Naltar and Hopar Ski Expedition

The Naltar and Hopar valleys in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan, offer several high-altitude peaks suitable for mountaineering and subsequent ski descents. Here are some notable mountains in these regions:​

Naltar Valley

1. Shani Peak (5,887 meters): Also known as Khaltar Peak, Shani is the highest in Naltar Valley, located south of Naltar Pass. Its eastern slopes are adorned by the Shani Glacier, which descends towards the Naltar Valley.

2. Mehrbani Peak (5,639 meters): Situated within the Naltar Valley, Mehrbani Peak lies northwest of Naltar Peak and south of Snow Dome. It's part of the Karakoram range and offers challenging routes for climbers and skiers.

3. Twins Group Peaks: Near Naltar Pass and Phakor Pass, this group comprises peaks such as Twins I (5,861 meters), Twins II (5,798 meters), Twins III (5,687 meters), and Twins IV (5,650 meters). These peaks present various opportunities for ski mountaineering.

Hopar Valley

4. Shaltar Peak (approximately 5,982 meters): Accessible from the Hunza Valley, Shaltar Peak offers routes with panoramic views of surrounding 7,000-meter peaks like Diran, Rakaposhi, Spantik, and Ultar. Climbers have noted its potential for ski descents.

5. Spantik (7,027 meters): Also known as Golden Peak, Spantik has seen successful ski descents. In 2019, Tiphaine Duperier and Boris Langenstein achieved the first successful ski descent of this peak, highlighting its suitability for extreme skiing.

6. Rush Peak (5,098 meters): Accessible from Hopar Valley, Rush Peak offers panoramic views of surrounding 7,000-meter peaks like Diran, Rakaposhi, Spantik, and Ultar. The ascent is considered non-technical, making it suitable for ski mountaineers seeking a less challenging climb with rewarding ski descents.

These peaks provide a range of challenges for mountaineers and ski enthusiasts. However, it's essential to conduct thorough research, assess current conditions, and consult with local authorities or experienced guides before planning an expedition.

Day 1 – Islamabad Arrival (Hotel Night) ✈

Your adventure begins with your arrival at Islamabad International Airport. You'll transfer to your hotel and settle in. This evening, meet your expert guides for a comprehensive briefing, checking every piece of your ski-mountaineering gear to ensure it's flight- and mountain-ready. A focused start sets the tone for the ascent ahead.

Day 2 – Explore Islamabad (Hotel Night) ⛅

A rest and prep day before heading north. Take optional flights to Gilgit depending on weather, or enjoy light sightseeing in Islamabad—cultural landmarks and final gear prep await. Recovery, acclimatization, and anticipation build today.

Day 3 – Islamabad → Gilgit (Hotel Night) ✈/🛣

Board a weather-dependent flight to Gilgit; if skies don’t cooperate, embark on a scenic drive via the Karakoram Highway. Arrive in Gilgit, check in, and enjoy a casual stroll around town—ideal for loosening stiff legs from travel.

Day 4 – Gilgit → Naltar Valley (Hotel Night) 🚙

Journey by 4×4 along the dramatic route to Naltar Valley (approx. 2–3 hours). Settle into your alpine base, then ease into action with an introductory ski ascent of a nearby ridge and descent on stable snow. Warm-up both legs and soul.

Day 5 & 6 – Ski-Mountaineering in Naltar Valley (Hotel Nights) ⛷

Over two full days, you'll follow classic skimo rhythm: climb peaks or ridges that hold skiable snow, boot-pack your way up, and then ski down to the valley or camp. Expect varied terrain—off-piste powder, quiet slopes, and sweeping Karakoram panoramas. Two full days to hone that ascent-then-ski cadence.

Day 7 – Rest & Local Exploration (Hotel Night) 🛌

Recovery and altitude aid are crucial. Today, opt for light snowshoe hikes, gentle ascents to views, or quiet time with local communities—this is your buffer day to recharge before crossing into Hunza.

Day 8 – Naltar → Hunza Valley (Hotel Night) 🚙

Depart Naltar and travel through scenic high mountain landscapes to Hunza (approx. 4–5 hours). Arrive in Karimabad, check in, then enjoy a leisurely evening stroll—perhaps catch sunset from Baltit Fort or other vantage points.

Day 9 – Acclimatization & Light Activity in Hunza (Hotel Night) 🌄

Use this day to explore Hunza's cultural and alpine beauty—visits to Altit Fort, Duikar viewpoint, or local trails provide gentle exertion. It’s all about preparing body and mind for glacier terrain next.

Day 10 – Hunza → Hopar Valley (Hotel Night) 🚙

A shorter drive (1–2 hours) brings you into Hopar Valley. Here, you’ll survey glacier expanses and surrounding peaks—prepping for big skidown opportunities. This approach sets the stage for tomorrow’s ascent and ski descent combo.

Day 11 & 12 – Ski-Mountaineering on Hopar Glacier (Camping Nights) ⛷

Spend two full days scaling accessible peaks such as Rush Peak (~5,098 m), Shaltar Peak (~5,982 m), or, for the very ambitious, Spantik (~7,027 m), all offering solid snow caps for ski descents. The ascents are generally non-technical; once on top, the reward is sweeping, glacier-fed ski runs back down. True skimo bliss!

Day 13 – Hopar → Gilgit (Hotel Night) 🚙

Descend back to Gilgit from Hopar. Settle into your hotel, repack gear, and unwind—reflect on the slopes skied and peaks climbed. Maybe enjoy a walk or souvenir hunt in town.

Day 14 – Gilgit → Islamabad (Hotel Night) ✈

Weather permitting, fly back to Islamabad—or take the road scenic route. Check into a hotel, enjoy a farewell evening, and marvel at your journey’s altitude gains and downhill thrills.

Day 15 – Departure from Islamabad ✈

Time to say farewell! Transfer to the airport—whether you’re heading home or onward, your ski-mountaineering saga through Naltar and Hopar has concluded in style.