The Shimshal Pass Trek is a journey into the heart of the “Pamir of Pakistan.” Located in the far northeast of the Gilgit-Baltistan region, Shimshal is one of the most remote inhabited valleys in the world. This trek is moderately strenuous, characterized by steep ascents and river crossings, leading to the high-altitude plateaus of Shuijerab and Shuwerth. It is a paradise for those who love wide-open spaces, seasonal wildflowers, and the sight of thousands of grazing yaks.
Shimshal Village: Visit the highest settlement in Hunza and meet the world-renowned high-altitude porters of Pakistan.
The Twin Lakes: Discover the crystal-clear Lupghar Lakes at the summit of the pass.
Karakoram Giants: Views of Distaghil Sar (7,885m), Shimshal White Horn (6,303m), and Minglik Sar (6,050m).
Wakhi Culture: Experience the traditional summer migration of the Shimshali people and their livestock.
Expert Support: Full logistical support provided by Karakoram Mountain Experts, ensuring safe passage through the rugged gorge.
The Karakoram Mountain Experts team will meet you at Islamabad International Airport. After transferring to your hotel, we’ll head to the Ministry of Tourism for the trek briefing. If time permits, we’ll visit the Faisal Mosque and enjoy a welcome dinner.
We take the spectacular flight to Gilgit, flying right past Nanga Parbat. If weather cancels the flight, we drive the Karakoram Highway (KKH) to Chilas. It’s a long day, but the views of the Indus River are worth it.
We continue our journey along the KKH, passing the Rakaposhi viewpoint and the scenic Attabad Lake. We spend the night in Passu, famous for the jagged “Passu Cones” spires that dominate the skyline.
Boarding 4×4 Jeeps, we navigate the legendary “Shimshal Gorge Road”—one of the most daring engineering feats in the region. The drive takes 4–5 hours. We arrive in the historic Shimshal Village (3,100m) and settle into our guesthouse.
The trek begins. We follow the Shimshal River through narrow gorges and over traditional wooden bridges. The trail involves some steep climbs and descents. After 6–7 hours, we reach our first camp at Past Furzin (3,500m).
Today involves a steady ascent through the rugged terrain. We cross several high ridges that offer views of the surrounding 6,000m peaks. The camp at Arbab Purian (3,900m) provides a stunning view of the sunset over the valley.
As we gain altitude, the gorge opens up into wide, alpine pastures. We enter the summer grazing grounds of the Shimshalis. After 5–6 hours of walking, we reach Shuijerab (4,350m), a lush green campsite often filled with grazing yaks.
A short but breathtaking climb brings us to the summit of the Shimshal Pass (4,735m). We set up camp at Shuwerth, near the two turquoise lakes. The scenery here is vast and mirrors the Tibetan plateau.
A day to soak in the beauty of the Pass. You can explore the nearby glaciers or hike toward the base camp of Minglik Sar. For the adventurous, a climb to the summit of Minglik Sar (6,050m) can be added with two extra days.
We begin our descent. The trek down feels much faster, and the changing light offers new perspectives on the rock formations we passed on the way up.
A long day of trekking brings us back to the warmth and hospitality of Shimshal Village. We celebrate the successful trek with a traditional Wakhi dinner and local music.
We take the Jeeps back through the gorge to the main KKH and head to Karimabad. Enjoy a hot shower, a real bed, and a visit to the historic Baltit and Altit Forts.
A short drive back to Gilgit. We spend the afternoon exploring the local bazaar or visiting the Kargah Buddha
Morning flight back to the capital. The afternoon is yours to relax or shop at the Centaurus Mall or Jinnah Super.
A buffer day for any delays. If all went according to plan, this is a free day in Islamabad for sightseeing.
Transfer to the airport for your journey home.
Expert guidance from the Karakoram Mountain Experts team.
All domestic flights and 4×4 Jeep transfers.
Hotel accommodation (Islamabad, Hunza, Gilgit) and high-quality camping gear.
All meals (cooked fresh daily) and snacks.
Porters for personal luggage (up to 12kg).
All permits and National Park entry fees.
International airfare.
Pakistan Visa fees.
Personal trekking gear (boots, sleeping bag rated to -10°C).
Travel and medical insurance (with rescue coverage).
Tips for porters and guides ($150 – $200 total recommended).
No, the standard trek to the pass is a non-technical hike. However, the terrain is steep and rocky in places. If you wish to climb Minglik Sar, basic mountaineering skills are required.
At the pass ($4,735m$), even in summer, temperatures can drop below freezing at night. Expect daytime temperatures around 10°C to 15°C.
Yes, but as with all Karakoram treks, we provide boiled and treated water for your safety.
Our deep ties to the Shimshal community allow us to provide an authentic cultural experience that few others can match. We don’t just guide; we share our home with you.
