trekking tours in pakistan

Deals of the Week   European Long Weekends   Up to 50% OFF

Hiking & Trekking Tours in Pakistan

Find the best Hiking & Trekking tour in Pakistan. There are 31 trips to choose from, that range in length from 6 days up to 60 days. The month with the most departures is June, making it the most popular time for a guided hiking adventure in Pakistan.

31 hikes in Pakistan with 16 reviews

• Hiking & Trekking

Trek Pakistan's Karakoram Mountains

11 Days Trek Nanga Parbat Base Camp & Hunza Gojal Valley Pakistan

I had a wonderful trip with Rock Valley Tours Pvt Ltd. The whole trip is enjoyable. Both our guide Manzoor and driver Qasim are friendly and helpful. During the trip, we faced a small scale landslide which blocked our road. Manzoor and some other locals worked hard to clean up and resumed the traffic, so that we did not need to turn back and can go as scheduled.

• Christmas & New Year

Fairy Meadows & Nanga Parbat BaseCamp Tour, Gilgit Baltistan - 2023

• Sightseeing

Hunza Valley and Fairy Meadows and Nanga Parbat Base Camp Tour 2024, 2025

10 Days Rush Lake Trek

• Mountain Hikes

Nanga Parbat & Rakaposhi Base Camps, Pakistan Trekking Expedition - 12 Days

My tour with CrossRoad Adventure was awesome. I was surprised at the high quality of our accommodations throughout our trip. Our guide Nawaz, went to great lengths to make sure things went smoothly and that we were comfortable. I traveled with another woman, it was only the two of us on the tour. Nawaz kept a close eye on us ensuring we felt safe and secure every second of the our travels. Pakistan is a beautiful country with friendly and welcoming people. I went to see the mountains and be immersed in the culture. I wasn't disappointed We even made it to north the China border, a real treat for sure. I hope one day to return to Pakistan and will for sure travel with Crossroad Adventures.

Rakaposhi & Nanga Parbat Base Camp Trekking

Pakistan: Königstrek im Karakorum zum Concordia-Platz und K2 Basecamp

Pakistan Expedition

Pakistan's Karakoram Highway

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• Overland Truck

Karakorum Highway & Chitral Valley

Rush Lake Trek 2024-25 | Pakistan's Highest Alpine Lake

10 Days Experience Pakistan,s highest Rusk Lake Trek

K2 Base Camp Trek & Gondogoro La Pakistan – 2024

Glad to have chosen Exploria for our k2 base camp trek. Although it was a separate private trek circuit for 5 of us but the team was very much supportive from the beginning. Guiding us through whole Visa process to execute what was promised, exploria knows the job. Looking forward to join exploria again in 2023 for Nanga Parbat trek.

Patundas Trek 2024/25 By Exploria

Reviews of pakistan hiking & trekking tours.

My tour with CrossRoad Adventure was awesome. I was surprised at the high quality of our accommodations throughout our trip. Our guide Nawaz, went to great lengths to make sure things went smoothly and that we were comfortable. I traveled with another woman, it was only the two of us on the tour. Nawaz kept a close eye on us ensuring we felt safe and secure every second of the our travels. Pakistan is a beautiful country with friendly and welcoming people. I went to see the mountains and be immersed in the culture. I wasn't disappointed We even made it to north the China border, a real treat for sure. I hope one day to return to Pakistan and will for sure travel with Crossroad Adventures.

Hiking & Trekking Tours

• Mountain Hikes (8)
• Himalaya Mountains (31)

Travel Styles

• 10 Best Hiking & Trekking Companies
• Your Guide to Planning a Private Hike 2024/2025
• Best Hiking Tours in The World 2024/2025

• Last minute guaranteed trips
• Covid Info Hub
• Info nights & events
• How to book

Pakistan Treks & Expeditions

Straddling the border between China and Pakistan, the Karakoram region is home to challenging trekking and jaw-dropping scenery of the world’s second highest mountain range.

Heading deep into the Karakorum, our 24-day Ultimate K2 Trek will see you venturing through spectacular mountain wilderness towards the basecamp of K2 (8,611 m)—the second highest peak on Earth. This is no ordinary hike, but a demanding expedition into one of the world’s most rugged and remote regions.

Beginning with a breathtaking mountain flight from Islamabad to Skardu, we commence trekking and follow the narrow trails above the Braldu River before ascending the extensive Baltoro Glacier. Accompanied by expert leader, Andrew Lock, as well as our knowledgeable local guide and passionate crew, we cross the high pass of Gondogoro La (5585m) and trek through the imposing landscapes of the Inner Karakorum towards K2 base camp, surrounded by the highest concentration of 8,000-metre peaks on the planet.

Tackle an exploratory journey with Tim Macartney-Snape into the depths of the Karakorum and venture beyond the trails to an area which is seldom explored.

With Pakistan’s geopolitical background, unpredictable weather and difficult terrain of the region, travel to the Karakorum can pose many challenges. However, our expert crew and unsurpassed safety record, together with your own fitness, flexibility and sense of adventure will ensure that you experience a rewarding and exhilarating expedition.

Destination

Antarctica & the arctic, australasia, central america, central asia, indian subcontinent, middle east, north america, south america, vessels & boats, advanced search, find your pakistan trip.

Ultimate K2 Trek: Basecamp, Concordia, Gondogoro La Exploratory

Activities:.

Entry Level Mountaineering or Exploratory Treks

Pastore Peak (6209m), K2 Basecamp and Gondogoro La with Soren Kruse Ledet

Biafo Glacier, Snow Lake and Hispar La Trek with Andrew Lock

Ultimate K2 Trek: Basecamp, Concordia, Gondogoro La

More about pakistan.

• Popular activities
• Pakistan destinations
• Popular travel regions

Why travel with us

Responsible travel, accommodation.

• Leaders in the field

Custom made itineraries

• Related articles

Trip reviews

Country information, pakistan highlights.

K2 - the world's second highest mountain

Karakoram Range

Our all inclusive approach

Quality services at the best prices make our adventures great value for money. Our trip costs cover valuable inclusions like all meals while trekking and a dedicated local crew who will go the extra yard to ensure you have the experience of a lifetime. Our high level of support allows you to relax and focus on the incredible journey ahead of you.

Innovative itineraries

We've been organising treks and tours in Pakistan for many years and our firsthand knowledge of the region is exceptional.

Leaders in responsible travel

Responsible travel practice is at the heart of every program that we offer. When you book one of our adventures you're supporting a program that is committed to safety and sustainability.

Animal welfare focus

We advocate for cruelty free animal encounters, encouraging travellers to follow the guidelines in our comprehensive Animal Welfare Code of Conduct as we seek to inform stakeholders about animal welfare matters.

Child safe tourism

Children working and living in tourist areas are especially vulnerable to physical, emotional and sexual abuse. We protect vulnerable children by adhering to our Child Protection Code of Conduct.

Wilderness camping

Enjoy fully supported camping in remote locations with our outstanding crew. While the campsite locations have been handpicked for their location, our commitment to responsible travel ensures our footprint is kept to a minimum.

In cities and large towns you will be accommodated in good quality properties that are centrally located, atmospheric and reliable.

A custom made itinerary is the ultimate way to see the world how YOU want. They are created especially for you, giving you complete freedom to choose what you want to see, where you want to go and when you want to do it. If you love our current itineraries but want to customise it privately as a couple, a group of friends, family, club, business or school, you have the freedom to add or remove as many elements as you like to suit the interests of your group. Alternatively, you can start with a blank canvas and create a new and exciting itinerary from scratch! Our well-travelled consultants can give you firsthand suggestions and eliminate any uncertainty with trip planning to ensure you maximise the quality of your experience and get truly off the beaten track. Simply email, phone or visit us to start planning your dream adventure.

Related Articles

Rating: ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆

• Where to Go & Weather
• Dialing Code

Electricity

• Health & Safety

The Karakoram is subject to the south-west monsoon that draws its moisture from the Arabian Sea from mid-June until the end of August.  During this time the occasional storm will move north up the Indus valley as far as the Karakoram, although the regularity and intensity of the rains is far less apparent than in the nearby regions of the Indian Himalaya. Localised storms on the higher elevations of the Karakoram are a further important consideration. Records of three or four days of intense bad weather followed by similar fine periods seem to characterise the region and even in September, trekking groups are well advised to prepare for at least one bad spell of weather during the expedition. On the first few days of the trek, extremely hot and dry conditions are not uncommon; temperatures can easily reach 35 Celsius. Adequate sun protection is a must.

Time in Pakistan

Pakistan is +5 hours ahead of UTC/GMT

The main language spoken in Pakistan is Urdu (similar to Hindi), which is taught in schools. English is also widely spoken by business people, officials, guides/staff and in hotels.

There are many different tribal languages spoken throughout the country, which are strongly influenced by their geographic location, as well as historic and religious background. Widely regarded as the fiercest warriors and the most handsome of men in early history, the Pathan tribe, located near the border of Pakistan & Afghanistan, with 17 million people is the largest tribal group in the world. They speak Pashto, and can be found in Peshawar, along the Khyber Pass and in much of the northern areas. Balti is most commonly spoken in the Baltistan of which the Baltoro Glacier is part of it.

Pakistani rupee

International Dialing Code

Electricity in Pakistan is 230 Volts, at 50 hertz. The most common pin type is C. (2 round prong).

All travellers require a visa for Pakistan. The process for visas and trekking permits for Pakistan can be time consuming and we encourage you to return all the required documents as soon as possible. This is due to the fact it can take several weeks for visa invitation letters to be issued, followed by up to four 4 weeks for visas to be issued (subject to change) once the online visa application has been lodged. Your physical passport is no longer required to be sent anywhere and visas are now e-visas.

The below documents/information are required in order to obtain the invitation letter (also known as a sponsor letter) which is then required to apply for a Pakistan Visa. These should be sent to your reservations consultant at World Expeditions without delay.

A clear copy of the passport data page

The name of the Pakistan High Commission/ Consulate nearest to your home, so the invitation letter provided can be correctly addressed. Note the process is undertaken online, however the high commission/consulate nearest you is the issuing authority.

Confirmation of your home address, if it differs from the that provided on your booking form.

These details will then be sent to our office in Pakistan who will process your invitation letter and return it to World Expeditions.

Once the invitation letter/s are ready, they will be emailed to you so you can apply for your visa. The visa is applied for online at https://visa.nadra.gov.pk/mountaineering-trekking/

At time of writing, online visa applications are possible for AU, NZ, UK, US, Danish, Argentinean and Canadian Passport holders, among others. Visa type is a ‘Mountaineering & Trekking Visa’ There are two visa options – Trekking and Mountaineering and there are differing application forms. A mostly completed template will provided for your use by your World Expeditions reservations consultant. Note the form provided is normally downloaded from the website and the forms may change, please check and use the one online in the event of changes. Once you apply online and pay the appropriate visa fee, the application will be processed.

The processing of the visa can take up to 4 weeks. Note your passport must be valid for six months beyond exit date and have two blank facing visa pages. The e-visa provided by the Pakistan Government will be the actual visa for Pakistan and with it you will be allowed to enter Pakistan upon arrival. There is not a physical visa or any need to have your passport sent away anywhere. The immigration staff will verify the e-visa on arrival.

• Cookie Policy
• Strictly Necessary
• Performance

When you visit any web site, it may store or retrieve information on your browser, mostly in the form of cookies. This information might be about you, your preferences, your device or used to make the site work as you expect it to. The information does not usually identify you directly, but it can give you a more personalized web experience. You can choose not to allow some types of cookies. Click on the different category headings to find out more and change our default settings. However, you should know that blocking some types of cookies may impact your experience on the site and the services we are able to offer.

These cookies are necessary for the website to function and cannot be switched off. They are usually only set in response to actions made by you which amount to a request for services, such as setting your privacy preferences, logging in or filling in forms. You can set your browser to block or alert you about these cookies, but some parts of the site will no longer work. These cookies do not store any personally identifiable information.

These cookies allow us to count visits and traffic sources, so we can measure and improve the performance of our site. They help us know which pages are the most and least popular and see how visitors move around the site. All information these cookies collect is aggregated and therefore anonymous. If you do not allow these cookies, we will not know when you have visited our site.

These cookies allow the provision of enhance functionality and personalization, such as videos and live chats. They may be set by us or by third party providers whose services we have added to our pages. If you do not allow these cookies, then some or all of these features may not function properly.

These cookies are set through our site by our advertising partners. They may be used by those companies to build a profile of your interests and show you relevant ads on other sites and promotional activities through our newsletters. They work by uniquely identifying your browser and device. If you do not allow these cookies, you will not experience our targeted advertising across different websites or via newsletters.

15 EPIC Places to Go Trekking in Pakistan (2024)

There’s trekking, and then there’s trekking in Pakistan. The latter is bound to blow your mind and make you fall deeply and hopelessly in love with the thousands and thousands of peaks that make up this seriously epic country. 

The mountains of Pakistan are not just some of the highest in the world, but they’re undoubtedly the most beautiful. From snowcapped record-breakers to lush, rolling hills: there’s a trail in Pakistan for absolutely everyone.

But as amazing as Pakistan’s trekking places are, getting an idea of where to start can be a bit overwhelming as a beginner, even if you have plenty of experience elsewhere.

…so allow me to help you get started.

I first got acquainted with hiking in Pakistan back in 2019, and since then have spent more than 22 months of my life in this magical and misunderstood land. I’ve since logged hundreds of miles in these mountains, and now quite literally live in the mountainous Shangri La of Hunza Valley.

Ready to experience the most beautiful places of Pakistan for yourself? Let’s dive right in: these are the absolute BEST places to go trekking in Pakistan, with some must-know info, too.

Why Go Trekking in Pakistan?

Pakistan is truly a trekkers paradise. Forget Nepal, forget Peru: it’s Pakistan that will blow your mind and keep your bucket list full for ages.

The South Asian nation is home to 5 of the world’s  8000 m peaks, and it has THOUSANDS of epic trails for all preferences and ability levels.

Traveling in Pakistan is incredible for many reasons, but the sheer variety of hikes available is definitely in the top three. 

Looking to see a bright blue alpine lake? Pakistan has plenty of those. Want to cross a glacier? There are only a few thousand to choose from. Seeking a viewpoint you can reach in an hour? Your options are endless. 

What the country lacks in trekking infrastructure, it makes up for in raw adventure. As it’s still a solidly offbeat destination, you’ll get to enjoy the mountains of Pakistan without the crowds. Even in peak season, you can often enjoy the jaw-dropping scenery in peace and quiet. 

On top of all that, Pakistan is simply amazing from top to bottom.

From the historical places of Lahore , to remote mountainous locales that lie along the Afghan border like Chapursan Valley does, you’ll never be bored here.

And there’s always something to see or do before or after your epic expedition.

15 AMAZING Treks in Pakistan

Without further ado– here are 15 of the BEST places to go hiking in Pakistan, broken down by type!

The Best Overall Places to Go Trekking in Pakistan

Some trails are just a bit more special than others, and that’s ok! Let’s start off with a bang–trekking in Pakistan doesn’t get better than this. 

1. Rakaposhi Basecamp 

• Difficulty : Easy/Moderate 
• Region : Nagar, Gilgit Baltistan 
• Guide Needed? : No

The route to Rakaposhi Basecamp might just be my absolute favorite place to go trekking in Pakistan. The route takes you from Minapin , a picturesque village in the Nagar District of Gilgit Baltistan, to the base camp of Rakaposhi Mountain.  Which at 7788 m , makes for a damn good basecamp view.

The trail to Rakaposhi Basecamp is slightly steep but very well marked and requires 0 technical skills. If you start very early, you can complete the round trip journey in just one day, but I wouldn’t recommend that. 

Rakaposhi is best trekked with at least one overnight – Hapakun is the first stunning camp that you can spend the night at. Once you reach the basecamp, not only will you be rewarded with epic views of Rakaposhi, but you’ll also get to see several other peaks and the Minapin Glacier too. 

It’s one of the best treks to add to your Pakistan itinerary .

2. Fairy Meadows/Nanga Parbat Basecamp

• Difficulty : Easy/Hard 
• Region : Diamer, Gilgit Baltistan 

If you’ve read anything about Pakistan, then you’ve undoubtedly heard about the Fairy Meadows. It’s just about the most popular attraction in the country, and attracts thousands of domestic and international tourists each and every year.

First off, you not only get to traverse one of the most dangerous roads in the world. But more importantly, you’ll get up close and personal with Nanga Parbat–one of the most beautiful mountains in Pakistan and the 9th highest peak on the planet!

The journey to Fairy Meadows begins from the Raikot Bridge , which is about an hour from Gilgit. From there, you’ll coast along the terrifying rocky road for 1.5 hours before heading out on a well-marked 2-hour hike. You’ll then arrive in the magical land of Fairy Meadows!

Of course–this being a trek in Pakistan, there’s the option to take things up a notch. Continue onwards for 2.5 hours past Beyal Camp to see the Killer Mountain up close. If you really want to get acquainted with Pakistani trails, you can continue for ANOTHER 3+ hours to Nanga Parbat Basecamp. You’re gonna want a solid hiking backpack and tent for that though!

3. Patundas

• Difficulty : Moderate 
• Region : Gojal, Upper Hunza, Gilgit Baltistan 
• Guide Needed? : Yes unless you have experience with glacier crossings 

Man talk about VALUE. In just 3 days, the Patundas trek will take you across one of Pakistan’s glaciers and up to a stunning 4170 m meadow that overlooks one of Asia’s most stunning landmarks – the Passu Cones. 

The trek to Patundas, as the meadow is locally known, begins from the Zero Point of Borith Lake near the villages of Hussaini and Ghulkin and is one of the best things to do in Hunza .

While other Pakistan hikes only require you to have basic camping gear, to cross the glacier safely, you’re going to want to have some quality crampons for this trek. The first time I ever used crampons was while heading to Patundas, and I’m always excited when the opportunity arises to use them.

Because of its icy dangers, you’re going to want to take a guide and perhaps some porters along for the trek, which you can arrange in the local villages or in Central Hunza. 

Patundas essentially “opens” in mid-May, though you’d find camping extremely uncomfortable without quality outdoor gear .

This is why you should plan your trip for July – the optimal season where you can even find wildflowers scattered across the meadow. 

4. K2 Basecamp – The Highest Mountain in Pakistan!

• Difficulty : Very Hard 
• Days: 10-12
• Region : Hushe, Gilgit Baltistan
• Guide Needed? : Yes, and a permit 

It’s no secret that the K2 basecamp trek is the monster of all Pakistani hikes: it’s almost as if you haven’t hiked in Pakistan until you’ve conquered this beast! But this trek is no joke–and one you’re going to want to bring along a top-notch camera to capture.

Unlike other natural places in Pakistan, K2 lies within the protected Central Karakoram National Park . As such, foreigners are required to have permits and guides before setting off. Pakistani nationals should also not attempt this without a guide, or at the very least a porter, who can act as a guide to some degree.

The trek to this iconic basecamp is perhaps one of the greatest adventures in the world, and absolutely worth the money and time required to reach it. It’s not every day that you get to see one of Asia’s best natural landmarks up close!

You’ll begin your journey in the small village of Askole, where you’ll then spend the next few days trekking and camping on the Baltoro Glacier , until you reach the otherworldly Concordia campsite.

It takes about 7 days to reach, and then you can either return the same way or take things up a notch (or three) by choosing to cross the mesmerizing Gondogoro La which reaches heights of over 5600 m .

Keep in mind that the K2 trek can be freezing even in July, so you’re going to want to bring your best quality gear, and do throw in one of the best travel blankets –you’re gonna need it at those end of the day campfires!

All in all, K2 Basecamp is the most beautiful natural place in Pakistan, and one of if not THE most mesmerizing trek on the planet.

5. Snow Lake

• Days: 10-14
• Region : Nagar, Gilgit Baltistan
• Guide Needed? : Yes 

One of the most magnificent treks in Pakistan is undoubtedly the journey to Snow Lake. While absolutely NOT for beginners, trekkers with some experience will find themselves in the most beautiful adventure of their lives, amongst some of the most famous mountains in Pakistan. 

In many ways, Pakistan’s Snow Lake trek is even more complex than the journey to K2 Basecamp, which is another top hike in the country. The journey will take you across the Biafo Glacier , one of the longest in the world and often referred to as a “runway.”

You’ll reach heights of 5000 + meters and have to cross deep crevasses. Therefore, proper mountaineering gear like crampons, helmets, and ropes will be required. 

Keep in mind that Snow Lake is a serious trek that reaches extreme elevation levels. You should never fly into Skardu or Gilgit and immediately embark on this adventure.

Acclimatization is a must, and while guides are only required for foreigners, you’d need to be seriously experienced to attempt this on your own regardless of where you’re from!

You can begin this trek from either Hispar Village in Nagar , Gilgit Baltistan, or from Askole in Skardu .  And as the best time to visit Pakistan for trekking is in July, you’re going to want to keep that in mind when planning your trip.

Best Day Treks in Pakistan

The following treks allow you to see some of the most beautiful scenery in Pakistan in just one day!

6. Margalla Hills Trails

• Difficulty : Beginner 
• Region : Islamabad, ICT
• Guide Needed? : No 

If you’re looking for a trekking place in Pakistan that anyone can manage, look no further than the Margalla Hills trails that can be found in Margalla Hills National Park in Islamabad. The lush hills are filled with epic viewpoints and well-marked paths that are good for virtually any age group.

While these trails won’t bring you to any of the snow-capped mountains of Pakistan, they will allow you to get a heavy dose of greenery: the Margalla range is as lush as can be!

There are numerous trails to choose from, all with multiple stopping points depending on how far you’d like to go. Trail 3 and Trail 5 are the most popular, with both being around 5-6km round trip .

Trail 3 leads to a sweet viewpoint where you’ll be able to see not only the iconic Faisal Mosque, but also Rawal Lake as well as other Islamabad attractions. Out of all the treks in Pakistan, the Margalla Hills trails are the absolute perfect Pakistani hikes for beginners or families!

7. Avgarch Valley

• Difficulty : Easy 
• Region : Gojal, Upper Hunza, Gilgit Baltistan

One of the most beautiful and underrated places to go trekking in Pakistan is the route to Avgarch Valley. Avgarch is a remote place in Hunza Valley and is in fact is the first settlement dating back some 700+ years. 

If you want to see some beautiful scenery of Pakistan all while being able to return the same day, than you’ll absolutely love Avgarch.

The 7 km journey begins from Jamalabad in Gojal, Upper Hunza, and continues on a mostly straight path until you reach the ancient village of Avgarch. 

The route will take you through some untouched scenery, without so much as a tea stand. And if you find you want to go even farther–as trekking in Pakistan often does–you can continue onwards to Boiber Valley, a lush, forested hamlet some kilometers beyond the village. 

8. Marsur Rock Skardu

• Region : Skardu, Gilgit Baltistan

Another relatively easy place to go hiking in Pakistan is the route to Marsur Rock, which will give you incredible views of Skardu city and beyond in just one day of climbing. The rock in question is 38 feet long and can be reached within 3 hours of uphill trekking. 

To get these iconic views (hopefully) all to yourself, you’re going to first have to make it to Hussainabad , which is about 30-40 minutes from downtown Skardu. You’ll even be able to view the Katpana Desert from the top, which is absolutely worth the struggle.

As it’s just a day hike, you can attempt this any day of the year that’s snow-free, though be sure to load up on snacks and water in advance–the trek is still new and doesn’t have access to amenities once you begin. 

9. Kandol / Spinkhowar Lakes

• Region : Swat Valley, KPK

While most of the best hikes in Pakistan are located in Gilgit Baltistan, KPK has its fair share of iconic routes, and several of those are in Swat Valley . The lush land of green mountains and bright blue rivers and lakes has many overnight treks, but these two can be easily done in one day.

Not too far from the village of Utror lies the Ladu Valley, where the trails to both Kandol and Spinkhowar Lakes begin. Kandol Lake has become quite commercialized these days, and a jeep track has made it less of a trek and more of a walk on a road. While still stunning, adventurous travelers will want to head to Spinkhowar instead.

Once you reach Ladu Valley, it will take about 1.5 hours to make it to Kandol Lake (on foot) and more than 3 to reach Spinkhowar. It’s also possible to head to Kandol first and THEN Spinkhowar, though you’ll need some local guidance to help you find the route.

10. Passu Bridge to Hussaini Bridge

• Region : Gojal, Upper Hunza, GB

The Passu Bridge to Hussaini Bridge trek is one of the best single-day hikes in Pakistan.

It’s got just enough challenges to make your adrenaline pump while being easy enough that anyone moderately fit can do it. Plus it’s located in one of the best places in the world: the amazing Hunza Valley !

The trail will also take you across two of the scariest (and most famous) suspension bridges in the country!

While you could start from the Hussaini Bridge, the route will be easier if you begin from the Passu Bridge . Cross the rickety overpass to reach a pair of summer settlements located on the other side. 

You’ll then spend some time walking through some barren rocky land and then the small collection of homes that is Zarabad . The well-marked path is easy to follow, and you’ll eventually find yourself heading down a rocky section before arriving at the Hussaini Bridge, which is included in most Gilgit Baltistan itineraries.

The entire trek should take about 4 hours , though expect a bit longer if you choose to start from Hussaini as that direction is mostly uphill. You can finish off the day with some iconic Hunza food at the Yak Grill or the Bozlanj Cafe.

Best Multi-day Treks in Pakistan

Incredible (and difficult) Pakistani treks that are going to take anywhere from a weekend to several weeks to complete. 

11. Haramosh /Kutwal Valley

• Region : Gilgit, GB

Haramosh Valley is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places in Pakistan. It’s still untouched by mass tourism, and requires a serious trek to reach–this isn’t suitable for families/ or the un-fit, that for sure. It takes quite the journey to reach–even for those with trekking experience!

But if you’re ready for the commitment, not only will you get to see some jaw-dropping scenery, but also experience some legendary Pakistani hospitality too: the people of Haramosh are simply fantastic. 

Now back to the trek: first, you’ll need to reach the last village of Dasu (not to be confused with the Kohistani town many, many hours away) which is only accessible via jeep or motorbike. The village is about 1.5 hours from the main road, and you should bargain to get the best price. From there, you’ll continue on a footpath until you can choose to deviate to the left side of the river. I don’t recommend this on the way in though–running water is only available on the right side. 

