Shimshal Valley Trek
Tour Category
Group Size
Duration
From
OVERVIEW & ITINERARY
dETAILS
Shimshal Valley Trek: Explore the Heart of the Karakoram
The Shimshal Valley Trek is one of the most mesmerizing high-altitude trekking experiences in northern Pakistan. Nestled in the Karakoram Mountains, the valley offers untouched natural landscapes, high glaciers, and a truly adventurous trekking route. The Shimshal Valley is known for its remote beauty, challenging trails, and vibrant cultural heritage, making it an ideal destination for trekkers seeking both adventure and authentic experiences in the mountains.
Why Trek Shimshal Valley
Shimshal Valley Trek is a favorite among trekkers due to its pristine environment and off-the-beaten-path trails. Unlike many other popular trekking routes in northern Pakistan, Shimshal offers solitude and untouched landscapes. Trekkers can experience sweeping views of snow-capped peaks, lush alpine meadows, and sparkling glacial streams. The trek also provides a unique opportunity to observe local culture, interact with villagers, and witness traditional lifestyles that have remained unchanged for generations.
Best Season for Shimshal Trekking
The best time to undertake the Shimshal Valley Trek is from June to September. During these months, the weather is stable, snow has receded from most trails, and mountain scenery is at its most vibrant. The valley comes alive with blooming alpine flowers, clear glacial waters, and extended daylight hours for trekking. Off-season trekking is not recommended due to snow, harsh weather, and limited accessibility, which can make high-altitude travel risky and challenging.
Scenic Highlights of Shimshal Valley
The valley is a visual treasure trove, featuring vast meadows, rugged cliffs, glacial rivers, and towering peaks. Trekkers can enjoy panoramic views of the Karakoram Range and witness glaciers in their full glory. Wildlife sightings, including Himalayan ibex, marmots, and rare alpine birds, add to the adventure. Each section of the trail provides different landscapes—from verdant lower meadows to rocky high-altitude paths—making the trek a continuously rewarding visual experience.
Cultural Experience
Shimshal Valley is home to a vibrant and hospitable local community. Trekkers often pass through small villages where the locals follow traditional ways of life. Engaging with villagers, observing traditional farming, and exploring local customs provides an enriching cultural experience alongside the trekking adventure. Many trekkers also have the chance to enjoy local meals, witness cultural celebrations, and learn about the traditions that have sustained the community in high-altitude conditions for centuries.
Trekking Routes and Terrain
The trek routes in Shimshal Valley vary from moderate to challenging, catering to trekkers with good physical fitness and previous trekking experience. Trails pass through alpine meadows, rocky ridges, glaciers, and high mountain passes. The terrain requires careful navigation, particularly when crossing streams or icy paths. Despite the challenges, trekkers are rewarded with breathtaking scenery, quiet trails, and a sense of accomplishment upon reaching high-altitude viewpoints.
Accommodation and Camping
Trekking in Shimshal Valley combines outdoor adventure with basic but comfortable accommodation. Trekkers stay in tents at higher altitudes, which are designed to withstand mountain weather conditions, and in guesthouses or homestays in lower villages. This mix of camping and guesthouse accommodation allows trekkers to enjoy the natural environment while having secure places to rest. Overnight stays in tents offer a unique mountain experience under starry skies, adding to the adventure of the trek.
Glacial Exploration
One of the main attractions of the Shimshal Valley Trek is its glaciers. The trek includes crossing sections of high-altitude glaciers, offering a unique experience for trekkers. The guides provide instructions for safe navigation across icy terrain, making this part of the trek both challenging and memorable. Glacial streams, crevasses, and frozen valleys add an element of excitement and adventure for those seeking high-altitude exploration.
Wildlife and Flora
The Shimshal Valley is rich in flora and fauna unique to the high-altitude Karakoram environment. Alpine flowers bloom during summer, creating vibrant landscapes, while wildlife such as ibex, marmots, snow leopards (rarely), and Himalayan birds can sometimes be seen along the trails. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the diversity of life in this remote mountain valley. Observing wildlife and unique vegetation adds to the sense of adventure and natural discovery.
Fitness and Preparation
The Shimshal Valley Trek is best suited for trekkers with good physical fitness. Daily treks can range from six to eight hours over challenging terrain, including rocky paths, glacier crossings, and high mountain passes. Proper acclimatization is important to prevent altitude sickness, and trekkers are advised to follow the guidance of experienced local guides. Physical preparation before the trek, including endurance training, cardio, and strength exercises, is highly recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.
Photography Opportunities
Shimshal Valley is a paradise for photographers. The combination of snow-capped peaks, glaciers, alpine meadows, and traditional villages provides endless photo opportunities. Sunrise and sunset over the Karakoram peaks offer stunning colors and dramatic shadows. Wildlife, local culture, and high-altitude landscapes make for exceptional photography, allowing trekkers to capture memories that will last a lifetime.
