The Khurdopin Pass Trek is one of the world’s most challenging high-altitude treks, offering adventurous trekkers an unparalleled mountain experience. This expedition takes you deep into the heart of the Karakoram Range, traversing the spectacular Biafo Glacier and Khurdopin Glacier, while passing some of the most remote and breathtaking landscapes in Gilgit-Baltistan—a region known for its towering peaks, vibrant mountain communities, colorful markets, and warm hospitality.
The trek begins along the K2 Base Camp trail before turning west onto Snow Lake via the Biafo Glacier and following the Braldu River. Along the route, trekkers cross the snout of the Biafo Glacier and continue north through the Dumordo Valley, navigating past the Panmah Glacier and, conditions permitting, exploring the head of the Chiring Glacier. From here, climbers ascend the West Mustagh Pass for breathtaking views of the high Karakoram, including K2.
The journey continues west through Choktoi, passing the iconic Latok and Ogre (Baintha Brak) peaks—considered some of the most spectacular mountain clusters in the world. Historically, the region has drawn legendary explorers: in 1937, Shipton crossed the Lupke La and Braldu Glacier, while other accounts mention the area’s mythical allure. This expedition-style trek covers an area of over 41 square kilometers, traversing some of the longest glaciers outside the polar regions, and passing more than 35 peaks over 7,000 meters, in proximity to several 8,000-meter giants.
Finally, trekkers cross the formidable Khurdopin Pass, descend the Khurdopin Glacier, and arrive at the remote village of Shimshal. This trek is among the most spectacular and demanding in the world and requires prior high-altitude trekking and climbing experience, excellent physical fitness, and the ability to endure extreme weather conditions. Participants should consult their doctor before the expedition and prepare for potential delays or challenges caused by unpredictable mountain conditions.
Key Highlights
Traverse Biafo Glacier, Khurdopin Glacier, and Snow Lake
Spectacular views of K2, Latok, and Ogre peaks
Expedition-style trek covering 41+ km in remote high-altitude terrain
Opportunity to witness some of the longest glaciers outside the polar regions
Requires excellent fitness and prior high-altitude experience
Arrival at Islamabad. Day reserved for trekking permit finalization with the Ministry of Tourism and a briefing with the deputy chief of operations. Evening free to explore.
Dinner at Food Street and overnight stay.
Transfer to Islamabad International Airport for the flight to Gilgit (subject to weather). If the flight is canceled, travel by road along the Karakoram Highway (KKH) with an overnight stay in Chilas on the banks of the Indus River.
Drive to Hunza Valley with stopovers at the Old Silk Route and the Rakaposhi Viewpoint. Soft hike to Baltit Fort (700 years old) and visit Altit Fort (1000 years old). Lunch at Khabasi Café, run by women. Visit Duiker for panoramic views of Hunza & Nagar Valley, Golden Peak, Rush Lake, and Rakaposhi.
Dinner and overnight stay in Hunza.
Drive to Shimshal Valley, one of the most remote areas of Gilgit-Baltistan. Travel along 53 km of jeep road with a stop at Malangudi Glacier Viewpoint. Explore the village upon arrival.
Dinner and overnight stay in Shimshal.
Short excursion to Aminabad, soft trek to Shimshal Village Viewpoint, and White Horn Peak Viewpoint. Meet locals and visit a traditional home.
Dinner and overnight stay in Shimshal.
Trek towards Chagchagh. Lunch at Past Yazban, continue trekking to the campsite.
Camping overnight (Approx. 7 hrs).
Early breakfast and trek to Pasth Halga, crossing the Khurdopin Glacier. Lunch en route.
Camping overnight (Approx. 6 hrs).
Trek to Cherieen with lunch along the way.
Camping overnight (Approx. 5 hrs).
Trek to Abdul Joshi Camp, lunch on the way.
Camping overnight (Approx. 6 hrs).
A more challenging trekking day toward Qudrat Ali Camp, lunch en route.
Camping overnight (7–8 hrs).
Trek to Khurdopin Base Camp, lunch on route.
Camping overnight (6–7 hrs).
Early morning ascent to Khurdopin Pass (5,790m). Set up a high camp and rest.
Camping overnight (Approx. 9 hrs).
Descend from Khurdopin Top toward Base Camp near Snow Lake.
Camping overnight (Approx. 8 hrs).
Trek to Snow Lake, lunch en route.
Camping overnight (Approx. 6 hrs).
Late breakfast and free day to rest and acclimatize.
Camping overnight.
Trek toward Karfoghro, lunch along the way.
Camping overnight (Approx. 5 hrs).
Continue trekking to Biantha, lunch en route.
Camping overnight (6–7 hrs).
Trek to Namla, lunch on route.
Camping overnight (Approx. 6 hrs).
Trek to Askoli Village, then transfer by 4×4 jeep to Skardu City. Lunch en route.
Dinner with the team and overnight stay in Skardu (Approx. 12 hrs).
Flight to Islamabad (weather permitting) or drive to Naran. Lunch on route. Explore Naran Bazaar upon arrival.
Overnight stay in Naran / Islamabad (Approx. 12 hrs).
Drive to Islamabad via Naran-Kaghan. Lunch en route. Arrival at Islamabad International Airport for departure (Approx. 7 hrs).
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.
