Shimshal Pass Trek
Altitude
4,720m
Duration
15-20 Days
Best Season
N/A
Overview
Located in the far reaches of Gilgit-Baltistan, the Shimshal Pass Trek offers trekkers a rare combination of cultural immersion and dramatic Karakoram scenery. The route travels through the rugged Shimshal Valley, home to the resilient Shimshali people, whose traditional lifestyle and hospitality are central to the trekking experience. Ascending to Shimshal Pass at approximately 4,720m, trekkers are rewarded with breathtaking views of K2 (8,611m) and numerous other iconic Karakoram peaks. With its remote setting, vast landscapes, and minimal outside influence, the Shimshal Pass Trek is considered one of the most authentic and rewarding wilderness treks in the Karakoram.
Highlights
Arrival in Islamabad
Welcome to Pakistan. Upon your arrival at Islamabad International Airport, our representative will meet you and provide a private transfer to your hotel. The day is reserved for rest and recuperation from your international journey. In the evening, the group will gather for a comprehensive briefing on the Shimshal Pass Trek. Depending on arrival times, optional sightseeing in the capital city, established in 1961, may be available. Altitude: 540m. Accommodation: Hotel. Meals: Dinner.
Drive to Naran
After breakfast, we depart the capital and journey north toward Naran. The route traverses the historical towns of Taxila, Hassan Abdal, and Abbottabad. We join the Karakoram Highway (KKH) at Hassan Abdal and follow it to Mansehra before turning toward the lush Naran Valley. Naran offers a significantly cooler climate and alpine scenery. Distance: 231km. Duration: 8 hours. Accommodation: Hotel. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Drive to Karimabad
We continue our epic journey along Naran Road to rejoin the famous Karakoram Highway, a feat of engineering completed in 1973. The drive offers spectacular vistas as we cross the Babusar Pass and pass the unique junction where the Karakoram, Himalaya, and Hindukush ranges meet. We will enjoy views of Nanga Parbat and Rakaposhi (7,788m) while following the Hunza River to Karimabad. Distance: 320km. Duration: 7 hours. Accommodation: Hotel. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Sightseeing in Karimabad
A full day is dedicated to exploring Karimabad, the historic capital of the Hunza Valley, situated beneath Ultar Peak (7,833m). Highlights include visits to the local bazaar and the UNESCO-listed Baltit and Altit Forts, which date back over 700 years. The evening features a trip to Eagle’s Nest for a panoramic sunset view over the Hunza Valley and Rakaposhi. Altitude: 2,440m. Accommodation: Hotel. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Drive to Shimshal Village
We rejoin the KKH, passing Attabad Lake and Gulmit, before turning onto the dramatic Shimshal Road. Upon arrival in Shimshal village around lunchtime, the afternoon is free to engage with the local Wakhi community and observe their traditional way of life. Shimshal is a historic settlement with a population of approximately 1,100 people. Distance: 120km. Duration: 3-4 hours. Altitude: 3,100m. Accommodation: Guest House/Camping. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Trek to Past Furzeen
The trekking phase commences today. The initial day is often the most demanding as your body adjusts to the high-altitude environment. We cross two bridges to reach Garsar for lunch, followed by a steady ascent to the Past Furzeen campsite. Duration: 6-7 hours. Altitude: 3,360m. Accommodation: Camping. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Trek to Arbob Peryeen
We continue toward Arbob Peryeen, often passing local Shimshali residents moving between the village and the high pastures. The route involves steep sections and a crossing of the Chichan Bridge. Throughout the day, we are treated to magnificent views of Manglik Sar (6,050m) and Chashkin (6,000m). Duration: 6 hours. Altitude: 3,930m. Accommodation: Camping. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Trek to Shuijarab
This is a scenic and relatively easy trekking day leading to the summer herd settlements at Shuijarab. These green meadows are maintained by Shimshali women who spend the summer months here tending to Yaks, goats, and sheep. This offers a rare, authentic look at the region’s pastoral traditions and renowned hospitality. Duration: 6 hours. Altitude: 4,450m. Accommodation: Camping. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Acclimatization at Shuijarab
A rest day to facilitate acclimatization and fully immerse in the local culture. Early risers can witness the morning activity of the herds leaving for pasture. Spend time with the Shimshali shepherds to learn about their daily routines in these high-altitude summer grazing grounds. Accommodation: Camping. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Trek to Shimshal Pass
We ascend to the Shimshal Pass. While the first few hours are challenging, the reward is a lush green meadow and the crystal-clear turquoise lakes of the pass. We establish our camp on the banks of the lake with views of Manglik Sar. If visiting in late July or early August, you may witness the ancient Yak racing festival. Duration: 5 hours. Altitude: 4,750m. Accommodation: Camping. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Optional Climb: Manglik Sar (6,050m)
An optional summit day for those seeking a challenge. Manglik Sar is a non-technical peak, but requires high physical fitness for the 10-12 hour return journey (1,500m ascent/descent). Crampons and an ice axe may be required. The summit offers views of K2 and the Muztagh Range. Non-climbers may enjoy a relaxing day exploring the beauty of the pass. Accommodation: Camping. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Return Trek to Shuijarab
After breaking camp at the Shimshal Pass, we begin our descent back to the Shuijarab meadows. This return leg allows for further appreciation of the high-altitude flora and mountain vistas. Duration: 5 hours. Altitude: 4,450m. Accommodation: Camping. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Return Trek to Arbob Peryeen
We retrace our steps back to Arbob Peryeen, enjoying a familiar yet different perspective of the surrounding glaciers and the Karakoram peaks. Duration: 6 hours. Altitude: 3,930m. Accommodation: Camping. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Return Trek to Past Furzeen
Continue the descent toward Past Furzeen. This marks our final night camping under the spectacular stars of the Karakoram. Duration: 5 hours. Altitude: 3,360m. Accommodation: Camping. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Trek to Shimshal Village
Our final walking day follows the Shimshal River back into the village, arriving by early afternoon. This is a final opportunity to explore the historical settlement and visit with the local community after the successful completion of the trek. Duration: 4 hours. Altitude: 3,100m. Accommodation: Guest House/Camping. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Drive to Karimabad
After bidding farewell to our porters, we drive back to the KKH and follow the Hunza River to Karimabad. We travel through the Attabad tunnels, bypassing the lake formed by the 2010 landslide. The afternoon is free for shopping for handmade souvenirs or relaxing in Karimabad. Distance: 120km. Duration: 4 hours. Accommodation: Hotel. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Drive to Naran
We head south on the KKH, passing the Rakaposhi viewpoint and the junction of the three great mountain ranges. We depart the KKH near Chilas to cross the Babusar Pass once more, arriving in the alpine surroundings of Naran for the night. Distance: 320km. Duration: 6 hours. Accommodation: Hotel. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Drive to Islamabad
Our journey continues through the Naran Valley to Mansehra, where we rejoin the KKH. We pass through Abbottabad, known for its military academy and prestigious schools, and reach Hassan Abdal before the final stretch to Islamabad. Distance: 231km. Duration: 8 hours. Accommodation: Hotel. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
International Departure
We provide a final transfer to Islamabad International Airport for your return flight home. End of services. Meals: Breakfast.
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