You’ll then continue for at least 6 hours–which includes a small glacier crossing–before you finally reach the first official settlement of the valley. If you want to spend the night camping at the stunning Kutwal Lake , keep in mind you’re going to want to plan for an 8-hour trek from Dasu.

Trekking Tip:

If you need a break, a small village named Iskere is a little less than halfway between Dasu and the beginning of the valley. You can camp here and then reach Kutwal Lake easily the next day.

12. Shimshal Pass / Pamir

• Difficulty : Hard 

Beginning in the remote and mystical Shimshal Valley , the journey to Pamir as its locally called is tough, but it’s absolutely worth it. One of the most amazing natural places in Pakistan, the road to Pamir will push you to your limits as you cross rocky trails and rivers to reach a pasture of dreams.

You’ll have to cross rivers and reach heights of over 5000 m , with the option to take yourself to 6000 m and to the summit of a small peak: Minglik Sar . 

This Pakistani trek is certainly NOT for beginners and requires a fair bit of acclimatization before setting off. A guide is highly recommended (required for foreigners), and porters can be arranged from Shimshal Village. 

The best part about this trek aside from the views is that its a summer destination for local shepherds, meaning you’ll get to see hundreds if not thousands of yaks, goats and sheep.  

13. Rush Lake

• Region : Nagar, GB
• Guide Needed? : Yes if you do not have glacier-crossing experience

Pakistan trekking doesn’t get much better than this–welcome to the journey to Rush Phari, also known as the country’s highest lake. At 4694 m , Rush Lake is one of the highest alpine lakes in the world, and gives you a chance to see some iconic Pakistani mountains up close.

The trek is no joke though–even if you’re in great shape, you’ll find it to be a satisfying challenge. The 3-4 day journey begins at the village of Hopar , which is about 2 hours from Central Hunza. 

From there, you’ll need to start early to cross the Hopar Glacier, which is one of the fastest moving glaciers in the world. You’re not going to want to forget your trekking poles. After crossing, you’ll then make your way across a sandy, “dead” glacier, and continue into a lovely meadow to the first campsite.

The next day is where the real fun (or pain) begins with an incredibly steep climb that will take at least 5 hours or more. But once you reach the lake, you’ll be greeted with stunning views of not just the lake itself, but also Spantik , Rush , and Miar Peaks . 

For added difficulty, you can spend a day trekking to the summit of Rush Peak at over 5000 m before descending. 

14. Karambar Lake

• Region : Broghil Valley, KPK

Out of all the places to go trekking in Pakistan, few can compare to the immense beauty of Karambar Lake. Located north of Yarkhun Valley in the most northern portion of KPK, Karamabar Lake is also one of the highest lakes in Pakistan at 4272 m.

To reach the lake, you’ll have to first make it to Lashkargaz, which is the very last village of the Broghil Valley, a wild and remote region that borders the Afghan Wakhan Corridor. Jeeps run from either Chitral town or Mastuj in high season, though adventurous bikers can also make it.

From Lashkargaz, a 7-8 hour trek awaits. The trek is relatively straightforward, and porters and/or horses can be hired to alleviate your load.

Keep in mind that you’ll be hard-pressed to find goods anywhere in or near Broghil Valley. Stock up in Chitral town or Mastuj before heading up. 

It’s also important to note that while this region of Pakistan is very safe , foreigners will have a difficult time visiting. This changes regularly though, so check in on the current NOC (No Objection Certificate) requirements in Chitral town.

15. Batura Glacier

The journey to the fourth-largest glacier in Pakistan is one you won’t soon forget: it’s quite a sight to see this 57 km long monster up close! Nestled deep in the Karakoram Range, this trek begins from the village of Passu, located in the Gojal portion of Hunza Valley.

While guides and permits aren’t required, due to the technicalities of the trek, a guide is all but essential for anyone who isn’t from the area as it’s very easy to deviate off-trail. Even so, as far as multi-day treks in Pakistan go, the Batura expedition is fair game for anyone in decent shape.

You’ll encounter several campsites, many dotted with shepherds huts that can be used as a refuge when empty. Nevertheless, coming prepared with food, camping gear, and some quality trekking equipment is essential for a comfortable and safe trip. 

Some Offbeat Places to Go Trekking in Pakistan

• Charakusa Valley : Immerse yourself into a wild world few get to see. Home to K6 and K7, as well as some of the best rock and mountain climbing in Pakistan, Charakusa Valley lies within Central Karakoram National Park and is best visited in July-August. 
• Tirich Mir Basecamp : The highest mountain of the Hindu Kush range is Tirich Mir at 7708 m. You can reach this iconic mountain’s basecamp in less than a week, and likely share the trail with no one but perhaps a few adventurous locals. This trek is located in Pakistan’s Chitral region, and is extremely underrated. 
• Darkot Pass : Connecting Gilgit Baltistan’s Yasin Valley with KPK’s Broghil, the Darkot Pass will take you to over 4500 m of elevation across the Darkot Glacier.

FAQs About Trekking in Pakistan

Here are some of the most commonly asked questions about going trekking in Pakistan!

Yes, it is absolutely safe to hike in Pakistan. All popular treks are located in safe and secure areas, and are rarely inhabited.

The ultimate adventure treks in Pakistan include K2 Basecamp and Snow Lake . Meanwhile, the best intermediate routes in the country are Patundas and Rakaposhi Basecamp .

The K2 basecamp trek begins from Askole in the Skardu region and will take about 7 days each way .

Trekking in Pakistan is FAR less commercialized than Nepal. So while you’ll see way fewer other trekkers on trails, you’ll also have fewer amenities. There is no such thing as “tea houses” in Pakistan, though many popular treks now have campsites with equipment rental as well as food and snacks.

The best time to go trekking in Pakistan is undoubtedly May-September . Any other time period will be cold, uncomfortable, or downright dangerous.

Final Thoughts on Trekking in Pakistan

Going trekking in Pakistan was undoubtedly the best decision I’ve ever made in my life. It’s led me to mountain scenery that’s beyond the wildest of dreams and challenged me both physically and mentally. 

I feel so genuinely fortunate to have discovered such trails, and confident in telling YOU that Pakistan’s hikes are absolutely the best in the world. Full stop–nothing and nowhere compares to this. I suspect you’ll agree after spending just one night amongst the Pakistani peaks under millions of stars.

Whether you’re looking for a day hike that leads to an epic viewpoint, or a full-on expedition worth of a documentary film, Pakistan has it all and then some. Criminally underrated,–and with views so beautiful you won’t believe they’re real–hiking in Pakistan is sure to steal your heart and blow your mind. It’s just that good.

And yes–it’s absolutely better than Nepal, Peru or any other destination you’ve read about.

So grab those hiking boots, book that ticket, and prepare yourself for the very best of planet Earth: it’s way past time to go trekking in Pakistan.

Samantha is the founder of Intentional Detours. Originally from the USA, she’s been backpacking the world since 2017, and is passionate about slow, adventure travel that puts local communities first. She has visited 19 countries and has been living in the Karakoram Mountains of Asia’s Hunza Valley since 2021. She’s super passionate about helping people get off the beaten path anywhere (on a budget of course), and her travel writing has been published in the likes of BBC Travel, CNBC, Business Insider, and more.

Similar Posts

12 BEST Mountains to Climb 🏔 (Possible Summits!)

Pakistani Hospitality: Stories from the Kindest Country on Earth

Backpacking Pakistan Travel Guide & Itineraries (2024)

What to Wear in Pakistan

The BEST Places to Visit in Hunza Valley (2024 •INSIDER Tips)

Yarkhun Valley Travel Guide: Exploring Upper Chitral

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Pakistan Tours & Vacations

Searching for a proper adventure? Pack your bags and your camera for Pakistan.

Imagine if you could click your fingers and forget everything you’ve heard about Pakistan. Well, this is your chance – just click your mouse and you’ll be on your way to discovering a country that’s not defined by the media. This is a land of incredible treks through soaring mountains , one whose terrain is as enrapturing as its history. From the capital of Islamabad to the mystical Hunza Valley, Pakistan has felt the subtle touch of the world’s greatest empires and the brute force of the world’s most complex conflicts. And through it all, the Pakistani people remain humble, hopeful and unconditionally hospitable – come and see it for yourself.

Our Pakistan trips

Let's create an exclusive trip for your group.

Pakistan tour reviews

Filter by rating

Pakistan: Women's Expedition

Pakistan Expedition

Articles of Pakistan

5 of the best treks in Pakistan

8 reasons to travel to Pakistan

10 ways to get closer to nature with Intrepid  

Meet Aneeqa, the tour leader forging new paths in Pakistan

8 offbeat trips to escape the crowds in 2023

Pakistan at a glance

Capital city.

Islamabad (population approximately 1.1 million)

Approximately 213 million

Pakistani rupee (PKR)

Urdu, English, provincial languages

(GMT +05:00) Islamabad, Lahore, Karachi

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type C (European 2-pin), Type D (compatible with Type C)

Learn more about Pakistan

Culture and customs.

Pakistan – officially the Islamic Republic of Pakistan – must be one of the least-understood countries in the world. It has suffered from a serious image issue for years, particularly since September 2011, and people can be quick to cast it aside as a backwards, troubled nation. And yes, there are problems regarding economics, rebel groups and international relations, but there are also hundreds of millions of welcoming people hoping to cast aside Pakistan’s damaged reputation.

The majority of Pakistanis practice Islam though their ethnicity is extremely diverse. Thanks to the myriad religions, cultures and empires that have gained prominence in the region at one time or another, Pakistan is a melting pot of Indian, Central Asian and Persian influences to name just a few. There are over 70 different languages and the northern Pakistanis of the Karakoram ranges have more in common with, say, their northern  Indian  or Afghan neighbours than those living in Karachi or Hyderabad.

That said, there are two things common to Pakistan wherever you travel and the first is cricket. The Pakistanis are mad for the sport with the current prime minister, Imran Kahn, having captained the national team to World Cup glory in 1992. The second is hospitality. A guest is a blessing from God, according to Islam, and you’ll find that the locals will go out of their way to share a cup of tea, a meal or a conversation – probably about cricket – with you.

Like many conservative countries, Pakistan takes a more traditional view when it comes to gender equality. Males are considered the head of the household and are generally responsible for providing for their family, with women often expected to stay hidden in private. This is slowly changing, however, with women across the country fighting for more independence against a long-standing patriarchy.

Pakistan has a long way to go in the eyes of many but that doesn’t discount what’s on offer right now: with a unconditionally welcoming population that loves to throw a party and host visitors, Pakistan may just be the best place you never thought you’d visit.

History and government

Human occupation of the area we know as Pakistan dates back some 300,000 years, with evidence of stone-age communities found in the northern Punjab region. These evolved into farming and herding communities that cultivated large areas of land, though it was the Indus Valley civilisation that really flourished in the basins of the Indus River. It’s not known why this civilisation collapsed, but they were eventually replaced by the Persian Achaemenid Empire until Alexander the Great rolled into town with his  Macedonian  army in 327 BC. When Alexander died, he left behind an enormous empire stretching from  Greece  to the Indus River, which was split among his generals.

Conquest after conquest

Pakistan continued to be a highly sought-after territory. Buddhism and Hinduism both prevailed in the area until the first Muslim foothold was achieved with Muhammad bin Qasim’s conquest in 711 AD. Islam spread throughout the region, culminating in the creation of the Mughal Empire, which covered modern-day Pakistan, Afghanistan,  India  and  Bangladesh . The Mughals were descendants of the Turks and their leader, Babur, was said to descend from Genghis Kahn himself . The Mughals were renowned for their architecture (think the  Taj Mahal and Red Fort  in India), as well as their interest in the arts, which blended  Persian , Indian and  European  influences. The empire started to crack in the early 1700s and by the end of the century a Sikh Empire had taken control of the Punjab region.

British colonisation

The British Raj ruled the Indian subcontinent, including much of Pakistan, from 1858–1947 after several confrontations with the Sikh armies. After victory in the Anglo-Sikh wars, and as a result of the influence of the East India Company, the British dominated the region though a national Muslim identity was slowly emerging. One of the key figures in this movement was Muhammad Iqbal, a writer and poet, who felt that a Muslim state was necessary in a Hindu-dominated region, though some argue that he advocated for a Muslim province rather than a partition of country.

The name ‘Pakistan’ was created in 1933 by Choudhry Rahmat Ali, a political science student, as an acronym for the five northern regions of British India: Punjab, Afghania, Kashmir, Sind and Baluchistan. ‘PAKSTAN’ became ‘Pakistan’ for pronunciation purposes, and this led to the birth of the Pakistan Movement.

Independence

The Islamic Republic of Pakistan was granted independence from the British in 1947 (as was India). Once the borders were drawn, an unforseen issue arose in the Punjab region between Hindu minorities in Pakistan and Muslim minorities in India. A population exchanged was agreed upon but it was far from peaceful. It’s estimated that over ten million people migrated across the borders and that 1–2 million people died as a result of violence between the two religions. This clash was the basis of the still unresolved Kashmir dispute between Pakistan and India. It’s worth noting, too, that Bangladesh was formerly known as East Pakistan and had a Bengali Muslim majority. In 1971, however, the Bengali Muslims split from their western family because of discrimination and a lack of attention from the government in Pakistan proper.

Pakistan is a regional (and nuclear) power with one of the world’s fastest-growing middle class. The problems are many, including corruption, terrorism and poverty, but the country is tipped to become a large and important economy. Imran Kahn, Pakistan’s current prime minister and former cricket captain, has prioritised tourism as an important source of future wealth.

Eating and drinking

Pakistan’s cuisine is a result of its myriad influences throughout history. Take your subcontinental staples, add some Middle Eastern flavours, mix in some Central Asia seasoning and you’ve got a seriously tasty variety of dishes – think everything from a spicy curry to the perfect shish kebab. These are a few dishes to look out for:

• Nihari A hugely popular and traditional Muslim dish found across the Indian subcontinent. Take a slow-cooked shank of lamb, goat or chicken and stew it with some 50 spices including garam masala, cardamom and cumin. Serve with naan or roti and you’re laughing (and most likely napping too).
• Sajji Originating in Pakistan’s Balochistan province, sajji is a simple, tasty meat dish. Take a whole lamb or chicken, marinate it in salt, skewer the entire thing and roast it over coals. Sometimes it’s covered in green papaya paste, sometimes it’s stuffed with rice, but one thing is for certain: it’s always delicious.
• Halwa poori This dish has become a popular breakfast for the people of southern Pakistan. Take some deep-fried bread ­– that’s the poori – and serve with halwa (a traditional sweet), yoghurt and a chickpea or potato curry. It’s light and oh so right.
• Kheer This traditional dessert is a rice pudding combined with almonds, pistachios, cashews and saffron and cardamom. Look for it in terracotta bowls from a restaurant or street stand and savour the sweet sensation once you break the skin with your spoon.

Plant-based options

Travelling as a vegetarian in Pakistan can sometimes be difficult. Meat is considered the highlight of a meal and while some classic vegetarian dishes like dahl can easily be found, they may sometimes be served with shredded chicken, for example. It’s important to be clear that you don’t eat meat and that includes fish and chicken. That said, there’s plenty of paratha and piping-hot roti to be had, you just need to be patient to find something more substantial.

Vegans will encounter quite a bit of difficulty as veganism just isn’t really a concept in Pakistan. Everyone except the poorest people enjoy a heavy meat-based diet and a lot of meals are cooked in either meat stock or ghee butter. Be sure to ask that your dish is prepared in a separate pot and without any animal products, but be understanding if this causes some confusion.

Of course, this is all a lot easier when you’re travelling with a local, someone who knows the language and the culture. If you travel with Intrepid, you’ll have a local leader who can help you decipher menus and recommend good plant-based choices.

Geography and environment

Pakistan has the dubious honour of hosting some of the most disputed borders in the world. The country is bordered by four countries –  Iran ,  India , Afghanistan and  China  – with disagreements over the Kashmir region (India and China) and the Durand Line (Afghanistan). Pakistan stretches from the Arabian Sea in the south to the mighty Karakoram mountains in the north and can be split into three geographical regions.

Northern highlands

Pakistan’s north is incredibly mountainous and includes the Karakoram, Hindu Kush and Himalaya mountain ranges. It’s home to the world’s second-largest peak K2 (8611 m) as well as more than 50 mountains rising above 6500 metres. It is an undeniably beautiful area but given the challenging terrain, the northern highlands have a sparse population with remote villages scattered throughout the valleys. The winters here are severe, as you’d imagine, with freezing temperatures and much snowfall. The Hunza Valley, through which the Karakoram Highway runs, sees temperatures between -5/-15°C (23/5­°F) during winter though it can reach the low thirties (86°F) in the summer period.

Balochistan

Pakistan’s southwest area is known as Balochistan, which borders both Iran and Afghanistan. It accounts for 44% of Pakistan’s land mass but less than 10% of the population, most of whom are concentrated in the city of Quetta. Poverty is rife here despite untapped reserves of natural gas and much of the landscape is dry and unable to be cultivated. The summers are hot and the winters can be freezing, though rainfall is relatively low compared to the rest of Pakistan.

Indus Plain

Much of Pakistan’s population and economy are focused on the areas surrounding the mighty River Indus. All of Pakistan’s rivers flow into the Indus and its fertile plains are responsible for most of the country’s food production and industry. The river shelters several endemic creatures including the Indus River dolphin, which is close to extinction, but is also the cause of devastating floods. Each year Pakistan sees heavy rain from mid-July through till September and the Indus will often flood a huge area of land, affecting millions of people across Pakistan.

Pakistan is home to shawls, spice and everything nice. Much like  India , Pakistan’s markets are an experience in their own right and even if you don’t plan on bringing something home, you’re unlikely to forget the bustle and banter as you make your way through the throngs. But if you do have space for souvenirs, the following may make some nice mementos:

There’s a long tradition of carpet weaving in Pakistan, dating way back to the Indus Valley civilisation. This continued through the Mughal Empire and the carpets made in Pakistan and Afghanistan were in high demand across the world, with Lahore being particularly famous for its rugs.

Pakistan is known for its onyx marble and while many think of onyx as being a black gem, you’ll find that Pakistani onyx comes in a range of colours. You may well find jewellery and handicrafts with streaks of gold, green and brown in specialist and market shops across the country.

Kashmiri Shawls

The disputed region of Kashmir is known for its woven shawls – cashmere is an anglicisation of Kashmir. Story has it that Napoleon gave one to both his wives, so if you’re after a gift to get you out of trouble, one of these (or two) may just be the perfect purchase.

Multan pottery

The city of Multan is located in southern Punjab and famous for its blue pottery, which was introduced by Arab artisans after Muhammad Bin Qasim conquered the region in the 8th century. The best places to purchase a vase or similar vessel are Multan and Lahore, otherwise you may not be getting the real deal.

Festivals and events

The people in Pakistan love a party and will go all out for birthdays, weddings and religious celebrations. You can expect a lot of noise and colour and a smorgasbord of distractions everywhere you look.

Independence Day

The 14th of August commemorates the independence of Pakistan and is celebrated nation-wide. Official celebrations include speeches and a gun salute, as well as cultural programs in the cities, while the people of Pakistan adorn their shops and homes in flags, bunting and banners. It’s a day for friends and family, with people taking to parks and other public places to celebrate their country.

Shandur Festival

Welcome to the highest polo match on the planet. Sitting at 3700 metres (12,139 feet), Shandur’s polo ground hosts a festival every July at the Shandur Pass, with teams from Chitral and Gilgit-Baltistan facing off in an extremely aesthetic arena. It’s a shoutout to the equestrian traditions of Central Asia and the festival also hosts traditional folk music and dancing.

This Punjabi festival used to be held in February to celebrate the coming of spring by flying kites across the city. The sky was filled with colourful kites but make no mistake, this was no leisure activity. The kites were flown on special, glass-embedded strings in order to sever the strings of competitor kites and Basant was eventually banned because people were being killed by stray strings. In 2019 the government decided against lifting the 10-year ban on Basant, though many hope that the tradition will be reinstituted sometime soon.

Further reading

For inspiring stories to prepare you for your Pakistan adventure, check out these books:

Moth Smoke  – Mohsin Hamid

The Ice-Candy Man  – Bapsi Sidwha

The Buddha of Suburbia  – Hanif Kureishi

My Feudal Lord  – Tehmina Durrani

A Short Walk in the Hindu Kush  – Eric Newby

Kartography  – Kamila Shamsie

A Case of Exploding Mangoes  –Mohammed Hanif

The Reluctant Fundamentalist  – Mohsin Hamid

K2: Life and Death on the World’s Most Dangerous Mountain  – Ed Viesturs, David Roberts

Pakistan travel FAQs

Do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

When is the best time to visit Pakistan?

Pakistan’s climate is difficult to pin down as a single entity. It ranges from tropical and subtropical to semi-arid and desert, and then up north you’ve got the ridiculously beautiful ­– and ridiculously cold – mountainous areas incorporating the Karakoram, Himalaya and Hindu Kush ranges.

In the north, the mountainous region of Gilgit-Baltistan sees desert-level rainfall, but snow is quite frequent in winter. The trekking season runs from April to October and the area is generally sheltered from the monsoon rains experienced further south, though there may well be some showers, thunderstorms and possibly snowfall at higher altitudes.

The region of Punjab, which incorporates the cities of Islamabad and Lahore, has a sub-tropical climate with very hot summers. July and August see the southwest monsoon bring heavy rains, while September, October and November tend to be drier with a more manageable temperature range of 10–34°C (50–93°F), depending on where you are. Given Islamabad’s higher altitude and location at the foot of the mountains, it tends to be a little wetter than, say, Peshawar or Lahore, but if you wish to avoid the rain, your best bet is to avoid spending too much time in Punjab from July until September.

Is it safe to travel to Pakistan?

Pakistan is one of those countries that sets off alarm bells in the minds of friends and family – you're going where? Their reaction is understandable, given the news coverage of Pakistan over the past 20 years, and there's no doubt that some areas just aren't worth the risk. That said, you can rest assured that Intrepid would not take you anywhere unless we were convinced it was safe and trust us, there's more – so much more – to Pakistan than the media would have you believe.

Do I need a visa to travel to Pakistan?

Anyone traveling to Pakistan for tourism or business purposes must obtain a visa, which can be done on arrival (depending on your nationality) or online before your trip begins. You can also apply for a tourist visa at your local Pakistan embassy or consulate before traveling. Both e-visas and visas issued on arrival have differing lengths of stay, with e-visas valid for up to 3 months (but can be extended to 6 months) and VOA (visa on arrival) valid for a period of 30 days.

The page is for general information only and may be subject to change. It is your responsibility to obtain relevant visa and travel information required for entry, departure and travel to each country or region you visit on your trip. You should confirm these with the relevant embassies and/or consulates. 

Last updated: 6 May 2023 

Is tipping customary in Pakistan?

While gratuities aren't compulsory on this trip, they can make a big difference to locals employed in the tourism industry. If you are happy with the services provided, a tip is an appropriate way to say thanks. 

Most restaurants in Pakistan will not include a service charge on the bill so a tip can be added to the total amount. There's no strict rule, but 8–10 per cent is generally recommended. 

Over the years we have found that many of our travellers find the need for tipping local guides and operators to be both tiresome and embarrassing, especially if they don't have the correct small change. To overcome this, your leader might raise the idea of a group tipping kitty. At your group meeting, your tour leader may discuss the idea of running this kitty, whereby everybody contributes an equal amount and then your tour leader pays the tips as you go. The leader will keep a running record of all monies spent (except restaurant tips). The record can be checked at any time and any money remaining at the end of the tour returned to group members. This kitty does not include any tips you wish to give your leader and crew.

What is the internet access like in Pakistan?

If you’re planning to use your mobile phone in Pakistan (with either global roaming activated or by using a local SIM) you’ll find that the internet in major cities like Islamabad, Lahore and Karachi is quick and free wi-fi is often available through hotspots. Travellers will be able to find internet cafes in Pakistan's larger cities but internet access might be patchy or non-existent in more remote areas like the Hunza Valley. There have been instances of the government restricting connectivity and social media during periods of protest or religious celebration.

Can I use my mobile/cell phone in Pakistan?

Mobile phone coverage is generally good in the cities of Pakistan, although coverage may not be available in remote areas. If you want to use your mobile phone, ensure global roaming is activated before you arrive (but be aware of the fees this may incur).

What are the toilets like in Pakistan?

Most mid­- to high-range hotels in Pakistan will be equipped with Western-style, flushable toilets. You may well encounter squat toilets at restaurants and in public areas, and while these can take some getting used to, they become part of the experience once you’ve nailed your technique.

What will it cost for a...?

Pakistan’s unit of currency is the rupee. Prices here are approximate and shown in US dollars for ease of comparison.

• Can of domestic beer = USD 2–3
• Meal at a local restaurant = USD 3-8
• Local bus ticket = USD 0.20
• Cup of coffee (cappuccino or similar) = USD 1–2

Can I drink the water in Pakistan?

Drinking tap water isn’t recommended in Pakistan. For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water and fill a reusable water bottle or canteen with filtered water instead. Ask your leader where filtered water can be found; some hotels we stay in may have drinking water available, often boiled to use for tea. It's also advisable to avoid ice in drinks and to peel fruit and vegetables before eating.

Are credit cards widely accepted in Pakistan?

Credits cards are not widely accepted in Pakistan, which remains a primarily cash-based society. You may be able to use a credit card in hotels and higher-end shops in cities like Islamabad and Lahore, but make sure you have enough cash available when leaving the cities.

What is ATM access like in Pakistan?

Pakistan lays claim to the world’s highest ATM, located at 4687 metres (15,379 feet) at the Khunjerab Pass. You’ll be able to find ATMs in most cities and towns, but be sure to take enough cash when travelling to more remote villages, particularly in the mountains.

What is the weather like in Pakistan?

The weather in Pakistan falls into four seasons.

 June–September sees monsoonal rains, with June being the hottest month of the year and reaching upwards of 45 °C (113 °F). The rains are notoriously unpredictable, with the monsoon sometimes skipping the Pubjab region altogether and sometimes causing widespread damaging floods.

