Shimshal Pass & Manglik Sar Expedition

Upon arrival at Islamabad International Airport, you’ll be warmly greeted by your North Nomads representative and transferred to your comfortable hotel in the capital. Take time to rest and recover from your international journey. In the evening, meet your expedition leader and fellow adventurers for a comprehensive trip briefing covering the itinerary, equipment check, safety protocols, and what to expect in the days ahead. Welcome dinner featuring traditional Pakistani cuisine. Overnight in Islamabad.

Depart Islamabad after breakfast and begin the scenic drive north toward Naran. The route follows the Hazara Motorway before turning into the spectacular Kaghan Valley, one of Pakistan’s most beautiful mountain valleys. Ascend gradually through increasingly dramatic scenery, passing through Balakot and Kawai before entering the lush green landscapes of Kaghan. The valley is flanked by pine-covered mountains with the Kunhar River flowing alongside the road. Stop at Shogran viewpoint for panoramic views and tea. Continue through picturesque villages including Kaghan town before reaching Naran, a popular mountain resort nestled in an alpine valley. Evening at leisure to explore Naran’s bazaar. Overnight in hotel.

Early morning departure from Naran for an epic drive over the Babusar Pass (4,173m), one of the highest motorable passes in Pakistan. The ascent offers stunning views of Lulusar Lake and surrounding peaks. Cross the pass (seasonal opening, typically June-October) and descend dramatically to join the legendary Karakoram Highway at Chilas. Stop for lunch in Chilas before continuing north along the mighty Indus River. The landscape transforms from green valleys to stark mountain desert. Late afternoon, the iconic pyramid of Rakaposhi (7,788m) comes into view, signaling your arrival in Hunza territory. At the dramatic confluence of three rivers (Indus, Gilgit, and Hunza) near Thalichi, begin the ascent into Hunza Valley. Arrive in Karimabad by evening with spectacular sunset views. Check into hotel with balcony views of Rakaposhi.

A well-deserved rest day to explore the cultural treasures of Hunza Valley and continue acclimatization. Morning visit to the magnificent Baltit Fort, a 700-year-old palace that once ruled the independent state of Hunza. The restored fort is a UNESCO World Heritage site offering insights into Hunza’s royal history and stunning views over the valley. Walk through Karimabad’s terraced apricot orchards to reach Altit Fort, even older than Baltit, perched dramatically on a cliff edge. Explore its ancient rooms and walk the restored Altit Village trails. Afternoon free time for shopping in Karimabad’s artisan shops featuring local handicrafts, gemstones, and traditional embroidery. Late afternoon drive or hike to Eagle’s Nest viewpoint (2,800m) for one of Pakistan’s most famous sunset panoramas. Watch as golden light illuminates Rakaposhi, Diran, and Ultar Sar while looking down over the serpentine Hunza River and ancient villages. Return for dinner in Karimabad. Overnight in hotel.

After breakfast, drive north on the KKH through Gulmit, stopping briefly at Gulmit Museum to learn about Wakhi culture and the history of the Karakoram region. Continue to Passu village where the dramatic Passu Cathedral peaks rise like Gothic spires. Turn onto the spectacular Shimshal Road—a remarkable 52km jeep track that winds along cliff faces high above the turquoise Shimshal River. This engineering marvel was only completed in 2003, ending Shimshal’s centuries of isolation. The drive itself is an adventure, passing through narrow gorges, across avalanche zones, and offering breathtaking views of Shispare (7,611m), Passu Sar, and unnamed glaciated peaks. Stop at multiple viewpoints for photographs of cascading waterfalls and glaciers. Arrive in Shimshal Village—Pakistan’s highest inhabited settlement—by afternoon. Meet with local families and receive a traditional Wakhi welcome. Tour the village, visit the school and community center, and learn about the Shimshal Nature Trust’s conservation efforts and the village’s remarkable contribution to Pakistani mountaineering. Evening cultural program with butter tea and chapshuro (traditional meat pies). Overnight in local guesthouse.

Begin the trekking portion of the expedition after breakfast. The trail leads out of Shimshal Village following the Shimshal River valley upstream. This is a gentle introduction to high-altitude trekking, allowing your body to adjust to the elevation and load. The path follows ancient shepherding routes through juniper-dotted slopes with the river flowing far below. Pass through traditional Wakhi grazing areas where stone corrals and summer shelters dot the landscape. The valley gradually narrows and the vegetation becomes sparser. Cross several tributary streams on wooden bridges, timing your crossings for morning hours when glacial melt is lower. Arrive at Past Furzeen, a riverside camping area surrounded by dramatic rock faces and with views up-valley toward distant snow peaks. Set up camp, enjoy hot tea, and settle into the rhythm of expedition life. Evening briefing on tomorrow’s route.

