Laila Peak Expedition
Altitude
6,096m
Duration
20-25 Days
Best Season
N/A
Overview
The Laila Peak Expedition is ideal for climbers seeking their first high-altitude experience in the Karakoram. While the routes are relatively straightforward, the peak requires good alpine skills and proper acclimatization. Climbers are rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Highlights
Arrival in Islamabad
Welcome to Pakistan. Upon your arrival at Islamabad International Airport, our staff will meet and transfer you to the group hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to recover from your journey. Once the group has assembled, we will conduct a formal briefing regarding the Laila Peak Expedition. Depending on the schedule, there may be an opportunity for afternoon sightseeing in Islamabad, the nation's purpose-built capital. Accommodation: Hotel. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Spectacular Flight to Skardu (2,230m)
We transfer to Islamabad Airport for a breathtaking 45-minute flight to Skardu, the capital of Baltistan. This aerial route offers stunning vistas of the Himalayas and Karakoram, including Nanga Parbat, K2, and the Gondogoro Pass. After checking into the hotel, the afternoon is free to explore the local bazaar or visit the 8th-century Manthal Lord Buddha Rock. Note: If the flight is cancelled due to weather, we will drive the Karakoram Highway to Chilas for an overnight stay. Accommodation: Hotel. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Sightseeing and Expedition Preparation
Today includes an official briefing at the tourism department and a meeting with your expedition crew, including porters and guides. Later, we visit the historic Kharpocho Fort for panoramic views of the Indus River and Skardu town—a prime location for photography. You may also visit the nearby Organic Village to see traditional local farming. Accommodation: Hotel. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Drive to Hushe Village (3,170m)
We begin an exciting 6-hour jeep journey from Skardu, crossing the Indus and Shyok rivers. The route winds through Khaplu and picturesque lower Hushe Valley villages. We arrive in Hushe by early afternoon to establish our camp, dominated by the massive presence of Masherbrum (7,821m) to the north. Duration: 6 hours drive. Accommodation: Full-service camping. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Trek to Saicho (3,300m)
Our first trekking day is a smooth 5-hour walk toward Saicho. The trail offers pleasant views of Masherbrum Peak as our porters transport the expedition equipment. We arrive at the Saicho campsite by lunchtime, leaving the afternoon free for rest. Duration: 5 hours walk. Accommodation: Full-service camping. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Trek to Laila Peak Base Camp (4,535m)
After breakfast, we trek toward the Laila Peak Base Camp. This 4-5 hour journey takes us close to the Gondogoro Glacier, providing an exceptional vantage point for Masherbrum. We establish our camp by early afternoon. Duration: 4 hours walk. Accommodation: Full-service camping. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Acclimatization and Climbing Period
This period is dedicated to the non-guided climbing of Laila Peak. We utilize an advanced base camp at 5,765m on the east side of the Gondogoro Glacier. The climb involves approximately 1,500m of ascent on 55-degree slopes, featuring mixed terrain at the base and ice toward the summit. Our professional staff remains at base camp to provide logistical support and nutritious meals. Accommodation: Full-service camping. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Return Trek to Saicho (3,300m)
Upon concluding the climbing session, we dismantle our high camps and trek back to Saicho. This is a day for packing gear and ensuring the mountain environment is left clean. Duration: 4 hours walk. Accommodation: Full-service camping. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Return Trek to Hushe (3,170m)
An early start for our final short trek back to Hushe village. We celebrate the successful expedition with our porters and distribute tips and equipment as tokens of gratitude for their hard work. Duration: 4 hours walk. Accommodation: Full-service camping. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Drive to Skardu via Khaplu Valley
We bid farewell to our local staff and drive down the valley to Khaplu. We visit the historic Khaplu Fort and the Chaqchan Mosque before continuing along the Indus River back to Skardu. This evening marks a welcome return to hotel comforts and a warm shower. Duration: 6 hours drive. Accommodation: Hotel. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Return Flight to Islamabad
We transfer to Skardu Airport for the return flight to Islamabad, once again viewing Nanga Parbat from the air. Upon arrival, we transfer to the hotel. The afternoon is free for independent sightseeing or rug shopping. Note: In case of flight cancellation, we will drive the Karakoram Highway to Naran for an overnight stay. Accommodation: Hotel. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Contingency and Sightseeing Day
This is a vital contingency day to account for potential travel delays. If we arrived in Islamabad as scheduled, the day is free for further city exploration. In the evening, we convene for a final celebratory group dinner featuring traditional Pakistani cuisine. Accommodation: Hotel. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Final Departure
Following breakfast, we provide a final transfer to Islamabad International Airport for your departure flight. End of services. Meals: Breakfast.
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