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Pakistan · Trekking
The journey
Get your adventure spirit up on this 20-day trek from Islamabad to Manglik Peak at 6,050 metres. Set in Shimshal, one of the remotest valleys in the Karakoram, the journey combines dramatic trekking routes, high passes, and views of some of the region's highest virgin peaks. Travel along the famous Karakoram Highway, meet nomadic people in Havdiji, and experience the landscapes of Shimshal Valley before ending the tour with half-day sightseeing in Islamabad.
Enjoy fascinating views of the valley from the top; on a clear day, one can see K-2 and Broad Peak in the distant east.
From the itinerary
At a glance
Day by day
Arrive in Islamabad.
After a short break to freshen up and have breakfast
Next, drive via the Karakoram Highway to Narran / Besham.
Overnight in the hotel.
(260/150 km, 6/7 hours)
Breakfast and Dinner
Exciting drive through the gorge of Indus & Hunza rivers to upper Hunza.
En route, visit the meeting point of the worlds three greatest mountain ranges - the Himalayas, Hindukush and Karakoram.
Enjoy fascinating views of Nanga Parbat (8,125 m) & Rakaposhi (7,788 m).
Overnight in the hotel.
(500/530 km, 8/9 hours)
Start the day with a short ride, on soft-top 4x4 jeeps, from Passu village towards Shimshal valley. The jeep track passes through the narrow gorge of the Shimshal River.
After 3 hours of relatively easy walking by the river, arrive at Ziarat's ‘travellers hut’ for overnight camp. Some 600 years ago, a Sufi Saint (Shah Shams) from central Asia arrived here and stayed several nights. He also preached Islam in this region.
From Ziarat, you can see Karoon 1 Peak (7164m). Here, you will find fresh spring water for drinking. Washing will be in Kuk, opposite Mulungudi glacier, at the hot springs.
Enjoy the beautiful view of Dastagil Sar (7885m).
Walking from Kuk, cross the river on another footbridge and then climb a gradually ascending hill to finally emerge on the starting point of the Shimshal valley.
From here, it is an easy descent of an hour & a half to the main village in the valley. Shimshal is one of the remotest areas of Karakoram. 900 years ago, Shimshal Valley was discovered by a Sufi Saint who settled here. The Shimshali people are believed to be his descendants.
Guesthouse/Camp overnight.
(4/5 hours, 3300m)
For the next two days, our walk would mostly be traversing through the narrow gorge of the Shimshal River.
For the first two hours, the walk from the village is in the open valley along the river.
Soon, we will leave the main valley and turn left to enter the gorge. The trek is mostly safe, although, at a few places, you would need good balance on the narrow foot track.
En route, enjoy views of Kunianchish and Yazgildoom peaks, which are above 7000m.
Furzin, a narrow camp alongside the stream, is known for its Birch trees.
Overnight in Furzin.
(5/6 hours)
This might be the hardest part of the trek. Start with a steep ascent of 200 meters on the cliff facing the camp, traverse for half an hour and then descend steeply to the Shimshal River.
We cross the river on a footbridge and then walk for another hour to Pariyan camp, where you can enjoy the cool breeze coming off the Maidur Nallah and have fresh lunch.
After lunch, we take up the last part of the gorge walk. This involves one and half hour’s ascent on a well-maintained yet steep foot trail to the top, called Pariyan Sar, with fascinating views of Manglik peak and many other summits.
Here, you can enjoy the vista and take an hour's relaxing walk to the camp.
Our camp for today, Arbabparian, is a shepherds' winter settlement with plenty of freshwater.
(4/5 hours)
Compared to the last two days, it is a relaxing walk along the river with views of the peaks soaring above 6,000 meters.
On our way, we will pass Ganj Dour Valley, leading north to the China border, with many pastures for the yaks and goats.
This valley is known for its substantial population of blue sheep, Marcopolo sheep, Ibex, and a few snow leopards and bears.
Khunjerab is the summer home of Shimshalis, with 60 houses and huge yards to house the animal & human population.
People stay here in May & June and then proceed over the Shimshal pass to Shuwart to spend the winter.
Camp overnight
(4/5 hours)
East from Khunjerab is Gulchi Washk (carpet of flowers), a 200 meters gradual ascent that brings us just under Manglik Sar.
Walk in a wide-open valley running east to west, with two lakes just before the Shimshal Pass. In the summer, you will find Yaks, goats, and sheep roaming the green pastures.
Set camp, after a 2/3 hour walk, just under the main ridge of Manglik Sar.
In the afternoon, one could walk over to Shuwart summer settlement consisting of 60 houses.
Inevitably, we might get invited for dinner, which is a great chance to visit local houses and taste the nomadic food made from Yak’s cheese, butter, and wheat flour.