The post-monsoon season of October/November sees both temperatures and rainfall reducing. While the days can warm and hot, the nights begin to cool with temperatures ranging from 10–30°C (50–86°F) and rain falling sporadically.

The winter months of December, January and February see fine weather across most of the country with a large variation in temperatures. The daytime is generally quite pleasant, with temperatures usually topping out at 20°C (68°F), though it can drop down to 3 or 4°C at night (37–39°F). The northern mountains are another story, with precipitation falling as snow and temperatures well below freezing.

The hot, dry season comes in March, April and May with averages in the mid-30s (95°F) in the low-lying areas, though it gets hotter up north until you reach the northern mountains.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

What public holidays are celebrated in Pakistan?

• 5 February Kashmir Solidarity Day
• 23 March Pakistan Day
• 1 May Labour Day
• Varies Eid-ul-Fitr
• Varies Eid al-Adha
• 14 August Independence Day
• Varies Ashura
• Varies Eid Milad
• December 25 Quaid-e-Azam’s Birthday

Given Pakistan is a Muslim country, their public holidays follow the Islamic calendar, which is based off lunar dates.

For a current list of public holidays Pakistan, including those with moveable dates, go to: timeanddate.com/holidays

Is Pakistan a safe destination for LGBTQIA+ travellers?

We recommend LGBTQIA+ travellers exercise complete discretion when travelling in Pakistan.

Pakistan is not a safe destination for LGBTQIA+ travellers who wish to openly express sexuality outside of a very rigid, heterosexual binary. In fact, we do not recommend any public expressions of sexuality given Pakistan’s conservative values.

Openly LGBTQIA+ people can face stigma, harassment and violence in their everyday lives, with homosexuality technically punishable by life in prison or death. That said, Pakistan does recognise a third gender with transgender citizens afforded broad protections.

For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting  Equaldex  or  ILGA  before you travel.

If you are travelling solo on an Intrepid group tour, you will share accommodation with a passenger of the same gender as per your passport information. If you don’t identify with the gender assigned on your passport, please let us know at time of booking and we’ll arrange the rooming configuration accordingly. A single supplement is available on some tours for travellers who do not wish to share a room.

Is Pakistan accessible for travellers with disabilities?

Intrepid is committed to making travel widely accessible, regardless of ability or disability. That’s why we do our best to help as many people see the world as possible, regardless of any physical or mental limitations they might have. We’re always happy to talk to travellers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them towards the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

Pakistan can be a difficult destination to explore for travellers with disabilities. Even in large cities like Lahore and Islamabad, differently abled people – travellers and locals alike – are often overlooked in terms of infrastructure and policy.  

While international chain hotels are often built with the needs of accessible travellers in mind, homestays, guesthouses and locally run hotels are generally not fitted with ramps, elevators, shower rails etc.

If you have a battery-operated hearing aid, it’s a good idea to bring extra batteries.

If you do live with a visual, hearing or other impairment, let your booking agent or group leader know early on so they’re aware and suitable arrangements can be made. As a general rule, knowing some common words in the local language, carrying a written itinerary with you and taking to the streets in a group, rather than solo, can help make your travel experience the best it can be.

What to wear in Pakistan

What you wear in Pakistan will depend on what time of the year you’re travelling and where you are going. The autumn, summer and spring are generally quite hot across the low-lying areas and cool, loose-fitting clothing that is culturally sensitive, like a light shirt and trouser combo, is best. The northern highlands can get very cold, even in the warmer months, so be sure to pack a warm jacket, thermals, sturdy waterproof shoes and a windbreaker. Clothes that can be easily layered are best.

When entering mosques, women must have their heads, arms, legs and shoulders covered, and all people should dress conservatively. Please avoid shorts and if you’re in any doubt, we recommend playing it safe.

How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

Does my trip support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. Trips to this country directly support our global Intrepid Foundation partners, Eden Reforestation Projects and World Bicycle Relief. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Eden Reforestation Projects

Eden Reforestation Projects are helping to mitigate climate change by restoring forests worldwide; they also hire locally and create job opportunities within vulnerable communities. Donations from our trips support restoration across planting sites in 10 countries around the globe. Find out more or make a donation World Bicycle Relief

World Bicycle Relief provides people in low-income communities with bicycles to mobilize school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas – giving them access to vital education, healthcare, and income. Donations help provide Buffalo Bicycles – specifically designed to withstand the rugged terrain and harsh environment of rural regions – to those who need them most. Find out more or make a donation

Create an account

Start your adventure today.

Already a member? Login

Pakistan Hiking Tours

Take the first step towards a private travel experience, customized just for you.

Filter Results

Displaying 10 of 10 tours

Fairy Meadows and Nanga Parbat Base Camp Tour

Explore the Pakistani Himalaya on this wonderful guided trip to Fairy Meadows and Nanga Parbat basecamp. This trip is a wonderful journey, and a big part of the fun is just getting to the start of the trip.

Nanga Parbat Base Camp & Rakaposhi Trek

The Nanga Parbat Base Camp & Rakaposhi Trek is an epic adventure for the strong hiker, taking you to the base camps of some of the tallest mountains in Pakistan. Nanga Parbat, an 8,126m behemoth, is the 9th-tallest mountain in the world, and Rakaposhi reaches 7,788m tall. En route to the base camps, you’ll explore the lush, gorgeous Fairy Meadows, where your campsites feel like they’re in heaven, surrounded by green and framed by the mighty Himalayas and Karakorams.

Explore Hunza Valley Tour

Hunza is a beautiful valley in the Karakoram range and one of the top tourist attractions in Pakistan. This beautiful valley is around 100 km from Gilgit city and takes 2 hours to reach, and the famous Karakoram Highway is open throughout the year.

Nangma Valley Trek

Pakistan’s Nangma Valley is one of the most beautiful valleys in Pakistan, thanks to the massive rock walls that tower over you. This trek takes place in a less-visited part of the Karakoram, but one that will delight you.

Thallay La (Khaplu to Shigar) Trek

Looking for an easier trek while in Pakistan? The Thallay La Trek is a great one to consider. From tiny seasonal settlements of the upper valleys displaying the fascinating Balti culture to the crossing of the snow-capped Thallay La.

Charakusa Valley Trek

The Charakusa Valley is a special part of Pakistan, and this is a great trek if you want to explore a beautiful part of the Karakoram. The superb valley of Charakusa is full of isolated towers and superb granite spires which remain out of the world. This trek leads into the heart of the one of the most isolated and pristine mountain valleys in Pakistan.

K2 Base Camp and Gondogoro La Trek

A guided trek in the Karakoram is a spectacular trip. This guided trek to K2 Base Camp is a special one, as it continues over the Gondogoro Pass for the return journey.

The Grand Traverse of Baltistan

When Eduard Koblmiller set foot in the valley during his successful K6 expedition in 1970, he described it as a place of “unusual and primordial beauty”. The Nangma Valley looks like an impressionist painting, made of extreme color contrasts and abstract lines that point to the sky with astonishing verticality. The beauty of the valley is almost touching, and unlike others and much more famous places, the base camps are only an intense day’s walk from the road.

Snow Lake & Biafo-Hispar Guided Trek

Spectacular views and majestic mountains await you on this guided trek to Snow Lake and across the Hispar Pass. The black and white landscape of rock and ice, mountain and glacier, that you will experience in this part of the Karakorum mountain range is a unique wonder to behold.

K2 Basecamp Group Trek

K2 is iconic, and this trek takes you to K2 basecamp, which mountaineers use to climb K2. Being so remote, you will enjoy a true expedition style experience, staying in tents along the entire trek.

1-10 of 10 tours

Why book with 10 Adventures?

Your trip. your way..

Make lifelong memories with the people you care about most. We specialize in custom & private active travel experiences.

Travel made easy.

Spend your time making memories, not planning them. Enjoy a stress-free vacation and leave the trip logistics to us.

You matter to us.

No bots here. A real human is always a click or a call away to ensure you get the adventure of your dreams.

Travel authentically.

Immerse yourself in the destination with highly-vetted, local tour operators who love to showcase where they live.

Hiking Tours in Asia by Country

Get travel inspiration and discounts.

Join our weekly travel newsletter

• Trekking and Mountaineering Specialist in Karakoram, Himalaya & Hindukush
• +92 5815 455528
• + 92 333 5666623
• [email protected]

Explore a World of Adventure

Mountaineering.

Stretching over about 400 Kilometers/250 miles Karakoram, The Black Mountains lie in Baltistan, a remote region of Gilgit,Baltistan of Pakistan, bordering Tibet and India, present a wealth of opportunities for real adventure travel. Though best known for the world second highest peak

Trekking in Pakistan

Road access in the Gilgit-Baltistan of Pakistan is very good these days. So, instead of walking from village to village, most of the time you will start your trek near the last villages, sometimes a day walk or less from the snout of a glacier and just a matter of days from the base camps of the high peaks.

Rock Climbing

Pakistan is a heaven for mountaineers. In addition to the highest number of 7000 meter peaks Pakistan has got numerous 6000m, many a times ten or more standing shoulder to shoulder. In Pakistan mountaineers are allowed to climb any peak less then 6500m without any permit or prior permission.

Cultural Tours

Baltistan is a land a high mountains and great culture. There were several kingdoms in this region in the past. The old rules left their marks by building beautiful forts.

Honeymoon Tours

Lahore, City of Gardens and the second largest city in Pakistan, has a population of about 10 million souls and is the capital of Punjab province. Covering a total land area of 404 square km it lies between 31.45 North latitude and 74 East longitude

Jeep Safari

Baltistan Tours Pakistan offers the best adventure tour and jeep safaris from the core of highest and biggest mountain ranges (the Karakorum, Himalayas and Hindu Kush) to the southern areas of Pakistan

Rafting in Pakistan

In the Gilgit-Baltistan Region of Pakistan is Situated the Largest glaciered area outside Polar Regions melting of ice in summer create roaring white water streams and mighty rivers. Water courses of Kaghan, Swat, Hunza

The Kalash are cheerful people, generous, witty and fond of rejoicing and merry making. Their women folk have an outgoing manner that is disarming, delightful and unexpected. As you join them in their festivities and see them dance and sing, you are taken right back into history

Mountain Biking

The Karakorum Highway, which follows one of the principal Silk Road routes, farms the backbone of this mountain bike holiday. The highway is a most remarkable engineering achievement, the Pakistanis proudly refer to as the eighth wonder of the world Built in conjunction

Photo Safari

This unique photo safari will take you to the beautiful valley of Baltistan at the time of the year when it looks its best. The breathtaking tour in the north gives you the huge variety of natural splendors.

Kharfaq Lake is situated about 3 Kms above Kharfaq village and gives an inspiring view while traveling by road to Khaplu. At the height of 13000 ft the climb is quite tough

Pakistan is a land of serene beauty, a country with diverse wild life, fresh water lakes, mountains, a 1046 km coast lines and much more. So just choose a place and we will arrange a tour for you.

We provide memorable moments

• Broad Peak (8047 m)
• Gasherbrum-I
• Gasherbrum-II
• Nanga Parbat
• Batura Glacier Trek
• Ghangche Lake Trek
• Deosai Burge La Trek
• Gondogoro La Trek
• Rakaposhi Trek
• Charakusa Rock
• Hushe Rock Climbing
• Kanday Nagma Valley
• Ogre-Latok Peaks>
• Trango Tower
• Baltistan Tour
• Deosai Plauteau Tour
• Gilgit-Hunza Tour
• Skardu Ghangche Tour>
• Guruyatra Tours

Facts & Figures

• Baltistan Tours
• Distinction
• Karakoram Lodge Khaplu
• Honorable Guests
• Alpine Guides

Baltistan Tours is known for its specialty in arranging culture tours throughout Pakistan and Adventure Tours, Trekking, Trekking Peaks (Ice and Rock Climbing) and Mountaineering Expeditions in Karakoram, Himalaya and Hidukush ranges (Gilgit Baltistan Pakistan) since 1982.

KE adventure Travel, a leading tour operator based in United Kingdom and USA, has been working in conjunction with Baltistan Tours in Gilgit Baltistan of Pakistan since its inception.

Baltistan Tours has remarkable experience in adventure tourism, and has played prominent role in promoting adventure tourism in Pakistan. Baltistan Tours started the Snow Lake / Biafo Hispar Trek in 1986, and now it has become one of the most attracting and adventurous route for the trekking lovers.

Baltistan Tours has the honor to discover the famous trekking route of Gondogoro La in 1993. It has also the privilege to introduce Mountain Biking in Karakoram for the first time in 1990.

Situated in the upper part of Khaplu (Silence) fantastic view over the valley with the Shyok River and the Karakoram (Black) Mountain.

Terraced green spaces (Following local traditions) camping, Kitchen garden panorama garden)

Charming garden where you can drink a cup of tea, enjoy your meal or just relax.

Situated at 2700m agreeable climate and no malaria risk.

more details

Baltistan Tours is proud to have served British Royal Expedition 1989, Royal Air Force Expedition Diran Peak 1993, the prestigious UIAA Expedition in 1993, British Women Expedition Hushe 1994, British Army Expedition G-IV 1994, and so many other groups from all over the world.

The credit to introduce Kayaking/Rafting in the region goes to BT which organized Kayaking for the Imperial College UK in the Shyok / Indus River in 1999.

About Baltistan Tours

B altistan tours pakistan has the honor to be the first and senior most tour operator of the region in culture and adventure travel having its base in islamabad & skardu, gilgit- baltistan pakistan and the gateway to the throne room of mountain gods..

Baltistan Tours offers a wide range of programs to suit all tastes and pockets including Treks, Trekking Peaks, Mountaineering Expeditions, Mountain Biking, Rafting, Hunting, Jeep Safaris, Culture tours and Archaeological Tours and Holiday packages for students, old citizen and families, in Pakistan and provide assistance to arrange similar programs in China and the Central Asian States.

2024 Top 14 Treks & Tour in Pakistan

K2 Base Camp Trek

• Snow Lake Hispar La Trek
• Spantik Expedition

Discover the Hunza Valley

Hunza valley express.

• Hunza Valley Yoga and Hiking
• Island Peak Climbing Expedition
• Horse Trekking in Mongolia Expedition
• Trekking in the Fann Mountains
• Discover the Celestial Mountains
• Svaneti Trekking in Georgia
• Volcanoes of Kamchatka
• Lost World of Europe
• Madeira Day Hikes
• Featured trip!

• New 2024 Expedition in Mongolia
• Trip Calendar
• Our Mission Statement
• Why Choose Us
• Collaborations
• Client Testimonials
• Meet the Team
• K2 Gondogoro La Trek: What you need to know

10 Reasons Why the K2 Base Camp Trek Should Be On Your Bucket List

• Everest Base Camp vs K2 Base Camp: Which is better?
• How to Prepare for the K2 Base Camp Trek

K2 Base Camp Trek Packing List

• K2 Base Camp Height: How to Manage the Altitude
• The Glaciers of Pakistan – An Overview

Hunza Valley Culture: People Born in the Mountains

• All About Food in Pakistan
• A Poetic Narrative of our Journey Along the Snow Lake Trek in Pakistan
• How to Start Mountaineering: A Beginner’s Guide
• Hiking in Asian Patagonia: Kyrgyzstan’s Paradise Lost
• 10 Fascinating Kyrgyzstan Facts: Lenin Peak to Alcoholic Horse Milk
• Can Americans Visit Iran? A Complete Guide
• Fann Mountains Trekking in Tajikistan: 6 Things You Did Not Know
• Madeira Island: Epic’s First European Expedition!
• Travel to Iran: Photo Diaries of our Epic Journey
• Kyrgyzstan: The Celestial Mountains in Photos
• Snow Lake Trek 2022: Across the World’s Longest Glaciers

Join us for the K2 Base Camp Trek this summer! Only a few spots left…

Tours     |   Things to Know   |  Highlights  |  FAQ  |   Testimonials   |  Resources 

Pakistan: The Ultimate Adventure Destination

Nestled in the heart of south asia, pakistan is one of the most misunderstood countries in the world. .

There is a reason that countless magazines, online journals, and travel bloggers have declared Pakistan one of the top tourism destinations in the world – the adventure potential here is truly limitless.

That’s why our first ever tour was launched in Pakistan many years ago: we truly believe in this country, its people, and adventures to be found at every turn.

One of the first things our clients say when they have the opportunity to spend some time in the mountains of Pakistan is: “Wow, I had no idea Pakistan was so incredibly beautiful” .  

Our team of highly experienced staff go above and beyond to create the ultimate adventure experience in a country that can be challenging to visit as a solo traveler – creating a fun, international travel vibe for people who don’t normally do group tours. 

Through meticulous planning and amazing support from our Pakistani ground team, the stage is set for you to comfortably explore one of the most compelling countries you will ever visit in your lifetime. 

We’d love to have you join our team for a truly unforgettable adventure through the mountains, cities, and small villages of Pakistan. 

Our Current Tours in Pakistan​

15 DAYS | NEXT DEPARTURE: October 7th - 21st (2023)

The perfect combination of hiking and culture

10 DAYS | NEXT DEPARTURE: MAY 18th - May 27th, 2023

See the Best of the Hunza Valley on a Budget

21 DAYS | NEXT DEPARTURE : JUNE 20th - JULY 10th, 2023

Trek to the base of the world’s second highest mountain

Things to Know about Pakistan

March – October

The weather in Pakistan can be highly variable depending on the season, geographic location, and altitude. We will be traversing through a number of different climatic zones so it is a good idea to know what to expect at each point.

*Note that our spring tours are always colder than our fall tours, especially at altitude.

Islamabad – Typically hot and humid with the potential for rain events. Average temperatures in April: High: 30°C / 87° F Low: 16°C / 61° F. / October: High: 30.5/87° F Low: 15°/59° F.

Lahore – Average temperatures in April: High: 33°C / 92° F Low: 16°C / /69° F. / October: High: 32.2/90° F Low: 19.4°/67° F.

Karimabad – Warm to cool during the day, but not humid. Colder in the spring. and potential for cloud and wind. Cooler to cold at night. Average temperatures in April: High: 15.5°C /60° F Low: 5.4°C /F /October: High: 17.5/63.5° F Low: 5°C/41° F.

Skardu – Warm to hot during the day, but not humid. Dusty, especially along the main bazaar road. Cooler and pleasant at night. Potential for wind and dust storms. July is the warmest month in Skardu. High: 23°C / 73.4° F Low: 10°C / 50° F. The sun is stronger in the mountains so temps. feel hotter than they actually are.

3,000 – 3,500 Meters – Hot, dusty, exposed during the day. Cooler at night, but not freezing typically. Potential for snow around 3500 meters, but very unlikely. Possible cloud cover developing at any elevation.

3,500 – 4,500 Meters – Daily temperatures remain warm, though mornings and evenings are cooler. Above 4000 meters temperatures can easily drop below freezing at night and in the early morning. Rain, snow, cloud cover are all possible at any time

4,500 – 5,350 Meters – Freezing temperatures at night and cool to cold temperatures during the day with periods of warm sunshine possible. Rain, snow, cloud cover are all possible at any time. Evenings at the high camps will be cold. Moses Peak can experience freezing temperatures even during the day. The coldest possible temperatures to expect hover around -10° C / 14° F. Those are extreme estimates and certainly are not the norm for this time of year.

We offer a variety of unique and comfortable accommodation options on our trips. From hotels and homestays to eco-cottages and rustic shared tents; we do our best to make sure where we sleep is part of the overall tour experience.

Here is a brief rundown of the different types of accommodation you can expect while on an adventure tour in Pakistan:

Islamabad – Nice hotel not far from the Faisal Mosque. Hot water, wifi, and an excellent buffet breakfast.

Aliabad/Mountain Story Lodge – Very cool eco-resort (the first of its kind in Pakistan). Private cottages (2 to a room). Wifi, hot water, great meals, and excellent views.

Ghulkin Village – Homestay. Hot water. No wifi/cell signal. Shared accommodation in a traditional Hunza-style communal room. Camping in tents is possible for those who snore. The best food of the trip!

Trekking – Shared, high-quality tents (2 per tent) provided by Epic. 

Fairy Meadows –  Beautiful, but basic wooden cabins with wood burning stoves. Hot water possible. No wifi/cell signal.

There are several major networks in Pakistan: Zong, Telenor, and SCOM. SCOM seems to work the best in Gilgit-Baltistan (and does not work at all in Punjab). Foreigners can obtain SIM cards in Pakistan but the procedure is slightly complicated.

In our opinion, it’s not worth getting a SIM card as our hotels in Islamabad and some places in Hunza should have wifi. The wifi in Hunza however comes and goes sporadically as when it is around, it is slower than molasses.

SIM cards cost about 2000 PK rupees with a data plan.

All foreigners need to obtain SIM cards from the various company’s main offices. You will need your passport, visa, and to give your fingerprints in order to get a SIM. Keep in mind that this trip is a chance for our guests to unplug and fully embrace a proper digital detox.

The internet situation in Pakistan is spotty at best, so please have realistic expectations regarding wifi and internet speeds/access.

Pakistan’s country dialing code is +92. It’s timezone is GMT+5 ( check the current time there now ).

Despite its poor reputation for safety in the Western media, Pakistan is a very safe place for foreign tourists to visit. Pakistani people are among the most welcoming people we have encountered in our years of travel. The odds of being a victim of any sort of crime or act of aggression are relatively low. 

Regardless, EBT vets its local partners and hotels thoroughly to ensure that all points of contact are as secure as possible. Since our first-ever organized adventure tour in Pakistan in 2016, we have built up an extensive network of trusted resources.

Our experienced team of guides provides support on challenging treks and prioritizes group safety, hazard awareness, and accident prevention as our standard operating procedure. In case of emergency, EBT trip leaders are equipped with a satellite communication device, which can contact outside emergency first responders from any place in Pakistan.

Being a part of an adventure or trekking tour in Pakistan requires a lot of energy output each day and a big part of our job is keeping everybody well-nourished, happy, and energized.

Here’s what you can expect from daily meals:

Breakfast – Typically includes omelet/fried eggs, fried Pakistani bread (paratha), jam, butter, and chai/coffee. Sometimes we have a delicious hot porridge as well. Want to win the heart of your guide? Bring a pound of your favorite coffee from your country to share with the group.

Let your guide know if you are able/keen to bring some coffee 🙂

Lunch – We typically provide a hearty lunch. Usually a mix of daal, mixed vegetables, a meat dish, salad, chapati, rice, etc.

Dinner –  Is always the main event of the day and will be a mix of vegetables, rice, noodle dishes, daal, meat (mutton or chicken), chapati, and local specialties depending on where we are.

Technically, alcohol is illegal in Pakistan. In 99.9% of the country, alcohol is not available or sold anywhere. However, for non-muslims and foreigners especially it is legal to buy and drink alcohol.  Your EBT guide can advise you on the proper way to import and consume alcohol in Pakistan if needed.

All individuals who intend to travel to Pakistan trip MUST apply for a Pakistani tourist visa or a trekking and mountaineering visa, depending on the trip you are doing. Nowadays, most nationalities can apply for a visa under the new Evisa scheme.

Epic Backpacker Tours will issue every guest a Letter of Invitation (LOI) to Pakistan and other supporting documents (Pakistani guide licenses, accommodation reservation documents, NIC numbers (Pakistani tax id #), etc needed to apply for the visa.

The Evisa process is much quicker than applying directly at a Pakistani consulate/embassy. However, you can still apply at an embassy if need be.

Once all the required paperwork is submitted online, the Evisa is typically granted within 1 – 6 weeks depending on the type of visa being applied for. Our Discover the Hunza Valley and Trekking Amongst Giants tours require only a Pakistani standard tourist visa. Visiting K2 Base Camp will require a Trekking and Mountaineering sub-visa though, which usually takes more time to process.

We recommend to all clients to apply for their Pakistani visas around 3 months in advance. 

The official currency of Pakistan is the Pakistani rupee. It usually fluctuates around 200-250 to the USD but has in recent years weakened considerably ( check the current exchange rate here ).

ATMs are common in Islamabad and Lahore but less common (or nonexistent) once we head to Gilgit-Baltistan. We have experienced issues finding working ATMs once we leave the cities and we recommend that you change/withdraw your money before we head up into the mountains.

We also recommend that instead of relying on your ATM card, bring foreign cash and change it at the airport or in the city (if the money changer is open at the airport). USD, Euro, and British Pounds are all fine. Make sure to bring notes that are free from any defects. The money changers like PERFECT bank notes. 

Pakistan is a cash-based economy and you will not be able to use your debit/credit card to purchase things.

The following plug types can be found in Pakistan: 

• Type A/B (commonly found in North America)
• Type C (commonly found in Europe & South America)
• Type G (commonly found in the UK)

In our experience, Type C plugs are the most common in Pakistan.

Voltage is 230 at 50 hertz.

Note that power outages are common in the more mountainous communities, including in Hunza and Skardu. Whilst on a trekking tour in Pakistan, you can charge your gear using the camp generator at the end of the night. While Epic does provide a generator, we highly recommend that everyone invest in a good portable solar panel while trekking in Pakistan as they are usually more convenient.

• Pakistan is an Islamic country but it is not a theocracy. This means that state and religion are institutionally separated and Pakistani law is based on British common law, rather than Sharia (Islamic) Law (in theory anyway).
• Whilst socially conservative, most of the population consider themselves to be moderate and secular Muslims tolerant of other religions. Hijabs are not obligatory, and burkas are very rare (at least in the areas of the country we are visiting).
• In general, it is best not to discuss politics or religion with locals, at least not as a topic of conversation when you first meet them. If appropriate and if you have gotten to know an individual on a deeper level, it is fine to discuss those topics.
• Local people will be genuinely curious about your life, what you do for work, your family (if you are male they will almost certainly ask if you’re married and how many kids you have), and about life in the west. Taking the time to connect with locals and share life experiences will only add to the overall experience of your journey around Pakistan.
• Pakistan is a beautiful and diverse country which will richly reward explorers. However, it is a developing country with a challenging modern history; as such, tourism infrastructure is still in its infancy. This can sometimes mean low sanitation standards, police checkpoints to deal with, poor road conditions, all kinds of delays, and things not always going to plan!
• Guests will note that there is limited mixing of the sexes in Pakistan. Men tend to hang out with other men and women with women. You will also note that when locals approach foreigners, they tend to separate themselves on gender grounds; Pakistani men want pictures with the guys (and foreign women) in our groups and the women with the girls in the group!
• Some local porters (who may or may not speak any English) may not make conversation and or eye contact with foreign females. This is nothing against all you ladies, it is more of a cultural thing common across Pakistan.

