Sonia Peak (6400m) Chafchingol Pass Shimshal
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Sonia Trekking Peak Chafchingol Pass Base Camp We will cross three small rivers in this day’s trek which will be great fun and adventure is the water level goes up in the rivers. The place is also famous for Ibexes.
21 Days
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Destination
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1
Day 1
Fly to Pakistan
2
Day 2
Islamabad - Besham/Naran
Arrive in Islamabad, after a short stay for fresh up and breakfast drive on the Karakorum Highway to Besham in air-conditioned transport. Overnight stay in the hotel. (260 km, 6/7 hours)
3
Day 3
Drive to Hunza / Passu
Exciting drive through the gorge of the Indus & Hunza rivers. En-route visit the meeting point of the world's three highest mountain ranges; Himalayas, Hindukush and Karakoram. Enjoy views of Nanga Parbat (8,125 m) & towards Shimshal valley. The jeep track passes through the gorge of Shimshal river and ends at Dai Kut, an hour from KKH. We start the trek with ascent and traverse in the gorge along the right bank of the river. The landscape is dry, with many loose scree slopes flowing from the high mountains. After 2 hours relatively easy walk by the river, we arrive at the ‘travelers hut’ of Ziarat for overnight camp. Some 600 years ago a Sufi Saint (Shah Shams) from central Asia arrived here and stayed here for several nights. He also preached Islam in this region. From Ziarat we can see Karoon 1 (7164m) Peak. We cross two suspension bridges and few small streams joining the river from side valleys. After four hours trek, we will be in Kuk, opposite to Mulungudi glacier, with hot springs. We have a beautiful view of Dastagil Sar (7885m). As we walk from Kuk, we cross the river on another footbridge and then climb a gradually ascending hill and finally emerge on the starting point of the valley. From here it is easy to descend to the main valley and an hour & half to the main village. Shimshal is one of the remotest areas of Karakorum. 900 years ago Shimshal Valley was discovered by a Sufi Saint he settled here and all Shimshali people are from his family. Camp overnight. (7/8 hours, 3300m)
4
Day 4
Shimshal Valley
Rest day acclimatize to explore the valley of mountaineers meets the local people, walk around the village. Overnight stay at GH
5
Day 5
Shimshal – Zardgurdbin
5/6 hours steep walk to reach the plateau of Zardgurdbin Pasture.
Overnight stay at Camp
6
Day 6
Zardgurdbin - Shapodin
Today we take late start as the trek today is easy is short and basically today we will cross a big plateau between Zardgurbing and Shapodin. Arrive at the camping place of Shapodin which is also a summer settlement. Camp overnight. (2/3 hours)
7
Day 7
Shapodin - Mandik Shlaq
We will cross Boisam Pir Pass (5090m) this day. Its an easy trek up to the Pass. Kanjut Sar (7760m) Peak is visible from the Pass. After the pass there is a beautiful lake of blue water. Enroute short stay for rest and lunch at Pachodewashk. Proceed towards Mandikshlakh. There are seven houses in Mandikshlakh and water is easily available for washing. Camp overnight. (5/6 hours)
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Day 8
Mandik Shlaq - Werbin
Quite easy trek. We will start after break fast. Enroute stay at Havdiji . Havdiji is also a settlement and there are seven houses. The local people will stop us here for lunch and without serving us they will not let us go forward so we take a break here. Proceed towards Werbin. Camp overnight. (4/5 hours)
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Day 9 - 16
Werbin - Chafchingol Pass Base Camp
We will cross three small rivers in this days trek which will be a great fun and adventure is the water level goes up in the rivers. The place is also famous for Ibexes. Camp overnight. (5/6 hours)
This base camp will be our base camp for the Sonia Peaks. There are three peaks in Sonia group the highest one is 6400 meters and lowest is round 6000 meters. To climb the 6000 meters one comfortably we need two days and to climb highest one we need 4/5 days. So I think its better to have 4/5 days here at this base camp and divide the group into two. So that both groups can attempt both peaks.