Adventure and Experience
Shimshal Valley Trek offers more than just a hiking experience; it is a journey of adventure, cultural discovery, and personal challenge. The remote nature of the valley ensures that trekkers feel a true sense of exploration. Crossing glaciers, hiking high passes, and camping under the stars create experiences that are both physically rewarding and spiritually uplifting. Each step brings new vistas, encounters, and memories, making the trek an unforgettable adventure in the Karakoram Mountains.
The Shimshal Valley Trek is an extraordinary adventure for those seeking high-altitude trekking in Pakistan. With its stunning natural beauty, remote landscapes, glacial crossings, and cultural richness, it is one of the most rewarding treks in the Karakoram region. Trekkers will experience panoramic mountain views, alpine meadows, and encounters with local communities, all while enjoying the challenge of high-altitude adventure. The Shimshal Valley Trek is perfect for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and cultural explorers looking for a truly unique trekking experience in northern Pakistan.
ITINERARY
Arrive in Gilgit and transfer to accommodation. Rest, meet the trekking team, and prepare for the journey ahead.
Scenic drive through Hunza Valley and Passu, entering Shimshal Valley. Orientation with local guides and preparation for trekking.
Begin trekking towards the base camp, passing alpine meadows, streams, and small villages. Overnight stay in tents at base camp.
Light trek to nearby trails to acclimatize. Explore the surrounding mountains, glaciers, and enjoy panoramic views. Return to camp for overnight stay.
Ascend through rugged terrain, meadows, and moraine paths. Overnight at higher camp with views of surrounding peaks.
Navigate glacial sections with guidance. Experience ice formations, crevasses, and high-altitude landscapes. Overnight in tents at high camp.
Trek to a summit viewpoint to enjoy panoramic views of the Karakoram Range and nearby glaciers. Descend slightly to camp for overnight stay.
Start descending through meadows, rocky terrain, and streams. Overnight stay in tents or guesthouse at lower camps.
Complete descent to Shimshal village. Rest and enjoy cultural interactions with locals. Overnight in village guesthouse.
Drive back to Gilgit. Trek concludes with memories of the Shimshal Valley adventure.
DATES & PRICES FOR SHIMSHAL VALLEY TREK
Start |
End |
Status |
Price |
Deposit |
Registration |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
05 May |
14 May |
Guaranteed |
$1,500 |
$300 |
|
15 May |
24 May |
Guaranteed |
$1,500 |
$300 |
|
25 May |
03 June |
Guaranteed |
$1,500 |
$300 |
|
05 June |
14 June |
Limited Space |
$1,500 |
$300 |
|
15 June |
24 June |
Guaranteed |
$1,500 |
$300 |
|
25 June |
04 July |
Limited Space |
$1,500 |
$300 |
|
05 July |
14 July |
Guaranteed |
$1,500 |
$300 |
|
15 July |
24 July |
Limited Space |
$1,500 |
$300 |
|
25 July |
03 August |
Guaranteed |
$1,500 |
$300 |
|
05 August |
14 August |
Limited Space |
$1,500 |
$300 |
WHAT'S INCLUDED
- Professional trekking guides with high-altitude experience
- Porters to carry luggage and camping equipment
- Accommodation in tents at high camps and guesthouses in lower villages
- All meals during the trek
- Transportation from Gilgit to the trek starting point and back
- Basic first aid and medical support
- Trekking route planning and itinerary management
- Local cultural interactions and village visits
WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED
- Airfare to Gilgit or onward travel
- Personal trekking gear (jackets, gloves, trekking poles, boots)
- Travel insurance or emergency evacuation
- Personal expenses such as snacks, drinks, and souvenirs
- Optional cultural activities or sightseeing outside the standard trek
- Tips for guides and porters
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Frequently asked questions
What will the food be like on the trek?
Breakfast: Typically includes an omelet / fried / boiled eggs, fried Pakistani bread (paratha), chappati, toast, pancakes, porridge, cereal, jam, Nutella, honey, marmalade, cheese etc + green tea / coffee / milk tea.
Lunch: unlike other trekking agencies we do not provide packed lunch instead we will have fresh lunch which includes soup, tuna fish, boiled pottatos, eggs, assorted cookies, bread, cheese, dried fruits & nuts, green tea / coffee / juice
Dinner: we start each dinner with a nice warm soup, after that there will be variation of dishes which changes each day. different vegetable dishes, varies types of meat (chicken, beef or mutton) accompanied by rice, noodles, pasta, lentils, potatoes, French fries and or chappati bread. We of course won’t forget dessert, there will be (fresh) fruit and or a type of pudding at every dinner.
Snacks: between lunch and dinner there will be a daily variation of cookies, pakora, popcorn etc. and hot beverages
Note: we will also take into account your specific dietary requirements, for example vegetarian / vegan / lactose intolerant – please don’t hesitate to contact us about the possibilities.
Will we fly to the mountains from Islamabad?
This will depend on your specific itinerary and your own preferences, where possible. For the standard K2 and K2 Gondogoro La and Snow Lake treks we normally schedule the flight on day 2 of your itinerary where we will fly from Islamabad to Skardu. This is a very scenic flight, if the weather is clear you will be able to get amazing mountain views including the 9th highest mountain in the world, Nanga Parbat. When the weather is bad the flight to Skardu might get cancelled, if this happens we will drive in 2 days from Islamabad to Skardu with an overnight stay halfway. There will always be a contingency day in your itinerary to cover for this delay.