Our Favorite Places

Pakistan FAQ

Because it may be the last great adventure destination left!

Nepal, Patagonia, New Zealand; all of these locations have been done time and time again and are on the verge of being spoiled by over-tourism. 

Pakistan, on the other hand, is still quite raw and relatively untouched by foreign tourists. It’s one thing to have some of the most gorgeous scenery in the world; it’s quite another to find it almost completely empty.

Simply put, there are a TON of unexplored areas to find and adrenaline-filled opportunities to try out here. Travel to Pakistan now before it becomes the next big holiday destination and is potentially ruined. 

We offer several kinds of trips in Pakistan! All feature to varying extents a mix of active, cultural, culinary, and immersive activities, among other kinds of fun.

One thing is for sure though: all of our adventure tours in Pakistan feature some sort of hiking or physical outlet (because we love to be active even while on holiday). Some feature more hiking than others.

Our K2 Base Camp itinerary is the most physically demanding itinerary we currently offer (13+ days of walking). Our Discover the Hunza Valley itinerary is less intensive (6 days of walking) and would be better suited for more casual adventurers. The Trekking Amongst Giants tour is somewhere in between the two aforementioned.

You can expect the following when trekking on almost any of our Pakistani adventure tours:

• Dusty trails and hot days at lower elevations.
• The chance of snow at higher elevations (4500+ meters), even in summer!
• A mix of terrain but mostly undulating and rocky.
• Support in the form of porters, cooks, and other locally sourced staff.
• 360 degrees of mountain views at almost every moment.
• 3 hearty meals a day. 
• A healthy dose of camaraderie and the chance to form lifelong bonds.

Despite their sheer proximity to one another, the Karakoram and Himalaya mountain ranges are quite different from one another.

The Himalaya , which are many adventurers’ first forway into big mountain territory, are generally broader, more dispersed, and more vegetated (at lower elevations). Crucially, the Himalaya have two main trekking seasons, post and pre-monsoon.

The Karakoram , which many people mistake for the Himalaya (they’re actually geographically separate) are much more dramatic on the other hand. The topography is far more rugged and features more sheer, often precarious profiles, giving the Karakoram a more “mangled” appearance overall. There is only one trekking season, the summer, and temperatures can swing wildly during this period.

Crucially, there is little to no teahouse-style trekking in Pakistan, which is a staple of the Nepalese Himalaya. Trekkers in Pakistan must self-sufficient and be able to make camp for long periods of time.

Even though different itineraries entail different levels of physical demand, being in decent shape is usually enough to take part in one of our Pakistani trekking tours.

Participants should be able to do the following:

• Carry a backpack weighing between 10-15 pounds (5-7 kilos) for several days at a time.
• Walk for 6-8 hours at a time.
• Be comfortable exerting oneself at higher altitudes (4000+ meters).
• Handling occasional inclining as well as declining slopes.

We have unique packing lists for each one of our adventure tours in Pakistan. Refer below for a link to our most popular:

• K2 Base Camp
• Hunza Valley
• Trekking Amongst Giants

Have a Question?

Let the experts help you out.

Our team members are experts on all things adventure in Pakistan!

If you’re interested in traveling to Pakistan but still have unanswered questions, feel free to give us a shout anytime . We’re ready and able to assist you in any way possible when it comes to planning your next big trip.

So ask away!

What People Have to Say

Additional Resources

Privacy Overview

Clark Tyler 🇨🇦

Adventure Guide

Hailing from the Toronto region of Eastern Canada, with a background as a former standout athlete (hockey of course) and a  love of mountain adventure, Clark is a welcomed addition to the Epic team.

In addition to being a keen photographer and adventurer, Clark brings his brilliant sense of humor, leadership skills, and positive attitude to everything he puts his mind to.  When he is not leading trips, he is working on taking over the hard apple cider game in Canada as a skilled craft brewer. 

Meet him during : K2 Base Camp Trek

Noemi Liebi 🇨🇭

Noemi grew up in the mountains of German-Speaking Switzerland where she naturally developed a deep love and respect for mountain environments.

She is a talented photographer, aspiring climber, and speaks at least 5 languages fluently including Arabic (and probably a few more that we don’t know about), which she taught herself in a matter of months by watching YouTube videos. 

Noemi has spent the last several years traveling, hiking, and photographing her way around many different countries in the Middle East, South and Central Asia, and Europe, and we could not be more stoked to welcome her to the Epic team! 

Meet her during : Discover the Celestial Mountains | Island Peak Climbing Expedition

Syerik Manap 🇲🇳

As our man on the ground in Mongolia, there is not much this legend can’t do. As a native the Bayan-Ölgii province of the Western Mongolia Altai, Syerik has been working as a guide and tourism entrepreneur…

for the past several years and is one of the rising stars in Mongolia adventure travel industry. 

He is currently building a beautiful Ger (Yurt) camp near his hometown where he will host Epic Mongolia team members on our trip as well as other travelers from around the world! 

He is the perfect guide for your trip to Mongolia. Serik did an amazing job giving us a well rounded experience in the Altai NP region and down in the Gobi… The food was fantastic and Serik gave us many opportunities to learn about the Kazakh culture in that region including traditional meals. (I can’t recommend enjoying the milk tea enough!)

– Coastal

Head of canine operations

Choriza started off life as a care-free vagabond on the streets of Madeira Island without any place to call home. From the moment we met her, we knew this dog was just different, and it was pretty much love at first sight. 

She gave up the dog street life in favor of joining her new dad Chris to become a full-time member of the Epic family towards the end of 2022.

These days she can be found listening in on the fringes of important Epic business meetings while half-asleep on the couch. She is a keen hiker, lover of mud, rare steak, and might just be the sweetest little dog we have ever seen. 

Andrew Golovachevn 🇷🇺

An experienced trek leader and IFMGA aspirant ski guide, avid alpine climber, devoted adventure photographer.

Organized and guided trekking expeditions, climbs and ski tours in Tajikistan’s Pamirs, Patagonia, Peru, Morocco, Nepal, Kyrgyzstan, Georgian and Russian Caucasus and Kamchatka. A full member and meets the organiser of the British Alpine Club. Visited over 40 countries, lived in the UK for four years. Certified first-aider.

We joined Andrew on a fantastic trip to the Fann Mountains in Tajikistan, pure nature and magnificent scenery! Andrey was super prepared and led us safely up and down numerous passes and through some rough and icy cold rivers. Thank you for a very memorable trip, your planning and prep was excellent!

– Monika Steinlechner

Meet him during : Trekking in the Fann Mountains

Sandip Dhungana 🇳🇵

Our man in Nepal, Sandip is what we like to call a “Swiss Army Knife”. There is not much Sandip can’t do when it comes to helping Epic to run our expeditions smoothly in Nepal.

His tireless work ethic, passion for all things trekking in the Himalayas, and smart decision-making mean that Sandip is a truly invaluable member of our team.

Sandip is passionate about showing visitors to his country an amazing time, and he goes above and beyond to make sure that happens. 

His company Himalayan Masters is Epic’s trusted partner in Nepal and one of the country’s top new tour agencies.

We really enjoyed the entire journey, and I would like to say that Sandip is truly professional. He guided us and he is a hardworking person, providing us with the best service and taking care of each one of us. Plus, he is super funny! The kind of professionnal you always want to find on your path for your explorations! 

– Alexandra Ruth

Fairy Meadows

Add your heading text here.

“Sed ut perspiciatis unde omnis iste natus error sit voluptatem accusantium doloremque laudantium, totam rem aperiam, eaque ipsa quae ab illo inventore veritatis et quasi architecto beatae vitae dicta sunt explicabo. Nemo enim ipsam voluptatem quia voluptas sit aspernatur aut odit aut fugit, sed quia consequuntur magni dolores eos qui ratione voluptatem sequi nesciunt. Neque porro quisquam est, qui dolorem ipsum quia dolor sit amet, consectetur, adipisci velit, sed quia non numquam eius modi tempora incidunt ut labore et dolore magnam aliquam quaerat voluptatem.

Ut enim ad minima veniam, quis nostrum exercitationem ullam corporis suscipit laboriosam, nisi ut aliquid ex ea commodi consequatur? Quis autem vel eum iure reprehenderit qui in ea voluptate velit esse quam nihil molestiae consequatur, vel illum qui dolorem eum fugiat quo voluptas nulla pariatur?”

Our Favorite Experiences

#1 sunrise from reflection lake.

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.

#2 Hiking to Nanga Parbat Base Camp

#3 playing cricket with the locals, trips where we visit fairy meadows.

Our flagship Pakistani adventure tour.  Road trip with some  hiking and cultural immersion.

Intermediate

Trekking Among Giants

A trekking-style tour that features some very remote locations, inlcuding a K2 viewpoint.

João Frietas 🇵🇹

João has born in the mountains of Madeira Islands in Portugal. Nature lover, writer, musician, guide, for him, a day without contact with outdoor vibes is a nightmare. 

With a degree in Cultural Studies in Portugal and a Master of Arts in Global Cultures and Creativity in the U.K.

João found out what really matters in life can be found on the trails, and in the contact with people from different backgrounds and cultures.

Guiding, crazy trekking missions, and sharing observations about the natural world, – these are some of João’s passions. 

After trekking to K2 Base Camp and exploring all over Northern Pakistan, he fell in love with the country and the local people. His experiences resulted in his desire to share these feelings with the world.

João is one of the most experienced guides at Epic and his skillset and positive mindset in the mountains is second to none

When not in Pakistan, João is  guiding and exploring in the Madeira Islands trails –  discovering some of the hidden treasures on his Portuguese Island.

João I can not thank you enough for the off the beaten paths and views you keep giving. Definitely one of the most challenging and amazing hikes we did 1200m meters all the way up to Fanal forest and circling back to the hidden village. Wow!

– Jeffery 

Meet him during : Lost World of Europe | Discover the Hunza Valley   | K2 Base Camp Trek

Sohail Sakhi 🇵🇰

Sohail is the newest addition to the Epic Backpacker Tours team and we are beyond stoked to have him on board. As a veteran of the Karakoram and a native of Karimabad in Hunza, there is not much Sohail can’t do in the mountains. 

Besides having the ability to speak more languages than we can count, Sohail has explored every corner of Gilgit Baltistan and logs more trekking miles 

in a year than most people will do in a lifetime. As of the summer of 2022, Sohail has summited Gasherbrum 1, Gasherbrum 2, and K2 – three of Pakistan’s five 8000-meter peaks. Sohail guides several trips including our annual bespoke expeditions but specializes in Hunza Valley tours.

Chris and Sohail, and the team at Epic are FANTASTIC! Highly recommend anyone to do a tour with ‘Epic’. They have the perfect balance of fun, excitement and wild adventures, tied in with being super professional and ensuring your safety/health in a foreign environment. Don’t waste a moment and book a tour with these guys as the value for money is UNREAL!

– Borgan

Meet him during : Discover the Hunza Valley

Pedro Ricardo Dias 🇵🇹

Pedro’s been traveling all around the globe since 2009. His keen interests in documentary photography, rural life, and local people from different ethnic groups have been the focus of many of his professional projects. Since 2012, he has developed his passion for travel and awesome shared experiences into a full-time adventure photography tour leader position.

Pedro has found himself continuously going back to the Middle East, with his likely favorite destination being Iran. Pedro will be leading his 11th tour in Iran with EBT this coming spring 2020

When Pedro’s not traveling the world with Epic Backpacker Tours, you’ll find him based in the western south of Portugal planning he’s next adventure missions, logistics and working out his photos in local exhibitions.

 I loved the combination of hiking, camping around breathtaking scenery mixed with the cultural aspects. The guide (Pedro) is knowledgeable and work very hard to make the trip as memorable as possible. All in all an epic adventure with some extremely epic individuals! Go for it, you won’t regret it!

Diane Bouvet 🇫🇷

Adventure Admin / Marketing

After fleeing from the corporate fashion world in Paris towards the start of 2020, Diane has been working as a web developer and graphic designer remotely from various bases across the globe

She brings all of her incredible design and organizational power to Epic Backpacker Tours and is responsible for many of the beautiful behind-the-scenes design elements. 

Diane has been to Iran and to Pakistan twice including all over Gilgit Baltistan and KPK.

Ralph Cope 🇺🇸

Head of Operations | Guide

A veteran of Pakistan travel, Ralph is an experienced guide, photographer and writer who specializes in documenting remote locations. 

Not one to simply go where everyone else does, he insists on exploring new and lesser-known areas.

Together with Epic Backpacker Tours, he shows people parts of Pakistan that most other operators don’t even know about. He is particularly fond of the village of Barah, which he believes will become just as famous as Hunza one day.

Just got back from EBT’s Trekking Amongst Giants 15 day tour. The experience was first class. Ralph, our head guide, ensured that the entire trip ran smoothly and relatively on time (a bonus for anyone travelling in Pakistan). We had so many unforgettable days on the tour and the trekking was well-planned, safe but also a rewarding challenge. 

– Calvin

Traveling to a non-tourist destination can be a little intimidating but EBT takes all of the worry and trepidation away. From the pre-trip call to meeting the wonderful staff in person you can tell that you are dealing with a company that has a passion for what they do each and every day. Ralph, Zahid, and Khan were supportive, kind, and always willing to go the extra mile to make sure that everyone on the trip was getting what they wanted out of the experience.

– Katrina 

Meet him during : Trekking Amongst Giants | Discover the Celestial Mountains | K2 Base Camp Trek

Chris Lininger 🇺🇸

Founder | Adventure Guide | Director

Since he started exploring the world, Chris has been seeking out every shade of adventure in various parts of the globe and had visited more than 70 countries along the way. 

Over the last 10 years, Chris has logged more than 7000 trail miles across five continents and climbed multiple 6000 + 7000 meter peaks in Pakistan and Nepal.

A few years back, a distant dream and a deep passion for the mountains and the people of Pakistan led Chris to co-found Epic Backpacker Tours at a time when foreign adventure tourism in Pakistan was almost nonexistent. Since then, Chris has guided more than 20 expeditions to various parts of Northern Pakistan.

Chris believes in using photography and powerful adventure experiences to dismantle negative stereotypes regarding what mainstream media considers “dangerous” countries while facilitating unique and meaningful memories in the mountains for countless people from around the globe. 

For him, an ideal start to the day begins with a steaming cup of good coffee, the beam of a headlamp, alpine boots, and a camera in hand. He lives in Madeira Island when not leading expeditions in far-flung lands. 

Chris also works as a writer and photographer on his blog Off the Atlas  –  an adventure travel blog all about Pakistan.   

Read this interview our staff did with Chris to learn more about him!

Chris believes in Pakistan and its people, and he believes in the value of journeys shared with others and family cultivated on the road. Honesty and integrity are at the heart of what he does, and this really shines through in his work as a guide. He also makes great coffee – whether at 5am in an empty guesthouse or half way up a Himalayan peak.”

– Will De Villers

Pakistan is a magical country!  Had 3 of the best weeks of my life thanks to Epic Backpacking Tours with owner, and one of our awesome guides, Chris. From detailed itinerary, preparation with an equipment list, and visa assistance. To amazing food, great porters, helpful guides, and great accommodations. Epic really hit home run after home run. […]

Their desire for adventure and amazing trip is just as high as yours. Bring a good pound of coffee for the trip. French press coffee every morning and no average tin coffee, plus you’ll be in your guides good books.

– Clark Tyler

Join the Epic Community!

Get exclusive trip updates, be the first to know when we launch a new itineraries and offer discounts, and stay up to date with what’s happening at Epic Expeditions!

Chilam Joshi Festival

Hunza autumn tour, hunza blossom tour, uchal festival kalash, skardu honeymoom tour, hunza honeymoon tour, explore baltistan tour, skardu and fairymeadows tour, explore fairy meadows tour, explore chitral tour, gondogoro la trek, k2 base camp trek, snow lake trek, nanga parbat base camp trek, hunza batura trek, rakaposhi base camp trek, hunza patundas trek, rush lake trek, k2 expedition, baltoro kangri expedition, broad peak expedition.

• Diran Peak Expedition
• Gasherbrum I Expedition

Gasherbrum ii Expedition

Khosar gang expedition, laila peak expedition.

• Masherbrum Peak Expedition

Nanga Parbat Expedition

• Rakaposhi Peak Expedition
• Spantik Peak Expedition

Trango Tower Expedition

Welcome to Pakistan Journeys

We appreciate your interest & look forward to assisting with all your travel needs for Pakistan. Pakistan Journeys is a pioneer Tour and Adventure Travel Company based in Gilgit Baltistan Pakistan. We are specialized in Tours, Trekking in Pakistan, Adventure trekking in the Karakorum, Hiking in Pakistan along the Karakorum Highway , Climbing & Mountaineering Expeditions in Pakistan Karakorum, lower Himalayans and Hindu Kush part,  holidays, Jungle safari tours in Pakistan ,Cherry blossom and Autumn colors tour along the Karakorum Highway in Pakistan.

We make suitable arrangements for the trip at an unbeatable price. To be more precise, prices are dependent on a wide range of different factors. Whether one looks for a budget tour or luxury tour, we provide all possible options

Explore our latest Tours

Chitral Valley tour is the most beautiful in Northern Pakistan. Well, seeing is believing, whether it’s a diverse culture, smiling people

Pakistan Journeys  offers Exclusive Explore Fairy Meadows Tour. In between the precipitous slopes of Nanga Parbat

Baltistan is a hiker’s paradise nestled between Pakistan’s massive mountains; the Skardu Valley has many

Skardu and fairymeadows  tour plan is all you need for a honeymoon or family vacation. Lovers of honeymooners

Spend your best days in our Skardu Honeymoom Tour for 6 days with Pakistan Journeys

Hunza Honeymoon tour As we all know, Hunza Valley attracts foreigners and domestic tourists alike. Furthermore,

Hunza Autmn Tour brings with it a vibrant color palette as the hills and slopes are covered in leaves and snow

Hunza Spring Blossom Tour brings  cherry blossom, apricot blossom, apple, pears blossom, peaches blossom

Chilam Joshi festival is also known as Kalash spring festival. Chilam Joshi festival is held in three Kalash valleys

Uchal Festival Kalash is one of the top cultural festivals of Pakistan. Kalasha tribe celebrates many festivals around the year

Explore our latest Treks

Snow Lake Trek  is one of the most remote and pure nature adventures in the world

Rush Lake Trek is an easy trek for all type of trekkers. Rush Lake is the one of the world's highest alpine lakes

Rakaposhi Base Camp Trek only on the top have the glacier moraine, it takes 2-3 hours easy walk to cross the moraine

Nanga Parbat Base camp trek starts from Tato village to Fairy Meadows, Beyal camp and base camp

K2 base camp trek is the most popular trekking holiday for foreign trekkers that visit Pakistan. Including the classic  K2 base camp trek.

Hunza Patundas trek is situated in the upper Hunza between the Batura glacier and Passu glacier at an altitude of 4170m

Hunza Batura Trek is a fascinating experience of an easy stroll along with a flower-strewn gully between the lateral moraine of Batura Glacier

Gondogoro La Trek is famous as from top of Gondogoro pass it offers breathtaking views of 8 thousand-meter peaks

Explore our latest Expeditions

Baltoro Kangri is a peak in the Karakoram mountains in Pakistan’s northern province of Gilgit-Baltistan.

Khosar Gang Peak  is situated in the Shigar Valley, Karakoram, Pakistan. The name Khoser Gang,

Laila Peak Expedition is ideal for every tough mountaineer to prepare themselves for higher altitude Peaks

Gasherbrum II is the 13th highest mountain in the world, located in the neighborhood of K2 and Broad Peak

Trango Towers are a family of Solid rock towers in Pakistan. These towers at the Elevation: 6,286 meter

First Nanga Parbat expedition led by A. F. Mummery in 1895, mountaineers have tried to ascend its summit

Broad Peak Expedition 2021 registration is open now for summer and winters. We are offering broad peak expedition with

K2 Expedition (8611m) is the second-highest mountain on Earth. It is located in the Karakorum segment of the Himalayan range

Username or E-Mail

Forget Password?

Do not have an account?

Already a member.

• Cultural Tours

Soft Adventures

Hard adventures.

• Basecamp Tours

Destinations

• Tour Search
• Mission & Vision
• Why Beyond The Valley
• Our Philosophy
• Terms & Conditions
• Responsible Adventures

Thalay Valley

Skardu Valley

Nangma Valley

Popular tours in pakistan.

Women Only Hunza Nature Tour

Difficulty: Level 1 Trip Style: Cultural / Soft Trip Length: 09 Days Max Elevation: 2400m/7874ft (more)

Hunza & Skardu Cultural Tour – The Karakoram Experience

Difficulty: Level 1 Trip Style: Soft / Cultural Trip Length: 14 Days Max Elevation: 2500m/8200ft (more)

Nangma & Thallay La Trek – The Grand Traverse of Baltistan

Difficulty: Level 6 Trip Style: Basecamp / Soft / Trekking Trip Length: 15 Days Max Elevation: 4100m/13451ft (more)

Baltistan Cultural Tour – The Mountains Call

Difficulty: Level 1 Trip Style: Cultural / Soft Trip Length: 09 Days Max Elevation: 2500m/8200ft (more)

Hunza Cultural Tour – Colors of Hunza

Thallay La Trek – A Walk Among The Giants

Difficulty: Level 5 Trip Style: Trekking / Soft Trip Length: 11 Days Max Elevation: 4200m/13799ft (more)

Charakusa Valley Trek – Paradise Discovered

Difficulty: Level 8 Trip Style: Basecamp / Hard / Trekking Trip Length: 12 Days Max Elevation: 4350m/14270ft (more)

Nangma Valley Trek – The Yosemite of Pakistan

Difficulty: Level 4 Trip Style: Basecamp / Soft / Trekking Trip Length: 10 Days Max Elevation: 3950m/12950ft (more)

K1 Basecamp Trek – The Queen Of Karakoram

Difficulty: Level 4 Trip Style: Basecamp / Soft / Trekking Trip Length: 11 Days Max Elevation: 4200m/13800ft (more)

Best Experience With Us

Beyond the Valley always aim to provide you with a fantastic tour-guided trip and enhance your travel experience along with our cultural festivities.

As a general rule, you should always try to keep the weight of your equipment to a minimum. We will be providing you with high-quality hiking and trekking service equipment (excluding personal equipment).

GUIDED TOURS

A certified local guide will lead the group. During the hiking and trekking, the group will be accompanied by an entire support crew, including a cook, kitchen crew, and porters, to carry all equipment and personal trek bags.

Packing Advise

You do not have to bring everything, you should use your own experience and judgment, but we ask you to ensure you have all the compulsory items.

Trip Styles

Happy clients

With the benefit of social media & Tik Tok, we saw Pakistan in a different light still being in the ”foreigner mindset” I diligently searched for a reputable tour operator and came across BEYOND THE VALLEY, they fitted our criteria, so we booked the Mountain Call tour. Their guides, professionalism, and handling of everything like transport, hotels, needs, food the lot was very reassuring. The tour was outstanding as was the beauty of Pakistan, I couldn’t have picked someone to put me and my family in safe hands. Even the ad-hoc requirements, some shopping, etc are all taken care of. A real credit to tourism in Pak and every reason why I would book again.

Forget about Europe or Japan. I will assure you that Pakistan offers you different experiences. All the staff from Beyond the Valley are super helpful and care that your journey goes as smoothly as possible. (My tour trip was the Nangma and Thallay La treks.) I’d like to go back there to see the blossoms in the spring, go on a yoga-hiking trip, or trek up to K2 base camp and beyond. Many thanks to the founders, Naseem, Munir, and many others.

This was an unforgettable trip with Beyond the Valley and they did a great job organizing local guides and tours. There are a few recommendations I’d make on the itinerary because some of the days were quite long and a lot of driving. Luckily, we had an AMAZING driver. I’d highly recommend Beyond the Valley. Their customer service is outstanding and they are wonderful people!

It was a really great tour and holiday that will forever be etched in my memory! Each day surpassed the last. Despite our last-minute decision to book with Beyond the Valley, their outstanding organization had us set for our adventure swiftly. Our guide, Hina, and driver, Tahir, were more than just professionals; they enriched every site with additional insights. Contrary to some media portrayals, the Pakistan we experienced was both welcoming and secure, whether in bustling Islamabad or serene Hunza. The standout experiences? The genuine warmth and open-heartedness of its people”

Beyond the Valley provided us with an experience we will never forget. From stunning treks to Rakaposhi Basecamp and the majestic sight of Passu Cones to diving deep into local culture with visits to historical forts and even learning to make chapattis with a local family. Every moment was enriched by our guide, who not only shared his deep knowledge but also his excellent photography skills, ensuring we had memories to cherish forever. Islamabad was the perfect place to complete our tour, with its fascinating culture, friendly locals, and excellent cuisine. Every corner of Pakistan we explored left us in wonder. A heartfelt thanks to the team for making our experience seamless, flexible, and one of our most cherished adventures. We can’t recommend Beyond the Valley enough!”

The Hunza tour was the perfect mixture of mountains, adventure and culture. Great trip in a stunning country with amazing people. 10/10 would recommend!”

During my visit to Pakistan, I found it an extremely safe and welcoming country with a strong history. In Gilgit-Baltistan, the simplicity of the people and the stunning landscape made me dream of the famous Silk Road. With Beyond the Valley, it was my first time on an organized tour; the experience was easy-going, with a friendly small group. We had a mix of tourist activities and traditional experiences. To all travelers, please meet the most welcoming population amidst a magnificent landscape.”

“Traveling with Beyond The Valley was a wonderful experience. We felt safe all the time while still being on a wild adventure. We found the north of Pakistan a land of natural amusements, rich culture, and welcoming people. We would definitely recommend Pakistan as a travel destination and Beyond The Valley as a trusted and conscious tour operator’’.

Why Choose BTV?

