Brothers Beyond Borders: The Ismaili Way of Life
Brothers Beyond Borders: The Ismaili Way of Life
About this tour
Starts in Islamabad
Pickup included from anywhere in Islamabad
12 days
For ages 18 to 60
Best suited for the specified ages
Guided in English
Led by experienced local guides
Cancellation options
Refund amount depends on when you cancel before the departure.
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Operated by
Rock Valley Tours
Details
A travel product specially designed for the Ismaili community worldwide. Experience the distinct Ismaili way of life in Northern Pakistan, where the population is largely Ismaili. Participate in tradi...
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Places covered
Highlights
Experience authentic Ismaili way of life with local families
Visit Diamond Jubilee Schools community project
Explore remote Shimshal Valley and Chipursan Valley
Witness traditional celebrations and festivals
Visit sacred Sufi shrines of Baba Ghundi and Pir Shams
Drive to Khunjerab Pass - world's highest paved border
Explore historic Baltit and Altit Forts in Hunza
Meet local mountaineers in Shimshal Valley
Experience Wakhi culture and traditions
Visit Hussaini Suspension Bridge and Passu Cones
What's Included
Itinerary
Arrival in Pakistan's capital city, Islamabad. After airport pickup, transfer to hotel. Visit Faisal Mosque, Daman-e-Koh for panoramic views, or Saidpur Village. Optional visit to local Ismaili Jamatkhana for introductions and prayers.
Depart Islamabad and travel north toward Naran Valley, passing through scenic Hazara landscapes. Drive follows rivers, forests, and mountain towns, transitioning from plains to highland terrain. Arrival in Naran by evening.
Spectacular drive over Babusar Pass, one of Pakistan's most scenic crossings. Enter Gilgit-Baltistan via Karakoram Highway. Stop at Rakaposhi Viewpoint. Arrival in Karimabad, Hunza by evening. Arrange visit to local Ismaili Jamatkhana.
Full day exploring Hunza. Visit historic Baltit Fort and Altit Fort. Walk through Ganish Village, one of the oldest Silk Route settlements. Evening drive to Duikar (Eagle's Nest) for sunset views over Hunza and Nagar valleys.
Drive north to Gojal Valley, stop at Hussaini Suspension Bridge and Passu Cones. Visit Gulmit Women's Carpet Center. Engage with local families, experience traditional Wakhi food. Connect with Ismaili community to learn about local development projects.
Travel to Sost, then ascend to Khunjerab Pass, world's highest paved international border crossing between Pakistan and China. On return, explore Misgar or Khyber Village for authentic high-altitude Wakhi life experience.
Venture into remote Chipursan Valley. Visit revered Baba Ghundi shrine, significant cultural and spiritual landmark for Wakhi people. In Zood Khun, spend time with local families learning about daily life in this isolated valley.
Thrilling jeep journey to Shimshal Valley, the 'Valley of Mountaineers.' Meet local mountaineers and community members. Learn about unique social structure that sustains life in this challenging remote environment.
Full day exploring Shimshal surroundings. Optional hikes toward Yazghil Glacier. Learn about Shimshal Mountaineering School and women's role in education and leadership. Traditional dinner and storytelling for deeper cultural connection.
Relaxed drive back from Shimshal to Hunza, stopping to enjoy dramatic Karakoram scenery. Arrival in Karimabad by evening. Free time to explore local bazaar or relax at café overlooking the valley.
Helpful answers
Yes, you'll need a visa. Depending on nationality, you can get it on arrival or apply online. E-visas can be up to 3 months (extendable to 6 months), visas on arrival are valid for 30 days. Check requirements as they may change.
Wear light, loose clothes in hot areas and warm layers in cold regions. When visiting mosques, cover head, arms, legs, and shoulders. Dress modestly, avoid shorts. When unsure, dress conservatively.
Jun-Sep: Monsoon season, over 45°C. Oct-Nov: Post-monsoon, warm days, cool nights. Dec-Feb: Winter, pleasant 20°C days, colder nights with mountain snow. Mar-May: Hot and dry, mid-30s°C.
Pakistan is generally safe to visit when staying in busy areas. Despite past challenges, there's much to discover beyond news reports. Rock Valley Tours only takes guests to safe destinations.
What to know
- This tour is specially designed for the Ismaili community worldwide
- Respectful visits to Jamatkhanas require prior arrangement
- Remote valleys require jeep transportation on mountain roads
- High altitude locations - gradual acclimatization recommended
- Cultural sensitivity important when visiting religious sites
- Weather can affect flight schedules to Skardu airport
- Traditional festivals have specific dates throughout the year
- Local families may invite you for meals and cultural exchange
- People with severe heart conditions due to high altitude
- Individuals unable to walk on uneven terrain
- Those requiring luxury amenities in remote areas
- Travelers uncomfortable with basic accommodation
- People with severe mobility limitations
- Those unable to respect local customs and dress codes
- Warm clothing for mountain regions and winter months
- Light, modest clothing for cultural site visits
- Head covering for mosque and religious site visits
- Personal medications and basic first aid
- Camera for spectacular mountain scenery
- Power bank for remote areas with limited electricity
- Comfortable walking shoes for fort and village exploration
- Sunglasses and sunscreen for high altitude protection
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