Shimshal Pass Trek 

Upon arrival at Islamabad International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our guide and transferred to your hotel for check-in and some time to relax.  

In the afternoon, we begin our city tour of Islamabad. Our first stop is Daman-e-Koh, a scenic viewpoint offering panoramic views over the capital and the surrounding Margalla Hills. We then drive through Islamabad’s wide, modern boulevards, passing elegant buildings that blend contemporary design with Islamic architectural influences.  

We continue to the Lok Virsa Folk Heritage Museum, where you will gain insight into Pakistan’s rich cultural traditions and diverse heritage. The tour culminates at one of the largest mosques in the world the magnificent Shah Faisal Mosque, an architectural masterpiece and iconic symbol of the city.  

In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner at a local restaurant.  

Accommodation:  

•  Burj-ul-Zaki, Grand, Ambrina Hotel   

Meals Included: Dinner

We will begin the day with a scenic morning flight from Islamabad to Skardu, offering breathtaking views of the Karakoram mountains. Upon arrival in Skardu, we will continue our journey by road, traveling via Gilgit toward Minapin Nagar Valley. 

After reaching Gilgit City, the administrative capital of Gilgit-Baltistan, we will visit the renowned Kargah Buddha, a remarkable 7th-century Buddha carved into a rock face. We will then explore Gilgit Bazaar, followed by a visit to the historic British Cemetery. 

After lunch, we will continue driving along the legendary Karakoram Highway toward Minapin Nagar Valley. En route, we will stop at Chalt Nagar, which marks the Main Karakoram Thrust the dramatic geological collision point of the Indo-Pakistani and Eurasian tectonic plates. 

We will also make a relaxing tea stop at the Rakaposhi viewpoint for photography before continuing our drive to Minapin Village, where we will arrive in the evening. 

Accommodation:  

• Osho Thang 

Meals Included: Breakfast – Dinner

In the morning, hike toward the Rakaposhi Peak viewpoint. After a picnic lunch, return to Minapin Village and drive to Karimabad Hunza. 

Accommodation: 
• Eagle Nest or Hilltop Hotel 
Meals Included: Breakfast – Dinner

Early this morning, enjoy a spectacular sunrise over the snow-capped peaks surrounding Hunza, including Ultar (7,388 m), Rakaposhi (7,788 m), and Diran (7,266 m). The changing colours over the mountains create a truly unforgettable scene.  

After breakfast, we drive to Altit Village to visit the historic Altit Fort, originally built around 1,100 years ago. This beautifully restored fort offers fascinating insight into the ancient ruling families of Hunza and the region’s rich history.  

Later, we visit Baltit Fort, constructed approximately 700 years ago. Over the centuries, the fort has been rebuilt and remodelled several times. In the 16th century, the Mir (King) of Hunza married a princess from Baltistan, who brought skilled Balti craftsmen as part of her dowry to renovate the palace. The architectural style clearly reflects strong Tibetan influences, highlighting the historical connection between Hunza and Baltistan.  

The remainder of the day is free for leisure, relaxation, or exploring Karimabad Bazaar for local handicrafts and souvenirs. 

Accommodation: 

• Eagle Nest or Hilltop Hotel 

Meals Included: Breakfast-Dinner 

Drive from Karimabad along the Hunza River toward Passu, then turn onto the famous Shimshal Road. The road passes Attabad Lake, Gulmit, and small Hunza settlements where daily life carries quietly against a mountain backdrop. 

You will reach Shimshal around lunchtime. Spend the afternoon walking through the village, meeting local people, and learning about everyday life here. Shimshal is well known for its strong mountaineering tradition, high-altitude porters, and yak herding culture. The Wakhi people live simply and are deeply welcoming. Take it slow, share a few conversations, and enjoy the calm of this high mountain home. 

Accommodation: 
• Guest House 
Meals Included: Breakfast – Dinner

Today marks the start of your trek as you leave Shimshal Village and begin walking along the Shimshal River. The trail is beautiful but challenging, especially as your body starts adjusting to the altitude. 

You will cross a couple of suspension bridges on the way to Garsar, where you will stop for lunch and a short rest. After lunch, the walk continues toward Past Furzeen. The path slowly climbs, and you will begin to feel the effort of the day, but the open views and quiet surroundings make it worthwhile. 

By the time you reach Past Furzeen campsite, it’s time to relax, settle in, and enjoy the calm of the mountains before the next day’s journey. 

 Accommodation 
• Camping 
Meals Included: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner 

After breakfast at Past Furzeen, you begin your climb into the high mountains. The trail passes rocky terrain and crosses Chichan Bridge, built by a local Shimshali to help his village. 

Stop for lunch at Parin, then continue upward to Arbob Peyreen, with views of Manglik Sar (6,050 m), Chashkin Peak (6,000 m), and the surrounding Karakoram peaks. 

