Wakhan Corridor Trek
per person
Wakhan Corridor Trek: Wakhan, is a mountainous area in the northeastern corner of Afghanistan, bordering Pakistan, and people of Wakhan are known as Wakanis. Wakhan means a high ground and second part of the name and means the Pass, therefore the meaning of Wakhan is the pass to high ground.
Wakhan links the four famous mountain ranges of Central Asia, Hindukush, and the Karakoram to its south and Kunlun and Tien Shan to its north. The famous river of Central Asia, Oxus, springs from its very area. The whole length of Wakhan is about 300 km. The famous Afghan peninsula shares a 300 km border with Pakistan. Southern Passes of the Wakhan corridor crisscross the Hindu Kush range and have been of great military significance in providing access from Wakhan to Pakistan.
The eastern-most section between Korambar & Broghil Pass forms a lower range and the western range makes the chain of highest mountain peaks in the region including twenty-four peaks over 7000m, like Istor Nal (7373m) and Tirich Mir (7708m), the highest peak of Hindu Kush range. Tirich Mir is also visible from the main bazaar of Chitral.
The sky in the Wakhan Corridor is full of stars in the night. A visit to Wakhan will instill great faith in divinity. You have to move away from the hustle and bustle of the cities to experience something so serene and peaceful like this.
If you are looking for extreme peace and tranquility, the Wakhan Corridor is the place to be.
For more information on the Wakhan Corridor Trek and the treks that we run there, contact us via:
WhatsApp: +92 347 4598096 | +92 345 4354348
Email: info@rockvalleytours.com
Services Included
Accommodation: on twin sharing basis in the hotels 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, Mattresses 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 Skardu to BC and back to Skardu, (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
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. Any helicopter rescue is not included in the price for staff. Cook helper, porters & Sardar, Their daily allowance, Food, kit & equipment, insurance, accommodation, RVT Traveling Exp, like Islamabad to Skardu and Back to ISB,
Transportation: Jeeps etc. with all expedition Luggage. Road head to Trek Head & back.
Porterage: Porter from Road to Base Camp and back to trek head, including food. Kitchen. And 12. Kg of member luggage.
Are you a Frequent Visitor 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 Skardu. 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 permits 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.
Services Excluded
Following Mentioned services are not included in our price, but some of them can be arranged on your request
- Any Meals at the hotel or on the way is not including in the cost. Cost of any soft drinks,
- Any domestic/international airfare, transportation in an airport for pick and drop.
- Personal trekking equipment like the sleeping bag sacks Shoes and all personal expenses such as mineral water, telephone, liquor, etc
- Hotel accommodation in Islamabad, and in towns
- Transportation from ISB to ISB
- Porter from Concordia to BC and back to Concordia, 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 10,000 U$ in case of use for rescue
- 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
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 Equipment.
Payment Procedure:
- 80 % Advance on date block & confirmation of services, minimum 02 Month before the commencement of trek nonrefundable.
- 20 % balance payable before one month of trek Start.
(IMPORTANT)
- Foreigner client must share there 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.
22 Days
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Destination
1
Day 1
Departure
Departure for Pakistan
2
Day 2
Arrive Islamabad
meet & assist on arrival at Islamabad airport, freshen up at a hotel & then drive to Peshawar. Traveling on the Grand Trunk Road laid down by the Pathan Emperor of United Indian Empire: Sher Shah Suri. Crossing Indus river at Attock, we may stop for photo at the meeting point of Indus & Kabul rivers just beyond Attock bridge. Arrive Peshawar and visit Khyber Pass, the most important and strategic land route leading to Indian sub-continent. All the historic invaders, including Alexander The Macedonian, had used this route to explore the wonders of fertile land that lies south of this pass. Afternoon city tour. O/N at hotel.
3
Day 3
Enter Chitral
Proceed for the fabled valley of Chitral by road. Passing through the lush green plains of Peshawar, we ascend the Malakand Pass that brings us to the Swat valley. We drive shortly through the Swat valley to arrive at the village of Dir for lunch. From Dir we leave the asphalt road and drive on jeep track to ascend of Lowari Pass (3,200 Meters), the gateway of Chitral Valley. From the top of the pass we have fascinating view of the Hindokush and Himalayan mountains. The descend of the pass is more interesting than the ascent, as we take 96 hair-pin turns to get to the valley floor. Passing through the dry and rocky landscape we arrive at Chitral town. Overnight Motel.