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Day 17
Chafchingol Pass - Hunza Karimabad
Trek Over Chafchingol Pass To KKH It will be an early start with pack lunch because the trek is strenuous and long this day. From the base camp its a steep slope of 300 meters up to Chafchingol Pass (5151 m). We can see Dastagil Sar (7885 m) Peak from the Pass. After the Pass water is available and the walk is also quiet normal. We will reach on KKH at Kuksil (4150 m) just 15 kilometers from Khunjerab Pass. The area is in Khunjerab National Park. Our vehicle will be ready in Kuksil to take us to Hunza. Proceed to Hunza. Overnight at hotel. (7/8 hours trek +2/ 3 hours drive)
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Day 18
Karimabad
Day free at Karimabad to explore the valley and possible excursion to Passu & Batura glaciers & visit the forts. Altit & Baltit forts are the landmarks of the times when Hunza was a well sought after staging post on the Karakoram Branch of the Silk Route. The frost were erected by the locals of safeguard themselves against the invaders coming mostly from Central Asia, over the high passes. Overnight at hotel. Meals and overnight at hotel. Hunza cultural dance in evening.
12
Day 19
Drive Karimabad - Besham
Early morning drive Air Conditioned transport on the Karakoram High way towards Besham. Lunch in Dassu. Proceed towards Besham. Overnight at Motel. (11/12 hours )
13
Day 20
Drive Besham - Islamabad
After breakfast, we will drive on Karakoram Highway to Islamabad. We could stop at Taxila to visit the archaeological site of Gandhara Buddhist civilization, dating from 500 BC to 500 AD. Half-day SS in Islamabad after lunch. Evening free. Overnight at Hotel. (5/6 hours)
14
Day 21
Fly back to home destination
Morning transfer to Islamabad airport for international departure flight.
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SERVICES INCLUDED & EXCLUDED
SERVICES INCLUDED:
Accommodation: on a twin-sharing basis in the hotels in towns. HP's hotel accommodation in towns, Camping Equipment: We Provide high-quality equipment to clients making their adventure the most. Comfortable and enjoyable even on the harsh and hard part of the world Dome 3 tents during trekking and at the base camp, Toilet Tent Kitchen Equipment: Mess Tent with full Kitchen Equipment, Table & chairs, Kitchen utensil Meals: Full board Darning camping and base camp, We provide the Excellent quality food during your adventure when you start your Trek from Shimshal to BC and back to Hunza, (fallboard). In Pakistan, RVT is the only expedition outfitter which provides fresh meat and vegetable at the base camps from time to time. Break Fast, Lunch, Dinner, Tea or coffee, Food for HPs during traveling and trekking Our Staff: We would not say our staff is the best one in Pakistan, you would say this after you Experience their punctuality, Experience, good and humorous attitude with you. Their daily allowance, Food, kit & equipment, insurance, accommodation, RVT Traveling Exp, like Islamabad to Shimshal and Back to ISB, TRANSPORTATION: 4x4 Jeeps etc. with all expedition Luggage. Road head to Trek Head & back. TPT for HPs from their home to back, HP & Porterage: Low Porters from Road to Base Camp, and HPs for High Passes, and back to trek head, including food. Kitchen. And 12.50 Kg of member luggage. Climbing Equipment. Fixing rope, ice screw, snow bars. Invitation letter for apply visa Are you a Frequent Visitor in Pakistan? If you are coming to Pakistan for Expeditions, Trekking and you wish to keep your equipment in Pakistan, You are more Then welcome to keep your equipment In our store either in Islamabad or you can keep them in Hunza. Like many other climbers, expedition, and trekking organizers you can keep them. This is a free service that only RVT offers to facilitate its clients. OFFICIAL FORMALITIES: Submission of application for climbing permit and coordination with the ministry of Tourism in order to update climbers with the progress. Arrangements of the first meeting with Guide and Ministry Briefing/de-briefing in the Ministry of tourism. Processing application for satellite permit (if required) Documentation for import and export of mountaineering cargo***COST DOES NOT INCLUDE
