Experience an extraordinary high-altitude expedition through one of the most remote regions of northern Pakistan. The Shimshal Verjarab Pass & Snow Lake Trek takes you deep into the wild Karakoram, where vast glaciers, towering peaks, and untouched alpine valleys create a landscape few travelers ever witness. This challenging journey is designed for experienced trekkers seeking true wilderness adventure and breathtaking mountain scenery.
Crossing the demanding Verjarab Pass (5,900 meters), the trek offers dramatic panoramic views of surrounding snow-covered peaks and expansive glacier systems. As you move through the rugged terrain of Shimshal Valley toward the legendary Snow Lake, you will encounter pristine campsites, remote glacial basins, and striking contrasts of ice, rock, and sky that define the Karakoram’s raw beauty.
Over 21 days, trekkers experience a complete expedition-style adventure that combines 15 days of strenuous trekking, 14 nights camping, and 5 nights in hotels. This route provides a rare opportunity to explore one of Pakistan’s most isolated trekking regions, ideal for those seeking endurance, solitude, and an unforgettable high-mountain experience.
Trek Facts
Mountain Range: Karakoram
Altitude: Minimum 2,800m – Maximum 5,900m
Trek Grade: Strenuous
Duration: 21 Days
Best Time: July – September
Arrival at Islamabad International Airport and transfer to the hotel. The day is reserved for trekking permit processing, briefing with relevant authorities, and final expedition preparations. Evening free to explore the city. Dinner and overnight stay in Islamabad.
Transfer to the airport for the Gilgit flight (subject to weather). In case of flight cancellation, travel by road along the Karakoram Highway (KKH) with an overnight stay in Chilas. Continue to Hunza Valley. Dinner and overnight stay.
Drive from Hunza to the remote Shimshal Valley, traveling along the scenic Shimshal Jeep Road with a stop at Malangudi Glacier viewpoint. Arrival, village visit, and trek briefing. Dinner and overnight stay.
Short excursion to Aminabad and a soft acclimatization hike to scenic viewpoints overlooking Shimshal village and surrounding peaks. Cultural interaction with local families. Dinner and overnight stay.
Begin trekking toward Chagchagh, passing Past Yazban for lunch. Continue trekking to the campsite. Camping overnight (Approx. 7 hrs).
Trek to Pasth Halga, crossing the Khurdopin Glacier en route. Lunch on the glacier. Arrival at campsite and rest. Camping overnight (Approx. 6 hrs).
Continue trekking through rugged terrain to Maram Maydiyathk with lunch on the way. Camping overnight (6–7 hrs).
Trek across remote alpine landscapes toward Mohd Khaliq Youksheen Diyathk Camp. Camping overnight (Approx. 7 hrs).
A challenging trekking day toward Ayub Camp, with lunch en route. Camping overnight (7–8 hrs).
Trek to Advance Camp, gradually gaining elevation and preparing for higher altitude ascent. Camping overnight (6–7 hrs).
Trek to High Camp and prepare for the upcoming pass crossing. Camping overnight (Approx. 7 hrs).
Early morning ascent and crossing of Verjarab Pass (5,900m). After the crossing, descend to the campsite. Camping overnight (Approx. 8 hrs).
Descend toward Base Camp, enjoying dramatic glacier scenery along the route. Camping overnight (Approx. 6 hrs).
Rest and acclimatization day reserved for weather or expedition adjustments. Camping overnight.
Resume trekking toward Simgang Glacier, with lunch en route. Camping overnight (Approx. 7 hrs).
Trek across glacier terrain to Karfoghro campsite. Camping overnight (Approx. 5 hrs).
Continue trekking to Biantha, passing through dramatic glacial valleys. Camping overnight (6–7 hrs).
Trek to Namla campsite with lunch on the way. Camping overnight (Approx. 6 hrs).
Trek to Askoli Village and transfer by 4×4 jeeps to Skardu. Farewell dinner with trekking staff. Overnight stay in Skardu.
Flight to Islamabad (weather permitting). If canceled, drive toward Naran along the scenic mountain highway. Overnight stay in Naran / Islamabad.
Drive to Islamabad, transfer to Islamabad International Airport for departure.
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+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.