Continue up the valley on a moderate but steady climb. The landscape opens up as you ascend, with increasingly impressive mountain views. The trail becomes rockier and vegetation is limited to hardy alpine grasses and low shrubs. Cross multiple glacial streams—ford carefully using trekking poles for balance. The dramatic pyramid of Manglik Sar (6,050m) becomes visible ahead, dominating the skyline with its steep ice-covered faces. Pass through summer grazing grounds where you may encounter Wakhi shepherds with their flocks. Arrive at Arbob Periyeen (also called Arbab Purian), a beautiful high alpine meadow traditionally used during summer months. This campsite offers spectacular views of Manglik Sar and surrounding peaks. If shepherds are present, you may be invited to share salt tea in their stone shelters—a wonderful cultural exchange opportunity. Set up camp in the meadow. Evening walk to a nearby ridge for sunset views. Clear skies offer incredible stargazing opportunities far from any light pollution.

A challenging day with significant altitude gain leading to the high summer pastures of Shuijerab. The trail climbs steadily through increasingly barren high-altitude terrain. Rock, scree, and patches of ice become more common. Cross lateral moraines and navigate around massive glacial erratics—house-sized boulders deposited by retreating glaciers. The air becomes noticeably thinner and the pace slows. Views become ever more spectacular with multiple 7,000m peaks visible across the valley. Arrive at Shuijerab, one of Shimshal’s highest and most remote summer pastures. This is where Shimshali families bring their yak and sheep herds for high-altitude grazing. The pastoral life here continues much as it has for centuries. You’ll likely encounter shepherding families living in traditional stone shelters with their animals. This is a rare and authentic glimpse into Central Asian pastoral traditions. Set up camp near (but respectfully distant from) the shepherd settlements. Altitude makes everything feel harder—rest, hydrate, and acclimatize.

Crucial acclimatization day at high altitude. Rather than complete rest, take a short acclimatization hike gaining 200-300m altitude before returning to camp—”climb high, sleep low” principle. Morning walk to nearby ridges for stunning photographic opportunities and to help your body adjust to the thin air. Return to camp for lunch and afternoon rest. This is an excellent day for cultural immersion with the Shimshali shepherd families if they’re present. Learn about their remarkable lifestyle—how they migrate annually between valley and high pastures, manage their herds in extreme conditions, and maintain traditions passed down through generations. Share meals, help with daily tasks if invited, and exchange stories around evening fires. The shepherds often have fascinating tales of encounters with snow leopards, weather survival, and the history of these mountains. Evening gear check and preparation for tomorrow’s push toward the pass. Early dinner and sleep.

Depart camp after breakfast for the trek to Shimshal Pass. The route climbs steadily over rocky terrain, moraines, and possibly snow patches depending on season. As you gain altitude, the vegetation disappears entirely leaving only rock and ice. Navigate carefully through boulder fields and scree slopes. The pass comes into view—a rocky col between towering peaks. The final approach requires concentration and careful footing. Reach Shimshal Pass (4,750m) by midday—a historic moment standing at this ancient corridor that connected Central Asian trade routes. The pass offers extraordinary 360-degree views with Afghanistan’s Wakhan Corridor visible to the northwest and glimpses of Chinese territory beyond northern ridges. Below the pass on the northern side lies a stunning glacial lake—your camp for tonight. Descend carefully 100m to the lakeside, one of the most spectacular campsites in Pakistan. The turquoise waters reflect surrounding peaks including your objective, Manglik Sar. Set up camp, rest, and prepare for tomorrow’s summit attempt. Evening briefing on the Manglik Sar climb—route, timing, equipment requirements. Alpine start planned for tomorrow.

OPTIONAL CLIMB – Technical mountaineering day requiring proper equipment, experience, and fitness

Alpine start at 2:00-3:00 AM. After quick breakfast, rope teams depart camp in darkness using headlamps. The route ascends the southern flank of Manglik Sar, initially over rocky terrain before transitioning to mixed rock and ice. Crampons and ice axes become necessary on steeper snow and ice sections. The climb involves moderate technical difficulty (PD/PD+ grade) with sections of 40-50 degree snow slopes and some exposed scrambling. Rope up for glacier travel and steeper sections. As dawn breaks, the Karakoram illuminates in spectacular alpenglow—Distaghil Sar, Khurdopin, and countless other giants visible in all directions. The final summit ridge requires focus and careful movement on exposed terrain. Reach the summit of Manglik Sar (6,050m) by mid-morning—a profound achievement standing atop a Karakoram 6,000er. The 360-degree panorama is breathtaking: three countries visible, the Hindu Kush ranges to the west, the Pamirs to the north, and the great peaks of the Central Karakoram all around. Summit photographs, celebration, and prayers/gratitude before beginning the careful descent. Descending technical terrain requires full concentration—many accidents happen on descent. Arrive back at lakeside camp by afternoon, exhausted but exhilarated. Celebratory dinner and well-earned rest.

