Manglik Sar Peak (6,050 m) is located in the heart of the Karakoram Range in Shimshal, the most remote valley of the region. The mountains here are among the toughest in the Karakoram, with several high virgin peaks dominating the landscape. In this dramatic setting, we offer an ascent of Manglik Sar, a 6,050-meter trekking peak that has been climbed many times by our experienced local guides from Shimshal Valley.
The expedition begins in Islamabad, followed by a scenic drive along the legendary Karakoram Highway to Passu in Upper Hunza. From Passu, soft-top 4×4 jeeps take us into the remote Shimshal Valley. It takes two days of trekking to reach the main village of Shimshal.
From the village, a four-day trek leads to the base camp of Manglik Sar, located above two beautiful lakes and flower-filled meadows where yaks roam freely. After the peak attempt, the journey continues with a six-day trek over three high mountain passes, ending at the Karakoram Highway, just south of Khunjerab Pass near the Pakistan–China border.
Arrive in Islamabad. After a short stay for freshening up and breakfast, drive on the Karakoram Highway to Naran or Besham in air-conditioned transport.
Overnight: Hotel
(260 / 150 km | 6–7 hours)
Exciting drive along the KKH, passing through the gorges of the Indus and Hunza Rivers.
En route, visit the meeting point of the world’s three great mountain ranges: the Himalaya, Hindukush, and Karakoram.
Enjoy views of Nanga Parbat (8,125 m) and Rakaposhi (7,788 m).
Overnight: Hotel
(500–530 km | 8–9 hours)
Drive by soft-top 4×4 jeeps from Passu toward Shimshal Valley through the narrow gorge of the Shimshal River.
After about two hours, reach Ziarat (Traveler’s Hut), a historic site associated with Shah Shams, a Sufi saint from Central Asia.
Views of Karoon I (7,164 m) and Dastagil Sar (7,885 m).
Continue trekking to Shimshal, one of the remotest valleys of the Karakoram.
Overnight: Guesthouse / Camp
(4–5 hours trek | 3,300 m)
Trek through the narrow gorge of the Shimshal River.
The first two hours are spent along the open valley before entering the gorge.
At certain sections, careful footing is required on narrow trails.
Views of Kunyang Chhish and Yazgildoom Peaks (both over 7,000 m).
Camp at Furzin, known for its birch trees.
Overnight: Camp
(5–6 hours)
One of the tougher trekking days.
Steep ascent of about 200 m, followed by a traverse and descent to the Shimshal River.
Cross the river by the footbridge and continue to Pariyan Camp.
Final ascent to Pariyan Sar offers excellent views of Manglik Sar and the surrounding peaks.
Camp at Arbab Parian, a shepherd settlement with fresh water.
Overnight: Camp
(4–5 hours)
A relatively easy walk along the river with views of peaks above 6,000 m.
Pass Ganj Dour Valley, known for wildlife including blue sheep, ibex, Marco Polo sheep, and occasional snow leopards.
Arrive at Shunjerab, the summer settlement of Shimshalis.
Overnight: Camp
(4–5 hours)
Gradual ascent through Gulchi Washk (Carpet of Flowers).
Walk through a wide valley with two lakes near Shimshal Pass.
Camp is established beneath the main ridge of Manglik Sar.
Optional visit to Shuwart summer settlement and interaction with local families.
Overnight: Camp
(4–5 hours | 4,735 m)
Rest and acclimatization day.
Explore the surrounding area and visit Shuwart Glacier.
Overnight: Camp
Early morning start for summit attempt.
Gradual ascent along the ridge, moving onto snow terrain near 5,800 m.The
Summit area is wide and non-technical.
On clear days, distant views of K2 and Broad Peak are possible.
Safety ropes and equipment are provided by guides.
Descend back to base camp.
Overnight: Camp
(9–10 hours)
Second attempt day or exploration around Shimshal Pamir.
Option to climb Manglik Sar or nearby peaks (Kuz Sar, Lup Zhui Sar – under 5,500 m).
Celebration campfire with local music and dances in the evening.
Overnight: Camp
Return trek along the same route with a gradual descent.
Overnight: Camp
(5–6 hours)
Easy walk following the stream toward Maidur Valley.
Camp at a small summer settlement with easy access to water.
Overnight: Camp
(4–5 hours)
Early morning start to cross Shapodin Pass.
Non-technical ascent; trekking poles are sufficient.
Views of Passu Peak, Shispar Peak, and Dastagil Sar.
Descend to Shapodin summer settlement.
Overnight: Camp
(7–8 hours)
Cross Boisam Pir Pass (5,090 m).
View of Kanjut Sar (7,760 m) and a beautiful blue lake after the pass.
Lunch stop at Pachodewashk, then continue to Mandik Shlaq.
Overnight: Camp
(5–6 hours)
Easy trekking day.
Stop at the Havdiji settlement for lunch.
Continue toward Werbin.
Overnight: Camp
(4–5 hours)
Cross three small rivers en route.
Area known for ibex sightings.
Overnight: Camp
(5–6 hours)
Early start for crossing Chafchingol Pass (5,151 m).
View of Dastagil Sar (7,885 m) from the pass.
Descend to Kuksail on the Karakoram Highway, near Khunjerab Pass.
Drive to Hunza.
Overnight: Hotel
(5–6 hours trek + 2–3 hours drive)
Drive along the Karakoram Highway toward Besham or Naran.
Lunch in Dassu.
Overnight: Motel
(11–12 hours)
Drive back to Islamabad.
Half-day sightseeing after lunch.
Evening free.
