The Rush Lake Trek, curated by Karakoram Mountain Experts, is a spectacular loop through the heart of the Nagar Valley. The journey starts with a crossing of the mighty Hopar Glacier (Bualtar Glacier) and ascends through summer pastures to a sapphire-blue lake nestled beneath Rush Peak (5,090m). This trek is perfect for hikers who want a high-altitude experience, incredible glacial views, and the opportunity to summit a 5,000m peak without needing technical climbing equipment.
Rush Lake (4,694m): One of the highest alpine lakes in the world, reflecting the surrounding snowy giants in its still waters.
Rush Peak (5,090m): An optional, non-technical “trekking peak” summit providing a 360-degree view of K2, Broad Peak, and the Gasherbrums on a clear day.
Glacial Crossings: Navigate the dramatic, debris-covered Hopar and Barpu glaciers.
Nagar Culture: Experience the unique hospitality and history of the Nagar Valley, once a princely state.
Safety & Expertise: Travel with Karakoram Mountain Experts, utilizing our local knowledge of the fast-changing glacial moraines for a safe passage.
The Karakoram Mountain Experts team greets you at Islamabad International Airport. We transfer to your hotel for rest. In the afternoon, we hold a trek briefing followed by a visit to the colorful Raja Bazaar or a quiet dinner in the Margalla Hills.
We take the scenic flight to Gilgit. If the flight is cancelled due to weather, we drive the Karakoram Highway (KKH) along the Indus River to Chilas. The drive offers a glimpse of the ancient Silk Road.
We continue to the Hunza Valley. Along the way, we stop at the “Collision Point” of the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates and the Rakaposhi Viewpoint. We spend the evening in Karimabad, exploring the 700-year-old Baltit Fort.
A short Jeep drive takes us to Hopar Village (Nagar). After meeting our porters, we begin the trek by crossing the Hopar Glacier. The trail is a bit steep as we climb onto the lateral moraine to reach the Shishkin campsite (3,300m), a green patch overlooking the ice.
Today is a fascinating day of glacial navigation. We cross the Barpu Glacier to reach the summer pastures of Barpu Giram (3,500m). The views of the towering Golden Peak (Spantik) begin to dominate the horizon.
The ascent becomes steeper today as we climb toward the high pastures. We pass through areas where local shepherds graze their sheep and goats. We camp at Gutens ($3,900m$), a high-altitude meadow with breathtaking views of the surrounding spires.
A steady 4–5 hour climb brings us to the highlight of the trek: Rush Lake (4,694m). The lake is surrounded by alpine flowers and snow-capped peaks. We set up camp near the water’s edge. The silence and the reflection of the stars in the lake make this an unforgettable night.
For those with the energy, we start early to hike up Rush Peak ($5,090m$). No technical gear is needed—just a slow and steady pace. From the top, you can see K2 and the Karakoram giants in the distance. The rest of the day is spent relaxing by the lake.
We begin our descent via a different route to complete the loop. The trail takes us down to Phahi Phari (3,450m), a beautiful campsite located at the junction of two glaciers.
The final day of trekking takes us back across the glacier to Hopar Village. We say goodbye to our porters and take the Jeeps back to the comfort of our hotel in Karimabad for a celebratory dinner.
A well-deserved rest day. Visit the Altit Fort, walk through the traditional Royal Garden, and enjoy the famous “Walnut Cake” at the local cafes.
We drive back to Gilgit, stopping to shop for local gemstones or dried fruits in the bazaar.
Morning flight to Islamabad. The afternoon is free for final souvenir shopping or visiting the Faisal Mosque.
A buffer day for flight cancellations or road delays. If not needed, we can arrange a day trip to the ancient ruins of Taxila.
Transfer to the airport for your international flight home.
Licensed English-speaking mountain guide and professional cook.
All internal flights and private 4×4 Jeep transport.
Hotel accommodation in Islamabad and Skardu (twin sharing).
All camping equipment (tents, mattresses, mess tent, kitchen tent).
All meals on the trek and in cities.
Porters to carry 15kg of your personal luggage.
International airfare.
Pakistan Visa.
Travel insurance (must include helicopter rescue).
Personal gear (boots, -10°C sleeping bag, trekking poles).
Tips for the crew ($150 – $200 suggested).
It is considered a “moderate” trek. While there are some steep sections and glacial crossings, the distances are shorter than the K2 trek. It is an excellent choice for a first-time trekker in the Karakoram.
Yes! On a clear day, the distant silhouette of K2 is visible from the summit of Rush Peak.
The window is between late June and early September. July is the best month to see the alpine flowers in bloom around the lake.
Our guides are local to the Nagar and Hunza valleys. We don’t just know the trails; we know the families, the history, and the safest paths across the shifting glaciers.
