Darkot Pass Trek
Journey Through The Majestic Darkot
Overview
The Darkot Pass Trek, located in the spectacular Yasin Valley of Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan, is a thrilling high-altitude adventure that takes trekkers across the remote and rugged Hindu Raj mountain range. This trek is ideal for seasoned adventurers seeking a challenge, with its diverse landscapes ranging from lush green meadows and glacial streams to steep rocky slopes and expansive ice fields.
At an altitude of 4,703 meters (15,430 feet), the Darkot Pass itself is a formidable yet rewarding climb, offering unparalleled panoramic views of towering snow-capped peaks, including Koyo Zom (6,872 meters), one of the highest mountains in the Hindu Raj. Along the route, trekkers will encounter pristine glaciers such as the Darkot Glacier, high-altitude lakes, and picturesque valleys dotted with traditional villages that reflect the rich Wakhi and Burusho cultures.
Trek Facts
Trek Name: Darkot Pass Trek
Trek Code: ATP-TR-16
Trekking Zone: Open Zone
Route: Islamabad–Gilgit–Yasin Valley–Darkot Village–Darkot Base Camp–Darkot Pass–Broghil Side Camp–Lashkargaz–Ishkarwaz–Karambar Lake–Lashkargaz–Chitral–Islamabad.
Best time: June to September
Maximum Elevation: 4703 meters
Trek Grade: Moderate
Visa Category: Tourist
Visa Sub Category: Tourist
Permit Requirement: A trekking permit is required as the trek falls in the restricted zone.
Gallery
Trek locations on map
Itinerary
Fly: 1 hour (if weather allows) or
Drive: 16–18 hours via the Karakoram Highway (KKH).
Overnight in Gilgit.
Drive: 5–6 hours via Gupis and Yasin Valley.
Explore Darkot village, an ancient settlement along the Silk Route.
Meet porters and finalize trek preparations.
Hike around the village, interact with Wakhi & Burusho communities.
Optional short trek to nearby glaciers & meadows.
Trek: 5–6 hours through alpine meadows and rocky terrain.
Camp near Darkot Glacier, with views of Koyo Zom (6,872m).
Short hikes to higher ridges for acclimatization.
Prepare for the challenging pass crossing.
Trek: 7–9 hours.
Cross Darkot Pass (4,703m), with views of snow-capped peaks.
Descend to the Broghil side, camping near meadows.
Trek: 5–6 hours into Broghil Valley, a remote high-altitude region.
Overnight in Lashkargaz, the last settlement before the Afghanistan border.
Explore Broghil’s Wakhi culture, spot wildlife (ibex, wolves, snow leopards).
Visit Chikar & Karambar Lake (optional).
Trek: 4–5 hours through Wakhi settlements and green pastures.
Camp near Ishkarwaz, close to the Afghan border.
Trek: 6–7 hours to Karambar Lake, one of the highest alpine lakes in the world.
Camp beside the lake with breathtaking reflections of mountains.
Trek: 5–6 hours back to Lashkargaz.
Day 12. Lashkargaz–Chitral (Jeep Ride)Trek: 2–3 hours to Ishkarwaz.
Jeep drive: 8–10 hours via Yarkhun Valley to Chitral.
Overnight stay in Chitral town.
Visit Chitral Fort, Shahi Mosque, and Kalash Valleys (optional).
Cultural interactions with Kho & Kalash communities.
Fly: 1 hour (if flights operate) or
Drive: 10–12 hours via Departure from Islamabad Pass to Islamabad.
Rest, sightseeing
Day 16. Hotel-AirportDeparture from Islamabad
Note: The flight between Islamabad and Gilgit is subject to weather conditions.