Babusar Pass Cycling Challenge
The Babusar Pass Cycling Challenge is a 7-day ride up the Kaghan Valley to the Babusar Pass at 4,173 m, one of the best road climbs in Pakistan, with a thrilling descent to the Indus and a support vehicle all the way.
- Duration7 Days
- DifficultyHard
- RouteKaghan Valley – Babusar Pass
- Best SeasonJune – September
- BikeRoad or hybrid bike
The Great Climb of the Kaghan Valley
The road up the Kaghan Valley rises steadily from Balakot through Naran to the Babusar Pass at 4,173 m. For road cyclists it is one of the best climbs in Pakistan, with green valleys, waterfalls and snowfields near the top.
On this challenge we ride from Balakot in stages to Naran, take a rest day at Lake Saiful Muluk, climb to the Babusar Pass and descend towards Chilas and the Indus, with the support vehicle bringing us home.
Trip Highlights
- Climb to the Babusar Pass at 4,173 m
- Ride the full length of the Kaghan Valley
- Lake Saiful Muluk rest day
- Descent towards the Indus and Nanga Parbat views
- Full support vehicle and mechanic
- No flights needed, starts from Islamabad
Itinerary
Day 1Arrive in Islamabad
Our team meets you at the airport. Afternoon bike fitting.
Overnight: HotelDay 2Drive to Balakot, ride to Kaghan
Drive to Balakot and cycle up the valley to Kaghan. About 60 km.
Overnight: HotelDay 3Kaghan to Naran
Continue climbing to Naran. About 25 km, with an easy afternoon.
Overnight: HotelDay 4Lake Saiful Muluk
Rest day with an optional ride or jeep to Lake Saiful Muluk.
Overnight: HotelDay 5Naran to the Babusar Pass
The big climb to the Babusar Pass, then descend towards Chilas. About 70 km.
Overnight: HotelDay 6Drive back to Islamabad
Drive back over the pass and down the Kaghan Valley to Islamabad.
Overnight: HotelDay 7Depart
Transfer to Islamabad International Airport for your flight home.
Overnight: —Cycling routes and daily distances can change with weather, road works and group fitness. Our support vehicle is always close by. Your guide will always put safety first.
What's Included
Included
- Airport pick-up and drop-off in Islamabad
- Hotels in Islamabad, Kaghan, Naran and Chilas
- Quality mountain bike or hybrid bike hire with helmet
- Support vehicle for luggage, water, snacks and tired legs
- Experienced English-speaking cycling guide and bike mechanic
- Daily breakfast and dinner
- Letter of invitation (LOI) for your Pakistan visa
Not Included
- International flights to and from Pakistan
- Pakistan visa fee
- Travel insurance covering cycling
- Personal cycling clothing, shoes and pedals
- Lunches and drinks
- Tips for crew
- Anything not listed under "Included"
Moments from the Trail
Why Choose the Babusar Pass Cycling?
The Babusar Pass Cycling challenge is perfect for road cyclists looking for a big mountain climb without flights or long transfers. It fits into one week and gives a real sense of achievement.
Combine it with our Fairy Meadows trip from Chilas, or step up to the Karakoram Highway Cycling Tour.
Before you travel, read our Pakistan visa guide and our advice on travel insurance, or browse all our cycling tours in Pakistan.
Plan the rest of your trip
Good to Know
Fitness
You should be a fit cyclist used to long climbs. The pass is at 4,173 m, so we include a rest day in Naran to acclimatise.
Bikes & Gear
We provide quality bikes and helmets. You are welcome to bring your own bike, saddle or pedals; tell us in advance so we can plan transport.
Roads & Safety
Most routes use quiet mountain roads, but some sections share the road with trucks. Our support vehicle rides behind the group on busy stretches.
When to Go
June to September is the only time when the Babusar Pass road is open. Read our guide to the best time to visit Pakistan.
Reserve Your Place on the Tour
Message us with your preferred dates and group size, and our team will send you full details and a quote for your Babusar challenge.