4
Day 4
Chitral to Buni
Cross Zani Pass Two hours jeep drive from Chitral to Buni, the largest town in upper Chitral, and quiet historic place because of siege of Chitral in 1895. It is on the south of Mastuj river. Othal is a bit further settlement after Buni if the road remain open then the jeeps go up to Othal. We will start walking from Othal, a zigzag path leads to Zani Pass. Views form the top of Zani Pass are outstanding. Top of Zani Pass is wide flat ground with outstanding views of Trich Mir (7708m) the highest peak of Hindukush and also the Trich valley on our west. In north the pass offers views of Wakhan corridor and Afghan border. On our east will be the area of Shah Jinali and Broghil Passes and in South will be the main Chitral town. After some photography on the top we will descend down on the Trich valley side of the Pass and walk towards Zundragram our first camping site. Overnight at camps.
5
Day 5
Trek to Sor Rich
Today we will continue our trek in Trich valley the trek today is easier than yesterday. We will walk along the Rich river, half of the distance will be covered by jeeps today. arrive Sor Rich for overnight camping.
6
Day 6
Trek to Jinali Ghari base of Shah Jinali Pass
This is a beautiful walk through knee high grass and flowers and across plenty of side streams surrounded by groves of willows, with the Shah Jinali river well below you on your left. After three hours the path turns north and here we will leave the main stream and climb up a green hillside. Arrive Jinali Ghari a shepherds settlement.
7
Day 7
Cross Shah Jinali Pass – Yashkist
Today in the start the trek is again through the knee high geraniums and wild onions, with good views north to the snowy domes of a mountain wall separating you form Afghanistan and the Oxus river. Just before the top is a wide flat meadow which is know as the "Kings Polo Ground" that gives the pass its name Shah Jinali. We will corss the meadow and arrive at the top of the Pass. The top is also flat, with several small lakes on either side. We will walk down to Yashkist for overnight camping.
8
Day 8
Trek to Kishmanja
On the trek we would encounter many river crossings, so it is wise to keep sneakers in your day pack. For the first 3 hours we walk under the shade of poplar and willow trees along the bank of Yarkhun river, crossing three branches of Kankhun river. Excellent views of Thui peaks with their respective glaciers : Thui II (6,525m) with Shetor glacier, Thui I (6665m) in the middle of Panarillo glacier & Kotalkash glacier and Kouo Zom (6875m). We camp at (3325m) on a green spot facing the Kouyo Zom mountain in south, Broghil region begins from here and local people have Mangolian features, having migrated from Wakhan.
9
Day 9
Exc. Broghil Pass – Ishkarwarz
Today we are in Boroghil, that offers the easiest route between Indian sub-continent and Central Asia, frequently featuring in the history. The population speaks Wakhi language, also spoken in southern Tajikistan, and upper Hunza. We ascend a thousand feet from the river to a vantage point with excellent views of Chatibol glacier with its numerous crevasses. Ishkarwaz houses Chitral Scouts and border police`s post to guard the entrance to Wakhan Corridor through Boroghil Pass. Wakhan Corridor, belt of Afghanistan separats Pak. and Thjikistan. While finalizing the boundaries between Afghanistan and British India, this belt was purposely planned as buffer zone between British India and Russian Empire. These days it not allowed to cross Broghil Pass we will only go to top of the pass and walk back by the same route to Ishkarwarz for O/N camping. On our way to the Broghil Pass we will carry only water and cameras.
10
Day 10
Trek to Lalay Rabat
From Ishkarwaqz three main treks divert in different directions. We take the eastern option, a leisurely walk along the Yarkhun river passing by horses and Yaks grazing on green pastures. As we pass the northern trek leading over 3888m Darwaza Pass to Wakhan. We arrive at summer settlement of Lashkargaz (meaning cavalary`s pastures) home of the Sardar (chief) of Bjoroghil. Three hours walk further is Lalay Rabat at 4000 m. Today the trek is flatter and we will walk along the Yarkhun river through many green meadows.