What is the luggage allowance on the trek?
Each trekking member has a 15 kg baggage allowance. This is for your main luggage that will be carried to each camp each day of the trek. You yourself are only required to carry a small daypack while trekking – here you can put anything you might need during the day like water, energybars, sunglasses, suncream, clothing etc. If your main backpack/duffle bag weighs more than 15 kg, you will need to pay for the additional weight. Cost for additional weight will be determined on the ground as prices for porters vary by the season. For the K2 treks it is possible to leave excess luggage in our office storage room or at your hotel and pick it up at the end of the trek. Please also kindly note that the baggage allowance on the domestic flights is currently 20 kg check-in and 7 kg hand-carry.
Is there electricity on the trek?
We carry solar panels (no diesel or petrol generators to avoid noise & air pollution), so that each trekking member can charge batteries, power banks, phones, etc while on the trek.
Is it safe to travel in Pakistan?
It is a fair question to ask as we know that most of the news from Pakistan is not so positive, but the image which people have abroad is far from the reality. Although there have been valid reasons for people to consider Pakistan as not very safe, a lot has changed in recent years. The security situation has improved dramatically and the government has been making efforts to promote tourism and facilitate travel. When you visit you will notice immiediately that Pakistanis are very hospitable people, they are eager to get to know you and often will invite you in their home. Pakistan is a huge country, we only offer tours and treks to areas which we deem safe. We currently don’t recommend to travel to the border region with Afghanistan and certain parts of Balochistan but most other places can be visited without any problem. If you prefer to start with the safest region then we would recommend Gilgit-Baltistan in the north, the people here largely depend on tourism for their income and have been warmly welcoming foreign tourist for many years.
Can anyone go on a trek?
Yes and no, it is your own responsibility to select a trek that is suitable for you in terms of you personal fitness level as well as experience – if you book a private trek then you have all the flexibility to customize it and for example add extra days or extra supporting staff if needed. If you book a trek with an open group then we try to only let people join who have a certain experience level. Please don’t hesitate to contact us in case you would like us to help you select the best trek for you.
Do you offer customized tours / treks?
Yes, all the tours and treks that we offer on our website can be completely customized to your own requirements. We are also happy to design a tailor-made tour for you from scratch. Just let us know your preferences, special interests, number of days you have available etc. and we will send you our personalized itinerary suggestions.
Do I need a trekking visa?
For certain types of treks you will require a trekking visa – for example all the K2 treks. If a trekking visa is required then we will inform you accordingly during your booking, there are a lot of treks which are not in a restricted area and therefore you will only need a standard tourist visa.
How long in advance do I need to apply for my visa?
If you have to apply for a standard tourist visa then 1 month in advance should be sufficient – in most cases you will receive your visa within a few days / a week – you should not apply more than 3 months in advance. If you have to apply for a trekking visa then you will need to be prepared for a longer processing time, we recommend to apply 3 to 2 months in advance.
Which gear do I need to bring on my trek?
We will provide you with a suggested packing list after you have booked your tour with us. For most treks it will be standard personal trekking gear like proper hiking boots, optional trekking poles, gaitors, sleeping bag, sleeping pad etc. For certain treks further items are advised – for example for the K2 Gondogoro La and Snow Lake treks you require crampons and a climbing belt set with carabiners and a sling so that you can clip yourself on a rope and you might want to bring a climbing helmet for sections where there can be rockfall.
Can I rent trekking gear from you?
Yes, it is possible to rent certain items from us or we will put you in contact with a trusted local supplier who can provide you with the things you need. Some of the standard gear which we can arrange are crampons, climbing belts, ice axes and climbing helmets.
What is the best time to go on a trek?
The summer period is the main trekking season in the north of Pakistan. For most treks this would be from June to September with July and August being the best months.
What happens in case of an emergency during the trek?
On each trek your guide will be in possesion of a phone and where needed (during remote treks) a sattelite phone as well as a medical aid kit. All our guides are aware of the standard emergency protocols and will contact our headoffice staff as well as the relevant authorities when needed. Before you go on a trek with us we will require your emergency contact list as well as your travel insurance details with proper coverage for emergency (helicopter) rescue in mountainous areas. Depending on the situation we will contact your insurance company and together with them will make arrangements for your repatriation. We have many years of experience with search and rescue operations and good relations with all relevant institutions including Askari Aviation for helicopter rescue operations. If you have the right insurance coverage then we will be able to initiate a helicopter rescue immidiately – please kindly note that helicopters in Pakistan always fly in pairs and availability of the helicopters depends on them not being in use on another mission as well as the weather being suitable.
What kind of travel insurance do I need?
This will depend on the type of tour that you are planning. Please make sure to consult your travel insurance before your trip to make sure you have proper coverage for your tour and the activities you will undertake. Especially when you go on a trek it is important to have mountain emergency search and rescue / repatriation by helicopter included in your insurance package.
I'm a woman, should I wear a headscarf when I'm in Pakistan?
