The Call of the Open Road
There's a reason riders from all over the world dream of touring Pakistan on two wheels. Few countries pack this much drama into a single ride: glacial rivers, 4,000-metre passes, ancient forts and some of the tallest mountains on earth, all linked by roads that twist through scenery so beautiful it doesn't feel real. For a Pakistani rider, the best part is that it's all on your doorstep.
You don't need an expensive imported adventure bike either. Riders cross these mountains every summer on humble 125cc and 150cc machines. What you need is a sound bike, a sense of adventure and a plan. Here are six of the best motorcycle road trips in Pakistan, from the legendary to the lesser known. If this is your first big trip, start with our guide to planning your first long bike ride.
Pakistan's Best Bike Routes at a Glance
| Route | Best Time | Difficulty | Highest Point |
|---|---|---|---|
| Galiyat Loop | March to November | Easy | About 2,500 m |
| Naran, Kaghan and Babusar | Late May to September | Moderate | 4,173 m |
| Hunza Valley | April to October | Moderate | About 2,500 m (Karimabad) |
| Karakoram Highway to Khunjerab | June to September | Hard | About 4,700 m |
| Skardu and Deosai Plains | July to September | Hard | Above 4,000 m |
| Fairy Meadows (via Raikot) | June to September | Hard (jeep and trek) | About 3,300 m |
Seasons are typical. Landslides and early snow can close mountain roads without warning, so always check current conditions before you leave.
1. The Karakoram Highway: The Ride of a Lifetime
If you only do one big tour, make it the Karakoram Highway (KKH). Often called the eighth wonder of the world, it is the highest paved international road on the planet, climbing from the plains near Islamabad all the way to the Khunjerab Pass at around 4,700 metres on the China border.
The ride runs through Kohistan, along the mighty Indus, past the meeting point of three great mountain ranges: the Himalayas, the Karakoram and the Hindu Kush. Every hour brings a new jaw-dropping view. It's a serious ride with military checkpoints and high altitude, so carry your CNIC and bike documents, make sure the bike is registered in your name, and never rush it. Cresting Khunjerab on your own bike is a memory that stays with you forever.
Best time: June to September, when the passes are clear of snow.
2. Naran, Kaghan and Babusar Pass
This is the classic introduction to northern riding, and for many Pakistani bikers it's their first big mountain tour. The route climbs through the green Kaghan Valley to Naran, then up dramatic switchbacks to Babusar Pass at 4,173 metres, the gateway that connects Kaghan to the KKH and Chilas.
Along the way you pass the mirror-still Lulusar Lake and the meadows of Batakundi. The climb to Babusar is steep with tight hairpins and views of Malika Parbat, and the descent toward Chilas is a thrilling, winding ride. Babusar usually opens from around late May, so plan for the warmer months.
3. Hunza Valley: Forts, Lakes and Cherry Blossoms
Hunza is the jewel of the north. Branching off the KKH, you reach Karimabad, home to the ancient Baltit and Altit Forts above the valley. The riding is unforgettable: the turquoise water of Attabad Lake, the jagged Passu Cones, the old Hussaini suspension bridge, and the Rakaposhi viewpoint.
Hunza rewards riders who slow down. Stop for apricots in season, watch the sunset from Duikar, and enjoy one of Pakistan's most peaceful regions. Spring brings cherry and apricot blossoms, which makes April a beautiful, quieter time to visit.
4. Skardu and the Deosai Plains
For raw, otherworldly landscapes, Skardu and the Deosai Plains are hard to beat. Deosai, the "Land of Giants", is one of the highest plateaus in the world, sitting above 4,000 metres. Riding across it in summer, surrounded by wildflowers, streams and open sky, feels like riding on the roof of the world.
The road to Skardu follows the Indus through dramatic cliffs and small villages. This is demanding, remote riding with long gaps between fuel stops, so carry extra fuel, travel with others and respect the altitude.
5. Fairy Meadows and Nanga Parbat
This one is for the bucket list. From the KKH you reach Raikot Bridge, and from there a famously rough jeep track and a trek take you up to Fairy Meadows, a green plateau beneath Nanga Parbat, the "killer mountain" and the ninth highest peak on earth.