Camp overnight.
(4/5 hours, 4735m)
Base Camp rest day for acclimatization and to explore the area.
Visit some local houses this day. Shuwart glacier is one of the places to visit here.
Camp overnight.
Attempt to climb the Peak Manglik Sar (6050m), just north of our camp.
As we start in the soft morning light, we will ascend gradually on the main ridge leading to the summit for the first few hours.
At 5800 meters, we will leave the ridge and head toward the eternal snow of the Peak.
The going could be slow here due to the altitude and steeper ascent of the Peak. Yet near the top, it is wide as a football field.
Enjoy fascinating views of the valley from the top; on a clear day, one can see K-2 and Broad Peak in the distant east. Safety rope and other required climbing equipment will be carried by the mountain guide.
Descend to the base camp.
(9/10 hours excursion).
Another full day to attempt the peak.
On this trek to Shimshal Pamir, there is an option to climb the Manglik SAR 6050m or the other two peaks around. Those who do not want to make the summit can trek around the area or to Shuwerth.
Here, we take you for the ascent of a 6050 m trekking Peak. It is a safe and easy trek that does not require technical knowledge, but only physically fit trekkers can make it to the peak. It is a one day climb, normally with a 1500 m ascent and 1500 m descent. This is a popular and easy to access 6000 m peak. You will need snowshoes, gaiters, harnesses and rope.
There are two other peaks below 5500 m nearby - Kuz Sar and Lup Zhui Sar, which can also be climbed in one day from the same base camp of Mangalik Sar.
A special campfire will be arranged this night, with local music and dances to celebrate the successful attempt at the peak.
Camp overnight.
The same route we have passed through on our way to Shuwart. But, it will take us lesser time because of the continued gradual descent of the trail.
Camp overnight.
(5/6 hours)
It is an easy walk, following a stream flowing from Shuwart to Maidur. There are many summer settlements in Maidur Valley.
Pitch tents at a small settlement with only two or three houses.
It is a beautiful Valley, and water is easily accessible here.
Camp overnight.
(4/5 hours)
Start early to cross the Shapodin Pass (5150m).
The climb up to pass is not technical, and one can climb it with the help of walking poles. Passu Peak (7478m), Shispar Peak (7611m), and Dastagil giant are visible from the Pass. Water is easily available on the way.
After crossing the Pass, arrive at the camping place of Shapodin, which is also a summer settlement.
Camp overnight.
(7/8 hours)
Cross Boisam Pir Pass (5090m). It is an easy trek up to the Pass, from where Kanjut Sar (7760m) is visible.
After crossing the pass, you will see a beautiful blue lake.
En route, take a short break for rest and lunch at Pachodewashk.
Proceed towards Mandikshlakh. There are seven houses in Mandikshlakh, and water is easily available for washing.
Camp overnight.
(5/6 hours)
Start this quiet and easy trek after breakfast.
En route stay at Havdiji, a settlement with seven houses. The local people insist on offering lunch, and they will not let us go forward until we accept.
Proceed towards Werbin.
Camp overnight.
(4/5 hours)
Cross three small rivers, which will be great fun and adventure if the water level goes up. The place is also famous for Ibexes.
Set camp for overnight.
It will be an early start with packed lunch, as the trek is strenuous and long on this day. There is a steep slope of 300 meters from the base camp going up to the Chafchingol Pass (5151m).
See Dastagil Sar (7885m) from the Pass.
After crossing the Pass, water is available, and the walk is also quite normal.
Reach Karakoram Highway at Kuksil (4150m), just 15 kilometres from Khunjerab Pass. The area is in Khunjerab National Park. The vehicle will be ready in Kuksil to take us to Hunza.
Proceed to Hunza.
Overnight at the hotel.
(5/6 hours trek +2/3 hours drive)
Early morning drive via the Karakoram Highway towards Besham.
Lunch in Dassu / Naran.
Proceed towards Besham/ Narran.
Overnight at a motel.
(11/12 hours)
After breakfast, drive towards the Federal Capital.
Half-day Sightseeing in Islamabad, after lunch.
Evening free for leisure.
Overnight at the hotel.
(5/6 hours)
Have lunch and depart to your next destination in the evening.
The route
The fine print
Accommodation on a twin-sharing basis at standard category hotels in towns and in 2-person tents during camping
Meals: Half board at hotels and full board during the trek
Transport: Air-conditioned transport on the Karakoram Highway and soft-top 4x4 jeeps from Passu to Shimshal
Camping: Provision of dome tents with mattresses, and a dining tent with a folding table and chairs
Portage of 12.5 kg during trekking
Tips and portage at airports and hotels
Entrance fee at museum sites
English-speaking Shimshal mountain guide
Domestic and international airfare and airport taxes
Any expense due to force majeure beyond the control of our staff and suppliers, such as the cancellation of flights, landslides, natural calamities, and acts of God
Any expense of a personal nature not mentioned above
Trekking backpack or travel bag of 90 litres with a large zipper.