At Beyond the Valley , our vision is to introduce the Karakoram as one of the best adventure travel destinations globally.

We are on a mission to enrich people’s lives through authentic & exceptional experiences with a strong focus on customer service, inspiration, accomplishment & cultural exchange while promoting the conservation of both natural and human communities.

Our Partners

WhatsApp us

You have successfully subscribed to the newsletter

There was an error while trying to send your request. Please try again.

Max elevation

High altitudes.

Trekking to high altitude (generally this means above 2500 meters) involves additional risk not normally associated with lower-level treks. This is not something that should prevent you from undertaking a trek. However, before embarking on such a holiday, it makes sense to learn about the dangers inherent in trekking at high altitudes and also the ‘golden rules' to prevent Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).

TRIP SELECION

For each of our holidays, the maximum altitudes attained are listed on the website and in the heading of the individual Trip Notes. In addition, the altitudes of each camp and each pass are listed in the daily itinerary. You should read the Trip Notes carefully and use your judgment to gauge whether your chosen holiday is suitable for your level of experience. If you have any doubts at all you should contact our office. Our experienced staff is more than happy to talk about altitude-related issues during our holidays.

ACCLIMATIZATION

The human body is capable of adapting to a very wide range of barometric pressures. This adaptation process is known as acclimatization and it does take time. The most important rule is to gain height slowly and it is generally accepted that the maximum safe altitude gain in any one day is 500 meters once above 2500 meters. Where this is not possible, then it is important to have a rest or acclimatization day at the new altitude before gaining further height. In general the maxim ‘climb high and sleep low' applies. It is perfectly acceptable (and even beneficial to your acclimatization) to climb higher than 500 meters above your last camp (for example when crossing a high pass) as long as the increase in sleeping altitude remains within the above rule.

There is a correlation between daily fluid intake and successful acclimatization and you must pay particular attention to hydration during trekking at high altitudes. On treks to 3000 meters and above most people will need to drink between 4 and 6 liters each day to achieve suitable hydration levels and you must adopt a responsible approach to achieving this target.

ACUTE MOUNTAIN SICKNESS

Before embarking on a trek to high altitude it is important that you familiarize yourself with the signs and symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) and that you report any illness to your tip leader straight away. See the links at the bottom of this page for further reading on AMS.

There are a number of untested herbal remedies which claim to prevent mountain sickness. However, only one drug is currently known to have a useful role in preventing AMS and to be safe for this purpose: acetazolamide (Diamox). We recommend that you carry Diamox in your first aid kit for treks where you spend an extended period above 4000m. Diamox can only be obtained from a medical professional on prescription and it is important that you first consult your own doctor so that you know there are no contra indications with other medicines you may be taking and that you do not have an allergy to acetazolamide. Diamox commonly causes some minor side effects, such as tingling fingers and toes, or a metallic taste in the mouth, but more severe reactions are rare. On trek, the decision whether or not and when, you should take Diamox as with any drug, will rest solely with you. If you intend to take Diamox, you must familiarize yourself with the appropriate dosage and regime prior to coming on the trip. The links at the bottom of this page will provide further information on the use of Diamox as an aid to acclimatization.

Travelling to high altitudes is not something you need to be scared of. Every year thousands of people enjoy the most amazing experiences in the world's greatest mountain ranges. Altitude sickness is entirely preventable if you follow very simple rules and procedures. Please make sure you are aware of these before you travel.

SUMMARY OF DIFFICULTY The hike up to our campsite is a moderate 6 miles and 1400ft of elevation gain. The scramble up to Pyramid Ridge can be steep and difficult, but very adventurous and with just light day packs. Hiking

Please Note:  Terrain, Elevation Gain and Heights Exposure ratings reflect the section or day of the trip with the maximum difficulty of each. Much of the trip is at easier levels. See the trip itinerary for more detailed information. Backpack Weight ratings are estimates that account for Wildland-provided gear, guest clothing, personal items and a share of group food. By packing light it’s often possible to stay on the lower end of the weight range. Pack weights also decrease during the trip.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Hiking uphill or downhill with a 25-35 lb backpack for 5-7 hours
• Hiking uphill off trail with a 8-12 lb backpack for 6-8 hours
• Maintaining balance and footing on moderately rugged terrain
• Hiking with moderate heights exposure

To show the relative difficulty of our adventure holidays, each trip is graded on a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 being the most challenging. Our simple, colour-coded grade symbol provides an indication of the difficulty of each trip.

Clearly, there are many different factors that contribute to the difficulty of a particular holiday, including, length of day, terrain, type of accommodation, altitude and weather conditions. Since some of these factors are necessarily changeable, any system of grades can only provide a general indication. If you have any questions about the nature of a particular trip or its suitability for you, please read the detailed Trip Notes and if you are still unsure, please do not hesitate to contact us

GREEN 1 - 4 LEISURELY

Suitable for most people in good health, holidays at this grade include only limited amounts of activity.

YELLOW 5 - 7 MODERATE

Suitable for reasonably fit individuals, such as weekend walkers and cyclists. There can be the occasional more difficult day.

RED 08 - 10 TOUGH

Our toughest holidays, involve many long days, often in isolated areas. A high level of fitness and previous wilderness experience is essential.

DIFFICULTY LEVEL

• All Holidays
• Culture heritage Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Family Holidays
• Hiking Adventures
• Trekking Holidays
• Mountaineering Expedition
• Best Sellers
• Mountain Ranges
• Sub Rranges
• 8000m Peaks
• 7000m Peaks
• 6000m Peaks
• 5000m Peaks
• Rock Climbing
• Climbing Style
• Trekking Expedition
• Open Zone Trekking Expedition and treks
• Restricted Zone Trekking Expedition
• Cycle Touring
• Echo Tourism
• Motor Cycle Touring
• Mountain Passes
• Festivals of Pakistan
• Pakistan Visa Help
• Lahore Tour
• Mountain Jeeps

Use the form below to contact us directly.

Please complete all required fields.

Trekking in Pakistan

Undertake a journey through Pakistan's diverse landscapes, where trekking enthusiasts discover breathtaking vistas, cultural richness, and unparalleled adventure.

Trekking Regions in Pakistan:

Explore the distinct beauty of the Karakoram Range, Himalayas, and Hindu Kush, each offering unique trekking experiences amidst stunning natural wonders.

Famous Trekking Routes:

Navigate iconic paths like the Karakoram Highway, Rakaposhi Base Camp, and K2 Base Camp, revealing challenging trails and awe-inspiring landscapes.

Trekking Challenges and Preparations:

Conquer high altitudes and unpredictable weather with essential tips, ensuring a safe and rewarding trekking experience in Pakistan's majestic terrains.

Cultural and Local Aspects of Trekking

Immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry along trekking routes, encountering local traditions, vibrant festivals, and the warm hospitality of communities.

Trekking Safety Tips:

Prioritize safety on your trek with vital guidelines, including permits, emergency contacts, and precautions, ensuring a secure adventure in Pakistan's mountains.

Recommended Trekking Gear and Equipment:

Gear up for the trek of a lifetime with essential equipment recommendations, catering to novice and seasoned trekkers exploring the diverse landscapes of Pakistan.

Trekking Events and Festivals:

Engage in the vibrant trekking community by participating in annual events and festivals, celebrating the spirit of adventure amidst the breathtaking scenery of Pakistan.

Unforgettable Trekking Adventures by Jasmine Tours:

Discover the heights of adventure with Jasmine Tours, recognized as the premier agency for trekking in Pakistan. As the leading authority, we meticulously adhere to all rules and regulations, ensuring your trek is thrilling and safe. Our commitment extends to providing top-notch safety equipment, allowing you to traverse the majestic landscapes confidently. Choose Jasmine Tours for a journey where exploration meets safety, and every step is guided by expertise. Join us in unlocking the wonders of Pakistan's treks, where the extraordinary awaits, and your safety is our paramount priority.

Chillinji Pass Trek:

Chillinji Pass Trek is an off-the-beaten-path adventure in the Pamir Range. Trekkers navigate through challenging terrains, witness pristine landscapes, and experience the solitude of remote mountain regions.  Read more

Deosai National Park Burji-La Trek:

Deosai National Park Burji-La Trek leads trekkers through the unique ecosystem of Deosai, known for its wildlife and high-altitude plains. Burji-La provides a captivating viewpoint, showcasing the beauty of the park.  Read more

Fairy Meadows Nanga Parbat Base Camp Trek:

The Fairy Meadows Nanga Parbat Base Camp Trek is a classic route leading to the base camp of Nanga Parbat, the "Killer Mountain." Fairy Meadows, with its lush meadows and stunning views, is a highlight of this trek.  Read more

Five 8000m Peaks Base Camp Trek:

This extraordinary trek takes adventurers to the base camps of five of the world's highest peaks, including K2 and Broad Peak. Trekkers experience the grandeur of these giants and the challenges of high-altitude trekking.  Read more

Himalayan Traverse Trek Adventure:

The Himalayan Traverse Trek Adventure is a multi-faceted journey through the diverse landscapes of the Himalayas. Trekkers encounter high mountain passes, alpine meadows, and traditional villages, providing a holistic trekking experience.  Read more

Ho Valley Jamal Pass Snow Lake Trek:

The Ho Valley Jamal Pass Snow Lake Trek is challenging in the Karakoram Range. Trekkers navigate through Ho Valley, cross the formidable Jamal Pass, and reach the mesmerizing Snow Lake, surrounded by towering peaks.  Read more

K2 Base Camp Gondogoro La Trek:

The K2 Base Camp Gondogoro La Trek is a legendary trek that takes adventurers to the base camp of the world's second-highest mountain, K2. The tour includes crossing the Gondogoro La Pass, providing breathtaking views of the Karakoram Range.  Read more

K2 Base Camp Trek Pakistan:

The K2 Base Camp Trek is an iconic journey that leads trekkers to the foot of K2, the "Savage Mountain." The trek showcases the grandeur of the Karakoram Range and the challenges of trekking in high-altitude environments.  Read more

Machulu Top (La) Trek:

The Machulu Top Trek takes adventurers to the high-altitude Machulu La, offering panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. This trek is known for its serene landscapes and cultural richness.  Read more

Meran Jani 2980m Trek:

The Meran Jani Trek is a scenic journey in the Hindu Kush Range. Trekkers experience the beauty of alpine meadows and the cultural richness of the surrounding villages.  Read more

Nanga Parbat Around Trek:

Nanga Parbat Around Trek provides a unique perspective of the world's ninth-highest mountain. Trekkers circumnavigate Nanga Parbat, experiencing diverse landscapes and cultural heritage.  Read more

Shimshal Chapchingal Pass Trek:

Shimshal Chapchingal Pass Trek takes adventurers through the heart of the Karakoram. Trekkers traverse challenging passes, including the scenic Chapchingal Pass.  Read more

Shimshal Pass Trek:

Shimshal Pass Trek is an adventurous journey through the Shimshal Valley. Trekkers cross the high-altitude pass, surrounded by stunning peaks and glaciers.  Read more

Sokha La Trek:

The Sokha La Trek is an exploration of the Sokha Valley, offering trekkers stunning views of the surrounding peaks and the unique cultural heritage of the region.  Read more

Trekking Peaks in Pakistan:

This section provides information on various trekking peaks in Pakistan, offering a range of trekking options for enthusiasts of different skill levels.  Read more

Availability

You will be redirected to cart shortly. Thank you for your patience.

Use the calendar below to book this tour.

Who is joining in?

Please select number of adults and children joining the tour using the controls you see below.

The summary of your tour is shown below.

We are sorry, this tour is not available to book at the moment

Before using google maps you must go to Google maps api console and get an api key. After you do, please proceed to Appearance -> Theme options -> Configuration settings and enter your key in the field labeled "Google maps api key"

Gilgit Baltistan

Gilgit-Baltistan, situated in the northernmost part of Pakistan, is a region of unparalleled natural beauty. Nestled amidst towering mountain peaks, including the world-famous K2, it boasts breathtaking valleys, glaciers, and pristine rivers that make it a haven for adventure enthusiasts. This region offers a playground for trekking, mountaineering, and a variety of outdoor activities. Beyond its awe-inspiring landscapes, Gilgit-Baltistan is home to a rich cultural heritage. Diverse ethnic groups, such as the Balti, Shina, and Burusho people, have contributed to its unique identity, which has been influenced by Tibetan, Central Asian, and Persian cultures over centuries.

However, Gilgit-Baltistan's political status is distinct within Pakistan. Governed directly by the federal government, it lacks full provincial status, leading to ongoing political and constitutional challenges. Local residents have been advocating for greater autonomy and representation to address these issues. In recent times, efforts to promote tourism have been successful, drawing in travelers from around the world who seek adventure and a glimpse of the region's remote and scenic wonders. Gilgit-Baltistan remains a hidden gem, offering a captivating blend of natural splendor and cultural diversity that continues to enchant those who venture to explore it.

We are sorry, there are no reviews yet for this tour.

• Get started now

TOP DESTINATION

TRENDING ACTIVITIES

Karakoram, Pakistan

K2 base camp and gondogoro la trek.

K2 Base Camp Trek

Snow Lake and Hispar La Trek

Great Karakoram Traverse Trek

Hushe K7 Base Camp Trek

Overland tours.

Beijing, Cheng Du, Changsha

Taoism tour.

Taftan Pakistan China

Cross border self-driving iran-pakistan.

China Pakistan India

Self-driving route in pakistan.

Pakistan, China

Taklamakan desert tour, special interest tours.

Hunting Trophy

Filming Documentary Trips

White Water sports

Cycling Tours

Skiing in Karakorum

Buddhist Pilgrimage

Gwadar Expedition

Paragliding in Karakoram

COME & MEET us at the following exhibitions

Affiliated with & Licence

ARE YOU READY?

Get the best travel offers for your next vacation delivered to your inbox!

Your information will never be shared with any third party.

We’re on the road right now – join in on the fun and follow @thebrokebackpacker on IG!

• Meet the Team
• Work with Us
• Czech Republic
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• Scandinavia
• Philippines
• South Korea
• New Zealand
• South Africa
• Budget Travel
• Work & Travel
• The Broke Backpacker Manifesto
• Travel Resources
• How to Travel on $10/day

Home » Asia » Pakistan » The 14 Most ICONIC Hikes in Pakistan (2024)

The 14 Most ICONIC Hikes in Pakistan (2024)

Pakistan is a beautiful country and home of some of the best hiking in the world. Towering mountains, lush valleys, dramatic rivers and lakes… There’s more to Pakistan than travel warnings and what you see on the news. You guys know by now that I am super passionate about opening up Pakistan to the backpacker community.

I first came to Pakistan for the scenery, and because I thought I might get to shoot an AK into the air (I did), and it has never disappointed. Pakistan is packed to bursting with incredibly diverse landscapes and offers some of the best trekking in Asia – from easy day hikes to super tough expeditions, Pakistan has something for hikers of all abilities (and budgets).

The Himalayas in the north, where the most beautiful hikes in Pakistan are to be found, make the scenery incredibly dramatic, and increasing awareness of foreign tourists means it’s easier than ever to get lost, but not literally, in the true wonder of Pakistan.

To give you an idea of how amazing this country is, I assembled a list of 14 of the most spectacular treks in Pakistan.  These are, hands-down, some of the best country; nay,  the entire world.  If anyone is still on the fence about visiting Pakistan, I suggest they give this article a look.

Do You Want to Travel FOREVER??

Pop your email in below to get a FREE copy of ‘How to Travel the World on $10 a Day!’.

The 14 Best Hikes in Pakistan

The best overall treks in pakistan, best day hikes in pakistan, best multi-day treks in pakistan, what to bring on a trek in pakistan, travel insurance for trekking in pakistan, trekking in pakistan: last bits.

So, without further ado, allow me to introduce you to fourteen of the best treks in Pakistan!

These Pakistani hikes are sure to blow your mind and give you some of the best views of your life!

1. Fairy Meadows and Nanga Parbat Base Camp

• Difficulty: Medium
• Duration: 2 days
• Region: Diamer, Gilgit Baltistan

I’ve been lucky enough to visit the Fairy Meadows three times now while backpacking in Pakistan , it’s a truly amazing place. It’s not just the name that’s mythical, the place itself is magical. I’ve been to The Fairy Meadows in February (very challenging as there was waist-deep snow in places) and August and September.

If you go at the right time of the year, i.e. when it’s not covered in snow, you can push on to Nanga Parbat Basecamp – an 8 hour round trip hike.

Trekking to the Fairy Meadows itself is pretty easy and can be done in a couple of hours, the true challenge lies in the long but rewarding hike to Nanga Parbat Base Camp, where you can get SICK views of the 9th highest mountain in the world.

2. Barah Broq

• Duration: 2-3 days
• Region: Skardu, Gilgit Baltistan

If you’re looking to do a multi-day trek in Pakistan but don’t want to spend days on a glacier, the hike to Barah Broq may be the perfect one for you.

Barah Broq is a relatively offbeat trail about a 3-hours drive from Skardu. The trail takes its name from the village of Barah, where the trail starts, and the village is about as authentic as it gets. The houses are still made from mud around here and the #1 commodity is apricots, which the village is famous for. Experiencing both make Barah worth visiting.

Of course, the hike itself is the main attraction. The trail starts in a deep and arid gorge and makes its way up to the higher reaches of Barah Broq. Eventually, the trails tops out at 4300 meters and at this elevation you will find two beautiful alpine lakes with some of the purest water in the country.

But that’s not the end of the trek; the best part is the optional day hike up to Moses Peak from the lakes. At 5350 meters, Moses Peak offers one of the most panoramic views I have ever seen. From here, you can see every single one of the greatest mountains in Pakistan, including K2, Nanga Parbat, and the Gasherbrums. This is one of the best views of the Karakoram you can get without doing the Concordia Trek.

484 pages with cities, towns, parks, and ALL the out-of-the-way places you will WANT to know. If you truly want to discover Pakistan , download this PDF .

3. Patundas

• Difficulty: Medium-Hard
• Region: Hunza, Gilgit Baltistan

If you’re looking for a truly epic adventure, look no further than the Patundas trek. Starting from just above Borith Lake, the trek to Patundas will take you across the beautiful Passu Glacier to a meadow that sits at 4170m. From Patundas, you’ll be greeted with jaw-dropping views of the Batura Glacier, the iconic Passu Cones, Shispare Peak, and more. 

I’ve been lucky to take on the multi-day Patundas journey multiple times now, including a semi-frozen attempt in 2021. As cool as it was to see such a sick landscape covered in snow, the best time to trek to Patundas (which is located in Upper Hunza Valley, my favorite place in Pakistan) is undoubtedly from mid-late July when the lush meadow becomes filled with a sea of wildflowers and overnight temperatures are comfortable.

Patundas is usually a 2-night/3-day excursion for most, which means two fantastic nights with your backpack and a tent, far away from sounds and sights of civilization.

4. K2 Expedition via Baltoro Glacier – The Highest Mountain in Pakistan

• Difficulty: Hard
• Duration: 10 days

It’s the granddaddy of all mountains in Pakistan; the singular reason why many people decide to travel to the country in the first place. At 8611 meters, K2 is the second-highest mountain in the world and without a doubt one of the greatest adventures we can think of.

K2 is not an easy mountain to get to. Located at the far end of the Baltoro Glacier, which is 63 km long, the return trip to K2’s Base Camp takes over 2 weeks to finish.  You WILL need to go with a Pakistan adventure tour agency if you want to trek to K2. No one can survive 2 weeks on the glacier on their own; a good team will be your most valuable resource.

Make no mistake: this trek is not for newbies and will require grit, determination, and a passion to complete. If you should undertake the hike though, you will be able to see the highest mountains in Pakistan and some of the most awe-inspiring alpine scenery in the world

For those days when you just need a shot of nature. 

5. Margalla Hills

• Difficulty: Easy (unless you go in summer)
• Duration: 2-6 hours
• Region: Islamabad

It’s handy that there’s actually an extension of the Himalayas right on the doorstep of Islamabad. Chances are you will start your Pakistan backpacking adventure in either Lahore or Islamabad, so why not get into some of the best hiking tracks in Islamabad?

Islamabad, Pakistan’s planned capital city, is where you’ll catch your first glimpse of the mighty Himalayas and where you can head off into the mountains for some easy day hikes that you don’t even need a proper hiking backpack for.

The hills are a world away from the bustling city and a haven for nature, from birds to trees, it’s packed full of beautiful scenery. The views of the city from the vast hills are truly something else…

There are 6 marked trails into the Margalla Hills National Park – unoriginally titled Trail No. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and yes, 6. The most popular is Trail No. 3, which is very short, steep – you’ll be at a nice viewpoint in 30-45 minutes of hiking. 

Actually, there’s been a trend for health and fitness amongst the locals of Islamabad in recent years, so you’ll probably get to mingle with people escaping the city on these trails. The hiking trails crisscross each other, so building your own longer hike is a good option when the longest of them only takes about 2 to 2.5 hours – measly by Pakistani hiking standards, but definitely not bad when they’re so close to the city!

6. Dunga Gali-Ayubia Track

• Difficulty: Easy
• Duration: 2-4 hours
• Region: KPK

This one is better known as the ‘Pipeline Track’ since it follows the route of an important water pipeline that used to service the historic hill station of Murree. That’s convenient because it now offers an easy hike from Dunga Gali to Ayubia within Ayubia National Park. 

Think fresh pine forests and stunning scenery and you wouldn’t be far wrong… For those who are less keen on scrambling up mountains and camping in the middle of nowhere, this one might be a bit more up your street

This easy 5km hike is popular with Pakistani tourists. So put your best selfie face on because you’ll probably get asked for a zillion of these when the route is popular in summer. It’s very close to the country’s capital, just a couple of hours’ drive northeast. Good to do en-route to the further northern reaches of Pakistan if you can spare the time.

7. Miranjani

• Duration: 2-3 hours

North of the Pipeline Hike is another hill station town, Nathia Gali, to the east of Abbottabad. From this former colonial hill station, you can walk just 2 to 3 hours to the summit of a nearby mountain, Miranjani. 

The track up what is a hill by Himalayan standards begins at the Nathia Gali Bazar and passes through the serene Dagri Naka mountainous region, you’ll hike through lush and chill pine forests surrounded by subtropical evergreen forest.

It’s not a challenging hike, but it is easy to get to and offers some pretty great views. There are places to stay in Nathia Gali too. If you want to visit a hill station in Pakistan, this is a good option as it’s nowhere near as crowded as Murree in summer – in my opinion though, you’re mad to go to Pakistan in the summer! Though summer is a perfect reason to travel to Pakistan.

 You will notice many places in this area have the word ‘gali’ in their name, which means basically ‘valley’ and is characteristic of this small region north of Islamabad called Galiyat.

8. Passu to Borith Lake

• Duration: 3-4 hours

Passu is probably my favourite place in Pakistan, although honestly, it’s tough to pick as I also love Karimabad, Deosai, The Fairy Meadows and a string of other truly special places… OK, OK, back to Passu! Passu is a village famous for the Passu Cone mountains and an Indiana Jones-esque bridge crossing a raging river…

Passu is found in the Hunza Valley, a remote area where the mountain scenery is truly stunning. This intermediate difficulty day hike begins at a (normal) bridge over the very short Passu River, passing the restaurant Glacier Breeze – from here you can see the impressive ridge of the Karakoram range, an amazing sight… Looking back after a few metres further up is equally amazing, where Passu looks like an oasis and the jagged mountains pierce the sky.

Keep following the path until you hit Passu’s glacial lake at the end of the 18km long glacier itself. A scramble up the loose moraine, a view back to the Hunza River, and following the ridge on the other side you’ll find Borith Lake, and further in the distance Lake Attabad, a crazy bright turquoise lake created when a landslide dammed part of a river… This is a truly gorgeous place to chill out with a cheeky smoke.

9. Naltar Valley Lakes

• Region: Naltar, Gilgit Baltistan

West of Rakaposhi is the magical Naltar Valley, famed in winter for its skiing as the ‘Magic Carpet of Pakistan’ – ski competitions are held here under the watchful eye of the Pakistan Air Force… But we are here for the hiking and luckily the natural scenery here is incredible and undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places to travel in Pakistan.  

The village of Naltar is set in a pine forest with magnificent mountains rising up around, one of those captivating half-mythical, half-alpine places that make exploring Pakistan on foot so rewarding. Sure a jeep ride is fun but it can only really get you from A to B, whereas walking puts you directly in that landscape, and Naltar Valley is somewhere you really DO want to be!

It will take a jeep ride to get to Naltar in the first place, most likely from Gilgit about 25 miles south. You can then hike a track from the village to the three Naltar lakes, one green, one dark, and the last one is this unreal azure that is truly spectacular… Early to mid-summer is the best time to visit as even up here at 3,000 metres above sea level it can get pretty uncomfortable.

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

For those looking for a serious adrenaline rush.

  10. Minapin to Rakaposhi Base Camp

• Duration: 2-3 Days
• Region: Nagar, Gilgit Baltistan

In another section of the stunning Hunza Valley is this hike to the base camp of Rakaposhi, the 27th highest mountain in the world. It’s proven tricky to climb its summit over the years so there have only been 8 successful expeditions since it was first done in 1958! However, trekking to the Base Camp is relatively easy and you can do it with basic camping gear.

Navigating this area seems daunting but it’s easier than you’d think. You can base yourself in the nearby town of Karimabad. If you decide you want to take a guide, get in touch with Rehman. The trek begins at a village called Minapin, picking up the trail behind the only guest house in town.

The first few kilometres are tough, with steep glacial moraines to contend with, but stick to its left side and eventually, the ridge comes into sight. A couple of hours more leads you to a tiny cabin where you can spend the night. Then the route carries on the left side of the glacier till you reach a green pasture, the base camp… The panorama from here out over the Hunza Valley is mind-blowing!

11. Chitta Katha Lake

• Region: Azad Kashmir

Pakistan has a knack for offering up amazing pockets of lakeside paradise, mirror surfaces ringed with green nestled within jagged, snow-capped mountains. Chitta Katha is one of those lakes… It’s in the Shounter Valley, in the Azad Kashmir region of Pakistan not far from Arang Kel, a hill station left over from colonial rule now turned into a popular resort. You can hike here in an hour or so if you wanted…

But the hike to Chitta Katha Lake starts with a jeep ride from Kel to Shounter, where you may need to find a guide as the trails onward is not marked.  The climb from Shounter to the lake goes from around 3,000 metres to almost 4,000 – the scenery changes from an alpine forest to one that is much more barren… But the reward is worth it, the views over Chita Katha really are beyond words!