It is not needed to wear a headscarf, of course you may do so if you feel more comfortable. It will be good however to bring a scarf which you can wear when visiting a mosque or other religious site and or when going to a more conservative area.
Is there a recommended dress code?
Pakistan is an Islamic country and it is therefore advisable for women not to wear short skirts / tops or short trousers in public. A headscarf will come in handy for women when they visit a mosque / religious site or sometimes it can be a custom in more remote / conservative areas. Dress codes for men are more lenient, though shorts are uncommon – they can be worn depending on the places you visit on a certain day (for example if you visit a mosque, sacred site or very conservative area it might be better to adjust your clothes to a more modest style – feel free to ask your guide if you are not sure). If you are going on a trek you can wear shorts without any problems.
Can I visit Pakistan in winter?
Yes, you defintely can. The south of Pakistan is actually the best to be visited in the winter as it will be way too hot in the summer. Also the north has great options, you can go skiing or make a nice winter hike. Some passes in the north will be closed due to snow which means we will have to adjust certain itineraries but there are enough places which you can visit. Please don’t hesitate to inquire about the possibilities.
Do I need a visa for this trip?
For all trips to Pakistan you will require a visa, depending on the the type of tour you will either need a standard tourist visa or a trekking visa. Our sales team will provide you with all the necessary information as well as a visa invitation letter and related supporting documents after you have booked your tour with us.
How much price about tour & travels
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, utinam munere antiopam vel ad. Qui eros iusto te. Nec ad feugiat honestatis. Quo illum detraxit an. Ius eius quodsi molestiae at, nostrum definitiones his cu. Discere referrentur mea id, an pri novum possim deterruisset. Eum oratio reprehendunt cu. Nec te quem assum postea.
Who will meet me on arrival?
An Adventure Pakistan representative will meet you at the airport and will bring you to your hotel.
Where do I fly to for this trip?
You will fly roundtrip to Islamabad, Pakistan.
Do I need to bring my own sleeping bag and pad for this trip?
Yes. You will need to bring your own sleeping bag, for the K2 treks and Snow Lake trek during the main summer season we recommend it to be suitable for temperatures up to minus 10 degrees Celsius / 15 Fahrenheit. It is also advisable to bring your own sleeping pad for comfort, please kindly keep in mind that on many days you will be sleeping on rock / snow / ice. For other treks we are happy to advise you on the type of sleeping bag depending on the season and location.
Will I have Wi-Fi on the trip?
Yes. You will have Wi-Fi in your hotel in Islamabad and Skardu, during the K2 trek there will be limited connectivity at Concordia. If you like we can also arrange a local SIM card for you with a mobile data package so that you can stay in touch more easily with your loved ones.
Why does Adventure Pakistan cost more than other companies?
We know that you will be able to find cheaper tour options but there are big differences in some of the services being offered. Most important to us is that all our clients have a safe and the greatest trip ever but also that our staff and supporting partners are paid fairly for all their hard work and big efforts. We do not compromise on safety, this means that we only work with experienced guides / supporting staff and drivers and that all vehicles and materials which we use during our treks and tours are of high quality and kept well maintained. You will always sleep in clean & safe accommodations / have proper camping gear and we inform you in advance at which hotels or guesthouses you will be staying so that you won’t have any suprises afterwards. We pay great attention to detail while preparing your trip so that you get the best possible & most enjoyable experience taking into account any special requirements you may have or assistance you would need, you can share your specific interests, fitness and experience level, dietary requirements etc. and we take care of the rest. Our staff is our key assest, we take great pride in having an incredible team of very experienced, very kind and caring guides and other supporting staff who will provide you with the best memories. Something we are known for during our treks is the excellent food which is being prepared by our cooking team, we don’t skimp on this as we know that good, tasty and varied food is vital during a trek. You will be looking forward to your meals each day this is something we can guarantee! One of the last things we would like to highlight is our network – we have a very extensive network all over Pakistan this means that if there is any problem during your trip we are able to respond adequatly, without any delay. Besides having a good network we also have many years of experience – we know what to do and whom to contact, our team carries out emergency and rescue operations for international insurance companies each year so you can rest assured that you will be in good hands.
What will the food be like on the trek?
Breakfast: Typically includes an omelet / fried / boiled eggs, fried Pakistani bread (paratha), chappati, toast, pancakes, porridge, cereal, jam, Nutella, honey, marmalade, cheese etc + green tea / coffee / milk tea.
Lunch: unlike other trekking agencies we do not provide packed lunch instead we will have fresh lunch which includes soup, tuna fish, boiled pottatos, eggs, assorted cookies, bread, cheese, dried fruits & nuts, green tea / coffee / juice
Dinner: we start each dinner with a nice warm soup, after that there will be variation of dishes which changes each day. different vegetable dishes, varies types of meat (chicken, beef or mutton) accompanied by rice, noodles, pasta, lentils, potatoes, French fries and or chappati bread. We of course won’t forget dessert, there will be (fresh) fruit and or a type of pudding at every dinner.
