Shimshal Pass High Altitude Trekking Adventure
Shimshal Pass High Altitude Trekking Adventure
About this trek
Starts in Islamabad
Pickup included from anywhere in Islamabad
23 days
For ages 18 to 60
Best suited for the specified ages
Guided in English
Led by experience local guides
Cancellation options
Refund amount depends on when you cancel before the departure.
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Visit in Pakistan
Details
An unforgettable journey for adventure seekers, offering breathtaking views of the mighty Karakoram from the north and leading to the remote valley of Shimshal near Passu in Upper Hunza, close to Paki...
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Highlights
Breathtaking views of the mighty Karakoram from the north- Remote valley of Shimshal near Passu in Upper Hunza
- Cross Boesam Pass and Chapchingiol Pass
- Chance to see endangered wildlife in Khunjerab National Park
- Possible sightings of Markhor, Ibex, Marco Polo Sheep, Snow Leopard
- High Pamir meadow country with colorful flowers
- Terraced fields of Shimshal village
- Ancient Hunza traditions preserved in remote village
- Panoramic vistas of Karakoram landscape
- Yak grazing in alpine meadows
What's Included
Liaison with Ministry of Tourism for climbing permit processProcess during import/export permit from Ministry of TourismClearance of cargo and storageAssistance upon arrival/departureKitchen equipment, crockery, cutlery, fuel, and related community gear.Hotel accommodation in Rawalpindi/Islamabad, ChilasAll meals during trek and at B.C. as per itineraryPorterage of 75 kg per person to B.C., 50 kg returnItinerary
We will have city sightseeing. We may also drive to the modern Faisal Mosque in Islamabad.
We will fly in a Fokker Friendship turboprop plane, which flies at an altitude of about 4,500 m. It is surrounded by high peaks. In Gilgit, we have time to shop and do some sightseeing.
Today 5-hour drive into the northern Hunza valley. Gulmit is a small town on the KKH.
From Gulmit, we drive to Passu, crossing the Hunza River. This is a formidable place with steep walls on both sides. We will try to drive to Dut. The trip from Gulmit takes about 3 to 4 hours of driving.
This is a tough day's walk through some scree slopes. We are lucky that bridges have been built to help us cross the Shimshal River a couple of times. The walk takes about 6 to 7 hours.
In 3 to 4 hours of walking, we will reach our campsite next to the Malunguti Glacier. This is an excellent spot to rest a little after walking through the Shimshal gorge. We will be crossing mountain streams on the way.
We have to cross the problematic Malunguti Glacier before seeing the beautiful terraced fields of Shimshal village. The walk takes about 3 to 4 hours, and on our right, we can see the towering Distaghil Sar.
Shimshal is the heart of the Gojal region of Hunza. Old Hunza traditions have been preserved here in this remote and inaccessible village. This is an excellent place to rest and meet with the incredibly hospitable locals.
In about 5 to 6 hours of trekking uphill, we will come to Zardgarben. This is an excellent place to acclimatize.
This takes 4 to 5 hours, and we will be able to see some Ibex on the way. This is a campsite with many flowers.
Helpful answers
A remote, high-altitude trekking expedition through the Shimshal Valley in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan, crossing one of the historic mountain passes in the Karakoram Range and exploring high meadows, glaciers, and Pamir-style alpine terrain.
Shimshal Valley lies in the extreme upper Hunza region of Gilgit-Baltistan, north of Passu. The pass itself is situated high on the watershed between the Shimshal glaciers and the Chapchingiol side.
The best season is late June to early September, when snow melts from trails and conditions are more stable.
Yes. Trekking in the Shimshal region requires official permits arranged through a licensed operator due to restricted area regulations.
Altitude sickness can occur above 3,000 m. Guidance on acclimatisation and proper pacing is provided. Hydration, rest, and slow ascent practices help reduce risk.
The route includes steep scree slopes, glacier approaches, river crossings, moraine tracks, high alpine pastures with yak grazing, and remote valleys with few signs of human habitation.
No. This trek is best for fit and experienced trekkers who are comfortable with high-altitude long-distance walking and basic glacier terrain.
What to know
- Challenging trek requiring good physical fitness and high-altitude experience
- Ropes provided for river crossings and steep places
- Remote region with limited mobile phone signal
- Weather can be unpredictable with cold nights at high altitude
- Ancient Hunza traditions preserved in Shimshal village
- Cushion day included for weather or health delays
- Licensed local guide required for safety and navigation
- Camping in tents during trekking days
- Altitude sickness possible above 3,000m
- Best season: late June to early September
- Beginners without prior trekking experience
- People with heart conditions
- Those uncomfortable with high altitudes
- People with limited physical fitness
- Those seeking comfortable accommodation throughout
- People afraid of glacier crossings
- Those requiring constant mobile connectivity
- People with mobility issues
- Those uncomfortable with camping
- People seeking easy terrain
- Sturdy boots
- Layering clothing
- Waterproof shell
- Trekking poles
- Sun protection
- Hydration system
- First-aid kit
- High-altitude sleeping bag
- Personal climbing equipment beyond base camp
- Personal medications
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