Duffle packing bag/protection bag (70 to 90 l) to keep away moisture, dust, and rain.
1-day backpack, approx. 25 - 35 litres in volume, suitable for hand luggage.
Passport, passport copy, and vaccination pass.
Flight tickets.
Cash in small denominations in USD, Euro, or Pound.
1 pair of ankle-high trekking shoes with a firm profile sole (crampons for the climbing peaks or pass).
1 pair of sports or gym shoes.
1 pair of sandals (overland).
1 Gore-Tex jacket - windproof and waterproof.
Fleece pullover or fleece jacket.
Long trousers, including 1 pair of trekking trousers and waterproof over-trousers.
1 - 2 long-sleeved cotton shirts or T-shirts.
Functional underwear, warm socks, and trekking socks.
Woollen cap and warm gloves (mittens recommended).
Laundry items (all in small dosages) and a small towel.
1 sleeping bag (down or synthetic fibre), suitable for comfort in temperatures down to -8 to -10 ° C.
1 insulating mattress.
1 LED headlamp with spare batteries.
1 thermos bottle (1 litre) and 1 tin bottle from SIGG.
Suncream (at least 25 SPF) and chapstick for the lips.
Glacier goggles with side protection.
Toilet paper, paper towels, and moist towels (for hygiene).
Hand disinfectant.
Photo equipment with sufficient batteries and memory cards.
Binoculars, sewing kit, and some cord to be used as a clothesline or for repairs.
Pocket knife, a book for reading, and leggings.
Chocolates, sweets, other snacks, tea bags, and energy bars.
Medicines for digestive disorders, colds, headaches, circulation, etc.
1 pair of telescopic sticks as a walking aid.
Waterproof plastic bags and bags for used clothes and waste, such as batteries, that you take back home to dispose of.
Electrolyte drink (available at the pharmacy).
Important note:
We would like to explicitly point out that there could be delays and changes of route.
Program changes can occur due to unfavourable conditions, bad weather, organisational difficulties, etc. You should therefore bring along an adventurous spirit, together with the willingness to forgo comfort and, if necessary, exercise tolerance and patience.
Advice on the high pass:
The journey on the Karakoram Highway is only during the day and thus might cause delays in the program. We request your patience and calm behaviour in such situations. The risk of delay is solely at the expense of the travellers.
Trekking duration and route could also be changed due to bad weather and other unfavourable circumstances. In such cases, your guide and our agency would always endeavour to achieve all program objectives. Should there be a need, deviations from the plan could be implemented, and we request your understanding and flexibility.
Please note that on domestic flights, only 20 kg of check-in baggage plus 06 kg of hand luggage is allowed per person. Extra luggage must be paid for.
Climate: Continental dry climate with hot summer (35 - 40 ° C).
In the mountains, you will find pleasant temperatures. In areas over 3000 m, daytime temperatures are around 25 ° C in the sun. Nights are freezing at these altitudes, and temperatures range between 0 ° C and -10 ° C (4500 m).
Caution - strong sunshine during day treks.
Information on altitude sickness: It can be caused by decreasing oxygen pressure and increasing UV radiation. The most common symptoms are headaches, nausea, dizziness, and airway infections. In extreme cases, it can lead to pulmonary oedema, hepatic oedema, or cerebral oedema. This risk is reduced by a slow ascent and by drinking electrolyte fluids and maintaining water reserves.
The instructions of the tour guide must be followed at all times.
We advise each participant to carry out a medical examination (if possible with exercise ECG) before the trip.
Luggage will be transported by local carriers during the trekking. Max. 15 kg per person.
Foreign exchange: USD, Euro, or Pound in small amounts. Exchange is possible in Islamabad, Gilgit, Skardu, and Hunza Karimabad.
Visa: To be organised by the traveller. Please provide a copy of the passport (date, place, and validity).
Application documents: valid passport (6 months), 2 application forms, 2 passport photos, travel confirmation, 1 registered mail, valid contact number.
Please provide an original slip of the bank transfer for the visa fee (approx. 35 Euro), paid directly to the Embassy.
Please inquire about your country's entry requirements. The travel agency does not accept any liability for the visa.
Vaccinations: Yellow fever vaccination is prescribed when entering from a country of infection. Hepatitis A and Polio are also recommended.
Logistics
Your 20 days finish where they began, in Islamabad.
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