The Virjerab La Pass Trek is an “Off-the-Map” expedition designed for elite trekkers. This route moves through the most isolated corners of the Karakoram, traversing from the high-altitude pastures of Shimshal over the formidable Virjerab Pass and descending into the Biafo-Hispar glacier system. You will witness the true wilderness of the Karakoram National Park, moving through terrains that see fewer than 50 people per year. It is a journey of extreme verticality, crossing crevassed glaciers, high-alpine meadows, and high mountain passes.
Drive from Karimabad/Passu via the dramatic Shimshal Gorge road. This 4-5 hour jeep journey is an adventure in itself, carved into vertical cliffs. Overnight at a guest house in Shimshal Village.
The trek begins. Follow the river heading east towards the Shimshal Pass route but veer towards the Virjerab corridor. A steady climb through rocky terrain. Camp at Chaghchagh.
A shorter day to aid acclimatization. Move through the summer pastures where Shimshalis graze their yaks. The views of the Distaghil Sar range begin to dominate the horizon.
A steady ascent through high-altitude scrubland. “Perth” refers to a flat landing or camping spot in the local dialect. You are now entering the deep wilderness of the Virjerab valley.
Trek alongside the moraine of the Virjerab glacier. This camp is named after local explorers, marking a key junction before the high ascent.
The terrain becomes increasingly glaciated. You will be walking on a mix of lateral moraine and ice. The air is thinning, and the peaks look close enough to touch.
A demanding day on loose scree and glacial debris. This camp is the final staging area before the high-altitude technical sections of the pass approach.
Move up to the “High Base Camp.” You are now surrounded by the high walls of the Virjerab range. Early rest is essential as tomorrow is the big push.
The crux of the trek. A steep snow/ice ascent to the summit of Virjerab La. From the top, witness the sprawling Sim Gang glacier below. Descend carefully to a high camp on the southern side of the pass.
Descend onto the massive Sim Gang Glacier. This is a vast “Snow Lake” environment. Rope work may be required depending on crevasse conditions.
Trek across the junction where the Sim Gang meets the Biafo Glacier. Karfogro is a classic campsite on the edge of the Biafo, offering spectacular views of the “Ogre” (Baintha Brakk).
A long day of glacier walking. Baintha is a rare green oasis amidst the ice, a favorite spot for Balti porters to rest and sing traditional songs.
The descent continues down the Biafo. The terrain remains rocky and glaciated until you reach the lateral moraine camp at Namla.
The final trekking day. Leave the ice behind and follow the trail into the village of Askole, the gateway to the K2 region. Celebration dinner with the crew.
A 6-7 hour jeep drive through the Braldu Valley and the Shigar Valley to Skardu. Hot showers and a soft bed await.
Accommodation: Hotels in Hunza/Skardu and high-quality mess/sleeping tents during the trek.
Transport: 4×4 Jeeps from Hunza to Shimshal and Askole to Skardu.
Permits: Central Karakoram National Park (CKNP) fees and trekking permits.
Staff: Experienced High-Altitude Guide, Cook, and Porters (25kg limit per porter).
Food: Three warm meals a day plus high-energy snacks for the pass crossing.
Equipment: Kitchen tent, toilet tent, and safety gear (ropes, etc.).
Personal Gear: Crampons, ice axe, sleeping bags, and personal trekking clothes.
Insurance: Helicopter rescue and medical insurance (Mandatory).
Tips: For porters and guides (standard practice in the Karakoram).
Extra Days: Any costs arising from flight cancellations or weather delays.
It is a Grade 5 (Extreme) trek. It requires previous high-altitude experience (above 5,000m) and a basic understanding of using crampons and roping up for glacial travel.
Because of the extreme isolation of the Virjerab valley, rescue is only possible via a military helicopter. You must have insurance that covers heli-evacuation.
The window is narrow: July to mid-August. Earlier, the snow is too deep; later, the crevasses on the Sim Gang become too dangerous to navigate.
No. This route is not marked, and the glaciers are constantly shifting. Local Shimshali or Balti guides are essential for navigation and safety.
