Pakistan, One of the newest countries in the world, but with a civilization which is as old as history itself. The Indus Valley Civilization centers of Moenjodaro and Harappa are both located in Pakistan. The first inhabitants have been recorded to have been roaming the woodland south of Islamabad as early as lo millions years. The well known influences include that of Gandhara, the armies of Darius the Great, Alexander the Great in 327 BC, the Bacterian Greeks, Islam and later the British. Pakistan thus offers a study into the history of mankind, of archaeology and offers majestic scenery that few countries can even get close. Pakistan houses the cluster of mountains - over a third of the world's hundred highest mountains are located in the Northern Areas.

KHYBER PASS - This is like walking back into history with a visit to the Khyber Pass, which has been a silent witness to countless great events. Conquered by the Greeks, ruled by the Buddhists, destroyed by the Huns, rebuilt by the Brahmins and invaded by the great Moghuls, it is also reputed that the army of Alexander the Great of Macedonia crossed this pass in 327 BC. Our visit to the Khyber Pass will take us up to the last accessible point from where we can see the Afghan border. A trip to the Khyber is a memorable encounter with the Pathans.

GILGIT - A popular staging post on the Silk Road, Gilgit sits at the foot of the mighty Karakoram. It has seen invasions from many people all leaving their traits that today form part of the local culture and lifestyle. Amongst the major invasions include the fire worshippers of Persia, the Aryans who introduced an incipient form of Hinduism, the Buddhists and the British. Our tour of Gilgit includes a local mountain school, a Gilgiton home, the typical Silk Road bazaar and the impressive rock carvings of Lord Buddha near Kargah. If we are lucky we may be treated to a game of polo!

LAHORE - The cultural hub of all the rulers in this region including the Moghuls, British and now Pakistan. Our day in Lahore starts with a visit to the Imperial and magnificent Badshahi Mosque. Built in 1674, it is an example of some of the most aesthetic Moghul architecture. Next is the Lahore Fort where we also see several pavilions, including Shish Mahal, the "Palace of Mirrors", which was built by Shah Jahan in 1631 as private apartments for his empress. Later we visit the fascinating Lahore Museum which houses the famous statue of the Fasting Buddha and Kim's Gun, immortalized by Rudyard Kipling. The tour culminates with the sensational Shalimar Gardens.