Gandhara Civilization Tour
Gandhara Civilization Tour in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
Overview
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is a land of ancient civilizations, majestic mountains, colorful cultures, and rich Buddhist heritage. This journey through KPK and the Gandhara region offers travelers a unique opportunity to explore historic cities, archaeological treasures, ancient monasteries, traditional bazaars, and breathtaking valleys. From the legendary frontier city of Peshawar to the peaceful landscapes of Swat Valley, the tour reveals the remarkable legacy of the Gandhara Civilization, where Buddhism, Greek, Persian, and Central Asian influences blended together for centuries.
Tour Highlights
- Explore the historic city of Peshawar and its famous old bazaars
- Visit Takht-i-Bahi, a UNESCO World Heritage Buddhist monastery
- Discover the ancient Gandharan art and sculptures at Swat Museum
- Visit the historic Ashokan rock edicts at Shahbaz Garhi
- Explore the lush green beauty of Swat Valley, once known as the “Garden of Buddhism”
- Experience the rich Pashtun culture, hospitality, and traditional cuisine of KPK
- Visit ancient stupas, monasteries, Buddha carvings, and archaeological sites
- Enjoy scenic mountain drives through valleys, rivers, and historic passes
- Learn about the Gandhara Civilization, one of the world’s greatest Buddhist cultures
TENTATIVE ITINERARY AT A GLANCE
Day 01
Islamabad
Arrival, Lok Virsa Museum, Faisal Mosque, Pir Sohawa
Day 02
Peshawar
Drive via Grand Trunk Road, Attock Fort
Day 03
Peshawar
Old City, Qissa Khawani Bazaar, Mohabbat Khan Mosque
Day 04
Swat Valley
Takht-i-Bahi, Shahbaz Garhi, Malakand Pass
Day 05
Swat Valley
Swat Museum, Buddhist heritage sites, Mingora Bazaar
Day 06
Chitral Valley
Drive via Lowari Tunnel, scenic Hindu Kush landscapes
Day 07
Kalash Valleys
Bamboret Valley, Chilam Joshi Festival
Day 08
Kalash Valley
Festival celebrations, village exploration
Day 09
Chitral
Chitral Fort, Chitral Bazaar, Museum
Day 10
Garam Chashma
Hot springs, Lutkho Valley excursion
Day 11
Mastuj
Scenic mountain villages and valleys
Day 12
Shandur Pass – Phandar
“Roof of the World”, Ghizer Valley
Day 13
Gilgit
Phandar Lake, Khalti Lake, Kargah Buddha
Day 14
Islamabad
Flight to Islamabad, PNCA visit
Day 15
Islamabad / Rawalpindi
Twin city exploration and leisure
Day 16
Departure
Transfer to airport for onward flight
Moments from the Gandhara Civilization Tour
Cost Included the following mentioned services.
– Pakistani Visa assistance and Airport transfers
– Transportation from arrival at Islamabad to departure with following settings.
Transport at Islamabad and road transfers, for group size 4-5 members, Toyota air-condition van (hi-ace) and for group size 6 +T/L and above will be Toyota air-condition Mini Bus (Toyota Coaster.
Transport in the North by 4 x4 Air -conditioned land cruiser (Toyota Land cruiser-Prado TX and TZ, Passengers each vehicle.
- Domestic airfare as per itinerary plus road transfers incase of flight cancelation.
- Accommodation: As specified in the cost for each town. Best available Hotels in town, on double (sharing) occupancy basis.
- Meals: American Breakfast – Lunch- Dinner- One (short break) for tea/coffee between 10 -11 AM and evening Tea/ coffee break between 4-5 PM. Mineral water (Nestle or Aquaphina )during Lunch and Dinner time. Mineral water as specified above all daylong including for rooms and all day during the site seeing or travel on the road. A picnic box will be carried during the long travel days, with enough snacks , dry fruits, nuts, soft drinks and mineral water.
- All entry fees to Museums, forts and National Park Areas or any tool taxes, and any other applicable taxes on any service.
- Service of Gov’t licenced, experienced and English speaking guides drivers, any porters needed, any support staff, during the trip.
- Gratitude at hotels, restaurants and at other places during the trip.
- Free Accommodation, meals, transport and other above mention service for one Tour leader .
- Cost for Covid -19 PCR tests and other required documentation for return journey.
Not Included in Trip Cost:
- Personal Insurance, medication & clothing.
- International airfare.
- Pakistan visa fees.
- En route hotels, meals, ground arrangements and services not noted in the itinerary.
- Meals not noted in the itinerary.
- Items of a personal nature including but not limited to bottled water in hotels, additional beverages, laundry, room service, and telecommunication, etc.
- Customary end of trip gratuities.
- Additional expenses incurred as a result of delays beyond the control.
- Any ground arrangements and services not mentioned in the itinerary
and list of services included.
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