Experience one of the most remote and breathtaking treks in northern Pakistan. This expedition takes you into a wild, untouched wilderness where encounters with fellow humans are rare, but encounters with nature are profound.
Snow Lake, named by explorer Martin Conway in 1892, was long thought to be a vast ice cap. Conway’s dramatic account in Climbing Expeditions in the Karakoram – Himalayas brought this extraordinary region to the world’s attention.
Over 21 days, you will trek approximately 122 km across the Biafo and Hispar Glaciers, navigating a remarkable landscape of ice, rock, and sky. Along the way, small ablation valleys burst with alpine flowers and provide glimpses of the region’s unique flora and fauna. Snow Lake itself, nestled between these glaciers, feels otherworldly—a true high-altitude paradise for adventure seekers.
The journey concludes as you descend to the picturesque Hunza Valley, soaking in the grandeur of the Karakoram, before traveling along the Karakoram Highway back to Islamabad. This trek is perfect for those looking for solitude, raw natural beauty, and a high-altitude adventure that few experience.
Trek Facts
Mountain Range: Karakoram
Altitude: Minimum 2,500m – Maximum 5,400m
Trek Grade: Strenuous
Duration: 21 Days
Best Time: July – September
Fly to Pakistan from your home country.
Arrival in Islamabad. Welcome by Rock Valley Tours. Trek briefing with your leader and guide. The rest of the day is free to explore Rawalpindi and Islamabad bazaars. Overnight at the hotel.
Morning transfer to the airport for the flight to Skardu. Transfer to the resort. (Flight subject to weather; if canceled, drive to Chilas). Overnight at the hotel.
Explore Skardu town, rest, and prepare for the trek. If traveling by road, drive from Chilas to Skardu. Overnight at the hotel.
Board soft-top 4×4 jeeps to trek. Enjoy views of Mango Gusor (6208m) and Bakhor Das (5809m). Camp at Thongol/Askoli (2950m). (145 km, 5–6 hours).
Start trekking, luggage distributed among porters. Walk along the Braldu River to Askoli village, the last permanent settlement. Trek across Biafo Glacier and lateral moraine to Namla campsite (3400m). (6–7 hours).
Cross glacier crevasses carefully. Ascend gently, enjoying views of Latok 1 (7145m) and Latok 2 (7108m). Arrive at Biantha (4025m), a grassy campsite with a stream. (6–7 hours).
Walk along the valley, cross small lakes, then gradually climb the glacier. Rope up if there is fresh snow. Enjoy views of Sosbun Brakk (6418m). Camp at 4025m. (7–8 hours).
Early departure to cross soft snow on the medial moraine. Reach the intersection of Sim-gang Glacier and Snow Lake. Camp at ~4780m near Hispar Pass. (2–3 hours).
Explore Snow Lake (estimated size 77 sq.km). Named by Martin Conway in 1892. Witness glaciers, ice formations, and dramatic Karakoram peaks.
Climb the pass with gaiters, roped together for safety. View Snow Lake from Hispar Pass (5151m) and descend to the northern moraine of Hispar Glacier. Camp at 4580m (7–8 hours).
Cross Khanibasa Glacier (90 minutes), follow the lateral moraine, and marvel at hanging glaciers and avalanches. Camp at Yutmaru (4330m) amid alpine flowers. (5–6 hours).
Cross Yutmaru Glacier (2 hours), climb steeply with panoramic views of Hispar Glacier and Chish Range (7852m). Camp at 3902m. (6–7 hours).
Relax at the Bitanmal valley campsite. Surrounded by alpine flora, grazing goats, sheep, and yaks.
Walk through green pastures, crossing the Hispar River. Enter Hispar village with mud houses, apricot trees, and wheat fields. Camp near the river at 3200m. (5–6 hours).
Walk 2 hours to Huru, then ride in 4×4 jeeps to Karimabad, Hunza Valley. Spectacular views of Rakaposhi (7788m), Ultar 1 (7388m), Ultar 2, and Golden Peak. Afternoon free. Overnight at the hotel.
Free day in Karimabad. Visit Altit and Baltit forts. Option to drive 35 km north to Passu for views of Passu & Batura glaciers. Cultural dance in the evening. Overnight at the hotel.
Morning excursion to Upper Hunza, then drive along the Karakoram Highway to Chilas. Overnight at the hotel. (230 km, 6 hours).
Drive to Islamabad. Overnight at the hotel. (385 km, 12 hours).
Day free to explore the city or relax. Overnight at hotel.
Transfer to Islamabad airport for your international flight home.
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.
