Minglik Sar is a breathtaking mountain peak standing at 6,050 meters (19,849 ft) above sea level, nestled in the Pamirs of Shimshal Valley, Hunza. Ranked as the 31st highest peak in the world, Minglik Sar presents adventurers with a challenging yet immensely rewarding expedition amidst some of the most pristine and untouched landscapes on Earth.
The Pamir Mountains form a strategic and spectacular mountain range, linking peaks and ranges across Tajikistan, Afghanistan, Kyrgyzstan, China, and Pakistan. Expeditions here offer unparalleled vistas of glaciers, alpine lakes, rugged mountain passes, and towering summits. Wildlife enthusiasts might encounter yaks, sheep, goats, and—if fortune smiles—the elusive Ibex or even a snow leopard.
Shimshal Valley, part of Gojal in Gilgit-Baltistan, serves as the gateway to Minglik Sar. Situated at around 3,000 meters above sea level, Shimshal is the highest settlement in Pakistan’s Hunza Valley. Covering 3,800 square kilometers and home to roughly 2,240 households, the valley boasts a rich history. Notably, the Shimshal Pass once played a strategic role as a route used by Hunza raiders targeting trade caravans traveling between China and India.
Shimshal Valley (3,000 m) – Starting point of the trek.
Wuch Furzeen (3,365 m) – First major stop for rest and acclimatization.
Shuijherav (4,350 m) – Key staging area for preparing for the high-altitude climb.
Shimshal Pass – Final approach to the summit, demanding careful navigation.
Minglik Sar Summit (6,050 m) – The ultimate challenge, requiring advanced mountaineering skills, peak physical fitness, and favorable weather conditions.
The journey to Minglik Sar is more than a climb; it is an immersion into one of the world’s most spectacular mountain landscapes, rich in wildlife, culture, and history. For those seeking adventure, it promises an experience that is as rewarding as it is challenging.
Arrive at Islamabad International Airport.
Meet our representative and transfer to the hotel.
Rest and freshen up after your flight.
If time permits, explore Faisal Mosque, Daman-e-Koh, or Saidpur Village.
Evening: group briefing about the trek and climbing expedition.
Night stay in Islamabad.
After breakfast, drive on the Karakoram Highway towards Besham or Naran, passing the beautiful Indus and Kunhar river valleys.
En route, enjoy views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Overnight stay at a hotel/motel.
Distance: ~260 km | Duration: 6–7 hours
Night stay in Besham/Naran.
Continue the scenic journey along the Karakoram Highway towards Gilgit.
Stop to admire the meeting point of the Himalayas, Hindukush, and Karakoram ranges.
Enjoy views of Nanga Parbat (8,125m) and Rakaposhi (7,788m).
If flights are available, you can fly to Islamabad → Gilgit (45 min).
Overnight stay at a hotel in Gilgit.
Distance: ~515 km | Duration: 6–7 hours by road
Drive by jeep towards Shimshal Valley, passing Kuk and Mulungudi Glacier.
Admire Dastagil Sar (7,885m) and the surrounding peaks.
Trek for 1.5–2 hours to reach the main village of Shimshal.
Learn about Shimshal’s history, discovered 900 years ago by a Sufi Saint.
Camp overnight in Shimshal Valley (3,300m).
Begin trekking along the Shimshal River valley before entering a narrow gorge.
Traverse through rugged terrain with stunning views of Kunianchish and Yazgildoom peaks.
Reach Furzin camp, surrounded by birch trees.
Overnight camp at Furzin (5–6 hours).
Enjoy the full Karakoram wilderness trek, passing Voch Furzin for lunch.
Arrive at Peryan Sar/Arbab Paryan for dinner and overnight camp.
A gradual ascent through open valleys with 6,000m+ peaks surrounding you.
Pass Ganj Dour Valley, home to blue sheep, Marco Polo sheep, ibex, and sometimes snow leopards.
Reach Shunjerab summer settlement (60 houses) and interact with locals.
Camp overnight (4–5 hours).
Trek east toward Gulchi Washk, a carpet of alpine flowers, beneath Minglik Sar.
Visit Shuwart, a summer settlement of 60 houses.
Potential to enjoy dinner in a local home and taste traditional Yak cheese and butter foods.
Camp overnight (4–5 hours, 4,735m).
Acclimatization day.
Visit local houses and the Shuwart Glacier.
Enjoy cultural immersion and relax at camp.
Descend along the same route back toward Peryan Sar.
Gradual descent makes trekking easier.
Camp overnight (5–6 hours).
Continue descending through the gorge and past narrow streams.
Stop at Past Furzin for lunch.
Reach Gharsar camp for an overnight stay.
Trek back to Shimshal Valley.
Drive to Karimabad, Hunza.
Explore Altit & Baltit Forts and the Passu/Batura glaciers.
Enjoy the Hunza cultural dance in the evening.
Overnight at the hotel in Hunza.
Early morning drive from Hunza to Besham/Naran, stopping for lunch en route at Dassu.
Overnight stay at a motel/hotel.
Distance: 7–8 hours by road.
Continue along the Karakoram Highway.
Optional stop at Taxila archaeological site, home to ancient Gandhara Buddhist civilization (500 BC–500 AD).
Evening arrival in Islamabad.
Overnight stay at the hotel.
Free day for relaxation or sightseeing in Islamabad.
Visit markets or cultural spots.
Group dinner in the evening.
Overnight at the hotel in Islamabad.
Breakfast at the hotel.
Transfer to Islamabad International Airport for your flight back home.
End of Shimshal Pass Trek & Minglik Sar Climbing Adventure.
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 Skardu.
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.
