Asian Travel Pioneer

Asian Travel Pioneer We believe in local tourism to support the local economy.

Asian Travel Pioneers offers adventurous, sustainable and cultural heritage tours to the Northern Areas, Swat, the Cholistan desert in the South of Pakistan and many places with our local partners.

Join us Asian Travel Pioneers on our tour in the footsteps of Winston Churchill. Few people know that Winston Churchill...
16/08/2026

Join us Asian Travel Pioneers on our tour in the footsteps of Winston Churchill.

Few people know that Winston Churchill, one of Britain's most famous statesmen, was once stationed in the rugged hills of western Pakistan.

In 1897, a 22-year-old Winston Churchill arrived in Malakand as a young cavalry officer and war correspondent. Seeking adventure, he found himself in the middle of a fierce frontier war, riding under fire and reporting from the front lines.

On August 23, we follow in his footsteps and visit the places connected to this dramatic chapter of his life:

- the riverside fort where he lived and wrote his dispatches,

-Churchill’s Picket overlooking the valley,

- the cemetery where many of his comrades are buried,

- Malakand Fort,

- and the old garrison church.

A journey through history to the valley where Churchill's military and writing career truly began.

Info or booking wilma 92 3196555410
Price 8500 pkr inc transport

Today, I had the privilege of taking the foreign guests of Asian Travel Pioneer to Taxila. We explored the Taxila Museum...
15/08/2026

Today, I had the privilege of taking the foreign guests of Asian Travel Pioneer to Taxila. We explored the Taxila Museum, ancient stupas, and several remarkable sites connected with the Gandhara civilization.

But the most meaningful part of the day was meeting three extraordinary artists who are keeping the ancient tradition of Gandhara stone carving alive.

Their work is truly remarkable. They use the same type of stone and traditional techniques, and their craftsmanship is so refined that, at first glance, it can be difficult to distinguish their work from ancient Gandharan pieces.

What made the experience even more special was learning about the generations behind this tradition. One of the artists shared that his great-grandfather worked alongside Sir John Marshall in 1913 during the archaeological excavations of Taxila and Gandhara. His ancestors were also involved in the development of the Taxila Museum.

Today, the fourth generation of this family is carrying that legacy forward.

And yet, there is a sad reality behind this beautiful art. These artists told us that the younger generation is not showing much interest in learning the craft. With limited patronage and economic opportunities, there is a real danger that this centuries-old tradition could disappear.

I was both inspired and deeply concerned.

Inspired by the extraordinary skill of these artists, and concerned that they may be among the last people keeping this unique form of Gandharan art alive.

Heritage is not only about ancient stones, sculptures, and archaeological sites. It is also about the living hands that carry history from one generation to the next.

If we truly want to preserve Gandhara’s legacy, we must not only protect its archaeological remains — we must also support the artists who are keeping its spirit alive today.

A truly unforgettable day in Taxila, and a powerful reminder that sometimes, the most important part of history is not what we see in a museum, but the people who still know how to create it.

By William

Don’t miss this extraordinary heritage experience! If you’re passionate about history and exploration, join us on this u...
14/08/2026

Don’t miss this extraordinary heritage experience! If you’re passionate about history and exploration, join us on this unique heritage walk through the Malakand Frontier, exploring the Malakand Fort (subject to military permission), the British Cemetery, Old Church, and Churchill’s Piquet. Discover forgotten stories, fascinating details, and the rich heritage of the region. Perfect for history enthusiasts, photographers, researchers, travellers, and curious minds alike

Organised by : Asian Travel Pioneer
Call to Action “For Bookings & Information: Wilma van der Maten, +92 319 655 5410. Reserve your place today and be part of this unforgettable
Journey

Journey Through Northern PakistanSome journeys are about ticking places off a list.This one is about slowing down.For ei...
10/08/2026

Journey Through Northern Pakistan

Some journeys are about ticking places off a list.

This one is about slowing down.

For eight days, you’ll travel one of the world’s most spectacular mountain roads, follow the ancient Silk Road, wake up beside turquoise lakes, walk through centuries-old villages, share meals with local families, and discover the traditions of the Wakhi people in the remote Shimshal Valley.

From the legendary Karakoram Highway to the peaceful streets of Karimabad, from the dramatic Passu Cones to evenings spent in family guesthouses, every day brings a new landscape—and a deeper connection with the people who call these mountains home.

This isn’t just about seeing Northern Pakistan.

It’s about experiencing it.

📅 Departure: 27 September 2026
⛰️ 8-Day Overland Journey through Hunza & the Mountains of Pakistan

Highlights
• Travel the legendary Karakoram Highway
• Explore Hunza Valley, Passu & Shimshal
• Stay in local guesthouses & family homestays
• Meet the Wakhi community and experience local traditions
• Small-group travel with authentic cultural experiences

If you’ve ever dreamed of exploring one of the world’s most breathtaking mountain regions, this is your invitation.