Snacks: between lunch and dinner there will be a daily variation of cookies, pakora, popcorn etc. and hot beverages
Note: we will also take into account your specific dietary requirements, for example vegetarian / vegan / lactose intolerant – please don’t hesitate to contact us about the possibilities.
Will we fly to the mountains from Islamabad?
This will depend on your specific itinerary and your own preferences, where possible. For the standard K2 and K2 Gondogoro La and Snow Lake treks we normally schedule the flight on day 2 of your itinerary where we will fly from Islamabad to Skardu. This is a very scenic flight, if the weather is clear you will be able to get amazing mountain views including the 9th highest mountain in the world, Nanga Parbat. When the weather is bad the flight to Skardu might get cancelled, if this happens we will drive in 2 days from Islamabad to Skardu with an overnight stay halfway. There will always be a contingency day in your itinerary to cover for this delay.
What is the luggage allowance on the trek?
Each trekking member has a 15 kg baggage allowance. This is for your main luggage that will be carried to each camp each day of the trek. You yourself are only required to carry a small daypack while trekking – here you can put anything you might need during the day like water, energybars, sunglasses, suncream, clothing etc. If your main backpack/duffle bag weighs more than 15 kg, you will need to pay for the additional weight. Cost for additional weight will be determined on the ground as prices for porters vary by the season. For the K2 treks it is possible to leave excess luggage in our office storage room or at your hotel and pick it up at the end of the trek. Please also kindly note that the baggage allowance on the domestic flights is currently 20 kg check-in and 7 kg hand-carry.
Is there electricity on the trek?
We carry solar panels (no diesel or petrol generators to avoid noise & air pollution), so that each trekking member can charge batteries, power banks, phones, etc while on the trek.
Is it safe to travel in Pakistan?
It is a fair question to ask as we know that most of the news from Pakistan is not so positive, but the image which people have abroad is far from the reality. Although there have been valid reasons for people to consider Pakistan as not very safe, a lot has changed in recent years. The security situation has improved dramatically and the government has been making efforts to promote tourism and facilitate travel. When you visit you will notice immiediately that Pakistanis are very hospitable people, they are eager to get to know you and often will invite you in their home. Pakistan is a huge country, we only offer tours and treks to areas which we deem safe. We currently don’t recommend to travel to the border region with Afghanistan and certain parts of Balochistan but most other places can be visited without any problem. If you prefer to start with the safest region then we would recommend Gilgit-Baltistan in the north, the people here largely depend on tourism for their income and have been warmly welcoming foreign tourist for many years.
Can anyone go on a trek?
Yes and no, it is your own responsibility to select a trek that is suitable for you in terms of you personal fitness level as well as experience – if you book a private trek then you have all the flexibility to customize it and for example add extra days or extra supporting staff if needed. If you book a trek with an open group then we try to only let people join who have a certain experience level. Please don’t hesitate to contact us in case you would like us to help you select the best trek for you.
Do you offer customized tours / treks?
Yes, all the tours and treks that we offer on our website can be completely customized to your own requirements. We are also happy to design a tailor-made tour for you from scratch. Just let us know your preferences, special interests, number of days you have available etc. and we will send you our personalized itinerary suggestions.
Do I need a trekking visa?
For certain types of treks you will require a trekking visa – for example all the K2 treks. If a trekking visa is required then we will inform you accordingly during your booking, there are a lot of treks which are not in a restricted area and therefore you will only need a standard tourist visa.
How long in advance do I need to apply for my visa?
If you have to apply for a standard tourist visa then 1 month in advance should be sufficient – in most cases you will receive your visa within a few days / a week – you should not apply more than 3 months in advance. If you have to apply for a trekking visa then you will need to be prepared for a longer processing time, we recommend to apply 3 to 2 months in advance.
Which gear do I need to bring on my trek?
We will provide you with a suggested packing list after you have booked your tour with us. For most treks it will be standard personal trekking gear like proper hiking boots, optional trekking poles, gaitors, sleeping bag, sleeping pad etc. For certain treks further items are advised – for example for the K2 Gondogoro La and Snow Lake treks you require crampons and a climbing belt set with carabiners and a sling so that you can clip yourself on a rope and you might want to bring a climbing helmet for sections where there can be rockfall.
Can I rent trekking gear from you?
Yes, it is possible to rent certain items from us or we will put you in contact with a trusted local supplier who can provide you with the things you need. Some of the standard gear which we can arrange are crampons, climbing belts, ice axes and climbing helmets.
What is the best time to go on a trek?
The summer period is the main trekking season in the north of Pakistan. For most treks this would be from June to September with July and August being the best months.
What happens in case of an emergency during the trek?
On each trek your guide will be in possesion of a phone and where needed (during remote treks) a sattelite phone as well as a medical aid kit. All our guides are aware of the standard emergency protocols and will contact our headoffice staff as well as the relevant authorities when needed. Before you go on a trek with us we will require your emergency contact list as well as your travel insurance details with proper coverage for emergency (helicopter) rescue in mountainous areas. Depending on the situation we will contact your insurance company and together with them will make arrangements for your repatriation. We have many years of experience with search and rescue operations and good relations with all relevant institutions including Askari Aviation for helicopter rescue operations. If you have the right insurance coverage then we will be able to initiate a helicopter rescue immidiately – please kindly note that helicopters in Pakistan always fly in pairs and availability of the helicopters depends on them not being in use on another mission as well as the weather being suitable.
