Braldu Glacier and Snow Lake Ski Expedition

Embarking on a skiing expedition through the Braldu Glacier and Snow Lake region is an ambitious undertaking, requiring careful planning and preparation. Here's a possible itinerary, keeping in mind that flexibility is crucial due to the unpredictable nature of mountain weather and terrain.

The Braldu Glacier and Snow Lake region in Pakistan's Karakoram range offer several peaks suitable for ski descents. Notable peaks in this area include:​

1. Baintha Brakk (The Ogre): Standing at 7,285 meters, Baintha Brakk is a prominent peak near Snow Lake. Its challenging slopes have attracted advanced skiers seeking high-altitude experiences. 

2. Latok Peaks: This group of peaks, also located near Snow Lake, offers steep and technical descents suitable for experienced skiers.

3. Kanjut Sar (7,760m): Situated in the vicinity of Snow Lake, Kanjut Sar provides opportunities for ski mountaineering on its expansive slopes.

4. Distaghil Sar (7,885m): Another significant peak near Snow Lake, Distaghil Sar offers challenging terrain for skilled skiers.

5. Makrong Chhish (6,607m): This peak also lies in the Snow Lake region and presents opportunities for ski descents.

6. Spantik (Golden Peak): Standing at 7,027 meters, Spantik is the highest peak in the Spantik-Sosbun Mountains. While it is a popular climbing destination, its suitability for skiing would depend on current conditions and the specific route chosen.

7. Sosbun Brakk: At 6,413 meters, Sosbun Brakk is another significant peak in the Spantik-Sosbun sub-range. Like Spantik, its potential for ski descents would require assessment of the terrain and snow conditions.

8. Peaks along the Biafo and Hispar Glaciers: The Biafo and Hispar glaciers, which converge at Snow Lake, are surrounded by numerous peaks, some exceeding 6,500 meters. These areas have been explored for ski expeditions, and certain peaks may offer viable ski descents.

These peaks are known for their remote and challenging terrains, making them suitable for experienced ski mountaineers. It's essential to conduct thorough research and consult with local guides or expedition companies when planning a ski expedition in this region.

Day 1. Islamabad Arrival ✈️

Touch down in Islamabad—Pakistan’s vibrant capital perched at ~500 m altitude. Spend your first evening indoors, fine-tuning your ski kit, securing final permits, and reviewing route safety with your expedition leaders. It’s a low-altitude yet essential day to rest, acclimate, and mentally prepare for the high mountain challenges ahead.

Day 2. Islamabad–Chilas 🚗

Fly (weather permitting) from Islamabad toward Chilas—or, if skies don’t cooperate, embark on a scenic, adrenaline-charged overland drive via the Karakoram Highway. Gain altitude gradually reaching around 1,265 m while the dramatic gorge landscapes get you into expedition mode. Overnight in comfortable lodgings in Chilas.

Day 3. Chilas–Gilgit 🏔

Continue overland into the dramatic mountains toward Gilgit (~1,500 m), a bustling mountaineering hub. The winding road follows the Indus River, gaining elevation and excitement. Tonight, rest up and review the terrain—tomorrow, your journey truly begins.

Day 4. Gilgit Final Preparations 🧗

A full day to sharpen your focus—fit your skis, finalize high-altitude gear, run through safety drills, and assess glacier maps with your mountain leaders. Stock up on last supplies and acclimatize as you face Gilgit’s brisk mountain air.

Day 5. Gilgit–Karimabad 🏞

Transfer by road up into the Hunza Valley to Karimabad (~2,500 m). The climb offers sweeping vistas of Rakaposhi and surrounding peaks. It's another acclimatization opportunity—and a chance to glimpse cultural richness before entering frozen wilderness.

Day 6. Karimabad–Shimshal 🏔

Venture by jeep to Shimshal Village—gateway to the Braldu watershed. At ~3,300 m, this is your last bastion of civilization before entering pristine glaciated terrain. Final boots and ski prep: your blades await the first glacial nudge.

Days 7–9. Shimshal to Shimshal Pass 🎿

Begin your ski-mountaineering traverse towards Shimshal Pass (~4,735 m). Over ~36 km, you’ll ascend and glide along snow-packed ridges, navigating steep sections and exposure—each turn raises both altitude and exhilaration. Expect around 5–7 hours of moving each day.

Days 10–12. Shimshal Pass to Braldu Glacier 🏔

Cross Shimshal Pass and descend onto the Braldu Glacier (~3,600–4,000 m). Skiing shifts to sweeping glacial surfaces, transitioning to a rhythm of glide, occasional kick-turns, and scouting crevasse networks. This ~33 km journey immerses you deeper into Karakoram’s icy heart.

Days 13–14. Braldu Glacier to Lukpe La (Snow Lake Approach) ⛷

Ascend toward Lukpe La (also spelled Lupke La), the threshold to Snow Lake. The glacier and moraines underfoot demand precise skiing under thin air. Total distance ~40 km—these two days test your endurance and glacier-terrain skills as you edge closer to the basin.

Days 15–24. Snow Lake Exploration ❄️

Nine full days to roam the sprawling glacial basin of Snow Lake (16 km across), ski its tributaries, and perhaps ascend nearby skiable peaks if conditions allow. Expect varied terrain—crevassed fields, snow expanses, steeper alpine slopes—and allocate time for rest, photo ops, and weather-window strategy.

Days 22–24. Snow Lake to Askole ⛷

Begin your descent toward Askole, the final glacial frontier. The terrain becomes more fraught—mixed snow, brittle moraine, and complex glacier transitions—demanding expert navigation. These final ski miles are tough and technically demanding, but immensely rewarding.

Day 25. Askole–Skardu 🚙

Trade skis for a jeep as you drive back via the Braldu Valley to Skardu. Let your muscles unwind as you descend in altitude. Celebrate the journey’s success over hearty meals and warm lodgings.

Day 26. Skardu–Chilas ✈️/🚗

Weather permitting, fly toward Islamabad or retrace the route by road to Chilas, absorbing final mountainous panoramas—the trip nearly complete.

Day 27. Chilas–Islamabad 🚗

Descend all the way back to the capital. Reflect on frozen expanses conquered, peaks glimpsed, and hard-earned glides. Your kit rests—but memories endure.

Day 28. Departure Home 🏠

Final airport transfer from Islamabad—to home, or onward. Your boots may be dusty, but your spirit remains high, etched with frozen horizons from the Karakoram’s snowy heart.