Thalle La Trek
Altitude
4,600m
Duration
10-15 Days
Best Season
N/A
Overview
The Thalle La Trek follows a remote mountain route and crosses the scenic Thalle La Pass at approximately 4,600m. Designed with a strong focus on acclimatization, safety, and enjoyment, this trek rewards experienced trekkers with dramatic alpine scenery, wide mountain vistas, and a true wilderness experience. Changing weather and high-altitude conditions make flexibility and teamwork essential throughout the journey.
Highlights
Arrival in Islamabad
Welcome to Pakistan. Upon arrival at Islamabad International Airport, our staff will meet and greet you before transferring you to the group hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to recover from your travels. Later in the evening, we will convene for a comprehensive group briefing on the Thalle La Trek. Optional sightseeing in the purpose-built capital is available depending on arrival times. Accommodation: Hotel. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner.
Flight to Skardu
Transfer to the airport for a spectacular 45-minute mountain flight to Skardu, the capital of Baltistan, offering vistas of Nanga Parbat, K2, and Gondogoro Pass. Should the flight be cancelled, we will undertake an 8-9 hour (461km) drive to Naran via the Karakoram Highway. The afternoon in Skardu includes visits to local bazaars, historical forts, and the 8th-century Manthal Buddha Rock. Accommodation: Hotel. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner.
Skardu Sightseeing
Begin the morning with a hike to the 18th-century Kharpocho Fort for panoramic views of the Indus River and Skardu town. We will then visit the Organic Village, known for its traditional sustainable farming. The afternoon is free for independent exploration, with optional jeep tours to Satpara Lake or local market visits available upon request. Accommodation: Hotel. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner.
Drive to Khaplu
A 3-hour journey following the Indus and Shyok rivers leads us 105 kilometers east to Khaplu. The drive provides a dramatic contrast between seasonal blossoms and rugged peaks. After checking into the hotel, we will visit the 14th-century Chaqchan Monastery, one of the oldest and most significant religious sites in Baltistan. Accommodation: Hotel. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner.
Drive to Thalle Village
We depart by 4x4 jeep, crossing the Shyok River via a wooden suspension bridge to follow the Thalle Lungma. The drive winds through picturesque barley and potato fields to Olmo Village, the highest summer settlement in the valley. After a warm welcome and tea, we will conduct an acclimatization hike. While daytime temperatures are pleasant, nights can drop to -5°C. Ascent: 250m. Accommodation: Full-service camping. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Trek to Azalan
The trekking phase begins with a 6-hour walk through the Thalle Valley. The trail features lush green slopes where herds of Yak and cattle graze freely. We will pause at traditional shepherd huts to experience local hospitality and sample fresh milk products. Following a hot lunch, we continue to our camp at the foot of Thalle La. Ascent: 400m. Accommodation: Full-service camping. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Cross Thalle La to Raseppi
An early start is required to climb the Thalle La pass (4,572m). The ascent is adorned with alpine flowers and leads to a summit view of the Haramosh group to the west and the Siachen Mountains to the east. The 3-hour descent passes through thick juniper forests and heavenly meadows to reach the Raseppi campsite. Ascent: 900m. Accommodation: Full-service camping. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Trek to Shigar
Our final walking day involves a 4-hour descent through green pastures and across the Bangma River. The trek concludes in Shigar town, where we walk directly into the Shigar Fort Residence. This 17th-century restored Raja palace offers a unique heritage experience and a well-earned hot shower. Ascent: 500m. Accommodation: Hotel. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Return Flight to Islamabad
Weather permitting, we fly back to Islamabad, passing Nanga Parbat once more. Upon arrival, a private bus transfers the group to the hotel. The afternoon is free for self-guided sightseeing or shopping for hand-made Iranian and Afghan rugs. We will gather in the evening for a celebratory farewell meal. In case of flight cancellation, we will drive to Chilas. Accommodation: Hotel. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Contingency Day
This day is reserved as a buffer for travel delays. If the road journey from Chilas is required, we will arrive in the capital by late afternoon. If the flight was successful, the day is dedicated to further sightseeing in Islamabad with recommendations provided by our staff. We will enjoy a final group dinner together. Accommodation: Hotel. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
International Departure
Following breakfast, you will be transferred to Islamabad International Airport for your departure flight. This marks the end of the Thalle La Trek Pakistan.
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