The world’s ninth highest mountain and my happy place, Nanga Parbat, towers against the horizon in the distance, stunning with its beauty. You’ll be walking around 12 hours in all, with camping at one of two base camps, so equipment and food are essential. Needless to say, this is a hike for summer when the lake is actually accessible.

Note: You probably won’t be able to get permission to do this hike if you are a foreigner.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

12. Snow Lake 

• Duration: 10-14 days
• Region: Gilgit Baltistan

Out of all the treks on this list, only K2 could truly put up a fight against Snow Lake. Snow Lake isn’t really a lake at all, but rather a massive expanse of hundreds of feet of packed snow. And no–it never melts!

Snow Lake is a glacial lake located at 4800m and the trek takes you over not just this majestic glacial basin, but also the Hisper La mountain pass and the Biafo Glacier which is often described as a “runway” due to how flat it is. 

Most journeys to this winter wonderland begin in Askole in Skardu, though it can also be reached from the village of Hispar in Nagar. 

Keep in mind that Snow Lake is one of the most extreme treks you can do in Pakistan short of summiting a mountain, and you absolutely, 100% need a guide and porters. And a really high-quality jacket . While it’s definitely one of the best hiking places in Pakistan, it’s also far more dangerous than most.

Considering you’re also going to want to eat throughout the 10-14 day trek, you’re going to want to bring a cook along, too.

Broke backpackers, keep in mind that treks are ALWAYS cheaper when you join forces with other adventurers! Also: don’t forget the altitude sickness medication. You’ll cover an altitude of over 16,800 ft when crossing Hispar La. 

13. Broghil Valley to Karambar Lake

• Difficulty: Medium/Hard
• Region: Upper Chitral & Gilgit Baltistan

If you’re a lover of truly off-the-beaten-path travel , then there isn’t a single trek in Pakistan that I could recommend more than the hike from Broghil Valley to Karambar Lake. Broghil is one of the most remote valleys in all of Pakistan, as it borders Afghanistan’s Wakhan Corridor. 

From the last village of Lashkargaz, the journey to one of Pakistan’s highest (and most biologically active) lakes begins. Expect for it to take between 9-10 hours to reach the lake and another 8-9 hours to return back to Broghil. 

Despite being most accessible from Lashkargaz (which is a part of Upper Chitral, KPK) the lake is actually a part of Ishkoman Valley, Gilgit Baltistan. Accessing the lake from Ishkoman is physically easier than the Broghil route, but challenging to gain access to for both locals and foreigners. 

14. Haramosh La

• Duration: 7-10 days

The Haramosh La trek is easily one of the most underrated treks in Pakistan. The pass connects two glaciers and can be accessed from either Haramosh or Arandu Valleys, though it’s easier to go from Arandu.

The trek will take you not only over the Haramosh La ( 4800 m) but will also allow you to camp at Laila Peak Basecamp (4535 m ) as well as Spantik Basecamp (4100 m).

While this trek doesn’t require any permits for locals or foreigners, you will absolutely need a guide and likely some porters as it will take you a week or more.

The Haramosh La trek involves crossing glaciers and using a rope at points due to crevasses. But with a good guide and a bit of experience, this trek is easily one of the most awe-inspiring in the country.

While these items obviously don’t apply to day-hikes, good gear is essential for completing many of the best hikes in Pakistan. Here are some of my must-have pieces of kit:

Osprey Aether 70L Backpack

Ya can’t go backpacking anywhere without a blasted backpack! Words cannot describe what a friend the Osprey Aether has been to The Broke Backpacker on the road. It’s had a long and illustrious career; Ospreys don’t go down easily.

Feathered Friends Swift 20 YF

My philosophy is that with an EPIC sleeping bag, you can sleep anywhere. A tent is a nice bonus, but a real sleek sleeping bag means you can roll out anywhere in a and stay warm in a pinch. And the Feathered Friends Swift bag is about as premium as it gets.

Grayl Geopress Filtered Bottle

Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator – so you can enjoy a cold red bull, or a hot coffee, no matter where you are.

Petzl Actik Core Headlamp

Every traveller should have a head torch! A decent head torch could save your life. When you’re camping, hiking, or even if the power just went out, a top-quality headlamp is a MUST. The Petzl Actik Core is an awesome piece of kit because it’s USB chargeable—batteries begone!

First Aid Kit

Never go off the beaten track (or even on it) without your first aid kit! Cuts, bruises, scrapes, third-degree sunburn: a first aid kit will be able to handle most of these minor situations.

While I believe Pakistan to be a safe country to travel in, trekking requires good travel insurance , no matter where you’re planning to climb. And members of The Broke Backpacker team have made a few claims over the years.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Trekking in Pakistan has led to some of the most magical moments of my life. From jaw-dropping landscapes that even I had no idea could actually exist to moments of pain that lead to astonishing beauty, to many nights spent in my tent under a sea of Pakistani stars, I truly believe that there is no better trekking destination on this planet than Pakistan. 

And yes, that absolutely includes Nepal. What it lacks in trekking infrastructure, Pakistan makes up for in remote experiences and complete and utter peace. So what are you waiting for? Lace-up those hiking boots, grab a sturdy trekking pole and get the hell out there!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Samantha Shea

Share or save this post

34 Comments

Hi, You visited Nanga Parbat in September, I m coming to Gilgit on the 17th of September. How was the weather like? Did you get a nice view over the mountains etc, how was the teperature in general?

Thanks a lot for replying.

Hi Lukasz, You should have some good weather and clear views over the next weeks! Have a great time.

It looks amazing. My mother and father in law travelled there is the 70’s as some of the original backpackers and they raved about how beautiful this place is.

Hi, can anyone suggest how much to tip porters and guides after a trek?

Hey Shawn Owens. A friend of mine organizes the K2 Base camp also called Concordia, every year. He is a popular tour operator from Skardu, from where you initiate this particular 8 day trek. His name is Ali Saltoro. Please contact on WhatsApp +92-51-3215072996 for more details ?

Hey anyone have some information about doing K2 base camp; especially looking for a guide that does this as it will be my first time. Thanks

You definitely do not need to do a tour to go to NPBC – I’ve walked there myself no worries.

I personally use Warid and Zong in Islamabad but I would rather go for Telenor in the mountain areas. They have their best RBS (Radio based stations) and good support there

I went to Pakistan!! This passed July 2021 and I had a awesome time, I was there for 9 days. Really nice people and places. Love Pakistan!!!

Pakistan is a beautiful country to visit.

This is pretty useful. Definitely getting prepared for one of those treks!

Fantastic Post and very informative. Would you have a solid contact for a company that organises for 7000m plus climbs?

Hello, Sunrise Adventure Treks and Mountaineering may be able to sort you out or at least point you in the right direction. cheers

Hi Will Supper cool resource. We are landing Skardu in a week’s time. Any guidance in getting to Fairy Meadows and back in shortest time frame, we are looking for a hike in fairy meadows.

You will definitely need to hire a private driver to get you to and from Raikot Bridge.

Hi Will Supper cook resource. We are landing Skardu in a week’s time. We aiming for a hike in fairy meadows and back to Skardu. Any guidance please.

such a beautiful place for tourism..! thanks for sharing

Excellent explanations ,will ,surely visit some of these places ,

Many years ago we did the first kayak descent of the Indus and made a doco The Lion That Raws . spent alot of time sitting around Gilget before reaching Skardu and jumping on a roaring river .i am keen to return with my partner and head in to the mountians preferably up to K2 base camp . great to see you can do it self guided so i would be keen to hook up with your friend Rehman. Looks like you are thinking like me and heading in to K2 in 2019 .Is that happening ? how do we get details. Is that a money spinner for you or can we expect soem competitive pricing . dont mind paying just not the KE level of charges . We also like to jump off with paragliders so would love to bring them along – 4.5 kg all up weight .

That is an awesome trip dude! As for tours with us… Yeah man, they are for-profit operations – we have a lot of people in Pakistan to support with employment and we of course have to make money too or it’s not worth our time. If you’re an experienced adventurer, which it sounds like you are, and have your own transport then it wouldn’t really make sense for you to come on this tour. Our tours are for people who haven’t been to Pakistan before and don’t have six weeks to get around on public transport… 🙂

Hello Will! I am going for a quick trip to pakistan! How much time do you need in Pakistan to do the Fairy Meadows trek? Would 2 weeks be enough time? Thank you! Love your content!

@ SAM: Good day. I just got to see this one today. I wonder if you have already been here as yet. Basically you need a total of 6 days to do Fairy meadows if you are coming from abroad. The first day you land here in Islamabad, get a hotel and acclimatize yourself. Next day, you leave for Gilgit from here and stay the night at Bonar Das. On the 3rd day, very early morning you leave via jeep or a car till the Raikot bridge and from there, take the local jeep and traverse the 2nd most dangerous road in the world and reach Takato village. The first one being in Bolivia somewhere; I heard.

U get dropped there and tell the jeep driver to return & fetch you on the 4th day. You walk up the mountain in a max. of 4 hours. And there you are at the Fairy Meadows with 2 – 3 resorts as your option whereby you stay for the night. On the 5th day, if you are interested; you can walk up to the Beyal camp or go all the way up till the base camp and return and stay the night at the resort. Leave early morning on the 5th day and reach Isb late in the night, tired. On the 6th day, if you are in a hurry; your can return to your country or give me a call on +92-3170003623 or WhatsApp +92-3215072996 and have a hot cup a cha or dinner with me and then leave the next morning with memoirs to brag about your awesome stay and hospitality in Pakistan. Laughter 🙂

Hey mate, can you let me know whether I should chuck my hiking boots in for the treks in Hunza and Fairy Meadows one?

P.S PNG is the best place on earth, if you get a chance I recommend doing the Kokoda trak, expensive but well worth it, also spend some time in Oro Province around the coast line and in-land at Popondetta etc, an incredible part of the world. Lucky you.

Yes, bring them!

Good information. However look forward to seeing the information regarding the expedition to K2 Base camp.

Hey there Alyson: Good to hear that you plan to visit Pakistan. I also happen to have the travel bug and am currently based in the capital i.e. Islamabad. Do get in touch at [email protected] if I could be of any assistance in this part of the world. Happy travelling 🙂

Hi Will, thanks for the info. How easy is it to get to some of these destinations independently? I’m interested in trying to get to Nanga Parbat BC and would ideally like to do so without forking out for a tour (and on a budget too).

You definitely do not need to do a tour to go to NPBC – I’ve walked there myself no worries.

Will, I love you for creating this resource! I also love being a travel blogger and the stuff my co-bloggers create. We have the truly useful stuff, the first hand experiences you can’t find anywhere else. So, take kids to Pakistan…sure. We’re on our way, with lots of help from you. Cheers.

What about Jazz

@ Alex: Mobilink has merged with Warid and is now Jazz. Telenor is always advisable in the Northern mountains in Pakistan since it is their niche area 🙂

Hey Will, Me and my partner are traveling to Pakistan in couple of weeks. I need to know that which cellular network is best there. We searched on Wikipedia. There 4 four cellular networks. Jazz Zong Telenor Ufone. Please, tell us the best one. We will be travelling on the northern side and Lahore Islamabad.

I personally use Warid and Zong in Islamabad but I would rather go for Telenor in the mountain areas. They have their best RBS (Radio based stations) and good support there 🙂

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

THE 10 BEST Pakistan Hiking & Camping Tours

Hiking & camping tours in pakistan.

• Hiking & Camping Tours
• 4WD, ATV & Off-Road Tours
• Nature & Wildlife Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Chinese (Simplified)
• K2 Mountain
• Apricot Tours
• Fairy Meadows
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. K2 Gondogoro La Circuit Trek 20 Days

2. K2 Base Camp Trek

3. K2 Base Camp & GONDOGORO LA TREK

4. Top 14 things to do in, Naran ,kaghan, Shogran Tour 5 day 4 Night tour 2023/24

5. 12-Day Hiking Tour World's Highest Mountain Ranges from Islamabad

6. 4 Days tour to Kalam, Mahodand Lake

7. Top 11 Best Things to do in Hunza valley Pakistan

8. 10 Day Private Safari Old Silk Route Tour From Islamabad

9. Karakoram Trek (Four 8,000m Base Camps)

10. K2 Base Camp and Nanga Parbat BC Trek

11. Kalash Valley Tour - Chilam Joshi Festival

12. Five 8,000m Base Camps Trek

13. Nanga Parbat Base Camp Trek - 9 Days

14. K2 Basecamp Trek 20 days in Karakoram Pakistan

15. K2 Base Camp via Karakoram Highway

16. K2 Base Camp & Hunza Valley Tour

17. 10 Days Chitral Kalash valley Takht-i-Bahi Taxila Peshawar

18. Snow Hike to Mushkpuri & BAR B Q

19. Deosai National Park Skardu Valley Pakistan Tour

20. From Islamabad: Khewra Salt Mine, Kallar Kahar & Katas Raj Temple Day Trip

21. Biafo Hispar Trek - 21 Days

22. Trip to Fairy Meadows and Hunza Valley (7 days)

23. Trek to The Pakistan's Highest Alpine Lake Rush Lake

24. 21 Days Guided Trek in K2 Base Camp

25. 22 Days K2 Bc & Concordia Trek

26. Snow Lake Trek Pakistan - 21 Days

27. Nanga Parbat Circuit Trek - 22 Days

28. 7 Days Cultural trip Peshawar Swat Valley

29. short Treks and A Valley Tour Pakistan 13 Days

30. Discover Charakusa Valley Multi-Day Tour

What travelers are saying.

An Epic Cultural and Hiking Tour to Pakistan

Written by erin coyle, adventure travel | asia | destinations | outdoor travel | travel.

Pakistan is an exceptional country with warm and friendly hospitality, stunning scenery, and various hiking trails. Read on for what to know about booking a cultural and hiking tour to Pakistan.

“What do you think of my country?” asks the smiling man as he turns around while walking down the street. Smiling, I replied, “I love your country. The people are friendly and helpful, and the food is delicious.” The man thanked me and continued walking. This was a question people often asked when I was traveling in Pakistan on a cultural and trekking tour.

People are curious and are happy to see a foreigner visiting the country. Someone will stop and ask if they can help or if you need something. One woman—a doctor for speech pathology—gave three of us from my travel group a ride home from the shop because she said it was too hot to walk the 15 minutes back to the hotel.

There are many reasons to visit, including the people and the landscape. While the cities are great places to explore, visiting the North for hiking is also essential. I decided to book a cultural and hiking tour to Pakistan with Ready for Road because I wanted to hike and did not want to deal with the logistics myself, and it was an excellent way to meet other people.

What's in This Article:

Getting to Pakistan

I flew into Lahore because my tour started here. It was a two-and-a-half-hour direct flight from Oman. Some airlines may first stop in Dubai or Qatar. Other airports to fly into include Islamabad, Karachi, and Gilgit.

The Anarkali Market in Lahore sells clothing, bags, and more. Photo by Erin Coyle

Safety for a Cultural and Hiking Tour to Pakistan

I never had an issue of safety while I was in Pakistan. I arrived a few days before my tour began. I walked around the streets of Lahore with no problems and took tuk-tuks—a type of motorbike taxi. Locals will want to talk to you because they are curious and want to know what visitors think of their country. When walking on the streets, some may ask guests if they need any help; they are genuine and want to assist if they can.

Walking around the markets in Lahore is safe, and the shop owners will not haggle. I was with two other women from my group at Anarkali Market in Lahore, and we needed to take a tuk-tuk to a bookshop, but we didn’t know how to tell the driver the location. One of the fabric shop owners helped us and arranged the price and driver for us.

This is me riding in a tuk-tuk. Photo by Erin Coyle

Culture and Hiking Tour to Pakistan

As mentioned above, locals will welcome anyone to their country. It is easy to have conversations with people. Walking around Lahore, I noticed a faded red building and peeked through it. Someone motioned for me to come toward security. This building was Punjab University, and a former English teacher invited me to sit with him and three guards over tea and biscuits to converse. We discussed my role as an English as a Second Language teacher abroad and compared notes about students. Nearly an hour later, I had to leave to head to the market.

Whether staying at a guesthouse, homestay, or hotel or walking around the streets, expect generosity when traveling around Pakistan. There will always be someone offering chai (tea) or a meal. The warm and friendly hospitality is another reason to go on a cultural and hiking tour to Pakistan.

A pot of Chai with black tea and milk. Photo by Erin Coyle

Hiking in Pakistan

Another reason to visit Pakistan is for the hiking. The peaks, mountains, and surrounding scenery give the illusion that everything is fake. I kept waiting for someone to remove the movie set. My group flew from Islamabad to Gilgit in the North. Each hike had its unique landscape.

This is one of the views when hiking Eagle’s Nest. Photo by Erin Coyle

Fairy Meadows

Expect to walk about two hours to reach your stay for the night. The graveled path sometimes has slight inclines with some steep sections. Trekkers will be surrounded by Himalayan pine and other spruce trees, with views of Nanga Parbat, the ninth-highest mountain in the world. I was not expecting to see so many trees along the way, and I needed to find other words to describe the scenery besides ‘amazing, beautiful, and wow’ while I was hiking. Riding a donkey is possible for those who do not want to walk.

This is part of the Fairy Meadows trail. Photo by Erin Coyle

Nanga Parbat Basecamp

The trek begins from Fairy Meadows with loose stones and a flat gravel path until a short break at Beyal Camp after about forty-five minutes. Climbers will walk past tall pine trees, and then the break area is an open field with wooden cabin hotels on one side and houses for locals on the other. Thirty minutes later, visitors will reach the Nanga Parbat viewpoint and catch glimpses of glaciers and mountains. Some stay here, while others continue to the basecamp.

The beginning starts on a narrow gravel path close to the edge with loose rocks. Pay attention to your feet and put one foot before the other. I needed assistance from the local guide a few times because I did not trust my feet so close to the edge. At one point, hikers will walk through snow, mud, and grass. There is a steep ascend toward the last forty-five minutes. The last part is challenging because of the slipping in mud and snow, making you want to stop; however, reaching the end is worth it. Hikers will climb 300 meters (almost 1,000 feet) before reaching 3,980 meters (13,057 feet). The views of Nanga Parbat Peak and the snowy caps seem surreal when reaching this point.

This is Nanga Parbat Basecamp. Photo by Erin Coyle

Naltar Valley

Blue Pool Lake starts the forty-five-minute hike to reach Naltar Valley’s water source. The first fifteen minutes require walking around boulders before stepping on a flat grassy path. No one is around; simply nature with its brownish/moss-colored valleys, mountains, and peaks. I felt as if I was walking in a painting. Hikers will climb around small boulders before reaching the water source. On one side is sulfur-colored water with glaciers and mountains; on the other, there is a small stream of water, glaciers, and mountains. Those not wanting to do this hike can walk near Blue Lake while waiting for the group to return.

One of the Naltar Valley views reminds me of a painting. Photo by Erin Coyle

Eagle’s Nest Route While Hiking in Pakistan

From Karimabad, this two-hour hike combines walking across one sturdy and safe wooden swinging bridge, around boulders, and on a narrow grassy path near the edge. Hikers will also have views of valleys and mountains in forest green and brown colors. I enjoyed the variety of the trail and scenery. At the end of the route, hikers walk past guesthouses and tuk shops that sell drinks and snacks, which are part of Eagle’s Nest. Visitors can also walk five more minutes to the viewpoint to see mountains, valleys, trees, water, and villages. It is an alluring sunset spot.

A lovely view at the end of the Eagle’s Nest trek. Photo by Erin Coyle

Baskochi Meadows Trek

The two-hour hike is part flat, with some loose rocks and other parts walking around boulders. The steep ascent is difficult for about forty-five minutes. I took several water breaks during this ascent. Walking on a very narrow path close to the edge for about ten minutes will be required. Not trusting my feet again, I had someone take my hand while I walked here. The views of the turquoise Attabad Lake and mountains on either side are worth it.

The stunning view of Attabad Lake. Photo by Erin Coyle

Ghulken Black Glacier

The trail is a mix of small loose rocks, flat gravel, and going around small boulders. Some flat parts of the path are muddy and icy, so be careful when walking. There is a less narrow path close to the edge just before the viewpoint, but this one was wide enough, so I did not need help walking. Walking up and down a rocky path is sometimes required, so be careful because the rocks can be slippery. The views of snow-capped mountains and glaciers are stunning. It took us about four hours to reach, but we stopped for an hour for a swim and snack break at Borith Lake.

This is one of the views while hiking the Ghulkin Black Glacier trail. Photo by Erin Coyle

General Information About Hiking in Pakistan

Wear hiking boots when trekking. When starting the trail at Fairy Meadows, those who do not want to hike can take a donkey. The prices vary and could change, but expect to pay between $12-16. Taking the bus and meeting fellow travelers later in the day is also possible with a group.

For those visiting Karimibad, it is a laid-back town with souvenir shops, restaurants, and cafes. Guests can relax while taking in mountain views, stacked layered houses, and hotels on the hill. Make sure to buy some dried apricots at one of the shops.

Guests can enjoy some tea or coffee while admiring this view in Karimabad. Photo by Erin Coyle

Additional Details for Your Cultural and Hiking Tour in Pakistan

Below are some other tips to keep in mind before traveling to Pakistan.

It may take two to three weeks to get an e-visa , so apply early. The price varies depending on where travelers are from. Mine cost $60. Immigration will ask for a copy of the visa grant notice upon arrival.

Visitors will need Pakistani Rupees for markets, tuk-tuks, food, and taxis when visiting Pakistan for culture and trekking. There are ATMs around Lahore and a couple of money exchange offices. Check the times for the money exchange because most will close during lunchtime.

How to Dress in Pakistan

It is best to avoid sleeveless tops and shorts above the knee. Women should wear skirts, pants, or dresses below the knee and will need to cover their heads when visiting mosques. Visitors should also take off their shoes before entering mosques. Bring a neck gaiter or a scarf for sun protection and the dust. The mountains will be cold, with temperatures ranging from 20 to 30 degrees Fahrenheit, so bring a jacket and a hat.

My group at Badshahi Mosque. Photo courtesy of Anjum

Getting Around Pakistan

Visitors can download the In-drive app , similar to Uber, except drivers can bid once a passenger enters a price. I had issues using the app, so when I wasn’t with the group, I took tuk-tuks around Lahore or walked. It’s important to be able to stay in touch while traveling in Pakistan, so I recommend purchasing an e-sim card . Remember, there is a separate network in the North.

Several roads, including the one to reach the starting point of Fairy Meadows, the path leading to Naltar Valley, and the road traveling from Gilgit to Islamabad, are narrow and winding. For those who experience motion sickness, bring pills along.

Jeeps are the mode of transportation to drive to the starting point of Fairy Meadows. Photo by Erin Coyle

Articles Related to Visiting Asia

• Your next trip to East Asia
• An Insider’s Guide to Siem Reap
• Before You Leave for Bali

Ready to Travel to Pakistan for a Cultural and Hiking Tour?

Pakistan is an exceptional country with warm and friendly hospitality, stunning scenery, and various hiking trails, resulting in one of the most incredible trips I have taken. I would recommend a cultural and trekking tour to Pakistan to everyone. The best months for trekking are May through October. To book with Ready for Road, go online or check out their Instagram pages @readyforroad and @readyforroadpk . They will make sure travelers have a memorable trip.

Hiking | Outdoor Activities | Outdoor Adventures

You may also like….

Visit Withers Collection Museum & Gallery in Memphis

by Tom and Kristi Manus | Apr 9, 2024 | North America , Tennessee , Travel

The Ernest C. Withers Collection Museum & Gallery in Memphis documents the Civil Rights Movement and more. Read on...

7 Things to Do in Lafayette, Louisiana

by Heather Raulerson | Apr 2, 2024 | Destinations , Louisiana , Travel , United States

Lafayette, Louisiana, offers a captivating blend of culture, cuisine, and natural beauty. Here are 7 things to do in...

Some of the Top Benefits of Making a Permanent Move to Grenada

by Quinn Pierce | Apr 2, 2024 | Caribbean , Destinations , North America , Travel , Travel Tips

Consider Granada, with its stunning beauty, thriving economy, and favorable tax system, for a permanent move to the...

Reading Erin Coyle’s article on the culture & hiking tours of Pakistan has changed my perception of Pakistan – for the better, of course. So much so that I will add it to my bucket list!

The photos of the gorgeous scenery blew me away!

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Submit Comment

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

Sign up for our newsletter to get the latest food, wine & travel updates! We look forward to having you Wander with us.

You have Successfully Subscribed!

• +92 333 5626529
• [email protected]

• Your cart is empty
• Book Your Trip

Trekking in Pakistan

Walk into Wonders: Trek Pakistan, where each step is a tale and every peak is a victory in nature's hug.

Embark on an extraordinary journey with Hunza Explorers as we bring you an unparalleled trekking experience amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Pakistan . Our expertly curated Trekking Tours traverse the majestic peaks of the Karakoram, Himalaya, Hindu Kush, and Pamir mountain ranges, showcasing the unparalleled natural beauty and cultural diversity of the region.

At Hunza Explorers , we understand that each adventurer has unique preferences and schedules. Hence, in addition to our customized trekking tours , we offer fixed departure options, ensuring that there is always an opportunity for enthusiasts to join an expedition. For specific dates and comprehensive details, please explore our Fixed Departure Tours page on the website. Immerse yourself in the unparalleled beauty of Pakistan’s mountainous terrains and let Hunza Explorers be your trusted guide on this unforgettable trekking odyssey.

Book Your Next Adventure in Pakistan with us!

