Embedded Files
Exploring three great mountain ranges in one go
A majestic journey across Pakistan’s three great mountain ranges—from emerald meadows beneath Nanga Parbat to high passes and hidden valleys.
Overview
In the first part, a visit to Fairy Meadows & Nang Parbat Base Camp from Raikot Glacier will be completed. Nanga Parbat (8125m), the second highest peak in Pakistan and 9th in the world is known as one of the three most challenging mountains above 8000M. For tourists and trekkers, it is a mountain with stunning beauty, has three famous faces known as Rupal, Diamir and Raikot. In the program, we will see the mountain from Raikot side to witness the beauty and culture of surrounding glaciers, villages and people.
The second part of trek is to Pakora Pass (4710m) that links the Naltar Gah and Pakora Gol. Shani and Sentinel peaks attract climbers. The trek can also be done from east to west, and combines easily with the Asumbar Haghost and then either the Punji Pass or Thui An, marking superb two-week combinations over three spectacular passes. The last leg of the trip is Ishkoman to Darkot village trek to over Attar Pass, an easy but interesting short trekking route.
The trek starts in a small village called Ghutolti with sixty five to seventy households. They valley is ideal for the adventure enthusiasts who attempt small peaks of 6000 meters. After two days trek you will reach Attar Lake, a beautiful natural water reservoir that lies at an altitude of around 4000 meters above the sea level. The Lake is surrounded by beautiful wild flowers and snow-capped peaks.
Trek Facts
Trek Name: Exploring three great mountain ranges in one go
Trek Code: ATP-TR-08
Trekking Zone: Open Zone
Route: Islamabad–Chilas–Fairy Meadows–Nanga Parbat BC–Tato–Hunza–Naltar Valley–Naltar Lake–Lower Shani–Pakora Camp–Pakora Pass–Ghutolti–Mathan–Atar Pass–Darkot–Gilgit–Islamabad.
Best time: Early June till Mid October
Maximum Elevation: 5050 meters
Trek Grade: Strenuous
Trek Duration: 19 nights/20 days (9 hotel & 10 camping nights)
Visa Category: Mountaineering & Trekking
Visa Sub Category: Trekking
Permit Requirement: A trekking permit is required as the trek falls in the restricted zone.
Gallery
Trek locations on map
Itinerary
Day 1 – Arrival in Islamabad ✈️
You arrive in Islamabad (≈ 500 m) and settle into your hotel. After check‑in, enjoy a half‑day guided tour of Islamabad and neighboring Rawalpindi—discover local bazaars, Pakistani chai culture, and stunning hilltop views of the capital. Overnight in a comfortable hotel.
Day 2 – Drive to Chilas 🚐
A long scenic drive (≈ 10 hours) from Islamabad to Chilas (≈ 1,200 m) takes you through dramatic valleys and along the Indus River. Stop for tea breaks in rustic roadside towns and soak in the changing landscape—from fertile plains to rocky fastnesses. Reach Chilas by evening and rest overnight in a hotel.
Day 3 – Drive & Trek to Fairy Meadows 🚗➡️🥾
Head early to Tato and begin your trek up to Fairy Meadows (≈ 3,300 m). After the drive, the steep trail climbs to a high‑altitude alpine hut nestled beneath Nanga Parbat. Enjoy panoramic views of the base of this mighty peak and the hush of the alpine forest glades. Overnight in a cozy hut.
Day 4 – Rest or Day‑hike to Nanga Parbat Base Camp ⛰️
A free day to acclimatise at Fairy Meadows. Optionally take a day hike (≈ 4,000 m) toward the Raikot Glacier base camp for up‑close views of Nanga Parbat’s Rupal or Raikot face. Whether relaxing or hiking, relish the flower‑dotted meadows and alpine serenity. Overnight again in the alpine hut.
Day 5 – Trek back to Tato & Drive to Karimabad, Hunza 🏘️
Trek downhill to Tato and then drive to the legendary Hunza Valley, reaching Karimabad (≈ 2,400 m) in 6–7 hours. On arrival, settle in at a hotel and soak in views of Rakaposhi, vibrant local bazaars, and the rich heritage of Hunza. Overnight in hotel.
Day 6 – Sightseeing & Drive to Naltar Valley 🌲
Morning guided exploration of Karimabad—visit Altit and Baltit forts, walk through terraced orchards, and enjoy mountain views. In the afternoon, drive to the Naltar Valley (~2,820 m), arriving at base camp amid pine trees and dramatic peaks. Overnight in tents.
