Mosque & Fort along with Cherry gardens. Overnight stay at Shigar
Morning trip to Satpara Lake, ancient Buddhist rock carving & Skardu Bazaar.
Lunch back at the Shigar Fort Residence.
Time to explore Shigar town and more cultural and historical assets of the area.
6
Departure for Deosai Jeep Safari. Visit Sadpara lake. Also visit Sheosar lake. Overnight stay at Skardu.
7
Fly back to Islamabad
Do you guys think I can arrange this tour all on my own? To book a hotel is no problem, but we need a driver and a car. If yes, do you know any drivers who can be hired? What costs can be expected?
Or should I book a tour with a tour agency? If yes, which?