What kind of travel insurance do I need?
This will depend on the type of tour that you are planning. Please make sure to consult your travel insurance before your trip to make sure you have proper coverage for your tour and the activities you will undertake. Especially when you go on a trek it is important to have mountain emergency search and rescue / repatriation by helicopter included in your insurance package.
I'm a woman, should I wear a headscarf when I'm in Pakistan?
It is not needed to wear a headscarf, of course you may do so if you feel more comfortable. It will be good however to bring a scarf which you can wear when visiting a mosque or other religious site and or when going to a more conservative area.
Is there a recommended dress code?
Pakistan is an Islamic country and it is therefore advisable for women not to wear short skirts / tops or short trousers in public. A headscarf will come in handy for women when they visit a mosque / religious site or sometimes it can be a custom in more remote / conservative areas. Dress codes for men are more lenient, though shorts are uncommon – they can be worn depending on the places you visit on a certain day (for example if you visit a mosque, sacred site or very conservative area it might be better to adjust your clothes to a more modest style – feel free to ask your guide if you are not sure). If you are going on a trek you can wear shorts without any problems.
Can I visit Pakistan in winter?
Yes, you defintely can. The south of Pakistan is actually the best to be visited in the winter as it will be way too hot in the summer. Also the north has great options, you can go skiing or make a nice winter hike. Some passes in the north will be closed due to snow which means we will have to adjust certain itineraries but there are enough places which you can visit. Please don’t hesitate to inquire about the possibilities.
Do I need a visa for this trip?
For all trips to Pakistan you will require a visa, depending on the the type of tour you will either need a standard tourist visa or a trekking visa. Our sales team will provide you with all the necessary information as well as a visa invitation letter and related supporting documents after you have booked your tour with us.
How much price about tour & travels
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, utinam munere antiopam vel ad. Qui eros iusto te. Nec ad feugiat honestatis. Quo illum detraxit an. Ius eius quodsi molestiae at, nostrum definitiones his cu. Discere referrentur mea id, an pri novum possim deterruisset. Eum oratio reprehendunt cu. Nec te quem assum postea.
Who will meet me on arrival?
An Adventure Pakistan representative will meet you at the airport and will bring you to your hotel.
Where do I fly to for this trip?
You will fly roundtrip to Islamabad, Pakistan.
Do I need to bring my own sleeping bag and pad for this trip?
Yes. You will need to bring your own sleeping bag, for the K2 treks and Snow Lake trek during the main summer season we recommend it to be suitable for temperatures up to minus 10 degrees Celsius / 15 Fahrenheit. It is also advisable to bring your own sleeping pad for comfort, please kindly keep in mind that on many days you will be sleeping on rock / snow / ice. For other treks we are happy to advise you on the type of sleeping bag depending on the season and location.
Will I have Wi-Fi on the trip?
Yes. You will have Wi-Fi in your hotel in Islamabad and Skardu, during the K2 trek there will be limited connectivity at Concordia. If you like we can also arrange a local SIM card for you with a mobile data package so that you can stay in touch more easily with your loved ones.
Why does Adventure Pakistan cost more than other companies?
We know that you will be able to find cheaper tour options but there are big differences in some of the services being offered. Most important to us is that all our clients have a safe and the greatest trip ever but also that our staff and supporting partners are paid fairly for all their hard work and big efforts. We do not compromise on safety, this means that we only work with experienced guides / supporting staff and drivers and that all vehicles and materials which we use during our treks and tours are of high quality and kept well maintained. You will always sleep in clean & safe accommodations / have proper camping gear and we inform you in advance at which hotels or guesthouses you will be staying so that you won’t have any suprises afterwards. We pay great attention to detail while preparing your trip so that you get the best possible & most enjoyable experience taking into account any special requirements you may have or assistance you would need, you can share your specific interests, fitness and experience level, dietary requirements etc. and we take care of the rest. Our staff is our key assest, we take great pride in having an incredible team of very experienced, very kind and caring guides and other supporting staff who will provide you with the best memories. Something we are known for during our treks is the excellent food which is being prepared by our cooking team, we don’t skimp on this as we know that good, tasty and varied food is vital during a trek. You will be looking forward to your meals each day this is something we can guarantee! One of the last things we would like to highlight is our network – we have a very extensive network all over Pakistan this means that if there is any problem during your trip we are able to respond adequatly, without any delay. Besides having a good network we also have many years of experience – we know what to do and whom to contact, our team carries out emergency and rescue operations for international insurance companies each year so you can rest assured that you will be in good hands.
REPORTS & REVIEWS
Frequently asked questions
What will the food be like on the trek?
Breakfast: Typically includes an omelet / fried / boiled eggs, fried Pakistani bread (paratha), chappati, toast, pancakes, porridge, cereal, jam, Nutella, honey, marmalade, cheese etc + green tea / coffee / milk tea.
