Trek to Nangma Valley’s granite towers on this 10-day premium Skardu adventure. Luxury camps, heritage stays & Balti culture.
Trip Info
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Islamabad
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June-Sept
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Coaster/ 4x4 Willy Jeeps
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4-12
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Guest House & Hotels
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Easy
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Full Board
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4500
Journey into the heart of Baltistan on this premium 10-day adventure combining world-class trekking with rich cultural immersion. Begin with a spectacular flight over the Karakoram before exploring Skardu’s ancient Buddhist heritage and the royal legacy of Khaplu Palace. The trek into Nangma Valley reveals one of Pakistan’s most dramatic landscapes—a hidden amphitheater of granite spires including the legendary Amin Brakk, rising 1,200 meters in a single vertical sweep. Stay in full-service alpine camps, heritage palaces, and luxury hotels throughout, with a built-in contingency day ensuring a stress-free experience regardless of mountain weather.
Highlights
- Scenic flight over Nanga Parbat and the Karakoram giants
- Trek to Nangma Valley's world-famous granite towers and pristine wilderness
- Optional hike to Amin Brakk Base Camp (4,500m) — a bucket-list climbing destination
- Stay at the restored 17th-century Serena Shigar Fort heritage hotel
- Explore Khaplu Palace, a masterpiece of Balti architecture and Aga Khan restoration
- Authentic Balti homestay meals and cultural exchanges with local communities
- Full-service alpine camping with heated dining tents and experienced crew
- Built-in flex day for weather contingency or Taxila UNESCO World Heritage excursion
Arrive at Islamabad International Airport where your NorthNomads representative greets you with a traditional welcome. Private transfer to your luxury hotel in the diplomatic enclave.
Depending on your arrival time, enjoy a leisurely evening to rest and acclimatize. Pre-trek briefing with your tour leader over dinner at the guest house.
Early morning transfer to Islamabad Airport for one of the world’s most spectacular commercial flights. Weather permitting, enjoy breathtaking aerial views of Nanga Parbat (8,126m) and the Karakoram giants.
Upon arrival in Skardu, transfer to your hotel and enjoy lunch. Afternoon exploration includes the 8th-century Manthal Buddha Rock and the historic Kharpocho Fort overlooking the Indus River. Evening stroll through Skardu Bazaar.
Scenic drive along the turquoise Indus and Shyok rivers through dramatic desert landscapes. Stop at Yugo village for an authentic Balti lunch hosted by a local family.
Arrive in Khaplu, the former capital of the Chaqchan Dynasty. Explore the magnificently restored Khaplu Palace, now an Aga Khan Trust heritage site, and wander through its organic apricot orchards. Visit the 700-year-old Chaqchan Mosque.
Morning drive to Kanday village, the gateway to the Nangma Valley. Meet your trekking crew and begin the gentle ascent through alpine meadows, crossing crystal-clear glacier streams.
The trail offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks as you gradually gain altitude. Arrive at Mingulo Broq campsite by late afternoon.
Continue trekking deeper into the wilderness toward Nangma Valley, one of Pakistan’s most pristine alpine environments. The valley is famous for its dramatic granite spires, including Amin Brakk and the Nangma Tower.
Arrive at the Nangma Valley campsite surrounded by towering rock walls. Evening bonfire with traditional music and storytelling under a canopy of stars.
A flexible day to explore this granite paradise at your own pace.
Option A: Guided hike toward Amin Brakk Base Camp (4,500m) for close-up views of the legendary 1,200m vertical granite wall—a bucket-list destination for rock climbers worldwide.
Option B: Relaxed day of photography, bird watching, and enjoying the pristine wilderness. Opportunity for cultural exchange with your local porters and crew.
Packed lunch provided for those hiking.
Early departure for the return trek to Kanday village, retracing your steps through the beautiful alpine terrain. Enjoy a traditional Balti lunch hosted by a local family in Kanday.
Bid farewell to your trekking crew and drive to Shigar Valley, arriving at the restored 17th-century Shigar Fort—now a heritage hotel and one of Pakistan’s most unique accommodations.
Morning transfer to Skardu Airport for your return flight to Islamabad (weather permitting).
Arrive in Islamabad by midday and transfer to your hotel. Afternoon at leisure for rest, shopping, or an optional visit to the Lok Virsa Heritage Museum showcasing Pakistan’s diverse cultural heritage.
This built-in contingency day ensures your journey remains stress-free regardless of weather conditions.
If flights were delayed: Scenic overland journey via the Karakoram Highway through Chilas and Babusar Pass (seasonal), arriving in Islamabad by evening.
If already in Islamabad: Full-day excursion to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Taxila—explore the ancient Gandharan Buddhist ruins, the Dharmarajika Stupa, and the excellent Taxila Museum housing one of South Asia’s finest collections of Gandharan art.
Morning at leisure. Private transfer to Islamabad International Airport with a farewell cultural gift from the NorthNomads team.