Batura Trek

Biafo Hispar & Snow Lake Trek

K2 Base Camp Trek

K2 BC & Gondogoro Pass Trek

Patundas Trek

Rakaposhi BC Trek & Hunza Tour

Rush Lake Trek

Shimshal Pass Trek

What trekking routes does hunza explorers offer, when is the best time for trekking in pakistan, which is the nearest airport for all trekking routes in pakistan, can i join a fixed departure trekking tour with hunza explorers, how can i customize a trekking itinerary with hunza explorers, is prior trekking experience necessary to join your tours, what kind of accommodations are provided during trekking tours, are permits required for trekking in certain regions, how can i book a trekking tour with hunza explorers, what safety measures are in place during trekking tours, what essential items should i pack for a trek in pakistan, are porters and guides provided during the trek, how is drinking water managed during the trek, is altitude sickness a concern, and how is it managed, can i join a trekking tour as a solo traveler, how physically demanding are the treks, and are they suitable for beginners, what measures are taken for emergency situations during the trek, can dietary preferences or restrictions be accommodated during the trek, how can i prepare physically for a trekking tour.

Select User Type

Enter the e-mail address associated with the account. We'll e-mail a link to reset your password.

Best Hiking in Pakistan: Top Trails for 2023

There are many great hiking destinations in the world, but few hit in all the right places like Pakistan does.

Hiking in Pakistan is one of the top reasons to visit the country (and the main reason I started running trips here myself). There is a bit of everything here: some of the world’s tallest mountains, glacier traverses, crazy viewpoints, alpine lakes, cultural hikes, and multi-day crazy bucket list expeditions. The country just screams world-class hiking destination just about everywhere you look.

Unlike in other places though, hiking in Pakistan is still very much an off-the-beaten-path affair. This means that oftentimes when you set off on a hike there are very few other people around and a whole lot of nature to take in in relative peace. Pakistan is not Nepal in terms of tourism infrastructure which leads to some pretty epic opportunities. This is true whether you are looking for a chill day hike around Islamabad or something larger in the vast Karakoram range.

So what are the best Pakistan hiking opportunities out there? Read on the find out.

DID YOU KNOW THAT I RUN TOURS IN PAKISTAN?

Every year I lead unique trips to Pakistan including the K2 Base Camp Trek and to the Hunza Valley?

Best Multi-day Treks in Pakistan

Below is a list of a few multi-day expedition-style treks in Pakistan that should be on your radar in 2023.

Snow Lake Trek

Despite the simplicity of the name, the Snow Lake Trek is much, much more than a simple jaunt to a frozen lake.

In 2022, I lead a group trip to Snow Lake to the first time and it was the craziest and most wild trek in Pakistan I have ever done. The route follows the immense Biafo and Hispar glaciers and is roughly 120 km long.

Out of 27 other teams that attempted the full Snow Lake Trek, we were the first successful group to cross Hispar La – if that tells you anything about the difficulty of the terrain in question.

The whole area that makes up the Biafo and Hispar glacier systems are super remote – making logistics a constant challenge and one that must be accounted for before setting off.

If you are looking for an epic challenge, the Snow Lake Trek ranks as one of my favorite hikes in Pakistan.

I might be organizing another Snow Lake Trek in 2023 – get in touch if you might be keen to join me!

K2 Base Camp Trek + Gondogoro La

The most iconic multi-day trek in Pakistan is without a doubt the K2 Base Camp Trek .

In comparison to Everest Base Camp, the trek to the base of the world’s second-highest mountain is only visited by less than 1000 people annually. The main trekking route follows the Baltoro Glacier to a confluence with the Godwin-Austen Glacier at a place known as Concordia; AKA the “throne room of the mountain gods”.

For more fit trekkers, tacking on the Gondogoro La (5600 meters) mountain pass is a fantastic way to end the trek. The views from atop Gondogoro La are mind-blowing and doing the K2 Base Camp Trek this way means you do not have to return back down the Baltoro Glacier the same way you came.

If you have done the whole Everest Base Camp thing and want to experience some of the best mountain views in the world, then the K2 Base Camp Trek is the logical next step.

Karamber Lake

One of the most unique multi-day treks I have done in Pakistan is the Karamber Lake Trek (also spelled “Karomber”). The entire trekking portion of the trek took us roughly 4 days to complete and I would not suggest trying to do it any faster than that so that you have time to relax at the actual lake once you arrive there.

The road to get to Karamber was a journey unto itself; the 2-day journey by road took us at least 36 hours of non-stop driving from Islamabad – just to start the trek! From the starting point, Karamber Lake is roughly 30 kilometers and 1 vertical km of elevation gain. For the first half of the trek, there is little to no water, so be sure to plan accordingly.

I have heard recently that several foreigners have tried and failed to get past the army checkpost which one must cross in order to reach the upper Broghil Valley to start the trek. They simply were not letting any foreigners pass.

When I went here in 2020 – I did not have an issue, which might have been because I was doing the trek with a group of Pakistani friends.

Double-check what the current situation is for foreigner access before you attempt to go to this area.

Patundas Meadow / Passu Glacier

One of the best hikes in Pakistan is without a doubt the trip to Patundas Meadows. For a long time, very few people from outside of Hunza even knew about Patundas. This is changing, however on any given day, there is a good chance you will still be the only one there.

The fact that Patundas can be done in only 3 days round-trip also makes it a desirable option for people short on time.

Though only a 30-minute drive from the Karakoram Highway, Patundas should NOT be attempted without a local guide. There is a dangerous glacier crossing to contend with and people have died trying to cross it alone.

There are two “official” campsites on this trek, one at the bottom of the climb (just above the Passu glacier in a sort of shepherds hut area) to reach the meadow (around 3500 m) and one atop the actual Patundas top (around 4200 m). Most people opt to camp down at the first camp as there is no reliable water source on Patundas. Plus the top section is super exposed; I got caught in a crazy rain and wind storm up there with some friends and we got hammered with fierce rain all night.

Barah Broq Trek

Probably the most underrated trek in Pakistan, the Barah Broq Trek is an achievable multi-day hike that gets you up above 5000 meters and also offers insane views of K2, Broad Peak, and the Gasherbrum range (if the weather is clear).

The trek starts from Barah Village – which is a small rural settlement 4-5 hours’ drive from Skardu on the Baltistan side.

I have done this trek in 4 nights / 5 days, making camp as I go at different altitudes – with the highest campsite being around 4800 meters (I recommend camping lower in case of strong winds). The trek culminates with a scramble to the top of Moses Peak (5300). It is from here that you can observe amazing 360 views of neighboring 7000 and 8000-meter peaks.

Very few people per year do this amazing hike – which means that the area is still incredibly clean and well-preserved. If getting a 5000-meter peak notch in your belt and seeing K2 are high on your to-do list, then Barah Broq is certainly one of the best hikes in Pakistan by far.

Shimshal Pass / Pamir Mountains (Gilgit Baltistan)

Another Pakistan hike in the extreme difficulty category is the route up and over Shimshal Pass.

Like Snow Lake, going out into the Shimshal Pamir area is to truly step out into one of the wildest and harshest landscapes one can visit outside of the polar regions.

The cool thing about doing the Shimshal Pass Trek is that there are many different route variations. You can actually start the Snow Lake Trek in Askole and finish in Shimshal via various passes if you wanted to do it that way. There are multiple different pass options to consider – with Lupke La probably being the sexiest target pass.

Unless you are very experienced and are carrying all of your own gear, I can’t see how you could do this trek without a guide.

Hiking in Pakistan: Epic Day Hikes

Not all of the hikes in Pakistan have to be long, multi-day affairs. There are some fantastic day hike opportunities here as well. From Punjab to KPK to Gilgit Baltistan, there is something for everyone on this list.

Nanga Parbat Base Camp Trek (Fairy Meadows side)

Nanga Parbat is one of the most accessible 8000-meter peaks in the world, since you can walk to it in only a few hours from a major highway (KKH).

After the 90-minute harrowing jeep ride from Nanga Parbat, after a few hours, you reach Fairy Meadows , one of the most popular tourist destinations in Pakistan.

From Fairy Meadows, the hike to Nanga Parbat Base Camp takes roughly 3-4 hours depending on your fitness. I have brought my tent with me once and actually camped at the base camp (snow fell, it was awesome), but most people just do the journey as an out-and-back hike – which takes roughly 8 hours with breaks.

During the busy months, it is possible to buy chai and snacks along the way. The sort of halfway point to Nanga BC from Fairy Meadows is Baial Camp – where you can stop and have a homecooked meal from my friend Hussein at his guest house there. If you want to have a shorter hike to Nanga Parbat, you can opt to sleep at Baial Camp as there are a few guesthouses that have nice rooms.

It is also possible to visit Nanga Parbat Base Camp from both the Fairy Meadows side or the Rupal side – which is where all climbing expeditions start their climb from.

Bridge to Bridge Hike (Hunza)

Almost everyone looking at traveling to Pakistan has seen the iconic images of the Hussaini suspension bridge. You know, that rickety wooden bridge hanging above the Hunza river?

Well, you can turn the ordinary touristy visit to this bridge into a proper adventure by starting your hike from another, lesser-known bridge called the Passu Suspension Bridge.

After crossing the Passu Bridge, the hike takes you across a rocky plateau of sorts where directly behind you, insane views of the Passu Cones dominate the landscape. After passing through a small farming settlement, the trail spits you out on a rocky track above the Hunza River, finishing at the Hussaini suspension bridge. You don’t really need a guide for this one, but the route is difficult to find on your own, so if you have the chance to go with a local, all the better.

Kandol Lake in Kalam Valley (Swat)

I found myself in Kalam Valley (at the far end of Swat Valley in KPK) towards the end of winter and decided to go for a long hike up to Kandol Lake. All the local people were telling me “not possible sir”, mostly because the jeep track leading up to the lake was covered in snow.

Well, that is what legs are for. It is true most people in the summer opt to take a jeep close to the top of this hill where the lake is, but there is no need to do that. Just hike!

The track to get there was through a beautiful forest and the lake itself was totally frozen over (this was in March), making for some really cool photos.

From Kalam, this is a proper all-day adventure, but one you can easily do on your own if you are fit. In the summer, expect the lake to be crowded with people – in the off-season months though, you should have it to yourself.

Marsur Rock (Skardu)

If you find yourself in Skardu and need to get your legs moving before you start your big adventure to K2 Base Camp, the best hike in Skardu is the journey to Marsur Rock. Often compared to the Trolltunga  Rock in Norway, Marsur Rock is the perfect day hike adventure away from the dusty bazaar area in Skardu.

From the Skardu center bazaar, the drive to get to the starting point is about 45 minutes. From the road, there is a distinct dirt path heading up to the rock, roughly 800 meters above.

This hike is pretty short in distance but it is STEEP. Expect the round trip journey to be about 4 hours.

Pack plenty of water and be sure to pack plenty of suncream as well as there is literally no shade whatsoever on this trek.

Margalla Hills (Islamabad)

Whether you live in Islamabad or are just visiting, the Margalla Hills are a popular spot to find local hiking trails just outside the city center.

I have done 3 out of the 8 routes (the trails are all marked by numbers)n and have enjoyed the hike each time. Trail number five has been my favorite and allows me to get a good workout in when I am visiting the city.

Kind of by definition, the Margalla Hills trails are…hilly. So expect to gain some altitude over the course of your hike.

Baskochi Meadows /Attabad Lake View Point (Hunza)

I hate to say it but Attabad Lake has become an ugly tourist trap, at least right on the shorefront. But wait… you can escape the crowds and all of the hastily built tourist restaurants for the best views of the entire lake.

There is a newly built trail just off the Karakoram Highway that gets you straight away from the crowds and up into the mountains. The trek is steep (pretty much the same story in all of Pakistan), but the views are truly worth the effort. Total hike time will be about 3-4 hours round trip.

Yazghil Glacier (Shimshal)

If you have made it all the way to Shimshal – congratulations. Shimshal is a hotbed for local Hunza culture as well as several outstanding treks.

One of the best reward-to-effort ratio hikes around Shimshal is the Yazghil Glacier hike. You won’t necessarily hike on the glacier (unless you want to), but the day trip to check out the views is worth it, especially given the fact that is close to the village.

Go with a local guide as this trek is quite long and if you get lost en route, you might have a hard time finding your way back.

Rakaposhi Base Camp (Gilgit Baltistan)

Another one of the best hikes in Pakistan is Rakaposhi Base Camp. The trek starts from a village called Minapin in Gilgit Baltistan, not far from the popular Hunza region.

Rakaposhi is the 27th highest mountain in the world, reaching a max altitude of 7788 meters. This is another one of those Pakistan hikes that makes you scratch your head at just how close access to some of these big peaks are to a major highway.

Most people do NOT do the Rakaposhi Base Camp trek in one go, but if you are fit and up for a challenging day, it is entirely possible.

If you want to make a night of it, bring your camping gear and wake up to an epic sunrise at the base camp. Sounds like a good time to me.

Naltar Lakes (Lower Hunza)

A less visited, but equally impressive part of Gilgit Baltistan is the area around Naltar. To get here, there is a turn-off on the left side of the Karakoram Highway (if you are headed north) from which you can find daily jeeps to the upper reaches of Naltar.

If you have a motorbike, be warned that the road is pretty rough in some places and there are a few stream crossings to contend with.

Once you do reach Naltar however, there are some great hiking options. With iconic pine forests, babbling rivers, and superb mountain views, Naltar feels worlds away from the populous Gilgit City only a few hours away. The good part is you can kind of choose how far you want to go. There are a total of three lakes to visit, though I do recommend hitting all three in a day if you are fit.

As with many hikes on this list, it is possible to camp out at the lakes too if you are equipped. Otherwise affordable accommodation is easy enough to find around Naltar Village.

Best Pakistan Hiking: My Bucket List for 2023 (and beyond)

Though I have trekked thousands of kilometers all over Pakistan, there is an endless number of hiking options. I have a few trips I am dying to do for years and hopefully, with some luck, this is the year I make a few happen.

Chitta Katta Lake (Kashmir)

The number one Pakistan hike on my list for years has got to be Chitta Katta Lake in Kashmir.

This high-altitude lake trek is only a two-day trek, but the main reason I have not gone yet is I am yet to obtain the NOC required to visit this restricted region.

Access to the lake is pretty much only possible from Shounter Valley in Kashmir, which is a restricted area being so close to the line of control (LOC) with Indian-occupied Kashmir.

In the summer, wildflowers explode across the landscape making the whole scene look like something you might think only exists in Switzerland or the Dolomites.

Deosai National Park Winter Traverse

Famous for being the 2nd highest plateau in the world after the Tibetan Plateau, Deosai National Park boasts a wide variety of hiking opportunities.

In the summer, the plateau is covered by purple wildflowers, alpine lakes, and even the odd Himalayan brown bear or two. In the winter though, all is quiet on the Deosai front and the place turns into a barren, snow-covered high-altitude landscape.

I have been to Deosai many times but would like to cross the entire plateau in wintertime with a small team. I estimate the trip will take about 2 weeks all in. Something to work towards for sure!

Best Hiking in Pakistan FAQ

Trekkers bound for K2 should be in good shape and capable of trekking over mixed terrain for long distances (maximum 8 hours). On average our trekking days are 5 hours per day. Though local porters and mules help carry the team supplies and your luggage, you will still need to be able to cover some distance at altitude.

Breakfast : Typically includes an omelet/fried eggs, fried Pakistani bread (paratha), pancakes, jam, nutella, honey, etc + green tea/French press coffee. 

Lunch : Every day, each member is issued a packed lunch. This keeps it easy while hiking as you can stop whenever you want to eat your lunch. A typical packed lunch includes a boiled egg + potato, a few chapatis (local flat bread), cheese, dried nuts/chocolate, and a few sweets. 

Dinner : The main event! We pride ourselves on hiring the same cooks every year because they know how to deliver our custom, top-notch food menu!

After our nightly soup course, dinner will be a mix of curry vegetables, rice, noodle dishes (like chow mein or pasta with red sauce, daal (lentils), meat (mutton or chicken), French fries, and, salad.

Dessert is something different every night, but for the first week of the trek, expect to have fresh mangoes and melon!

Note:  Vegetarians/vegans/gluten/lactose-free can be accommodated as well if you let the company know in advance.

International hikers who wish to do the K2 Base Camp Trek trip MUST apply for a Pakistani Trekking and Mountaineering Visa. The trekking visa is different from the standard tourist visa, thus you will NOT be applying for a tourist visa.  There is no way around this I am affraid. It is not possible as a foreigner to simpily turn up in Pakistan and start the K2 Trek without the proper visa and permits.

Despite what you hear on the mainstream news, Pakistan is one of the safest countries we have ever traveled to. Part of the ethos of Epic Backpacker Tours is to smash negative stereotypes associated with these countries by showing you a side of Pakistan that the media never does.

I (and my tour company) have an excellent safety record traveling in Pakistan and the treks on this list will take you to the most peaceful and safest parts of the country: the Northern Areas and the Hunza Valley.

Of course, there are inherent dangers that come with hiking in any mountains. Use common sense and never hike along; those two things will get you pretty far!

Wrap Up: Best Hikes in Pakistan for 2023

From the far reaches of Gilgit Baltistan to the edge of the Hindu Kush range in KPK – one thing is sure: the best hiking in Pakistan ranks right up there with some of the other great hiking destinations in the world – minus the mass tourism.

The deeper you dig in Pakistan, the more rewarding experiences come of it and this could not be more true when it comes to trekking in Pakistan.

I hope you found this Epic list of the best hikes in Pakistan useful and remember if you want to tackle one of the larger expedition-style treks like K2 Base Camp or Snow Lake – you can join me as I lead tours to these places every year. Check out Epic Backpacker Tours for current departure dates and more details.

Happy hiking guys!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Travel Planning Guide

The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Pakistan

Unleash your wanderlust with these remarkable hiking tours.

Step into the wilderness and embark on a journey of discovery with one of these exceptional hiking and trekking tours to Pakistan . We've carefully evaluated numerous tour options based on key criteria such as activities, prices, destinations, guest ratings, service, and more in order to find the absolute best hiking tours to Pakistan. Prepare to be enchanted by the awe-inspiring beauty of nature as you traverse diverse landscapes with gorgeous scenery. The expert guides provided by the experienced tour companies will lead you along well-established trails and hidden paths, sharing their knowledge and stories of the natural wonders that surround you. One of these tours could be the perfect option for your next hiking and trekking adventure, so let's get started.

• Nanga Parbat & Rakaposhi Base Camps, Pakistan Trekking Expedition - 12 Days 12 Days, $2700.00
• 11 Days Trek Nanga Parbat Base Camp & Hunza Gojal Valley Pakistan 11 Days, $2000.00
• K2 Base Camp Trek & Gondogoro La Pakistan – 2024 20 Days, $3600.00

What are hiking tours like in Pakistan?

Here are the important factors:

• 4 trip options analyzed
• $223 average price per day (USD)
• 11 to 20 days in length
• 4.88 of 5 average rating
• 15 people or less on average

You'll be surprised at the array of hiking and trekking tours in Pakistan, as there is something for everyone. It's no wonder that visitors can't get enough of these tours, boasting an impressive average guest rating of 4.88 out of 5 stars. Picture yourself joining a group of like-minded adventurers, with an average maximum size of 15 people, ensuring a fantastic blend of social and personalized experiences. The average tour length spans 14 days, with tours ranging from 11 to 20 days long. With our thorough analysis of 4 hiking and trekking tours, we've found the best. So rest assured that Pakistan has something to captivate every kind of traveler.

(All tour prices are in US Dollars before taxes, and come from a base price that is reported by TourRadar. Peak season prices can vary significantly, particularly in destinations where seasonal travel fluctuates dramatically.)

So, let's get to it and see...

The 4 Best Hiking Tours in Pakistan

Nanga parbat & rakaposhi base camps, pakistan trekking expedition - 12 days.

• High Quality: guest ratings are higher than average.

This 12-day journey is ideal for guests from 15 to 75 years old. And priced at only $225 per day, it's a great value, too. Get ready to fully embrace hiking and mountain hikes. Experience a trip that takes you to 6 remarkable destinations, including Nagar Khas, Hunza Valley, Chilas, and Fairy Meadows. You'll start and end your journey in beautiful Islamabad. It's offered by Crossroads Adventure , a very popular company with rave reviews and knowledgeable guides.

• Hiking & Trekking
• Mountain Hikes

11 Days Trek Nanga Parbat Base Camp & Hunza Gojal Valley Pakistan

• Great Value: the daily price is lower than average for hiking and trekking tours.

Priced at just $182 per day, this terrific 11-day voyage is ideal for guests from 18 to 60 years old. Explore 8 incredible locations on this trip, including Fairy Meadows, Hunza Valley, Gulmit, and Naran. Islamabad kicks off your expedition, serving as both the starting and finishing point. Organized by the reputable Rock Valley Tours Pvt Ltd , this is one of the best tours on this list.

• Attraction-Based Hikes

K2 Base Camp Trek & Gondogoro La Pakistan – 2024

Check out this incredible journey that has received a 5 out of 5 rating from previous guests. With a duration of 20 days, this journey ensures an intimate group size of 12 people, and is good for guests from 18 to 50 years old. Your journey will begin in Islamabad and end in Askole. This fantastic option, organized by Exploria , presents an unbeatable value at just $180 per day.

Pakistan's Karakoram Highway

Spanning over 14 days, this journey has a maximum size of 16 individuals. Welcoming guests from 16 to 85 years old, it is organized by Explore! , a very popular company with plenty of great reviews. This trip takes you on an adventure to 10 destinations, including Shigar, Khaplu, Tarashing, and Gilgit. Islamabad will be both the start and end of your journey. Available at an unbeatable price of only $307 per day, this option also has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from previous guests.

See also The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Pakistan , The Best Historical Tours in Pakistan , The Best 10-Day Tours in Pakistan , The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Pakistan , Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Pakistan , The Best Christmas & New Years Tours in Pakistan , The Best Adventure Tours to Pakistan , The Best Eco Tours in Pakistan , The Best Sightseeing Tours in Pakistan , The Best Cultural Tours in Pakistan , The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Pakistan , The Best Tours Under $1000 in Pakistan , The Best Budget Tours to Pakistan , or The Best Tours for Seniors to Pakistan for more tour ideas. With so many options, there's a guided tour or vacation package for every type of traveler.

Also, if you're departing from a specific destination, see The Best 3-Day Tours from Islamabad , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Islamabad , The Best 10-Day Tours from Islamabad , or The Best 2-Week Tours from Islamabad for more package tour options.

How much do hiking tours in Pakistan cost?

Travelers to Pakistan will have a large number of terrific options for hiking and trekking tours at a variety of great prices. The price of hiking and trekking tours here can vary by type, destinations, length, and travel style. Based on thorough data from 4 hiking and trekking tours, their average daily price is a very reasonable $223 per day. If you're interested in more information about tours here, see our guide to tour prices in Pakistan .

And for more information on Pakistan, see Pakistan Travel Costs and Pakistan Hotel Costs .

Subscribe to our Newsletter

By signing up for our email newsletter, you will receive occasional updates from us with sales and discounts from major travel companies , plus tips and advice from experienced budget travelers!

Budget Your Trip

Some of the links on this website are sponsored or affiliate links which help to financially support this site. By clicking the link and making a purchase, we may receive a small commission, but this does not affect the price of your purchase.

• Privacy / Terms of Use
• Activities, Day Trips, Things To Do, and Excursions

Trekking in Pakistan

• 11th January 2020 2nd January 2023
• TrangoAdventure

Pakistan is home to some of the best Trekking and routes in the world. The mighty Karakoram, Himalayas and the Hindukusch mountain range in Pakistan are the ultimate trekkers heaven.

Top treks in pakistan..

• K2 Base Camp Trek (Challenging)
• K2 and Gondogoro La Trek (Strenuous)
• Snow lake and Hispar La Trek ( Challenging)
• Thalle La Trek  (Easy)
• Nanga Parat Base Camp Trek ( Challenging)
• Rakaphoshi Base Camp (Easy)

Exploring the unexplored.

Trekking in Pakistan’s northern areas and the Baltoro – K2 region provides an extra ordinary trekking experience. Pakistan is blessed with 3 of the world longest mountain ranges, The Himalaya, Karakoram and the Hindukusch Mountain range. Most of the trekking routes are located in The Karakoram and the Himalayan region. Best season to do Trekking in Pakistan is from May until September.

Pakistan is situated in the sub content of Asia, bordering with India in the East, China on the North, Iran and Afghanistan in the west. Iran and Afghanistan are linked by road and air. Pakistan is linked with China by air and through the Karakoram Highway , also Known as the famous Silk Route. Pakistan has long border with India and it is linked with rail, road and by air. You can reach Pakistan easily as most airline flies to Pakistan . International Airports in Pakistan are in, Karachi, Lahore and Islamabad. Islamabad Internationale airport will be the closest airport to arrive if you are planning to do Trekking in Pakistan.

the magnificent beauty of Pakistan is one of the best experience you will ever have. The satisfaction you get from travelling in the nature and spending time with the friendly people cannot be compared with any travel exposure. The wildness, beauty of nature is the refreshing activity that anyone can enjoy. Hiking in Pakistan is the best way of exploring the beauty of the mountain valleys of the Karakoram and Himalayan mountain regions. There is a huge belt of mountains covering with snow and trees which a traveler can explore. Particularly, there are a lots of benefits which we can easily get from trekking . Those includes your Good physical and mental health, Peace of mind, you will be able to learn new culture and meet with the people having diverse norms and cultures.

Trekking in Pakistan has been popular since many year. The pure and raw nature of Pakistan mountains provides the best walking holidays in the world. While you are Trekking  in Pakistan , many days will pass without seeing another human. The wilderness and nature of the Karakoram mountain is still not spoiled by vast tourists like in Nepal. K2 Base camp trek receives only handful of 1,300 visitors compare to 30,000 to Everest trek.

Many people believe that trekking and hiking in the mountains is a way life to keep themselves healthy and fit. Hiking in the mountains is different then using the modern artificial machines in gym. Trekking in Pakistan’s remote areas will provide you free intoxicated breathing and will result in a proper body workout. Similarly, trekking also improves your strength, cardio fitness, and the ability to walk comfortably and quickly. While trekking, the muscles of your body gets stretched as trekking means constantly waking and moving. One will feel the change in the body after trekking as it helps in blood flow, improves the digestive system, and forms energy in the body.

