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The Shimshal Pass Trek is a challenging high-altitude expedition crafted for seasoned trekkers looking to immerse themselves in one of the most remote regions of Pakistan. Nestled deep in the Karakoram mountains, Shimshal Valley lies at the edge of civilization, offering raw wilderness and untouched beauty.
This trek traverses ancient shepherd trails, vast alpine meadows, and snow-covered passes, leading to the fabled Shimshal Pass at over 4,700 meters. Along the way, you’ll pass through traditional Wakhi settlements, where the culture has remained largely unchanged for generations. With minimal modern infrastructure and breathtaking terrain, this route promises a deeply authentic and rewarding experience for those who crave adventure far off the tourist trail.
Whether you’re gazing at towering peaks, sharing meals with mountain herders, or crossing glacial streams, every step of the Shimshal Pass Trek is filled with purpose, challenge, and awe.
John F.K. International Airport (Google Map)
3 Hours Before Flight Time
Arrive in Pakistan’s capital city, meet our team, and complete necessary documentation for travel. If time allows, enjoy a short cultural tour of Islamabad.
Take a domestic flight to Gilgit (weather permitting), or drive along the legendary Karakoram Highway — a journey filled with spectacular scenery and glimpses of the Indus River gorge.
Travel deeper into the Hunza region, arriving in the picturesque village of Passu. Get your first views of Passu Cones and acclimatize at 2,500m elevation.
Take a thrilling jeep ride through narrow gorges and rock tunnels to reach Shimshal, one of Pakistan’s most remote villages. Meet your porters and rest for the night.
Spend the day adjusting to the altitude and exploring Shimshal. Visit local homes, meet Wakhi families, and learn about their culture and history.
Begin the trek with a gradual ascent along the Shimshal River. Pass through rocky gorges and arrive at Furzin for overnight camping near a shepherd settlement.
Climb steadily along scenic trails with views of snowy ridges and wildflowers. Reach Arbab Parian, a high summer pasture used by local herders.
Cross glacial streams and narrow valleys before reaching Shujerab, another grazing settlement. The views become more expansive as you approach higher altitudes.
Reach the broad Shimshal Pass plateau, surrounded by icy peaks and grassy meadows. Camp near the base of the pass and prepare for the next day’s crossing.
Climb up to Shimshal Pass to witness one of the most awe-inspiring panoramas in the region. Enjoy views of Yukshin Gardan, Momhil Sar, and other 7,000m giants before descending back to camp.
A buffer day in case of bad weather or altitude-related issues. Can also be used for further acclimatization or exploration.
Begin your descent along the same route, taking time to soak in the changing perspectives and landscapes.
Retrace your steps across familiar terrain, returning to camp at Arbab Parian.
Continue descending through gorges and valleys, arriving at Furzin for a final night in the wilderness.
Day 15: Trek to Shimshal Village
Complete the last day of trekking with a return to Shimshal. Celebrate with your local team and enjoy a warm meal with the community.
Day 16: Drive to Passu
Take the jeep back out of Shimshal Valley and return to Passu for rest and sightseeing.
Day 17: Drive to Gilgit or Hunza / Optional sightseeing
Head back toward Gilgit or spend an extra night in Karimabad, exploring Baltit Fort or local bazaars if time permits.
Day 18: Return to Islamabad / Departure
Fly or drive back to Islamabad. Final goodbyes and departure, or continue with further travel in Pakistan.
Complete the last day of trekking with a return to Shimshal. Celebrate with your local team and enjoy a warm meal with the community.
Take the jeep back out of Shimshal Valley and return to Passu for rest and sightseeing.
Head back toward Gilgit or spend an extra night in Karimabad, exploring Baltit Fort or local bazaars if time permits.
Fly or drive back to Islamabad. Final goodbyes and departure, or continue with further travel in Pakistan.
These expeditions are within extreme high altitude environments, with differing requirements when it comes to the ability needed. Due to the nature of the elements involved, you must provide concise, honest descriptions of relevant experience and current fitness levels. Upon receipt, we will review your experience and respond accordingly. At this point, if we consider there to be any shortfalls, we can collectively discuss the opportunities and/or provide a training support plan to achieve your goals.
Yes. We guarantee a 1:1 guide to client ratio on every expedition, with four additional climbing Sherpas acting as reserves, ready to chip in if needed. This helps ensure the highest safety standards.
We can provide full office facilities at basecamp, including Wi-Fi. Satellite phones are also available throughout the expedition for emergency and essential comms.
All communal equipment is included ie. high quality ropes, stoves, tents etc. You are responsible for personal gear and clothing, eg. harness, crampons, helmet, ice axes etc. A full essentials list and advice (if required) will be provided at time of booking.