Charkusa Valley Trek
Altitude
4,600m
Duration
10-15 Days
Best Season
N/A
Overview
Beginning in the historic village of Hushe, the Charakusa Valley Trek leads trekkers through quiet settlements, alpine pastures, and shepherd huts before entering the wild terrain of the Charakusa Glacier. Surrounded by towering peaks such as K6 (7,281m) and K7 (6,934m), the valley is renowned for its dramatic landscapes, technical climbing routes, and pristine mountain environment. This trek is ideal for experienced trekkers and climbers seeking an adventurous route into one of the Karakoram’s most beautiful and less-traveled valleys, combining high mountain scenery with authentic Balti culture.
Highlights
Arrival in Islamabad
Welcome to Pakistan. Upon arrival at Islamabad International Airport, our guides will receive you and transfer you to the group hotel. The first day is dedicated to relaxation and recovery. A group briefing, final payments, and a welcome dinner will take place around 6:00 PM. Please provide flight details at least five days prior to arrival. Altitude: 540m. Accommodation: Hotel. Meals: Dinner.
Flight to Skardu
Take a spectacular morning flight from Islamabad to Skardu. Weather permitting, you will enjoy views of Nanga Parbat and the Karakoram range. Upon arrival in Skardu, the remainder of the day is at your leisure to adjust to the mountain air. Altitude: 2,498m. Accommodation: Hotel. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Exploration and Preparation in Skardu
After breakfast, enjoy a walk to the historic Kharpocho Fort for panoramic views of the Indus River and Skardu town. Optional excursions to Satpara Lake and the Skardu Bazaar for shopping are also available. Meanwhile, our staff will finalize the necessary government documentation and permits for the trek. Altitude: 2,598m. Accommodation: Hotel. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Drive to Hushe Valley
An early 6-hour jeep journey (127km) takes us through picturesque villages to Hushe, the highest village in the region. We navigate small tributary valleys that are best crossed in the morning before glacial melt increases. Our camp is set below the village, dominated by the massive bulk of Masherbrum (7,821m). Altitude: 3,050m. Accommodation: Camping. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Trek to Saicho
We begin our approach into the wilderness with a 2.5-hour (10km) trek. The path leads through terraced fields of corn and turnips before entering rugged mountain scenery. After crossing the Charakusa River via a wooden cantilever bridge, we reach the idyllic, tree-shaded campsite at Saicho, situated at the junction of the Charakusa and Gondogoro valleys. Altitude: 3,348m. Accommodation: Camping. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Trek to Spangsar
A 5-6 hour trek heading east into the ablation valley of the Sarak Tsa Glacier. Along the route, we witness the spires of K7 and Link Sar. We cross the Chogolisa Glacier to reach the verdant, flowery pastures of Spangsar (4,000m), set against the backdrop of granite slabs and Namika Peak. Accommodation: Camping. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Trek to K6/K7 Base Camp
Moving into higher terrain, we navigate the difficult ablation valley north of the Tsarak Tsa Glacier. The trek involves steady movement over uneven terrain and slippery rocks. Upon reaching the base camp, we focus on hydration and acclimatization while surrounded by the region's most iconic summits. Altitude: 4,600m. Accommodation: Camping. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Rest and Exploration at Base Camp
Two days dedicated to exploring the breathtaking surroundings of the Charkusa Valley. These days allow for acclimatization and leisurely excursions to various vantage points for panoramic views of K6 and K7. It is an ideal time for photography and observing the local alpine flora and fauna. Altitude: 4,600m. Accommodation: Camping. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Return Trek to Saicho
We begin our descent back toward civilization. The trek becomes significantly easier as we move from rocky heights to the lush landscapes of the Hushe Valley. We pass the Gondogoro Glacier and navigate through valleys of wild rhubarb to return to the sandy, forested camp at Saicho. Altitude: 3,350m. Accommodation: Camping. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Trek to Hushe and Drive to Skardu
A 3-4 hour final trek brings us back to Hushe village. After exploring the village and interacting with locals, we depart via jeep for Skardu. The journey includes crossing a suspension bridge over the Shyok River near Khaplu. Arriving in Skardu, you can finally enjoy a hot shower and a celebratory meal. Accommodation: Hotel. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Contingency and Rest in Skardu
A buffer day reserved for any potential delays encountered during the trek. This ensures you do not miss your return travel arrangements. Please note that additional hotel and meal expenses in Skardu on this day are the responsibility of the guest. Altitude: 2,400m. Accommodation: Hotel. Meals: Breakfast (Hotel).
Return Flight to Islamabad
Board the domestic flight from Skardu to Islamabad. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel for a day of relaxation. In the event of a flight cancellation, we will undertake a 10-hour drive to Chilas for an overnight stay. Altitude: 590m. Accommodation: Hotel. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner.
Flight Contingency Day
A secondary buffer day for flight cancellations. If we drove to Chilas the previous day, we will complete the final 10-hour leg to Islamabad today. If the flight was successful, this is a free day for sightseeing or shopping in the capital. Altitude: 538m. Accommodation: Hotel. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner.
International Departure
Our staff will transfer you to Islamabad International Airport according to your flight schedule. Check-out time is 12:00 PM. We wish you a safe journey home. Meals: Breakfast.
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