Note: Non-climbers or those opting out can rest at camp, take short walks, and enjoy the spectacular location. The climb requires: previous mountaineering experience, crampons, ice axe, harness, and technical knowledge. Your guide will make final go/no-go decision based on weather, conditions, and team capability.

A relief day after the physical demands of summit day. Break camp and retrace the route back toward Shuijerab. The descent feels much easier than the ascent, though tired legs and the downhill impact on knees require attention. The trail is now familiar, allowing you to notice details missed during the ascent—unusual rock formations, animal tracks, plant life. Arrive at Shuijerab by early afternoon with plenty of time to rest and recover. If shepherd families are still present, this is a wonderful evening to share stories of your summit success. Evening celebration with the team, reflecting on the achievement and the journey. The lower altitude immediately makes breathing easier and energy returns.

Long descent day back to the lower valley camp at Past Furzeen. The trek follows the familiar valley route downhill, passing through summer pastures and alongside the Shimshal River. The vegetation becomes noticeably lusher as you descend. Knee-jarring descent requires careful footing and trekking poles are valuable. The mountains that seemed so imposing on the ascent now feel like old friends. Arrive at Past Furzeen riverside camp by afternoon. Final night of camping before returning to village life. Evening celebration with camp staff and guides who have supported the expedition.

Final trekking day back to civilization. The trail descends gently following the river valley back to Shimshal Village. After days of wilderness camping, the prospect of a hot shower, fresh bread, and sleeping in a bed provides motivation! Arrive in Shimshal Village by early afternoon to a warm welcome from the local community. Check into guesthouse accommodation. Afternoon at leisure to shower, wash clothes, rest, and explore the village. Visit any sites you missed on the first visit or simply relax with tea and conversation with local families. Evening farewell dinner with Shimshal hosts featuring traditional Wakhi cuisine and possibly music and cultural performances. Final night in this remarkable mountain community, reflecting on the extraordinary journey through their high wilderness.

Morning farewells to Shimshal village and your local hosts. Emotional goodbyes after the connections formed over the past days. Drive back along the spectacular Shimshal Road with fresh appreciation for this remarkable access route. The journey that seemed adventurous on arrival now feels almost routine—a sign of how much you’ve adapted to mountain travel. Stop at Passu for photographs of the famous suspension bridge spanning the Hunza River gorge and the Cathedral Peak formations. Return to the KKH and drive south to Karimabad. Afternoon arrival with free time to explore, shop for handicrafts and gemstones, or simply relax at a café with views. This is your chance to purchase souvenirs and gifts you couldn’t carry during the trek. Evening at leisure—choose from several excellent restaurants in Karimabad. Comfortable hotel with hot showers, wifi, and modern amenities feels luxurious after the camping expedition.

Early departure for the long return drive south on the Karakoram Highway. Retrace the spectacular route along the Indus River, stopping at scenic viewpoints for photographs and tea breaks. Final views of Rakaposhi in morning light. Continue past Chilas and catch potentially different perspectives of Nanga Parbat if weather permits—the mountain reveals different faces depending on viewing angle and light. Lunch stop in Chilas before the long haul to Naran. Afternoon arrival in Naran, returning to green valleys after weeks in the stark high mountains. The contrast is dramatic—trees, grass, and moderate altitude feel almost tropical after the Karakoram. Check into hotel in Naran. Evening walk around Naran bazaar for final shopping or simply to enjoy the mountain resort atmosphere. Overnight in hotel.

Final day of road travel back to Islamabad. Morning departure from Naran, descending through the beautiful Kaghan Valley. Stop at scenic viewpoints for final mountain photographs and tea breaks. The route follows the Kunhar River through increasingly populated areas as you approach the plains. Stop at Balakot for lunch. Continue south through progressively warmer and greener landscapes, eventually leaving the mountains behind. The journey offers time to process and reflect on the incredible adventure of the past weeks. Arrive in Islamabad by late afternoon and transfer to hotel. Final group dinner at a quality restaurant in Islamabad—time to share favorite moments, exchange contact details, and celebrate the successful expedition together. Presentation of certificates of achievement for those who summited Manglik Sar. Emotional farewells to guides and staff who have become friends.

Transfer to Islamabad International Airport according to your flight schedule. For those with afternoon or evening flights, optional morning visit to Daman-e-Koh viewpoint overlooking Islamabad or the Faisal Mosque, one of the world’s largest mosques. Last-minute souvenir shopping at Jinnah Super Market or Kohsar Market if time permits. Extensions available for those wishing to explore more of Pakistan’s treasures—Skardu, Fairy Meadows, Lahore, or the southern coast. Safe travels and we hope to see you again on another North Nomads adventure!