You may spot locals heading to or from the pass. By the time you reach camp, the mountains feel closer, the air is fresh, and the day’s effort is fully worth it.  

Accommodation 
• Camping 
Meals Included: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner

After breakfast, you’ll enjoy a gentle trek across wide alpine meadows toward Shuijerab. This is the summer grazing ground of the Shimshali herders, where women spend months tending yaks, goats, and sheep. 

Here, you can see how they make butter, cheese, and yeast for the harsh winter months. The shepherdesses are known for their warmth and hospitality, making this a rare chance to experience authentic high-altitude life while surrounded by spectacular mountain scenery. 

 Accommodation 
• Camping 
Meals Included: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner 

Today is a relaxed day to enjoy life on high pastures. Wake up early to watch the yaks, goats, and sheep leave their pens and roam the meadows. 

Spend time with the Shimshali shepherds, see how they care for their animals, and get a glimpse of their daily life in this remote summer settlement. It’s a quiet, special chance to experience mountain life up close and take in peaceful surroundings. 

 Accommodation 
• Camping 
Meals Included: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner 

After two nights at Shuijerab, today you begin the climb to Shimshal Pass. The first part of the trek is steep and challenging, but soon you’ll be rewarded with lush green meadows and the clear blue waters of the Shimshal Pass lakes. Camp for the night on the lakeshore and take in breathtaking views of Manglik Sar and the surrounding Karakoram peaks. 

If your trek falls at the end of July or early August, you might witness the Shimshal Yak Race Festival, a rare and lively event where local race yak, sing, and dance. It’s a unique chance to experience a centuries-old tradition high in the mountains. 

 Accommodation 
• Camping 
Meals Included: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner 

Today you can take an optional climb to Manglik Sar a long but rewarding 10–12-hour trek with 1,500 m ascent. From the summit, enjoy stunning views of K2, Mustagh Peak, and the Karakoram peaks. If you prefer, spend a relaxing day soaking in the beauty of Shimshal Pass. 

 Accommodation 
• Camping 
Meals Included: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner 

After enjoying your time at Shimshal Pass, it’s time to head back down to Shuijerab. The trek takes about 5 hours, winding through the same meadows and trails you came up, giving one last chance to soak in the mountain scenery before returning to camp.  

Accommodation 
• Camping 
Meals Included: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner 

Descend for about 6 hours, enjoying stunning glaciers and mountain views. 

Accommodation 
• Camping 
Meals Included: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner 

Hike back to Past Furzeen at a relaxed pace, taking in breathtaking mountain views. Spend your final night camping under the stars, surrounded by the serene mountain landscape. 

Accommodation 
• Camping 
Meals Included: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner 

On your final day of the Shimshal Pass Trek, descend along the Shimshal River back to Shimshal Village. Arrive by early afternoon and spend time exploring the village, meeting locals, and experiencing their daily life and traditions up close. 

Accommodation 
• Guest House / Camping 
Meals Included: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner 

Today, experience rural life with local shepherds, visit animal shelters and learn traditional herding practices. Then, embark on an exciting jeep journey through rugged mountains toward Borith, passing scenic Passu, and arrive at Borith Lake for a peaceful overnight stay amidst nature.  

Accommodation: 
• Borith Lake Hotel and Resort 

Meals Included: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner 

Today is free for relaxation and exploration at your own pace. Enjoy a peaceful walk around the lake, capture stunning photographs, explore nearby trails, or visit local villages to experience the region’s culture and lifestyle.  

In the evening, you’ll be invited to a local family home for a traditional dinner, a wonderful opportunity to enjoy authentic cuisine, and warm mountain hospitality. 

Accommodation: 
• Borith Lake Hotel and Resort  

Meals Included: Breakfast-Dinner

After breakfast, we begin our scenic drive along the legendary Karakoram Highway towards Chilas, following the dramatic course of the Indus River. 

From Chilas, we continue via the spectacular Babusar Pass (weather permitting) into the beautiful Naran–Kaghan Valley. The high mountain pass offers breathtaking views of alpine landscapes, glaciers, and lush valleys along the way. 

Accommodation: 

• North Retreat 

Meals Included: Breakfast-Dinner 

After breakfast, we depart for Islamabad. En route, we stop at Taxila, one of the most significant archaeological sites of the Gandharan Buddhist civilisation. The area flourished from the 6th century BC to the 5th century AD and features impressive ruins of ancient monasteries, stupas, and settlements. We will also visit the well-curated Taxila Museum, which houses an outstanding collection of Gandharan art and artefacts. 

Continuing to Islamabad, the afternoon is free for last-minute shopping at a local market. 

In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant, celebrating the memorable journey through northern Pakistan. 

Accommodation: 

• Burj-ul-Zaki, Grand, Ambrina Hotel   

Meals Included: Breakfast-Dinner 

After breakfast, transfer to Islamabad International Airport for your onward flight. 

Meals Included: Breakfast