Travel Information
Everything you need to know for a seamless adventure in the Karakoram and Himalayan mountains
Preparing for Your Adventure
An expedition to the Karakoram and Himalayas is the adventure of a lifetime. To ensure your journey with North Karakoram is seamless and memorable, we've compiled everything you need to know before you pack your bags.
Choose Your Season
Each season offers a unique experience in the mountains
Summer
June - August
Prime trekking & mountaineering season
- K2 Base Camp
- Gondogoro La
- High passes open
Spring
April - May
Cherry blossoms & cultural tours
- Hunza Valley
- Lower altitude treks
- Pleasant weather
Autumn
September - October
Golden foliage & clear skies
- Photography tours
- Valley exploration
- Stable weather
Winter
December - March
Snow leopard tracking & winter adventures
- Wildlife tracking
- Snow activities
- Fewer tourists
Everything You Need to Know
Visa Requirements
Entry documentation made simple
Tourist E-Visa
Most nationalities are eligible for Pakistan's convenient online E-Visa system. Apply from home and receive your visa electronically.
Trekking Visa
For restricted zones like Baltoro Glacier and K2 Base Camp, a specific Trekking Visa with special permits is required.
Our Support
As your licensed tour operator, North Karakoram provides the official Letter of Invitation (LOI) and all supporting documents for your visa application.
Visa Requirements
Entry documentation made simple
Tourist E-Visa
Most nationalities are eligible for Pakistan's convenient online E-Visa system. Apply from home and receive your visa electronically.
Trekking Visa
For restricted zones like Baltoro Glacier and K2 Base Camp, a specific Trekking Visa with special permits is required.
Our Support
As your licensed tour operator, North Karakoram provides the official Letter of Invitation (LOI) and all supporting documents for your visa application.
Getting Here
Your journey to the mountains
International Arrival
Fly into Islamabad International Airport (ISB). We recommend arriving 1-2 days early to rest and handle any logistical delays.
Scenic Flight
A breathtaking 1-hour flight from Islamabad to Skardu offers views of Nanga Parbat and the Karakoram range. Note: Weather dependent.
Karakoram Highway
If flights are cancelled, travel the legendary KKH - an adventure itself, following the Indus River through stunning landscapes.
Health & Altitude
Stay safe at elevation
Acclimatization
Skardu sits at 2,228m (7,310ft). Our itineraries feature gradual ascent profiles designed to prevent Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).
Physical Fitness
Ensure you're physically prepared for your chosen activity. Technical treks require good cardiovascular endurance and stamina.
Travel Insurance
Mandatory for all trekkers. Must cover medical evacuation (helicopter rescue) up to 6,000m or your trek's maximum altitude.
Money & Connectivity
Practical tips for remote areas
Currency
The Pakistani Rupee (PKR) is the local currency. Exchange rates are favorable for most major currencies.
Cash is Essential
ATMs are unreliable in remote mountain regions. Carry sufficient cash for personal expenses, souvenirs, and tips.
Mobile Connectivity
International roaming often doesn't work. SCOM is the local provider - we'll help you get a local SIM for 4G in major towns.
Cultural Etiquette
Respect local traditions
Dress Code
Modest clothing is appreciated. For both men and women, covering shoulders and knees shows respect for local customs.
Photography
Always ask permission before photographing locals, especially women. Most people are friendly and happy to pose.
Leave No Trace
The mountains are sacred to many communities. Follow Leave No Trace principles to keep our environment pristine.
What to Bring
We provide camping equipment. Here's your personal gear checklist.
Clothing
- Base layers (moisture-wicking)
- Insulating fleece/down jacket
- Waterproof/windproof shell
- Trekking pants & shorts
- Warm hat & sun hat
- Gloves (liner & insulated)
Footwear
- Broken-in trekking boots
- Camp shoes/sandals
- Gaiters for snow
- Moisture-wicking socks
Gear
- Daypack (30-40L)
- Trekking poles
- Headlamp + batteries
- Water bottles/hydration bladder
- Sleeping bag liner
Protection
- High SPF sunscreen
- UV-blocking sunglasses
- Lip balm with SPF
- First aid kit
- Personal medications
Want a complete detailed packing list?
Common Questions
Yes, most nationalities require a visa. Pakistan offers an easy E-Visa system for tourists. We provide all necessary support documents including the Letter of Invitation.
Fitness requirements vary by trek. For K2 Base Camp, you should be able to walk 6-8 hours per day with a daypack. We recommend starting a training program 3-4 months before your trip.
Gilgit-Baltistan is one of the safest regions in Pakistan for tourists. The local communities are incredibly hospitable, and crime against tourists is virtually unheard of.
Our itineraries are designed with proper acclimatization. We ascend gradually, include rest days, and our guides are trained to recognize and manage AMS symptoms.
Have More Questions?
Our team is here to help you plan the perfect adventure. Reach out anytime and we'll guide you through every step.