📩 DM us for the full itinerary and availability.

Go Local. Travel with Purpose.

KarakoramHighway PakistanTravel AdventureTravel ResponsibleTravel CulturalTravel GoLocal TravelWithPurpose ExplorePakistan VisitPakistan MountainTravel”

23 August – British Heritage Trail in MalakandVisit the historic Malakand Fort (tentative), the British Cemetery, the ol...
09/08/2026

23 August – British Heritage Trail in MalakandVisit the historic Malakand Fort (tentative), the British Cemetery, the old Church, and Churchill's Piquet—the famous hilltop lookout where Winston Churchill served as a young British officer during the Malakand Campaign.

Join Asian Travel Pioneers on 23 August for our British Heritage Trail in Malakand.
Discover the history of Malakand in north-west Pakistan, a strategic gateway between the Peshawar Valley and the mountains leading towards Chitral. During the late 19th century, it became one of the British Empire's most important military outposts on the frontier with Afghanistan. The 1897 Malakand Campaign was witnessed by a young Winston Churchill, who later wrote about it in his first book.

During the trail, we will visit the historic Malakand Fort (subject to military permission), the old British Cemetery, the historic Church, and Churchill's Piquet, the hilltop position where Churchill served during the campaign.
Price: From PKR 8,500 per person, including transport, an experienced guide, and a traditional local lunch.

Meeting point: Parking area, F-11 Markaz, Islamabad. Departure for Malakand at 8:00 am. The drive takes approximately 1.5–2 hours.

For more information and bookings:
Asian Travel Pioneers
Wilma: +92 319 655 5410

Join Asian Travel Pioneers Hunza Shimshal expedition 8 days overland, starting 27th of SeptemberDay 6 – Shimshal Valley:...
07/08/2026

Join Asian Travel Pioneers Hunza Shimshal expedition 8 days overland, starting 27th of September

Day 6 – Shimshal Valley: The Hidden Valley of Mountaineers

Today we leave the main road and enter the remote and spectacular Shimshal Valley, one of oldest communities in Hunza.

The journey itself is an adventure. The mountain road follows the Shimshal River through dramatic cliffs, glaciers, and untouched landscapes.

Shimshal is known as the “Valley of Mountaineers”. For generations, the Wakhi people have lived in this high-altitude valley, and many famous Pakistani climbers who have reached the world’s highest peaks come from Shimshal.

We explore the village, meet local people, and learn about traditional mountain life, farming, and the unique culture of this remote community.

A walk through the village offers beautiful views of the surrounding peaks and gives us a deeper understanding of life in one of Pakistan’s most isolated valleys.
Overnight stay in a local guesthouse or homestay in Shimshal.

Book your trip, get more info
Wilma Asian TravelPioneers
92 3196555410

The tour to the Hunza Valley 8-Day Adventure Journey Through Northern PakistanIslamabad – Gilgit – Hunza – Passu – Shims...
05/08/2026

The tour to the Hunza Valley 8-Day Adventure Journey Through Northern Pakistan
Islamabad – Gilgit – Hunza – Passu – Shimshal
With Asian Travel Pioneers

Day 5 – Passu: Mountain Life, Glaciers & Local Experiences
Today we slow down and experience the beauty of Upper Hunza.
We explore the surroundings of Passu and Borith Lake, with views of glaciers, high mountain peaks, and traditional villages.
Walking through the valley, we discover a landscape shaped by centuries of mountain life: apricot orchards, irrigation channels, stone houses, and communities living in harmony with nature.
Depending on the season and interests of the group, we can include a short hike, glacier viewpoint, or a local cultural experience.
Overnight near Borith Lake. 2 nights Borith lake
Day 6 – Shimshal Valley: The Hidden Valley of Mountaineers
Today we leave the main road and enter the remote and spectacular Shimshal Valley, one of the most unique communities in Hunza.
The journey itself is an adventure. The mountain road follows the Shimshal River through dramatic cliffs, glaciers, and untouched landscapes.
Shimshal is known as the “Valley of Mountaineers”. For generations, the Wakhi people have lived in this high-altitude valley, and many famous Pakistani climbers who have reached the world’s highest peaks come from Shimshal.
We explore the village, meet local people, and learn about traditional mountain life, farming, and the unique culture of this remote community.
A walk through the village offers beautiful views of the surrounding peaks and gives us a deeper understanding of life in one of Pakistan’s most isolated valleys.
Overnight stay in a local guesthouse or homestay in Shimshal.
Day 7 – Shimshal to Gilgit: Returning Through the Karakoram
After breakfast, we say goodbye to Shimshal and return towards Gilgit.
The journey takes us once again through the spectacular landscapes of Hunza and the Karakoram Highway.
On the way, we stop at viewpoints and enjoy the final mountain panoramas of this unforgettable region.
In Gilgit, we explore the local market, once an important stop on the ancient Silk Road.
Overnight in a local guesthouse near the river.
Day 8 – Gilgit to Islamabad: Farew

