Around Nanga Parbat Trek

The Around Nanga Parbat trek is a captivating circular adventure in the Western Himalayan region of Pakistan. In recent times, it has gained popularity as a prime destination for mountaineering enthusiasts and trekkers from across the globe. This trek offers a comprehensive perspective to all lovers of mountains.

Despite its name, the Around Nanga Parbat trek does not completely encircle the Nanga Parbat peak. It begins on the southern side of Nanga Parbat from Tarashing in the Rupal Valley, taking a path that goes halfway around the mountain. The route initially heads west through the Rupal Valley and then turns northward to traverse the challenging Mazeno La pass. After crossing Mazeno La, the journey leads to the enchanting Fairy Meadows.

Nanga Parbat, standing at a formidable 8,126 meters, is the westernmost peak of the Himalayan range. It is one of Pakistan's five 8,000-meter peaks and ranks as the 9th highest peak in the world. This mountain massif extends over a staggering 20 kilometers, marked by a series of peaks and ridges. Its strikingly solitary and white presence can be seen from the south, spanning at least 100 kilometers. The name Nanga Parbat translates to "The Naked Mountain" and is also known as the "Killer Mountain" due to the formidable challenges it presents to climbers. Notably, the first ascent of Nanga Parbat was a solo climb made without supplemental oxygen in 1953 by the German mountaineer Hermann Buhl.

The south face of Nanga Parbat, known as the Rupal face, soars over 5,000 meters from the valley floor to the summit, offering trekkers breathtaking and up-close views. In contrast, the north Raikot face plunges over 7,000 meters from the summit to the Indus River, creating one of the world's deepest and most dramatic gorges.

Access to the Rupal Valley, situated on the south side of Nanga Parbat, is gained via the Astore Valley, which branches off from the Karakoram Highway at Jaglot, located 60 kilometers south of Gilgit. The Rupal Valley offers shorter and relatively easier treks while still providing incredible views.