All foreigners needs visa to enter in Pakistan . Recently government of Pakistan has introduce the online and on arrival visa system. No longer need to visit Pakistan embassy or consulate in your home country. You need an invitation letter, copy of tour operator’s government licence and your travel itinerary to apply for online visa. Full details can be found on our Pakistan Visa section in the holiday info or Pakistan e-visa in our Blog & news section.

You also need a trekking permit if you are planning to do K2 base camp trek , K2 and Gondogoro La Trek , and Snow lake -hispar la trek in the Karakoram mountain range of Pakistan . Your tour operator in Pakistan will apply for the trekking permit. There is set fee of sound $75 per person which is usually included the trekking packages. You do not need any trekking permits to do the Nanga Parbat base camp trek , Rakaposhi trek and some other treks.

Trango adventur e is one of the platform where you can get the opportunity to trek in the Karakoram and Himalayan mountains that will make your travel more adventurous and enjoyable. With a mission of exploring the unexplored, Trango adventures are providing the opportunity to the travellers to explore the beauty of Pakistan in the affordable charges with countless advantages and benefits.

About Author

Leave a Reply

Post Comment

• Explore Indus Civilization
• Cultural Tour To Baltistan
• Pakistan Tours
• Friendship Tours Pakistan
• Amazing Karakoram Tours
• Silk Route Explorers Tours
• Tours to the Roof of the World
• Hunza Panoramic Tours
• Visit Pakistan Tours
• Karakoram Valleys Tours
• Tour to the Amazing North Pakistan
• Tours to the High Passes of Pakistan
• Salam Pakistan Cultural Tours
• Karakorum Explorers Islamabad to Kashgar China
• Punjab Heritage Tours
• Sindh Culture Exclusive Tours
• Blossom Hunza Valley
• Autumn Hunza Valley
• Colorfull Hunza Valley
• Summer Hunza Valley
• Northern Area Heaven
• Hunza - Fairy Meadows
• Spring Blossom Tours to Skardu Baltistan & Hunza
• Hunza & Baltistan Autumn Tours
• Hunza Apricot & Cherry Blossom Tours
• Fairy Meadows
• Gilgit Tour
• Kaghan Valley
• K2 Base Camp Trek
• K2 BC & Gondogoro La Pass Trek
• Snow Lake Trek
• The Great Karakoram Traverse
• Karakoram Grand Base Camp Trek
• Patundass Trek
• Shatubar Trek
• Masherbrum Base Camp Trek
• Baltoro K-2 Base Camp Trek
• Golden Peak Trek
• Naltar Pakora Peak Trek
• Iqbal Top Kendy Trek
• Majrooh Top Trek
• Shimshal Pass Trek
• Shimshal Pamir
• 3 Faces of Nanga Parbat
• Nanga Parbat Base Camp Circle
• Fairy Meadows & Nanga Parbat Bc
• Nanga Parbat Trek
• Nanga Parbat Fairy Meadows & Rakaposhi
• Wakhan Corridor
• Trich Mir Base Camp Trek
• Shagram Kiyar & Ovir Shagram Via Zani Pass
• Ovir Pass Trek
• Bari Lake Thui Pass
• Chilinji Pass Trek
• Shah Jinali
• Kalash Valley
• Shah Jinali Pass/Boroghil Pass & Karambar Lake
• Chitral Golen National Park
• Chilinji Pass Karambar Lake & Darkot Pass Trek
• Darkot & Altar Pass Trek
• Rash Peak (5,098m)
• Gondogoro Peak (5,650m)
• Jalipur South (5,206m)
• Bakhor Das Peak (5,809m)
• Shaigri Peak (5,690m)
• Mirshikar Peak (5,486M)
• Biacherahi Towers (5900M)
• Gulmit Tower (5,810m)
• Minglig Sar (6,050m)
• Sakar Sar Peak (6,272m)
• Khosar Gang Peak (6,400m)
• Paiyu Peak (6,660m)
• Drifica Peak (6447M)
• Laila Peak (6,069M)
• Trango Tower (6,239M)
• Patundass Peak (6,100M)
• Passu Cathedral (6,106M)
• Tirich Mir (7,708M)
• Spantik (7,027M)
• Rakaposhi Peak (7,788M)
• Diran Peak (7,273M)
• Passu Peak (7,478M)
• Momhil Sar (7,343M)
• Ultar Sar (7,788M)
• Muztagh Ata (7,546M)
• Gasherbrum-III (7,952M)
• Gasherbrum-IV (7,952M)
• Masherbrum Peak (7,821M)
• K6 (7,282M) (23,888ft)
• Latok Peaks (7,145M)
• K7 Peak (6935M)
• Muztagh Tower (7,248M)
• Shisper Peak (7,611M)
• Latok Group Peak (7145M)
• K2 (8,611M)
• Nanga Parbat (8,126M)
• Broad Peak (8,047M)
• Gasherbrum-I (8,068M)
• Gasherbrum-II (8,035M)
• G I & G II Expedition
• Shandoor Polo Festival
• Kites Festival Lahore
• Shimshal Kuch Festival
• Kalash Spring Festival
• Kalash Summer Festival
• Kalash Winter Festival
• Horse & Cattle Shows in Pakistan
• Sibi Mela Pakistan
• Folk Festivals Pakistan
• Silk Road Festivals
• North Pakistan Jeep Safaris
• Amazing Jeep Safari in Pakistan
• Jeep Safari to Hunza Valley Pakistan
• Gilgit Baltistan Jeep Safaris
• Deosai plains, Hunza Valley & Kalash Valleys
• Cholistan Jeep Safari
• Marcopolo Jeep Safari Tours
• Jeep Safari Shandur Polo Festival
• Batura Yak Safari
• Horse Safari in Pakistan
• Khyber Stream Safari
• Cholistan Camel Safari
• Yak Caravan To The Pamir
• Indus River Boat Safari
• Honeymoon Tours

Pakistan is home to mountain trekkers and another words a trekking Heaven. The trekking routes are found in Gilgit Baltistan Pakistan. All the major mountain ranges are located in Norther Areas of Pakistan the Karakoram, Himalaya and the Hindukush.

Trekking can be carried out as low altitude as below 6500m and is a state law set and introduced by the Pakistan Ministry of Tourism. There is three trekking zones have been designed by the Ministry of Tourism which are Open zone, restricted zone and closed zone. The tourists are allowed to do trekking in the Open zone without any trekking permit .In order to conduct a trekking in a restricted zone trekkers need to acquire a trekking permit from the ministry of tourism.

The best trekking season in the Gilgit Baltistan is from May to September is really the ideal season. The gorgeous and lofty mountains present their glamour in full swing. All the three mountain ranges call for the foreigner’s to visit and enjoy the amazing views that they never experienced such terrific moments. The region stands first for possessing five of the World's highest mountain peak out of the 14 Peaks in the World such as the K-2, Nanga Parbat, Broad Peak, Gasherbrum I and Gasherbrum II and whereas the rest a hundred  peaks range above then 7000 meters. Nowhere else in the world exist such towering mountain peaks apart from the Karakoram, Himalaya and the Hindukush. The nature of trekking in the mountainous region is quite unique owing to the various physical features. Such as from deep valleys to long icy moraine beds. Routes winding through the settlements to over desolate plateau.

  The land of Gilgit Baltistan is a focal point of interest to the world for its rugged and spectacular terrain of mountains, lakes winding rivers gushing white water streams pastures with cattle rearing on them. Therefore thousands of tourist come to Pakistan to see and enjoy these panoramic views that they never seen such wonders in their entire life. Those who visit Gilgit Baltistan turn out to be in the form of trekkers, climber’s nature lovers, photographers, mountain bikers. The area comprises of rocks of various kinds some sharp spike protrude in the shape of granite monoliths in a few mountain locations presenting greater attractions to the tourists. In order to comfortably arrange your trekking trip in Pakistan with Hunza Adventure Tours will aptly guarantee and warrantee of your every single request and require to rejoice over your trekking trip in Pakistan. You would be given a reasonable trekking package and will ensure your trip entertainment.

K2 BASE CAMP TREK

K2 BC & GONDOGORO LA PASS TREK

The world’s famous peak K-2 and the highest pass Gondogoro La trek follows the rout up to the Baltoro Glacier (62km) and passes surrounded by the great connection of the above 8000m high peaks in the world.

SNOW LAKE BIAFO HISPER LA

Biafo  Glacier  (60 km. long) and Hispar Glacier (61 km. long) meet at the 5151 m. Hispar Pass to form one of the longest glacial systems outside the  polar regions . This highway of ice connects two ancient mountain kingdoms...

THE GREAT KARAKORAM TRAVERSE

A combination of our established Gondogoro La, K2 and Snow Lake treks, this 5-week expedition must rank as the ultimate Karakoram challenge which starts from the south-east at Hushe and ends in Nagar/Hunza to the north-west.

KARAKORAM GRAND BASE CAMP

The opening of the 5650m high Gondogoro LA adds a new dimension to the magnificent K2 Trek, making it possible to return via beautiful Hushe valley...

THREE FACES OF NANGA PARBAT

Nanga Parbat ( 8125m ) is one of the most beautiful mountains in the world. It has three main faces known as Rupal, Diamer and Raikot, which are totally different in appearance and...

PATUNDASS GLACIER TREK

This trek takes you to the fascinating patundass valley traverses two glaciers and goes along the batura glacier which is 65km long it is the second longest glacier outside the Polar Regions.  

SHATUBAR TREK

This trek takes you close to unspoiled nature. Apart from visiting Gulmit riding on 4 wheel jeep to the top of the Gulmit valley, winding your way through this thickly alpine forests spot, you reach rajabel and onward to Gulmit tower...

MASHERBRUM BASE CAMP TREK

Gilgit Baltistan of Pakistan offer the easy to strenuous trekking for those looking for a cultural experience. And for those looking for challenging treks like the K-2 Concordia Ghondhgoro la, K-2 Base camp, and Biafo-Hisper treks.

BALTORO K2 BASE CAMP TREK

Only the superlatives can define the beauty and grandeur witnessed on this "sublime sanctuary of nature". Known as the most spectacular trek in the world, the traditional expedition route to K-2 (Chogori) 8611m.

GOLDEN PEAK TREK

Spantik Peak  also Known as  the Yengutz Peak  situated between Nagar Valley near Hunza and Arandu Valley in Baltistan forming the boundry Hunza-Nagar and Baltistan, is known by various names all depicting different aspects of its splendor.

NALTAR PAKORA PEAK TREK

Naltar pasture is located about an hour and half or maximum two hours drive from Gilgit city. It is mostly dwelled by a special tribe of nomades (Gujars). Naltar is also well known for growing special potatoes..

BATURA GLACIER TREK

Batura is the fourth longest glacier stretches west from KKH for 56km. you will view around 14 high peaks during the trek with its exceptional scenery and are more then 7000mts high and huge ice floes, more then 4000mts from the Batura wall.

SHIMSHAL PASS TREK

Shimshal pass is situated in the very remotest valleys of Hunza in the northern areas of Pakistan. Two days travel from Shimshal village, which is at an altitude of approximately about 4700-M, this beautiful pasture is so vast.

K-7 BASE CAMP TREK

East of Hushe is a rock climbers dream, this is a trek into the Tsarak Tsa valley and the granite walls of K7. K7 6934m granite face is one of the world’s largest, it was first climbed in 1984 by a Japanese expedition. 

TRICH MIR BASE CAMP TREK

Trekking in Pakistan is most popular among the tourists all over the world. The area is ideal for mountaineering, trekking and nature watching. The place is ideal for those who want to discover a peace of mind.

SPANTIK PEAK BC TREK

Spantik Peak Base Camp is a popular playground for mountaineers attempting their first 7,000-meter peak in Karakoram. It is also known as Golden Peak & Ghenish Chhish. We undertake a 12-day strenuous round trek in the heart of Karakoram.

RUSH LAKE TREK

For anyonewho wants to have a first time taste of Himalayan trekking, we recommend the Rush Lake trek in the heart of the Hunza valley. During this trek you will cross glaciers, high meadows and lovely irrigated terraced fields.

DIRAN PEAK BASE CAMP TREK

Rakaposhi ( 7788m ) and Diran ( 7266m ) peaks are best viewed from Hunza Valley. In this tour we visit the base camps of both mountains but from different valleys. For Diran base camp, we visit a green and fertile valley near Gilgit.

CHAPCHINGOL PASS TREK

Gujarab is also a pasture of shimshal which is so vast their inhabitants of the villagers spend whole months in this pasture, after crossing shopodin pass so many small pastures finally reached warben the main grazing area.

MASHERBRUM & GONDOGORO LA TREK

K2 base camp over Gondogoro la is one of the best treks in the world. The trekking starts from the village of   Askole, walking along the Baltoro Glacier to reach Concordia. Concordia is the heart of Karakoram Range.

FAIRY MEADOWS & NANGA PARBAT BASE CAMP fTREK

Nanga Parbat complex has several routes but the famous treks are Rupal valley, Fairy Meadows and the around Nanga Parbat. In the west seen from the Karakoram Highway.

BATURA ROUND TREK

A trek along a new route accross Batura Range from the Chapursan Valley to Passu. A great views on the highest summit of the Batura & the Karakoram Ranges.

CHILINJI PASS TREK

This trekking trip takes you to the unspoiled, and virgin lands, of Wakhan Corridor, passing through small hamlets, and mountain meadows, we meet flocks of people, with their cattle and herds of sheep and goats.

RAKAPOSHI BASE CAMP TREK

Rakaposhi (7788m) is one of the most beautiful peak and the world’s 29th highest mountain. It dominates the horizon and watches over the Karakoram Highway as you travel from Gilgit to Hunza. 

DARKOT & BROGHIL PASS TREK

From Gilgit we turn north for the Historic Darkot Pass. After Darkot we will walk for a few days along the Wakhan corridor with excursions of Broghil Pass on the Afghan border.

HARAMOSH LA REK

The Haramosh Pass connects the Haramosh Glacier with Chogo Lungma glacier which lies in the North East. It is surrounded by Laila Peak (6986m), Mani peak (6685m) and the Haramosh Peak (7409m).

WORTHUM PASS TREK

Worthum Pass-5147m links the Batura Glacier to Chapursan’s Lupgar Valley to its north. On the way it is great opurnity to see wild life and it is very attractive and less visited area.

THE THREE BASE CAMPS TREK

The meeting of three great mountain ranges in the Northern Areas of Pakistan makes it a unique place for the trekking lovers and adventurers. The itinerary is designed to reach the Base Camps of the three peaks.

KARAKORAM-HINDUKUSH EXPERIENCE

This trek along the Wakhan Corridor starts from Ishkoman in Karakorums and goes through the unspoiled lush green Kurramber valley. It Crosses over the pass into Chitral valley and down to Mastuj.

NANGA PARBAT FAIRY MEADOWS & PATUNDASS TREK

Nanga Parbat the Naked Mountain, which lies in the West End of Himalayan range. Up above the Indus George, at an alleviation of 8126m.

NANGA PARBAT FAIRY MEADOWS RAKAPOSHI & TRICH MIR BC

The meeting of three great mountain ranges in the Northern Areas of Pakistan makes it a unique place for the trekking lovers and adventurers. 

SHAH JINALI PASS / BROGHIL PASS & KARAMBER LAKE

Trek to the world’ s  second peak K-2 (8611m) Follows the rout up to the Baltoro Glacier (62km) and passes surrounded by the great connection of the above 8000m  high peaks  in the world.

NANGA PARBAT FAIRY MEADOWS / RAKAPOSHI BC & BATURA TREK

NANGA PARBAT FAIRY MEADOWS & RAKAPOSHI BC TREK

SHIMSHAL PAMIR TREK

Shimshal valley (2,880m) is situated in the northeast of the Hunza and about 52km and on three and half hours driving distance from the KKH. This spectarculer trek have a lot of attractions for various kinds of tourists.

OVIR PASS TREK

This is a lovely short trek over Ovir pass 4337m on the southern flanks of Tirich Mir 7708m, the highest peak of the Hindukush mountains. From the pass, you have panoramic views of the mountains in either direction.

IQBAL TO KENDY TREK

This route is a newly discovered, non-technical route, explored by Mr. Iqbal, a local guide in 2000. This is the shortest possible trek in the area to see central Karakoram mountains including K-2, the second highest in the world.

MAJROOH TOP TREK

This is the shortest possible trek in the area to see central Karakoram Mountains including K-2, the second highest in the world and G-II, Broad peak, Mashabrum and etc.

NANGA PARBAT TREK

Nanga Parbat at 8,125 meters is the 2nd highest Peak for Pakistan and the 9th highest in the world. It also forms the western end of Himalayan range, meeting Karakorum & Hindukush ranges by Indus river.

DARKOT & ALTAR PASS TREK

Situated to the east of the Wakhan corridor this is an un spoilt area which offer one of the classic treks from Chitral to Hunza.  Going past Tirich Mir 7708m and central Hindukush mountains.

SHAH JINALI TREK

A scenic and moderately easy Shah Jinali trek is blended with the captivating Thui Valley, which is situated in the Hindu Raj range between Chitral and Gilgit regions.

KALASH VALLEY TREK

An ancient mystery tribe is settled in southwest Kalash Valley of Chitral. Approximately above three thousand people living in the three isolated and extremely beautiful Valleys of Birir, Bumburet and Rambur.

KACHI KANI TREK

Chitral forms Pakistan's norht-western border with Afghanistan, and is home to the precipitous (very steep) mountains of the Hindukush. This range is different from the Himalaya and Karakorums and since there are no 8000m peaks.

BARI LAKE THUI PASS TREK

Here is a brief introduction of a spectacular trek, where you will not find many trekkers on the way. The reason is that it was explored recently. It is really a paradise for climbers having just basic knowledge of climbing.

SHAGRAM - KIYAR OVIR VIA ZANI PASS TREK

This trek passes mostly through human settlements except the Ovir Pass. Used by the local people for traveling to Chitral. State dissidents and noble princes also used it.

WAKHAN CORRIDOR & PASSES OF BOROGHIL TREK

This classic traverse from Chitral to Chapursan valley and Hunza along the Wakhan corridor is a delightful trek crossing three passes Shah Junali pass 4215m the Kurambar pass 4300m.

CHITRAL GOLEN NATIONAL PARK TREK

Chitral Gol National Park was declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1979 and a National Park in 1984. This 7750-hectare area lies just west of the Town of Chitral, encompassing the watershed of Chitral Gol.

• BOOK YOUR NEXT TRIP
• 206.378.1927
• GEAR SHOP ACCOUNT

Walking in Northern Pakistan

Rakaposhi (25,551ft/7,788m) and nanga parbat (26,660ft/8,126m - world's 7th highest mountain), pakistan.

• Reading List

Pakistan’s Hunza Valley and Baltistan Trek – Base Camps of Nanga Parbat and Rakaposhi

“Great trip and so happy with everything we saw. Pakistan an incredible place and the people are so wonderful.”

Talk about majesty. Lodged somewhere between the mythical Shangri-la of James Hilton’s Lost Horizon and Kipling’s Man Who Would Be King is the astounding beauty of Northern Pakistan. The valleys of Hunza with its jagged peaks and natural sculpted beauty, protecting the lush green valleys and apricot orchards below are a near utopia for mountain lovers. This combined with travels through nearby Baltistan, once a part of Tibet, unique in its village architecture and home some of the world’s most iconic peaks (K2, Trango Towers, G2, Nanga Parbat), makes for a most spectacular journey.

To best visit this region of Northern Pakistan, we will travel by vehicle to the noted locations and tour villages before taking on the hikes to Rakaposhi and Nanga Parbat base camp. Thus we can best title this journey as a village touring trip with daily walks, culminating in treks to the Rakaposhi and Nanga Parbat base camp.

I just wanted to tell you that the Pakistan trip was incredible. Eric was amazing. Momin and Rafeek were incredible. The treks were great and absolutely beautiful. I really enjoyed meeting in the homes and eating with some of the local Pakistani families.

Our voyage begins in the stunning Hunza Valley where we complete a series of remote treks. The upper valleys and villages of Hunza are nothing short of spectacular, home to the famous Passu Cones. The villages of Hunza originally explored for England by the famed or infamous Francis Younghusband in 1898. The people of Hunza come from the mythical Wakhan Valley of Afghanistan, and herald the Ismaili Muslim region of Northern Pakistan, warm, inviting and proud of their homeland and all its beauty. Though many of our days are in villages, we will take on a number of day hikes in the areas we travel through. From Hunza we are make our way to Rakaposhi Basecamp, putting is deep into the Karakorum and a chance to make a glacier crossing, among these giant peak from Rakaposhi to Diran Basecamp. Our final trek takes us the legendary Nanga Parbat with its lush flowered meadows. Nanga Parbat borders on the Baltistan region  once part of Tibet. These are the gatekeepers of the great Karakorum and often serve as climbing partners to expeditions taking on K2, The Gasherbrum’s and Broad Peak.

The itinerary for this expedition was created by Gordon Janow , who first visited Pakistan in 1987 and will be led by Himalayan Climber and Guide Eric Murphy .

Trekking Destinations:

Nanga Parbat, the 9th highest mountain in the world at 26,660 feet. It is a peak of great beauty and uniquely different when viewed from each of its faces, Rupal, Diamir and Raikot. First climbed by Hermann Buhl in 1953 and has a long climbing history as part of its lore (See reading list).

Walking in Northern Pakistan Program Price

$6,400.00 (per person, double occupancy)

2024 Walking in Northern Pakistan Program Schedule

August 30 – September 17, 2024 Scheduled Guides:  Carole Tejas

Prerequisites & Training

In the best interest of personal concerns, success and team compatibility, adequate training and very good physical condition are required. Team members should be physically and mentally prepared to deal with changeable weather conditions and an unfamiliar culture.

Pakistan Trek FAQ

Upon sign up we will forward our comprehensive confirmation package. This package will include all of the details for your trip.

The level of difficulty of trekking easier in comparison to treks like Everest Base Camp Trek as these are much shorter in length. Trekkers should be in very good physical condition as we do have some very steep ascents.

Our leader for this trip is famed guide  Eric Murphy , an internationally certified mountain guide with years of experience guiding Alpine Ascents trips on Everest and Kilimanjaro. The itinerary and scouting trip was completed by Gordon Janow and Eric Murphy. Gordon is a Himalayan expert who first visited the region in 1987.

Each night is spent in local accommodations in the area, with nights in tents or huts during the trekking portion. Single accommodations are available for an additional fee.

Please review the gear list .

All rental gear will be mailed to the trekker prior to the climb. Trekkers are expected to clean all rental gear and those requesting rental gear must submit an expedition rental form online. Return it to us by mail following the expedition

While all items are required there may be times when some of the items on the gear list may not be used (such as warm weather or changing conditions). The gear lists are created by the guides to assist in having trekkers be prepared to enjoy the hikes in any conditions.

While it is impossible for us to list all brands for certain gear, we do offer a wide variety of equipment in our Gear Shop, that has been hand-picked by our staff of mountaineering experts. Please feel free to call our offices with any gear questions or substitutes.

Currently no inoculations needed though we expect trekkers to be vaccinated against Covid 19.

Climbers fly in to Islamabad Pakistan – most travel by Qatar Airways via Doha.

Fares are generally less expensive when booked early. You may use our Travel Agent Charles Mulvehill   or book flights your self. Please note that flights booked on-line are often difficult to change. Please send us a copy of your flight schedule as early as possible as this allows us to book pick ups and hotels. Most will fly Qatar Airways via Doha.

Your guide or an Alpine Ascents representative will meet you at the airport in Islamabad. Look for a large Alpine Ascents sign.

We are happy to make arrangements such as personalized tours, extra hotels rooms, airport pick ups and arrange for private rooms. Please indicate that you would like a private room on your application and we will contact you with information on single room supplement costs (for hotels only).

See our planning and logistics page.

Regular updates are posted on our web site from our team while in the mountains.

You can always call our offices and one of guides will contact you, generally about 1 month before your trip departure. 30 days prior to departure, we mail a list of other team members to you.

If a trekker needs to leave early, arrangements can be made with the assistance our local support.

READING LIST

This is a highly recommended shortlist and we would be happy to pass on a longer reading list for those interested. These links will bounce to Amazon.com with reviews.

The Gilgit Game

The Great Game: The Struggle for Empire in Central Asia

Return of a King: The Battle for Afghanistan, 1839-42

Himalaya: A Human History

Solo: Nanga Parbat

From India Trek: When Gordon announced an exploratory trip with trekking, I made the decision to participate. From beginning to end it was a dream come true. The sights, sounds, people, food, and majestic landscape were truly an incredible experience.

ALPINE ASCENTS BLOG

Diabetes in the Wild

Submission By Morgan McGonagle I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes when I was 12 years old. As a very active and independent 12-year-old, this was not a convenient diagnosis. I wanted to be outside as much as possible at the time and was planning to attend a summer camp where I would be away […]

Training for Mountaineering Webinar with Steve House

Alpine Ascents International hosted Steve House, founder of Uphill Athlete and author of the training bible for mountaineers and trail runners, Training for the Uphill Athlete, for a free webinar on February 20th. Steve covered the training approach that he used in his own career as a professional climber which he now uses to help […]

Self Love and Wilderness

Submission by Avalon Qian. “Tag responsibly, keep the West wild.” I pause mid-mindless-instagram scroll. This is not the first time I have seen this sentiment in an instagram post or an article about leaving no trace: “Tag responsibly.” “Keep the West wild.” What does this tag mean? I understand the fear that wild places may […]

WHY BOOK WITH ALPINE ASCENTS

Knowledge & expertise.

Alpine Ascents International leads expeditions that have become benchmarks of quality in the climbing community. We operate what we believe is the finest mountaineering school in the country. This expertise is based upon years of accumulated experience-not just from individual mountain guides, but through experience on particular mountains where details are fine-tuned over time.

Our guides are an integral part of Alpine Ascents because they understand and share our climbing principles. These individuals are dedicated to sharing their excellence with others. Many of our guides have been with Alpine Ascents for over five years, with a handful of veterans working with us for most of their careers. The quality of our Guide Staff is the primary difference between us and our competitors.

Environmental Reponsibility

Leave No Trace principles are fundamental to our program, and we encourage all who climb and trek with us to understand proper wilderness practices. We help facilitate this effort by passing on Leave No Trace training and literature to every Alpine Ascents climber.

Partners & Accreditations