11
Day 11
Over Korambar Pass
Unlike many trek days in Pakistan when the day over the pass is the hardest , this is a lovely day. Passing through rolling pastures and romantic Karambur Lake we arrive at the flat top of Karambur Pass with pools draining in lakes on easy and west sides of the pass. As we descend down gradually through broad green valley and lovely Zhoe Lake which is scattered in miles, we leave behind North West Frontier Province and enter in the Northern Areas. Camp at Shuinj.
12
Day 12
Sokhterabad
Walking along the left bank of Karambur river for two hours we arrive at the snout of Cashboi glacier and then cross the glacier to the south side of the valley that is completely filled at this point by the glacier. We continue our trek along its edge for about three hours to arrive at our campsite at 3353 m surrounded by birch and willow bushes.
13
Day 13
Walk to Chilinji Easy
flat walk of eight kilometers along the south bank of Karambur river. Arrive Chilinji at 3201m, a sandy patch at the base of Chilinji Pass.
14
Day 14
Yasin
The trek is not strenuous anymore and today we will walk along the Chilinji river. Arrive Yasin the most beautiful camping site of our trek, with lots of trees and green pastures.
15
Day 15
Matramdas Matramdas
is the first permanent settlement after crossing Koramabar Pass. The place is consists of about ten house, beside the Chilinji river. It is wide flat area and people are very friendly. enjoy another walking day.
16
Day 16
Bilhanz
If the road remain open then the jeeps reach to Bilhinz. Today we will walk in Ishkoman valley. In our east is Gilgit area across Naltar Pass and in our west across Ishkoman and Korambar Passes will be the Chitral valley. Todays trek is quiet soft. Arrive Bilhinz and small village consist of about 20 houses.
17
Day 17
Gahguch
Today we will board on 4x4 soft top jeeps or we will take a short walk to road blockage area in case of any road blockage. Drive to Gahguch the biggest town in Ghizar valley. This interesting drive is along the Ghizar river. By lunch time we will be in Gahguch for overnight camping.
18
Day 18
Drive to Gilgit
Today we will drive towards Gilgit the administrative capital of Northern Areas of Pakistan. Arrive Gilgit and transfer to hotel for fresh ups. After lunch we drive out from Gilgit to re-enter the town from the historic route, crossing a suspension bridge over river. At Kargah to visit the rock-carved Buddha from 7th century AD. In the ancient times the Kargah valley used to be the traveling route of the Buddhist monks, to go to Taxila. Stroll down the colorful Bazaars of Gilgit. Overnight in hotel.
19
Day 19
Drive to Besham / Narran
Now we are on the KKH, on the bank of Indus river. The Highway was a joint venture between Pakistan and China and it took 20 years & 850 lives to complete this 8th wonder of the world. After three hours we will stop in Jaglot a unique place of its kind in the world. Here the worlds three highest mountain ranges Himalayas, Karakorams and Hindukush are meeting it is also the meeting point of Indus river with Gilgit river. We also have views of Nanga Parbat (8,125m). By eve. we will arrive Besham.
20
Day 20
Drive to Islamabad
Drive on the greener part of KKH to Islamabad. We may stop at Taxila, the archaeological site of Gandhara Buddhist civilization dating from 500 BC to 500 AD era. At Islamabad, transfer to hotel for overnight.
21
Day 21
At Rawalpindi
Full day city tour of the twin cities Rawalpindi & Islamabad. We also have the time to hunt the colorful bazaars. Farewell dinner at a traditional restaurant, O/N at hotel.
22
Day 22
Fly home
Transfer to airport for departure flight.
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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 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 the 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 of the buses will be operational on a on-off basis to keep the vehicles from overheating.
The RVT will not be responsible for any injury/damage/loss.
Shop 180-E Street # 11, Rifle Range Rd, New Iqbal Park, Lahore, Punjab 54750
0307 0043805
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 during 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.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 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 bath 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 the sun goes down. Men could wear shorts once we are through populated areas, that 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 close-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
Buy Outdoor Gears Online:
You can get all the gears from Shimshal Adventure ShopShop 180-E Street # 11, Rifle Range Rd, New Iqbal Park, Lahore, Punjab 54750
0307 0043805