You won't ride your bike all the way up. Park it safely at Raikot and take the jeep. But the journey there along the KKH is pure adventure, and standing face to face with Nanga Parbat is a reward like no other.
6. The Galiyat Loop: A Weekend Escape
Not every great ride needs a week off work. If you're in Islamabad, Rawalpindi or anywhere in northern Punjab, the Galiyat loop is the perfect quick mountain fix. A roughly 150 km loop through Murree, Nathia Gali, Abbottabad and back winds through pine forests and cool hill stations on generally good roads.
It's twisty, fun and doable in a day or a weekend, making it the ideal first taste of mountain riding before the bigger northern tours. Watch for snow and fog in winter.
No motorways on a bike
Motorcycles are not allowed on Pakistan's motorways, including the M-1 and Hazara Motorway. Plan your route on GT Road, N-35 and other national highways, and allow extra time.
Prep Your Bike Before You Ride
Mountain touring is hard on a motorcycle. Thin air, steep climbs and long hours test every part, and a breakdown at 4,000 metres is no joke. Before any big tour:
- Tyres: good tread and correct pressure. Worn tyres are dangerous on wet mountain roads.
- Brakes: fresh shoes or pads and properly adjusted brakes for long, steep descents.
- Engine oil and chain: fresh oil and a clean, lubricated chain handle the strain far better.
- Lights and battery: you'll ride through tunnels, fog and the occasional late evening.
- Spares and tools: toolkit, spare tube, clutch and brake levers, puncture kit and a spare chain link.
Our 10 bike maintenance tips cover most of this, and monsoon bike care helps if you are riding in July or August. Pick up spares before you go from Byke Lelo auto parts, and if you are not confident checking it all yourself, book a bike inspection before the trip. For a newer bike, bike insurance is worth having this far from home.
Which Bike Do You Need for Touring Pakistan?
You don't need a fancy bike. Thousands of riders take on the KKH and Babusar every year on standard 125cc and 150cc bikes. Light, simple, easy to fix and cheap on fuel, they are capable mountain companions in the right hands.
- Honda CG 125: tough, simple, and any mechanic in the north can fix it.
- Honda CB 150F: more power for climbs, a front disc brake and a comfier ride.
- See all options in our best 125cc bikes in Pakistan guide.
If your current bike isn't up to the journey, compare models with the bike comparison tool, browse used bikes and new bikes, and sell your old bike free to fund the next adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time for motorcycle touring in northern Pakistan?
Generally June to September, when high passes like Babusar and Khunjerab are clear of snow. Always check current road and weather conditions, as mountain routes can close suddenly.
Can I tour the north on a 125cc bike?
Yes. Many riders do these routes on 125cc and 150cc bikes every year. A well maintained smaller bike is light, fuel efficient and easy to repair. Preparation and careful riding matter more than engine size.
Can I ride a motorcycle on the motorway to go north?
No. Motorcycles are not allowed on Pakistan's motorways. Use GT Road, N-35 (KKH) and other national highways.
Do I need permits for the Karakoram Highway?
You'll pass military checkpoints, so always carry your CNIC and bike documents. Some areas near the border have extra requirements, so check the current rules for your route before you go.
What is the best weekend bike trip from Islamabad?
The Galiyat loop through Murree, Nathia Gali and Abbottabad. It's about 150 km of forest roads and hill stations, perfect for a day or weekend ride.
Is motorcycle touring in Pakistan safe?
The biggest real risks are road conditions, landslides, weather and altitude. Ride with others where possible, prepare your bike, don't ride at night in the mountains, and respect the terrain.
Final Word
Pakistan is one of the greatest motorcycle touring destinations on earth, and the best routes are right here. Whether it's a weekend loop through the Galiyat or a two-week trip up the Karakoram Highway, the open road has a way of changing how you see your bike and your country. Prepare well, ride smart and go make the memory.
Jab byke chahye, sirf Byke Lelo.
