Shimshal Pass Trek & Manglik Sar Climb | 19-Day

Arrive at Islamabad International Airport where your North Nomads representative greets you with a traditional welcome. Private transfer to our guest house.

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.

Depart early morning on the scenic drive north through the Hazara region. The route follows the Kunhar River through increasingly dramatic terrain as you climb into the Kaghan Valley. Pass through Balakot, Kawai, and the picturesque towns of Shogran viewpoint area before reaching Naran, a bustling mountain town surrounded by pine forests and snow-capped peaks. Evening at leisure to explore the bazaar or rest.

Today’s spectacular drive takes you over the Babusar Pass (4,173m) – weather permitting – offering your first views of Nanga Parbat (8,126m), the world’s ninth-highest peak. Descend into the Indus Valley and join the legendary Karakoram Highway. As you approach Hunza, Rakaposhi (7,788m) dominates the northern horizon. Arrive in Karimabad by late afternoon and settle into your premium accommodation in the Baltit Fort area with stunning valley views.

A day of exploration and acclimatization in the heart of Hunza Valley. Morning visit to the magnificent 700-year-old Baltit Fort, former seat of the Mirs of Hunza, followed by the equally impressive Altit Fort with its sacred garden. After lunch, drive to Eagle’s Nest viewpoint for a sunset panorama encompassing Rakaposhi, Diran, Golden Peak, and the sprawling Hunza Valley below. Return to Karimabad for dinner featuring traditional Hunzai cuisine.

Depart Karimabad on the adventurous Shimshal Road – one of the world’s most dramatic mountain roads, carved into sheer cliff faces by the Shimshali community themselves over decades. The journey follows the Shimshal River gorge through increasingly remote terrain. Arrive in Shimshal Village, home to Pakistan’s most accomplished mountaineering community. Afternoon exploration of this remarkable Wakhi settlement, meeting local families and learning about their unique pastoral traditions.

Begin your trek into the Shimshal wilderness. The trail follows the Shimshal River valley through open terrain with views of surrounding peaks. Cross several streams and pass through pastoral landscapes where Shimshali herders graze their livestock in summer months. Establish camp at Pastu Furzeen beside the river, with stunning views of the valley ahead.

Ascend steadily through changing landscapes as the valley narrows and vegetation becomes sparse. The trail offers increasingly dramatic views of Manglik Sar (6,050m) and surrounding Karakoram giants. The altitude gain today requires steady pacing with regular rest stops. Camp at Arbab Puriyen in a stunning alpine setting with 360-degree mountain panoramas.

Continue ascending into the high pastures of Shuijerab, the legendary summer grazing grounds of the Shimshali people. This is yak country – expect to encounter herds grazing on the sparse alpine vegetation alongside their shepherds who spend months in these remote pastures. The landscape transforms into a stark, beautiful high-altitude plateau. Camp establishment at Shuijerab with views toward Shimshal Pass.

A crucial acclimatization day before attempting higher elevations. Spend time with the Shimshali shepherds, learning about their traditional yak-herding practices, cheese-making, and life at altitude. Optional short hikes to nearby viewpoints for photography and acclimatization. This cultural immersion is a highlight of the expedition – few visitors experience authentic high-altitude pastoral life so intimately.

Summit day for Shimshal Pass! A steady climb through increasingly dramatic terrain leads to the historic pass connecting Pakistan with the Chinese Pamirs. From the pass, views extend across the border into Xinjiang and encompass a stunning panorama of Karakoram and Pamir peaks. Establish camp near a glacial lake below the pass – one of the most spectacular campsites in the region.

For those prepared for the challenge, today offers an optional summit attempt of Manglik Sar (6,050m). While non-technical, the climb is physically demanding – ascending 1,300m from camp on snow and scree slopes. The reward: standing atop a 6,000-meter peak with panoramic views of the Karakoram and Pamir ranges. Technical equipment (crampons, ice axes, harnesses) provided. Those opting to rest can explore the area around camp or simply absorb the extraordinary surroundings.

Begin the return journey with a descent to the familiar pastures of Shuijerab. The afternoon offers time to rest, reflect on the expedition, and enjoy final moments with the shepherd community. Early dinner and rest in preparation for continued descent.

Continue descending through the valley with new perspectives on terrain covered during the ascent. The lower altitude provides welcome relief, and the return views of Manglik Sar and surrounding peaks offer fresh photographic opportunities. Camp at Arbab Puriyen.

A longer descent day returning to the riverside camp at Pastu Furzeen. The increasing vegetation and warmer temperatures mark the transition back toward civilization. Evening celebration dinner with the trekking team.

Complete the trek with a morning descent to Shimshal Village. Afternoon free to explore the village more thoroughly, visit the local school supported by international climbers, purchase handicrafts, and participate in an evening cultural gathering with the community that has hosted expeditions to some of the world’s highest peaks.

Return journey on the spectacular Shimshal Road to Karimabad. Arrive by early afternoon with free time for shopping in the Karimabad bazaar – excellent opportunities for local handicrafts, gemstones, dried fruits, and traditional Hunzai textiles. Farewell dinner featuring Hunza Valley specialties.

Retrace the Karakoram Highway southward with stops at key viewpoints including the Rakaposhi View Point and, weather permitting, views of Nanga Parbat from Babusar Pass. The familiar landscape takes on new meaning after your high-altitude experience. Overnight in Naran.

Final driving day returning through the Kaghan Valley and Hazara region to Islamabad. Arrive by late afternoon with time to freshen up before a farewell dinner with the group, sharing memories and photographs from this extraordinary expedition.

Transfer to Islamabad International Airport for your onward flight. Departure times flexible based on flight schedules.

Optional Extension: Add an extra night in Islamabad with a complimentary half-day city tour including Faisal Mosque, Daman-e-Koh viewpoint, and Pakistan Monument. Contact us for pricing.