Lunch: unlike other trekking agencies we do not provide packed lunch instead we will have fresh lunch which includes soup, tuna fish, boiled pottatos, eggs, assorted cookies, bread, cheese, dried fruits & nuts, green tea / coffee / juice
Dinner: we start each dinner with a nice warm soup, after that there will be variation of dishes which changes each day. different vegetable dishes, varies types of meat (chicken, beef or mutton) accompanied by rice, noodles, pasta, lentils, potatoes, French fries and or chappati bread. We of course won’t forget dessert, there will be (fresh) fruit and or a type of pudding at every dinner.
Snacks: between lunch and dinner there will be a daily variation of cookies, pakora, popcorn etc. and hot beverages
Note: we will also take into account your specific dietary requirements, for example vegetarian / vegan / lactose intolerant – please don’t hesitate to contact us about the possibilities.
Will we fly to the mountains from Islamabad?
This will depend on your specific itinerary and your own preferences, where possible. For the standard K2 and K2 Gondogoro La and Snow Lake treks we normally schedule the flight on day 2 of your itinerary where we will fly from Islamabad to Skardu. This is a very scenic flight, if the weather is clear you will be able to get amazing mountain views including the 9th highest mountain in the world, Nanga Parbat. When the weather is bad the flight to Skardu might get cancelled, if this happens we will drive in 2 days from Islamabad to Skardu with an overnight stay halfway. There will always be a contingency day in your itinerary to cover for this delay.
What is the luggage allowance on the trek?
Each trekking member has a 15 kg baggage allowance. This is for your main luggage that will be carried to each camp each day of the trek. You yourself are only required to carry a small daypack while trekking – here you can put anything you might need during the day like water, energybars, sunglasses, suncream, clothing etc. If your main backpack/duffle bag weighs more than 15 kg, you will need to pay for the additional weight. Cost for additional weight will be determined on the ground as prices for porters vary by the season. For the K2 treks it is possible to leave excess luggage in our office storage room or at your hotel and pick it up at the end of the trek. Please also kindly note that the baggage allowance on the domestic flights is currently 20 kg check-in and 7 kg hand-carry.
Is there electricity on the trek?
We carry solar panels (no diesel or petrol generators to avoid noise & air pollution), so that each trekking member can charge batteries, power banks, phones, etc while on the trek.
Is it safe to travel in Pakistan?
It is a fair question to ask as we know that most of the news from Pakistan is not so positive, but the image which people have abroad is far from the reality. Although there have been valid reasons for people to consider Pakistan as not very safe, a lot has changed in recent years. The security situation has improved dramatically and the government has been making efforts to promote tourism and facilitate travel. When you visit you will notice immiediately that Pakistanis are very hospitable people, they are eager to get to know you and often will invite you in their home. Pakistan is a huge country, we only offer tours and treks to areas which we deem safe. We currently don’t recommend to travel to the border region with Afghanistan and certain parts of Balochistan but most other places can be visited without any problem. If you prefer to start with the safest region then we would recommend Gilgit-Baltistan in the north, the people here largely depend on tourism for their income and have been warmly welcoming foreign tourist for many years.
Can anyone go on a trek?
Yes and no, it is your own responsibility to select a trek that is suitable for you in terms of you personal fitness level as well as experience – if you book a private trek then you have all the flexibility to customize it and for example add extra days or extra supporting staff if needed. If you book a trek with an open group then we try to only let people join who have a certain experience level. Please don’t hesitate to contact us in case you would like us to help you select the best trek for you.
Do you offer customized tours / treks?
Yes, all the tours and treks that we offer on our website can be completely customized to your own requirements. We are also happy to design a tailor-made tour for you from scratch. Just let us know your preferences, special interests, number of days you have available etc. and we will send you our personalized itinerary suggestions.
Do I need a trekking visa?
For certain types of treks you will require a trekking visa – for example all the K2 treks. If a trekking visa is required then we will inform you accordingly during your booking, there are a lot of treks which are not in a restricted area and therefore you will only need a standard tourist visa.
How long in advance do I need to apply for my visa?
If you have to apply for a standard tourist visa then 1 month in advance should be sufficient – in most cases you will receive your visa within a few days / a week – you should not apply more than 3 months in advance. If you have to apply for a trekking visa then you will need to be prepared for a longer processing time, we recommend to apply 3 to 2 months in advance.
Which gear do I need to bring on my trek?
We will provide you with a suggested packing list after you have booked your tour with us. For most treks it will be standard personal trekking gear like proper hiking boots, optional trekking poles, gaitors, sleeping bag, sleeping pad etc. For certain treks further items are advised – for example for the K2 Gondogoro La and Snow Lake treks you require crampons and a climbing belt set with carabiners and a sling so that you can clip yourself on a rope and you might want to bring a climbing helmet for sections where there can be rockfall.
Can I rent trekking gear from you?
Yes, it is possible to rent certain items from us or we will put you in contact with a trusted local supplier who can provide you with the things you need. Some of the standard gear which we can arrange are crampons, climbing belts, ice axes and climbing helmets.
What is the best time to go on a trek?