Join our 8 day Hunza-Shimshall expedition overland Starting 27th of September Asian Travel Pioneer Day 1 Overland Islama...
03/08/2026

Join our 8 day Hunza-Shimshall expedition overland

Starting 27th of September Asian Travel Pioneer

Day 1 Overland Islamabad - Gilgit

Day 2 – Gilgit to Hunza Valley: Entering the Land of the Mir
After breakfast, we continue our journey towards the legendary Hunza Valley.
The Karakoram Highway becomes increasingly spectacular as we travel between some of the highest mountains on earth. Along the way, we enjoy views of Rakaposhi (7,788 metres), one of the most beautiful peaks of the Karakoram range.
In the afternoon, we arrive in Karimabad, the cultural heart of Hunza.
After checking into our guesthouse, we take a walk through the old village and explore the local bazaar, known for handicrafts, apricots, dried fruits, and traditional products.
From the viewpoint near Baltit Fort, we enjoy a breathtaking sunset over the valley.
Overnight in Karimabad.
Info wilma 92 3196555410
Book your seat price 80.000 pkr
Transport, hotel and guides

Day 4 Of Asian Travel Pioneers Hunza - Shimshal Expedition start 27th of September Upper Hunza: Attabad Lake, Passu Con...
03/08/2026

Day 4 Of Asian Travel Pioneers Hunza - Shimshal Expedition start 27th of September

Upper Hunza: Attabad Lake, Passu Cones & Borith Lake

Today we travel deeper into Upper Hunza, where glaciers, rivers, and ancient villages create one of the most spectacular landscapes in the world.
We stop at Attabad Lake, formed after a massive landslide in 2010. The turquoise waters are surrounded by dramatic cliffs and towering mountains. While the lake has become a famous attraction, we also remember the communities whose homes disappeared beneath the water and who still identify themselves as climate refugees.
We continue towards Passu and visit the famous Hussaini Suspension Bridge, offering spectacular views over the Hunza River.
Arriving in Passu, we stand beneath the iconic Passu Cones — sharp, cathedral-like peaks rising above the valley.
Overnight near Borith Lake

Price 80.000 pkr per person
Booking Asian TravelPioneers
Wilma 92 3196555410

Day 3 of Asian Travel Pioneers 8 day Hunza Shimshall expedition overland Discovering Hunza’s Heritage: Altit & Baltit F...
01/08/2026

Day 3 of Asian Travel Pioneers 8 day Hunza Shimshall expedition overland

Discovering Hunza’s Heritage: Altit & Baltit Forts

Today we explore the rich cultural heritage of Hunza.
We visit Altit Fort, more than 900 years old and one of the oldest monuments in the valley. Once the residence of the rulers of Hunza, the beautifully restored fort and royal garden offer spectacular views over the Hunza River.
We continue to Baltit Fort, the former palace of the Mir of Hunza. With its Tibetan influences and mountain setting, it tells the story of centuries of history, trade, and cultural exchange. We hope to meet the Mir today.

Info Wilma van der Maten
92 319 6555410

This is a Journey Through Northern Pakistan

Some journeys are about ticking places off a list.

This one is about slowing down.

For eight days, you’ll travel one of the world’s most spectacular mountain roads, follow the ancient Silk Road, wake up beside turquoise lakes, walk through centuries-old villages, share meals with local families, and discover the traditions of the Wakhi people in the remote Shimshal Valley.

From the legendary Karakoram Highway to the peaceful streets of Karimabad, from the dramatic Passu Cones to evenings spent in family guesthouses, every day brings a new landscape—and a deeper connection with the people who call these mountains home.

This isn’t just about seeing Northern Pakistan.

It’s about experiencing it.

📅 Departure: 27 September 2026
⛰️ 8-Day Overland Journey through Hunza & the Mountains of Pakistan

Highlights
• Travel the legendary Karakoram Highway
• Explore Hunza Valley, Passu & Shimshal
• Stay in local guesthouses & family homestays
• Meet the Wakhi community and experience local traditions
• Small-group travel with authentic cultural experiences

If you’ve ever dreamed of exploring one of the world’s most breathtaking mountain regions, this is your invitation.

📩 DM us for the full itinerary and availability.

Go Local. Travel with Purpose.

KarakoramHighway PakistanTravel AdventureTravel ResponsibleTravel CulturalTravel GoLocal TravelWithPurpose ExplorePakistan VisitPakistan MountainTravel”

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