Darwaza Pass is a high-altitude mountain pass located near the Broghil Valley in the Chitral District of northern Pakistan. Situated close to the Afghan border, it offers breathtaking views of the Wakhan Corridor, the Hindu Kush, and Karakoram mountain ranges. At an altitude of around 4,572 meters (15,000 feet), the pass is known for its rugged terrain, high-altitude meadows, and panoramic landscapes. It also provides trekkers with access to Karambar Lake, one of the highest alpine lakes in Pakistan. This remote and culturally rich area is home to Wakhi-speaking communities, making the trek an unforgettable blend of adventure and cultural exploration.
Trek Name: Darwaza Pass Trek
Trek Code: ATP-TR-15
Trekking Zone: Restricted Zone
Route: Islamabad–Chitral–Booni–Mastuj–Grahil–Darwaza Pass–Sheorsher–Karambar Lake–Lashkargaz-Yarkhun Lasht–Chitral–Islamabad.
Best time: June to September
Maximum Elevation: 4572 meters
Trek Grade: Moderate
Trek Duration: 10 nights / 11 days in Tents & 6 days in Hotel
Visa Category: Tourist
Visa Sub Category: Tourist
Permit Requirement: A trekking permit is required as the trek falls in the restricted zone.
Upon your arrival at Islamabad International Airport, our team will welcome and transfer you to your hotel. After settling in, enjoy a relaxed half‑day city tour exploring landmarks like Faisal Mosque, Daman-e-Koh and local bazaars. This gentle introduction helps acclimatise before the high-altitude adventure ahead.
Begin early with either a scenic flight or full-day drive to Chitral. Once in Chitral, check into your hotel and unwind. Take in the local ambiance of the valley, mingle with Wakhi communities, and gear up for the remote trek ahead.
Today, you’ll travel by jeep from Chitral, through Booni and Mastuj, en route to the remote settlement of Garhil at around 3,200 m. Enjoy roadside stops to admire alpine scenery, rivers and traditional villages. Camp overnight amidst high meadows under a starry sky.
This is the day you ascend to Darwaza Pass and descend to Sheorsheer. Trek through rough terrain toward the high-altitude meadow at Darwaza (about 4,000 m), enjoying breathtaking views of the Wakhan Corridor and Afghan border. Descend into the valley and camp near Sheorsheer, reflecting on the dramatic landscapes surrounding you.
A moderate‑to‑long trekking day of 6–8 hours brings you from Sheorsheer up toward stunning Karambar Lake at about 4,300 m. The trail is varied but scenic, passing rolling pastures and mountain streams. Arrive at the pristine turquoise lake and set camp at the shore amid awe-inspiring peaks.
Take a full day to relax at Karambar Lake. Hike around the lake shore, photography jaw‑dropping reflections, or simply bask in the serenity of one of Pakistan’s highest alpine lakes. This downtime lets you acclimatise and recharge before the return journey.
After breakfast, trek 7–8 hours from Karambar Lake to Lashkargaz through pastoral landscapes. Along the way, enjoy lunch with panoramic views. At Lashkargaz, board a jeep for a descent to Yarkhun Lasht (approx. 2,400 m), where you’ll stay overnight in a local guesthouse.
Morning brings a scenic drive back to Chitral valley, descending through the lush Yarkhun Valley. Reach Chitral town by late afternoon, check into your hotel, relax and reflect on the remote wilderness off the beaten path.
Spend the day exploring Chitral’s cultural highlights: visit the historic Shahi Mosque, Chitral Fort, walk through lively bazaars, and meet local Wakhi hosts (if available). Immerse in the valley’s rich heritage and friendly hospitality.
Depart Chitral by flight or road, weather permitting, back to Islamabad. Settle into your hotel and spend the evening at leisure—perhaps revisit a favorite landmark, enjoy pony brassi or local cuisine in the capital.
On your final morning, check out of the hotel and our team will transfer you to Islamabad International Airport for your onward flight, concluding your unforgettable Darwaza Pass adventure.
The flight between Islamabad and chitral is subject to weather conditions.