Following Mentioned services are not included in our price, but some of them can be arranged at your request Any Meals at the hotel or on the way are not included in the cost. Cost of any soft drinks, Any domestic/international airfare, transportation in an airport for pick and drop. Airfare from ISB-GLT-ISB US$ Depend on Government policies change Personal trekking equipment like the sleeping bag sacks Shoes and all personal expenses such as mineral water, telephone, liquor, etc Porter for to go high camp , any additional expanse Porter for personal Extra luggage on the trek, Trekking permit fee US$ 50 per person. Horse for the trek. Medicines and any expense of personal nature, Rescue Helicopter charges 12,000 U$ in case of use for rescue, any helicopter rescue is not included in the price for staff. Cook helper, porters & Sardar. Transfers to the airports for participants, Optional excursions, or deviations from the scheduled tour Room service, gratuities for personal services, items of a purely personal nature Any expense due to forced majors, cancellation of flights, landslides, evacuation or accident, or delay beyond the control of the land operator Covid-19 PCR test and vaccination certificate Luggage and Cargo: Before your arrival and departure, RVT takes care of your luggage. Clearance of Cargo before arrival, Clearance of your Cargo after your departure to your home. Storage of your unwanted belongings in Islamabad or Skardu, which you do not need during your adventure, Miscellaneous: Mail delivery at the base camp Reconfirmation of international flight tickets The arrangement of high-altitude porters (if required). Rock Valley Tours has the best high-altitude porters in Pakistan. The arrangement of high-altitude tents (VE 25 North Face Tents) on payment. A farewell dinner will be hosted from RVT in one of the best restaurants or hotels in Rawalpindi/Islamabad with your staff who will be coming back with you from the base camp or your adventure. Taxes Fees & Tipping: The following fees and taxes are included in our quotation, for members, RVT crew and Camping fees, Bridge crossing Fees (Porter, porter Sardar, and RVT staff Tip is not included in the cost) Note: If any member splits from the expedition for his/her own reason, that member will bear all transportation costs on the way back to Rawalpindi. In case of damage to the base camp tent or any Equipment, the trek member will be charged the original value of the Equipment. Payment Procedure: * 50 % Advance on date block & confirmation of services, minimum 02 months before the commencement of trek nonrefundable. * 50 % balance payable before one month of trek Start (IMPORTANT) Foreigner clients must share their passport copy, 02 passport size Photograph full detail for trek permission requirement. If any member leaves the trek at any stage, the organization will not be liable to refund the payment. Using drugs or intoxication of any kind is strictly prohibited. If anyone is caught using any kind of substance on buses or during the trip will be expelled from the trip on the spot. That person will not be eligible for any kind of refund. We reserve the right to cancel the trip without prior notice for any reasons deemed appropriate by them. In such a case the registered participants will receive a full refund. On an adventure trip of this type, weather, local politics, transport or a multitude of other factors beyond the control of organizers can result in a change of itinerary. It is, however, very unlikely that the itinerary would be substantially altered; if alterations are necessary the Leader of the group and Guide will decide what the best alternative is, taking into consideration the best interests of the whole group Smoking in transport is strictly prohibited. Participants must hold a valid Computerized CNIC/Passport Card. Time management/punctuality is strictly recommended. Participants are advised to use Non-Slippery Shoes/Boot/Joggers/DMS. Participants must NOT wear Heel/Dress Shoes. On steep ascends in mountainous areas, air-conditioned buses will be operational on an on-off basis to keep the vehicles from overheating. The RVT will not be responsible for any injury/damage/loss.GEAR AND CLOTHING LIST for Trekking
Personal gear & Clothing.
While on an organized trek, it is best to pack all items for your trip in one large piece and one carry-on. The large piece must be a duffel bag (weighing not more than 12.5 Kg.) because duffels are easier for porters to carry. A small day pack is suggested as a carry-on to keep items that you will use while on the trek, bus, or jeep.Luggage
Large duffel bag with a lock. It is not recommended to put your stuff in a backpack as the straps might get damaged while being transferred from bus to jeeps, jeeps to campsites, and during loading and unloading by porters each day. A small padlock that fits through the zipper of your duffel bag is recommended.Day Pack:
Large enough for camera gear, cap, sunglasses, water bottle, jacket, and other items you may like to use while on the trek.Extra carry-on:
For storing city clothes in Skardu, Hunza, Chitral,Money Belt:
A small fanny pack, money belt, or around-the-neck passport bag is suggested for keeping safe your passport, travel documents, and money.Packing list for your Duffel:
Sleeping Bag:
As we shall be sleeping for four nights at Concordia at 4,700meters or at Snow Lake and Hispar Pass, Shimshal Pass, at 5151meters above sea level, so the bag should be rated for 0 degrees F or -18 degrees C. Ratings are all relative since the amount of insulation needed for a particular person to stay comfortable depends on their rate metabolism. A down bag will be warmer for its weight and pack smaller but does not retain its insulative properties when wet. A waterproof breathable shell or a bivy bag will keep the bag dry. A synthetic bag keeps you warm even when wet and is a less expensive alternative, but will weigh more for a given amount of warmth.Trekking Boots:
