Overview
Embark on a 6-day journey from Islamabad through Naran, Rama Meadows, and the hidden valleys of Minimarg.
Explore Rainbow and Crystal Lakes, enjoy mountain biking, canoeing, and horseback rides in Domel.
Experience the wild beauty of Deosai Plains and Sheosar Lake with high-altitude camping.
Wrap up with scenic lakeside stops and water sports at Saif-ul-Malook and Mabali Island.
Itinerary
The journey begins with a pre-dawn meetup at I-8, Islamabad, at 4:30 AM, followed by departure at 5:00 AM by road. The first stop will be for breakfast at Balakot, allowing participants to refresh. The journey continues towards Naran, where the group will explore the scenic beauty of the valley. Adventure seekers will enjoy rafting in the Kunhar River before proceeding for short stays at Lulusar Lake and Babusar Top, perfect for sightseeing and photography. The group will then continue their drive to Chilas, a 9-10 hour journey from Islamabad, with refreshment stops along the way. The day ends with dinner and an overnight stay in Chilas.
The day starts with breakfast at 6:00 AM, followed by visits to the Chilas Rock Inscriptions and the historic Chilas Fort. The group will then depart for Astore, a scenic 4-hour drive. Upon reaching Astore, the group will transfer to jeeps and head towards Rama Meadows, a 1-2 hour jeep ride. Once at Rama Meadows, participants can trek to explore the picturesque Rama Lake, a short 30-40 minute hike. The day continues with friendly Cricket or Football matches, followed by a cozy bonfire. Dinner and a night stay or camping at Rama Meadows will cap off an active and culturally rich day.
Following breakfast at 8:00 AM, the group will depart for Chilum Chowki, a scenic drive of up to 2 hours. After completing entry formalities (1 hour), the journey continues to Burzil Pass (30 minutes), offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. From Burzil Pass, the group will proceed to Minimarg, a further 30-minute drive. The day’s activities include sightseeing at the enchanting Nagai Forest and Mountain Biking through the valleys of Minimarg. The group will then ride on Horseback to Domel (30 minutes), visit the serene Rainbow Lake for Canoeing or Kayaking, and explore the stunning Crystal Lake. The evening will conclude with dinner, a bonfire, and overnight camping or stay at huts in Domel Valley.
The day will begin with breakfast at Rainbow Lake Club at 7:00 AM, followed by morning Horse riding or Archery sessions (1 hour). The group will then depart for Sheosar Lake in Deosai, a journey of 2-3 hours. Upon arrival, participants will enjoy the scenic beauty and rest at Sheosar Lake before proceeding towards the expansive Deosai Plains and National Park for further exploration and photography. The day ends with dinner and a night stay at Glamps Pakistan in Deosai, offering a unique highland camping experience.
After breakfast at 6:00 AM, the group will start their return journey to Naran via Babusar Top, a drive of 5-6 hours. The group will take short scenic stops at Babusar Top, Lulusar Lake, and Batakundi. A special adventure awaits with a jeep ride to Saif-ul-Malook Lake, where participants can also enjoy boating. After spending some time at the lake, the group will return to Naran. The day wraps up with rafting in the Kunhar River and a relaxing stay at Northern Retreat or Mount Feast Hotel in Naran.
Breakfast will be served at 6:00 AM before the group begins their return journey to Islamabad, a 6-hour drive with a planned short stop at Kewai Waterfalls. Before concluding the trip, the group will visit Mabali Island, where they can enjoy water activities and friendly Cricket or Football matches for 2-3 hours. The adventure concludes as the group reaches Islamabad by sunset, marking the end of a memorable 6-day journey filled with breathtaking landscapes, thrilling activities, and unforgettable moments.
Includes/Excludes
Cost Includes
- All road transport & fuel
- ✅ Comfortable hotel accommodation (Ayun & Chitral)
- ✅ Daily meals: energizing breakfasts & delicious dinners
- ✅ Evening bonfire activities & sports
- ✅ Entry tickets to cultural & historic sites
- ✅ Guided visits with local tour managers
- ✅ Full safety management throughout the journey
- ✅ Basic photography & journey video coverage for memories and social media
Cost Excludes
- Any item not mentioned above
- Lunch
- Medication, evacuation and rescue etc. in emergencies
- Personal insurances of clients
- Laundry & phone calls or other expenses of personal.
FAQs
The best time is between June and September. This is when Babusar Pass and Deosai Plains are open, lakes are accessible, and activities like trekking, rafting, and camping can be enjoyed fully.
Naran & Babusar: Rafting in Kunhar River, Lulusar Lake, Babusar Top
Chilas: Chilas Rock Inscriptions, Chilas Fort
Astore & Rama: Jeep ride to Rama Meadows, trekking to Rama Lake, cricket/football
Minimarg: Burzil Pass, Nagai Forest, Rainbow Lake, Crystal Lake, mountain biking, horse riding, canoeing
Deosai Plains: Sheosar Lake, Glamping, wildlife spotting
Saif-ul-Malook & Mabali Island: Boating and water sports
Q: Is this trip suitable for families and children?
A: Yes, it’s family-friendly. However, please note:
Treks and high-altitude stays may require moderate physical stamina
Some jeep rides are bumpy but safe with experienced drivers
A mix of hotels, camps, huts, and glamps:
Hotels in Chilas and Naran
Camping or huts in Rama and Domel
Glamping at Deosai Plains (Glamps Pakistan)
These offer basic comforts with warm hospitality.
Yes, daily breakfast and dinner are included. Bonfires, trout BBQ, and local food experiences are also part of the trip.
Rafting in Naran
Trekking to Rama Lake, Rainbow Lake, and Crystal Lake
Horse Riding & Mountain Biking in Minimarg
Boating & Canoeing
Cricket/Football matches in the meadows
Water activities at Mabali Island
Roads to Naran and Babusar are paved and scenic
Jeep rides to Rama Meadows, Minimarg, Rainbow Lake, and Deosai involve off-road terrain
All are covered with experienced local jeep drivers
Signal is available in Naran and Chilas
Limited or no signal in Astore, Minimarg, Domel, Deosai
Guides ensure coordination and emergency communication
Yes. Entry formalities are completed at Chilum Chowki before visiting Burzil Pass and Minimarg. The tour team handles all permit arrangements.
Warm clothes (even in summer; nights are cold)
Trekking shoes
Raincoat / Umbrella
Power bank, personal medications
ID card copies and snacks for road travel
While most parts are scenic and relaxing, some segments like trekking, rafting, and jeep rides require moderate stamina. These are optional and adjustable to your comfort.
Ancient rock inscriptions and forts
Alpine lakes, meadows, forests
Interactions with local communities
Deosai’s wildlife and high-altitude plains
Magical views of Babusar Top, Rainbow Lake, and Sheosar Lake
Yes, an experienced group coordinator and local support team accompanies the entire journey for guidance, safety, and smooth experience.
Map