The summer period is the main trekking season in the north of Pakistan. For most treks this would be from June to September with July and August being the best months.
What happens in case of an emergency during the trek?
On each trek your guide will be in possesion of a phone and where needed (during remote treks) a sattelite phone as well as a medical aid kit. All our guides are aware of the standard emergency protocols and will contact our headoffice staff as well as the relevant authorities when needed. Before you go on a trek with us we will require your emergency contact list as well as your travel insurance details with proper coverage for emergency (helicopter) rescue in mountainous areas. Depending on the situation we will contact your insurance company and together with them will make arrangements for your repatriation. We have many years of experience with search and rescue operations and good relations with all relevant institutions including Askari Aviation for helicopter rescue operations. If you have the right insurance coverage then we will be able to initiate a helicopter rescue immidiately – please kindly note that helicopters in Pakistan always fly in pairs and availability of the helicopters depends on them not being in use on another mission as well as the weather being suitable.
What kind of travel insurance do I need?
This will depend on the type of tour that you are planning. Please make sure to consult your travel insurance before your trip to make sure you have proper coverage for your tour and the activities you will undertake. Especially when you go on a trek it is important to have mountain emergency search and rescue / repatriation by helicopter included in your insurance package.
I'm a woman, should I wear a headscarf when I'm in Pakistan?
It is not needed to wear a headscarf, of course you may do so if you feel more comfortable. It will be good however to bring a scarf which you can wear when visiting a mosque or other religious site and or when going to a more conservative area.
Is there a recommended dress code?
Pakistan is an Islamic country and it is therefore advisable for women not to wear short skirts / tops or short trousers in public. A headscarf will come in handy for women when they visit a mosque / religious site or sometimes it can be a custom in more remote / conservative areas. Dress codes for men are more lenient, though shorts are uncommon – they can be worn depending on the places you visit on a certain day (for example if you visit a mosque, sacred site or very conservative area it might be better to adjust your clothes to a more modest style – feel free to ask your guide if you are not sure). If you are going on a trek you can wear shorts without any problems.
Can I visit Pakistan in winter?
Yes, you defintely can. The south of Pakistan is actually the best to be visited in the winter as it will be way too hot in the summer. Also the north has great options, you can go skiing or make a nice winter hike. Some passes in the north will be closed due to snow which means we will have to adjust certain itineraries but there are enough places which you can visit. Please don’t hesitate to inquire about the possibilities.
Do I need a visa for this trip?
For all trips to Pakistan you will require a visa, depending on the the type of tour you will either need a standard tourist visa or a trekking visa. Our sales team will provide you with all the necessary information as well as a visa invitation letter and related supporting documents after you have booked your tour with us.
How much price about tour & travels
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Who will meet me on arrival?
An Adventure Pakistan representative will meet you at the airport and will bring you to your hotel.
Where do I fly to for this trip?
You will fly roundtrip to Islamabad, Pakistan.
Do I need to bring my own sleeping bag and pad for this trip?
Yes. You will need to bring your own sleeping bag, for the K2 treks and Snow Lake trek during the main summer season we recommend it to be suitable for temperatures up to minus 10 degrees Celsius / 15 Fahrenheit. It is also advisable to bring your own sleeping pad for comfort, please kindly keep in mind that on many days you will be sleeping on rock / snow / ice. For other treks we are happy to advise you on the type of sleeping bag depending on the season and location.
Will I have Wi-Fi on the trip?
Yes. You will have Wi-Fi in your hotel in Islamabad and Skardu, during the K2 trek there will be limited connectivity at Concordia. If you like we can also arrange a local SIM card for you with a mobile data package so that you can stay in touch more easily with your loved ones.
Why does Adventure Pakistan cost more than other companies?
We know that you will be able to find cheaper tour options but there are big differences in some of the services being offered. Most important to us is that all our clients have a safe and the greatest trip ever but also that our staff and supporting partners are paid fairly for all their hard work and big efforts. We do not compromise on safety, this means that we only work with experienced guides / supporting staff and drivers and that all vehicles and materials which we use during our treks and tours are of high quality and kept well maintained. You will always sleep in clean & safe accommodations / have proper camping gear and we inform you in advance at which hotels or guesthouses you will be staying so that you won’t have any suprises afterwards. We pay great attention to detail while preparing your trip so that you get the best possible & most enjoyable experience taking into account any special requirements you may have or assistance you would need, you can share your specific interests, fitness and experience level, dietary requirements etc. and we take care of the rest. Our staff is our key assest, we take great pride in having an incredible team of very experienced, very kind and caring guides and other supporting staff who will provide you with the best memories. Something we are known for during our treks is the excellent food which is being prepared by our cooking team, we don’t skimp on this as we know that good, tasty and varied food is vital during a trek. You will be looking forward to your meals each day this is something we can guarantee! One of the last things we would like to highlight is our network – we have a very extensive network all over Pakistan this means that if there is any problem during your trip we are able to respond adequatly, without any delay. Besides having a good network we also have many years of experience – we know what to do and whom to contact, our team carries out emergency and rescue operations for international insurance companies each year so you can rest assured that you will be in good hands.
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