The single most important item on this list. Never take brand new boots on a trek, make sure they are well broken-in before departure. Good trekking boots are hard to get in Pakistan. If you are buying a new pair from abroad, look for medium-weight boots of fabric or a fabric/leather combination. They should provide adequate ankle support. A Vibrum or other deep-lug will protect you from rocks and add support. Always use thick socks when trying shoes so that you get the correct size. Short shoes can jam your toes painfully during steep descents. You could also try to get new “Grouted” shoes that provide protection against water and are good while walking in rain or through the snow. Make sure you can fit crampons on your shoes, as it is vital for crossing different passes.Camp Shoes:
Jogging shoes or sneakers to slip in at the end of the day. Tiva sandals are ideal for this trek, as you can use them while crossing streams and also at the campsite for strolls.Crampons:
You may need crampons on certain treks, sometimes only for one day. It helps in having a better grip on hard snow to have crampons fitted to your boots. Look for easy to fix ones. ( Check with us for your specific trek if you need the crampons or not). From our regular trek list, you would need to bring crampons for Gondogoro La, Biafo Hispar, and Wartum PeakThermal socks:
The socks you wear are a critical element. A cotton/wool combination is useful while on the glacier, and for warmer conditions, cotton socks are best. For those who are sensitive to wool synthetic/cotton socks are recommended.Liner Socks:
A thin, wickable material. Polypropylene, Capilene, Thermax, and Drylete all work very well. Silk does not work nearly as effectively as any one of the above. Polyester Fleece/Pile Jacket or Pullover. Stays warm even when wet. Polyester Fleece Pants. Good for afternoon strolls, same as above.Rain Gear:
A rain suit available from the local market is best for rain, doubles as a windbreaker, and fits over pile jacket and pants. Wicking Long Underwear (tops & bottoms). Wick moisture to keep you warm and comfortable and dry quickly. Two suits are a good idea.Ski Hat:
Covers your ears properly, use one with a cotton liner. The woolen cap is also good.Mittens or Gloves:
Woolen gloves are useful when at higher elevations and during windy conditions when the temperature drops quickly.Brimmed Sun Hat:
Very important for this trek, as when we start the trek and till we arrive at Concordia, we are generally walking towards east. This can be annoying in the morning as the sun is low and hits your eyes.Bathing Suit:
Men can take baths by the rivers or occasional lakes in ablation valleys.Toiletries:
Keep everything you normally use. Just remember to bring effective sunscreen, chapstick /lip balm, skin lotion, and laundry soap.CLOTHING
With your knowledge of Pakistani culture, you are well aware of precautions to be taken while traveling through remote areas. Cloths for the trek should be durable, comfortable, and easy to wash and dry. In good weather, you will spend much of your time in a T-shirt or medium shirt and outdoor trousers. You will need warmer clothes for the evening in the camps. Temperature falls rapidly as soon as the sun goes down. Men could wear shorts once they are through populated areas, which means from the third day of the trek. Women are advised to use cotton shalwar kameez (loose long shirts and baggy trousers) the traditional Pakistani dress, as these are comfortable during warm conditions, and also appreciated & respected by the locals.- Check List
- Headgear
- Parka
- Wool shirt & trousers
- Sweater
- Cotton shirt & pants
- Gloves & Mittens
- Rain/wind suit
- Cotton & Wool undergarments
- Socks (Cotton & Wool/synthetic)
- Boots (Trek & Camp)
- Belt!
- Down Jacket
- Shalwar Kameez (Cotton)
- Spare laces for boots
- Miscellaneous Items
- Sunglasses
- Towel
- Washcloth
- Bandanna/Scarf, for covering your mouth while riding in a jeep.
- Water bottle, with a durable screw top.
- Sunscreen
- Headlamp with flashlight + extra batteries and bulb
- Insect repellent
- Swiss Army knife, or a similar one
- Nylon cord for a clothesline
- Personal Medical Kit
- Pocket size sewing kit
- Lighter or matches for general use
- Wrist Watch
- Optional Items
- We provide closed-cell matrices but you may want to supplement for additional comfort.
- Stuff sacks of various sizes for storing your used clothes.
- Toilet paper or travel pack of tissues.
- An interesting
- Notebook and pen for a journal.
- Snacks: personal choice of dried fruit, candy, energy bars.
- Camera, film, extra batteries, cleaning supplies, and extra lenses.
- Sports gear (playing cards/Frisbee)
- Water purification tablets