Overnight: Hotel
(5–6 hours)
Do not hesitage to give us a call. We are an expert team and we are happy to talk to you.
+92 347 4598096
info@rockvalleytours.com
Accommodation:
Twin-sharing standard hotel rooms in towns.
2-person dome tents during the trek.
Meals:
Half board at hotels (breakfast + dinner).
Full board during the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner, tea/coffee).
Transportation:
Air-conditioned transport along the Karakoram Highway.
Soft-top 4×4 jeeps to/from the trek head and trek end.
Camping Facilities:
2-person dome tents with mattresses.
Dining tent with folding table & chairs.
Kitchen tent with full kitchenette and staff.
Toilet tent.
Portage:
13 kg per person during the trek.
Other Services:
Tips and portage at airports & hotels.
Entrance fees to sites and museums.
English-speaking mountain guide.
Domestic or international airfare and airport taxes.
Any expenses due to forced measures, flight cancellations, landslides, natural calamities, acts of God, or other events beyond the control of Rock Valley Tours, their staff, and suppliers.
Personal expenses not mentioned under “Included,” such as souvenirs, snacks, phone/internet charges, or laundry.
Personal trekking equipment and clothing.
Optional activities or services not listed in the itinerary.
Travel or health insurance, including evacuation or rescue costs.
Luggage
Large Duffel Bag: Maximum 12.5 kg, with lock. Easier for porters to carry; avoid using a backpack.
Day Pack: For items you need during trekking, jeep rides, or bus travel (camera, jacket, water bottle, etc.).
Extra Carry-On: To store city clothes in the respective city.
Money Belt/Fanny Pack: For passport, travel documents, and cash.
Sleeping & Camping
Sleeping Bag: Rated 0 °F / -18 °C. Down bags are lightweight; synthetic bags perform better when wet. Waterproof shell or bivy recommended.
Camp Shoes: Jogging shoes or Tiva sandals, ideal for streams and campsite strolls.
Mattress/Close-Cell Matrices: We provide, but personal comfort items are optional.
Footwear
Trekking Boots: Medium-weight, fabric or fabric/leather combination. Well broken-in. Compatible with crampons.
Crampons: Required for certain high-altitude treks (e.g., Gondogoro La, Biafo-Hispar, Wartum Peak).
Thermal Socks: Cotton/wool blend for glaciers; synthetic/cotton for warmer sections.
Liner Socks: Thin, wickable material like polypropylene, Capilene, Thermax, or Drylete.
Clothing
Polyester Fleece/Pile Jacket & Pants: Warm, even when wet.
Rain Gear: A waterproof and windproof suit that fits over fleece layers.
Wicking Long Underwear: Tops and bottoms, two sets recommended.
Down Jacket/Parka: Essential for high-altitude or evening cold.
Shalwar Kameez (Women): Comfortable, loose-fitting for warm conditions and culturally appropriate.
Cotton/Wool Shirts & Trousers: Layering for trekking and evenings.
Gloves/Mittens & Ski Hat: Protect against cold and wind.
Brimmed Sun Hat: Protects from low morning sun.
Personal Gear
Sunglasses: High-quality UV protection.
Water Bottle: Durable screw-top recommended.
Headlamp & Extra Batteries/Bulbs
Sunscreen, Lip Balm, Skin Lotion
Toiletries & Laundry Soap
Swiss Army Knife / Multi-Tool
Nylon Cord / Clothesline
Personal Medical Kit
Pocket Sewing Kit
Lighter or Matches
Wristwatch
Optional Items
Extra sleeping mat for comfort.
Stuff sacks for used clothing.
Travel tissues or toilet paper.
Notebook and pen for journaling.
Snacks (energy bars, dried fruits, candy).
Camera, extra batteries, lenses, and cleaning supplies.
Lightweight sports gear (Frisbee, playing cards).
Water purification tablets.
Bathing suit (for rivers/lakes).
Tips
Pack one large duffel and one small day pack for convenience.
Wear durable, comfortable, and easily washable clothes.
Layer clothing to adjust to varying temperatures: warm days, cold nights.
Men can wear shorts after leaving populated areas; women should stick to loose, long clothing.
If you’re traveling to Pakistan, you’ll need a visa. Depending on your nationality, you can get it on arrival or apply online before your trip. You can also go to your local Pakistani embassy for a tourist visa. The length of stay varies: e-visas can be up to 3 months (extendable to 6 months), while visas on arrival are valid for 30 days. Make sure to check visa requirements with the authorities, as they might change.
In Pakistan, what you wear depends on when and where you’re going. In hot areas, wear light, loose clothes like a shirt and trousers. For cold places, bring warm clothes like a jacket and layers. When visiting mosques, cover your head, arms, legs, and shoulders. Dress modestly and avoid shorts. If you’re unsure, it’s best to dress conservatively.
June–September: Monsoon season with unpredictable rains, reaching over 45°C (113°F) in June. Floods can occur.
October/November: Post-monsoon season with decreasing temperatures and rainfall. Days are warm, nights cool.
December–February: Winter months with pleasant daytime temperatures around 20°C (68°F) and colder nights, especially in the northern mountains where it snows.
March–May: Hot and dry season with temperatures in the mid-30s°C (95°F) in low-lying areas, getting hotter towards the north.
Although Pakistan has faced challenges in recent years, it’s now generally safe to visit as long as you stay in busy areas. Some people might worry about coming here, but trust us, there’s a lot to discover beyond what you see in the news. You can be confident that Rock Valley Tours wouldn’t take you anywhere unsafe.