Day 7 – Trek to Naltar Lake 🚶♂️
A moderate 4‑hour trek leads to picturesque Naltar Lake (≈ 3,270 m), its reflective waters cradled by snow‑capped summits. Arrive by early afternoon and spend the rest of the day exploring the lake, wildflower meadows, and alpine surroundings. Camp under the open sky.
Day 8 – Trek to Lower Shani (Shani Base Camp) 🌄
Continue your trek (≈ 4 hrs) ascending to Lower Shani (≈ 3,690 m). Along the route, follow clear glacial streams and dramatic mountain walls. In camp, enjoy views of Sentinel and Shani peaks rising above. Overnight in tents surrounded by alpine splendour.
Day 9 – Trek to Pakora High Camp ⛺
Begin a 3–4‑hour trek climbing toward Pakora High Camp (≈ 4,230 m). The terrain gets steep and rugged as you gain altitude. Camp beneath Shani and Sentinel peaks, preparing for the arduous pass crossing to come. Overnight in tents.
Day 10 – We Summit Pakora Pass! 🏔️
After 7–8 hours of trekking, we cross the high Pakora Pass at 4,710 m, relishing sweeping views of Naltar Gah and Pakora Gol valleys. A sense of achievement infuses every step, especially when cresting the pass. Descend to camp at ≈ 3,390 m and rest. Overnight in tents.
Day 11 – Trek down to Pakora Valley & Drive to Ghutolti 🚶♀️➡️
We trek down from the pass into Pakora Valley, followed by a drive to Ghutolti village (≈ 2,480 m), a remote settlement with 65–70 households. Settle into camp here and spend your evening amidst the warm hospitality of local mountain people. Overnight in tents.
Day 12 – Rest Day at Ghutolti 🌿
Enjoy a well-earned rest day in Ghutolti. You can stretch your legs on short explorations, chat with villagers, learn about traditional life, or simply relax after crossing the pass. Overnight campsite with mountain views.
Day 13 – Trek to Mathan Ter (≈ 3,200 m) 🥾
Trek 5–6 hours from Ghutolti to Mathan Ter (≈ 3,200 m). Your path winds through high alpine terrain with panoramic views all around. Arrive at camp by afternoon and take in the pure mountain air. Overnight in tents.
Day 14 – Trek to Atar Lake (Bari Lake) 🏞️
Continue trekking 5–6 hours to stunning Atar Lake (≈ 4,000 m). This serene, high‑altitude lake is surrounded by snow‑fringed peaks and carpets of wildflowers—an absolute trekking highlight. Camp beside the water under crisp mountain skies.
Day 15 – Trek to Atar Pass Base Camp (≈ 3,900 m) 🌬️
A shorter trek today brings you to the Atar Pass Base Camp (≈ 3,900 m). The route gently ascends toward the pass, giving you time to soak in dramatic scenery and prepare for the final crossing. Camp at the base camp amid clear mountain air.
Day 16 – Cross Atar Pass to Darkot & Drive to Khalti Lake 🚶♂️🚗
We cross Atar Pass (≈ 4,650 m), then descend into Darkot village and drive to scenic Khalti Lake (≈ 2,217 m). This descent is rewarding: shifting from alpine heights to lush valleys and lake reflections. Evening spent beside Khalti Lake. Overnight in a hotel.
Day 17 – Drive to Gilgit 🛣️
A 3–4‑hour drive transports you from Khalti Lake to Gilgit (≈ 1,320–1,500 m). Enjoy glimpses of river valleys, terraced fields, and mountain vistas along the route. Arrive in Gilgit town for a restful night in a hotel.
Day 18 – Flight or Drive to Islamabad 🛫/🚐
Weather permitting, take a morning flight from Gilgit to Islamabad—or opt for a scenic drive via Naran and Besham. Arrive in Islamabad (≈ 613 m) and check into your hotel. Overnight in hotel.
Day 19 – Free Day in Islamabad 🏙️
A free or buffer day in Islamabad. Relax, explore local markets, or visit nearby sites such as Taxila or Murree for a taste of Pakistan’s heritage. Overnight in hotel.
Day 20 – Departure ✈️
Transfer to Islamabad International Airport for your homebound flight, bidding farewell to an unforgettable journey through Pakistan’s majestic Mountain Kingdom.
Note
The flight between Islamabad and Gilgit is subject to weather conditions.
Page updated
Report abuse