The Nobande Sobande Glacier and Snow Lake regions in Pakistan's Karakoram range offer several high-altitude peaks that present opportunities for ski mountaineering. Here are some notable peaks in these areas:
Choktoi Peak (6,150 m): Located near the Choktoi Glacier, this peak features challenging terrain suitable for experienced ski mountaineers.
Hanispur (5,875 m): Situated along the Nobande Sobande Glacier, Hanispur offers steep slopes that can be skied down after a successful ascent.
Skamri Peak: Dominating the skyline near the confluence of the Panmagh and Nobande Sobande Glaciers, Skamri Peak provides potential routes for ski descents.
Baintha Kabata (6,260 m): This peak, visible from the Choktoi Glacier, offers challenging terrain for ski mountaineering enthusiasts.
Baintha Ahrta (6,370 m): Also located near the Choktoi Glacier, Baintha Ahrta presents opportunities for skiing down its slopes after a successful climb.
Latok Peaks: The Latok group, including Latok I (7,145 m), Latok II, Latok III (6,915 m), and Latok IV (6,470 m), offers extremely challenging climbs. Due to their technical difficulty and severe conditions, these peaks are suitable only for highly experienced mountaineers, and skiing down them would be exceptionally demanding.
Ogre Peaks: The Ogre (Baintha Brakk, 7,270 m) and Ogre II (6,885 m) are known for their formidable climbing challenges. Ski descents from these peaks would be highly technical and are recommended only for expert ski mountaineers.
Experience Level: These peaks require advanced mountaineering and skiing skills due to their high altitudes, steep slopes, and complex terrains.
Weather Conditions: The Karakoram range is known for unpredictable weather, which can impact both climbing and skiing activities.
Permits and Regulations: Ensure you obtain the necessary permits and comply with local regulations before planning your expedition.
Local Guides: Engaging experienced local guides familiar with the region can enhance safety and provide valuable insights into the terrain.
Embarking on a ski mountaineering expedition in the Nobande Sobande Glacier and Snow Lake regions is a formidable endeavor that offers unparalleled adventure amidst some of the world's most majestic peaks.
Trip code: ATP-ST-03
Route: Islamabad-Skardu-Askole–Panmah Glacier–Nobande Sobande Glacier–Sim La–Snow Lake-Askole-Skardu-Islamabad.
Recommended duration of Expedition: 27 days (6 hotel nights & 21 camping nights)
Upon arrival at the Islamabad International Airport, transfer to hotel. 500m, Hotel
Day 2. Islamabad–ChilasDrive to Chilas (via Besham -12 hours & via Babusar Pass -10 hours) 1265m, Hotel
Day 3. Chilas–SkarduDrive to Skardu (7-8 hours) 2250m, Hotel
Day 4. SkarduFinal preparations in Skardu 2250m, Hotel
Day 5. Skardu–AskoleDrive to Askole by Jeeps. (6-7 hours) 3000m, Hotel
Days 6–8. Askole–Chiring CampTrek to Chiring Camp (4050m) via Panmah glacier. Porters and kitchen staff will return from here. Tents
Day 9–18. Nobande Sobande GlacierSki around Nobande Sobande Glacier and cross Skam La to enter Sim Gang Glacier. Continue further to Hispar Glacier. The last camp of skiing at Marfogoro. Tents
Day 19–24. Marfogoro–AskolePorters will arrive at Marfogoro and trek to Askole. Hotel
Day 25. Askole–SkarduDrive to Skardu, Hotel
Day 26. Skardu–ChilasFlight to Islamabad or drive to Chilas. Hotel
Day 27. Chilas–IslamabadFree day or drive from Chilas to Islamabad. Hotel
Day 28. Islamabad–AirportDeparture from Islamabad. Hotel
Note: The flight between Islamabad and Skardu is subject to weather conditions.