Optional: Guests with evening departures are welcome to extend with an extra night in Islamabad, including a complimentary half-day city tour visiting Faisal Mosque, Daman-e-Koh viewpoint, and the Pakistan Monument.
Included/Excluded
Cost Includes
- All domestic flights (Islamabad–Skardu–Islamabad)
- Transportation: Airport pickup and drop-off in Islamabad (private vehicle), All ground transportation in a [4x4 Jeep / Coaster / Hiace] with experienced local driver
- 9 nights accommodation (luxury hotels, heritage properties, full-service camps)
- All meals during trek (Days 4–7), breakfast daily in cities
- Bottled drinking water during travel days
- Guides & Support: English-speaking tour leader throughout the trip/Local guides at cultural and historical sites
- 24/7 on-ground support contact
- Permits & Fees: All necessary travel permits for restricted areas/Entry fees to national parks, forts, and monuments as per itinerary
- Welcome and farewell dinners
- First aid kit
- North Nomads trip documentation and travel information pack
Cost Excludes
- International
- Travel insurance (mandatory – must cover high altitude)
- Visa fees and airport taxes
- Personal expenses (laundry, phone calls, souvenirs)
- Tips and gratuities for drivers, guides, and hotel staff
- Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks
- Porters for personal luggage on trekking sections (if applicable)
- Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
- Room upgrades or single room supplement (unless pre-booked)
- Costs arising from unforeseen circumstances (natural disasters, road blockages, political situations)
- Anything not specifically mentioned in the "What's Included" section
Join Our Fixed Trip Starting Date
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Guaranteed Group Discount Available Available PackagesSaturdayJune 6, 2026MondayJune 15, 2026$99912Available
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Guaranteed Group Discount Available Available PackagesSaturdayJune 13, 2026MondayJune 22, 2026$99912Available
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Guaranteed Group Discount Available Available PackagesSaturdayJune 20, 2026MondayJune 29, 2026$99912Available
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Guaranteed Group Discount Available Available PackagesSaturdayJune 27, 2026MondayJuly 6, 2026$99912Available
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Guaranteed Group Discount Available Available PackagesSaturdayJuly 4, 2026MondayJuly 13, 2026$99912Available
FAQs
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The best season for most northern areas is April to October. Peak season (June–August) offers the warmest weather and clearest mountain views. Spring (April–May) brings apricot and cherry blossoms. Autumn (September–October) offers stunning foliage colours with fewer crowds.
Yes, the northern regions of Pakistan—including Gilgit-Baltistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa—are considered safe for tourists. The local communities are renowned for their hospitality. We monitor conditions continuously and maintain contact with local authorities to ensure your safety.
Most nationalities require a visa. Pakistan offers an e-Visa facility for citizens of many countries. We recommend applying at least 4–6 weeks before your trip. Visit Pakistan’s official visa portal or contact us for guidance.
[Customise based on trip difficulty]. Generally, a moderate level of fitness is recommended as the trip involves long drives at high altitude. Specific treks may require additional preparation—we provide detailed requirements upon booking.
Accommodation ranges from comfortable hotels in cities to cozy guest houses in remote areas. All properties are selected for cleanliness, safety, and authentic local character. Hot water and electricity may be limited in some mountain locations.
Some areas on this itinerary exceed [X] meters. We design our itineraries with gradual altitude gain to aid acclimatisation. We recommend consulting your doctor before travel and staying well-hydrated. Our guides carry emergency oxygen and are trained in altitude sickness recognition.
Mobile coverage (primarily Jazz and Zong networks) is available in major towns but limited or absent in remote valleys. Wi-Fi is available at most hotels in larger towns but may be slow or intermittent. We recommend informing family of limited connectivity periods.
We provide a detailed packing list upon booking. Essentials include layers for variable weather, sturdy walking shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, personal medications, and a good camera. Dress modestly out of respect for local culture—especially for women, covering shoulders and knees.
30+ days before departure: Full refund minus administrative fee
15–29 days before departure: 50% refund
7–14 days before departure: 25% refund Less than
7 days: No refund We recommend purchasing travel insurance that covers trip cancellation.
While we make every effort to follow the planned itinerary, mountain travel can be affected by weather, road conditions, or other unforeseen circumstances. We reserve the right to modify the itinerary for safety or operational reasons, always prioritising your experience and wellbeing.
Our groups range from 4 to 12 travellers to ensure a quality experience. Private departures can be arranged for families or groups preferring exclusive arrangements.
Yes, comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory for all participants. Your policy must cover emergency evacuation, high-altitude travel, and trip cancellation. Proof of insurance is required before departure.
PASSPORT & VISA
Passport valid for 6+ months with 2 blank pages –
Free e-visa for 126 countries (7-10 business days processing)
HEALTH & FITNESS
Consult your doctor regarding high-altitude travel
Begin fitness preparation 6-8 weeks before departure
Bring spare batteries (cold drains quickly)
Ask permission before photographing people
