Naltar Pass Trek
Altitude
4,600m
Duration
15-20 Days
Best Season
N/A
Overview
Reaching an altitude of approximately 4,600m, the Naltar–Ishkoman Pass Trek showcases a unique side of northern Pakistan, where green valleys and dense forests contrast sharply with high mountain terrain. Beginning in the famous Naltar Valley—known for its greenery and winter skiing—the route ascends through flowery meadows and wooded slopes before crossing the Naltar Pass. From the top, trekkers enjoy sweeping views of the Hindukush range before descending into the remote Ishkoman Valley. With its moderate difficulty, rich vegetation, and scenic diversity, the Naltar Pass Trek is ideal for trekkers seeking a rewarding high-altitude experience without extreme remoteness or technical difficulty.
Highlights
Islamabad and Rawalpindi Exploration
Welcome to Islamabad. Upon arrival at the airport, you will be transferred to your hotel for check-in. In the afternoon, enjoy a guided tour of the twin cities, visiting the iconic Faisal Mosque, Shakar Parian, the Pakistan Monument, and Daman-e-Koh. We will also explore the Lok Virsa Museum and the vibrant heritage of Rawalpindi’s Old Bazaar and Raja Bazaar. Accommodation: Hotel. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Islamabad to Chilas via Babusar Pass
We begin our journey north with a 279 km drive to Naran. After lunch, we continue for 113 km to Chilas via the spectacular Babusar Pass. At 4,173m, this pass is the highest point in the Kaghan Valley and serves as a vital link to the Karakoram Highway. The route is world-renowned for its dramatic hairpin turns and alpine vistas. Accommodation: Hotel. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Drive to Gilgit and Naltar Lake
A 134 km drive takes us to Gilgit for lunch. From there, we proceed on a 2-hour journey (65 km) into the heart of the mountains to reach the turquoise Naltar Lake. We establish our first camp here amidst the serene alpine scenery. Accommodation: Camping. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Trek to Lower Shani
Our trekking expedition officially begins today with a 3-4 hour hike (9.5 km) to Lower Shani. The trail involves a gradual ascent of 420m, providing an excellent opportunity to find your trekking rhythm and begin acclimatizing to the higher elevation. Accommodation: Camping. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Trek to Pakora High Camp
Today is a shorter but more focused ascent as we trek to Pakora High Camp. The 4.4 km journey takes approximately 2-3 hours, involving a 540m climb. This position places us in the ideal location for the following day’s pass crossing. Accommodation: Camping. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Trek to Jut via the Pass
This is a significant day of trekking, lasting 6-8 hours and covering 12.1 km. We ascend 480m to navigate the high terrain before beginning a long 1,320m descent to the campsite at Jut (also known as Uts). The views throughout this traverse are among the most striking in the region. Accommodation: Camping. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Trek to Pakora
We continue our descent with a 3-4 hour trek (9.5 km) toward the settlement of Pakora. The trail loses 117m in altitude, making for a relatively relaxing day as we move into lower, more inhabited valley sections. Accommodation: Camping. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Trek to Asumbar
A 3-4 hour trek brings us to Asumbar. The route is culturally enriching as we pass through the small, traditional settlements of Asumbar village, offering a glimpse into the local mountain lifestyle. Accommodation: Camping. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Trek to Lower Charinj
Moving deeper into the valley system, we trek for 4-6 hours (8.4 km) to reach Lower Charinj. The path involves a gentle 270m ascent through rugged terrain. Accommodation: Camping. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Trek to Upper Borta Bort
Today's trek is an 8 km journey taking 3-4 hours. We gain a significant 810m in altitude as we move up to the high pastures of Upper Borta Bort. This elevation gain is rewarded with expansive views of the surrounding peaks. Accommodation: Camping. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Trek to Mayur
A demanding 5-6 hour trek (10.6 km) across varied terrain. We ascend 570m before a steep 930m descent leads us to the Mayur campsite. The landscape here is characterized by dramatic shifts in geography. Accommodation: Camping. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Trek to Dal Sandhi
Continuing our descent, we trek for 5-6 hours over a distance of 17.7 km to reach Dal Sandhi. This day is focused on following the valley floor, losing another 930m in altitude. Accommodation: Camping. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Trek to Darkot
Today involves a 3-4 hour combination of trekking and driving as we move toward the historic village of Darkot. This area is a significant gateway within the Hindu Raj range. Accommodation: Camping. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Trek to Boimoshani
We begin a fresh ascent today, trekking 9.6 km over 5-6 hours to Boimoshani. This leg involves a challenging 1,200m climb into a high-alpine environment. Accommodation: Camping. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Trek to Galtir
We trek 8.5 km (5-6 hours) to reach Galtir. This area is known for its summer settlements, where local herders graze their livestock in the high pastures during the warmer months. Accommodation: Camping. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Trek to Handis
We begin our final major descent, trekking for 4-5 hours (8.6 km) down to Handis. The trail drops 940m in altitude, bringing us back toward the greener sections of the lower valley. Accommodation: Camping. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Trek to Ghotulti and Return to Gilgit
The final trekking leg brings us to Ghotulti. From here, we transition to vehicles for the drive back to Gilgit town. After two weeks in the wilderness, you will enjoy the comforts of a hotel stay. Accommodation: Hotel. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Return to Naran
We drive 234 km (5-6 hours) back to Naran. After checking into the hotel and refreshing, we will take an evening excursion to the legendary Saif-ul-Maluk Lake, famous for its beauty and local folklore. Accommodation: Hotel. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Drive to Islamabad via Taxila
A 6-7 hour drive (279 km) returns us to Islamabad. En route, we stop to visit the Taxila Museum and its ancient archaeological sites, exploring the rich Gandharan history of the region. Accommodation: Hotel. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Final Departure
Our staff will transfer you to Islamabad International Airport for your return flight home. End of services. Meals: Breakfast.
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