Overview
The Snow Lake – Hispar La Trek in Pakistan takes you through a high-altitude glacier basin that stretches over 16 kilometers in width. This spectacular region is situated at the head of the Biafo and Hispar glaciers and serves as an ancient ice highway that connects the two great mountain kingdoms of Hunza in the west and Baltistan in the east. The combined length of the Biafo-Hispar glacier is 120 kilometers, making it the second-longest glacier in the world outside the Polar Regions.
This trek allows you to explore a remote and untouched part of the Karakorum where very few other trekking groups venture. As a result, the trail remains quiet, and encounters with fellow trekkers are rare. This pristine wilderness is also a habitat for a variety of wildlife, including Himalayan bears, ibex, Markhor, and the elusive snow leopard. The Snow Lake area is renowned for its challenges and rewards, making it one of the most demanding yet fulfilling destinations in the Karakorum for trekkers and mountaineers.
During the trek, there are sections where both the group and porters need to rope up for safety. The trail traverses moraine ridges covered with loose rocks, crosses several tributary glaciers, and entails glacial stream crossings. However, the stunning mountain scenery and picturesque campsites along the way make it a truly unforgettable adventure.
| DAYS | ITINERARY | SEE LEVEL | RESIDENCE |
|---|---|---|---|
| 01 | Arrival in Islamabad and hotel rest before optional Skardu flight | 512m | HOTEL |
| 02 | Drive to Chilas via Karakoram Highway or Babusar Pass if flight is cancelled | 1265m | HOTEL |
| 03 | Scenic drive from Chilas to Skardu, passing Indus River and Nanga Parbat viewpoint | 2467m | HOTEL |
| 04 | Preparation and permit procedures in Skardu | — | HOTEL |
| 05 | Jeep journey to Askole, the last inhabited village on route to K2 | 3000m | CAMP |
| 06 | Trek begins: Askole to Jhula via Braldu River and Korophon | 3200m | CAMP |
| 07 | Trek to Paju with first views of Broad Peak (weather permitting) | 3450m | CAMP |
| 08 | Rest and acclimatization at Paju, with side hikes for views | 3450m | CAMP |
| 09 | Trek from Paju to Urdukas with impressive vistas of Gasherbrums | 3900m | CAMP |
| 10 | Continue glacier ascent to Goro II, camping on ice | 4200m | CAMP |
| 11 | Reach Concordia, surrounded by world’s highest peaks | 4650m | CAMP |
| 12 | Trek to K2 Base Camp via Broad Peak Base Camp | 4850m | CAMP |
| 13 | Return trek to Ali Camp via Vigne Glacier | 4800m | CAMP |
| 14 | Early morning crossing of Gondogoro La Pass with rope support | 5685m | CAMP |
| 15 | Descend from Gondogoro Glacier to Shaicho through yak pastures | 3450m | CAMP |
| 16 | Short trek to Hushe village with views of K6 and K7 | 3000m | CAMP |
| 17 | Drive from Hushe back to Skardu along the Indus River | 2467m | HOTEL |
| 18 | De-briefing with tourism authorities and farewell dinner in Skardu | — | HOTEL |
| 19 | Return to Chilas by road or flight depending on weather | 1265m | HOTEL |
| 20 | Drive or fly to Islamabad; day at leisure | — | HOTEL |
| 21 | Transfer to airport for departure to your home country | Fly Out | HOME |
Services Included
- Airport transfers and all domestic transportation (private vehicles, jeeps, or flights depending on trek)
- Hotel accommodation in Islamabad, Skardu, or Gilgit before and after the trek
- Twin-sharing tents during the trek (single supplement available on request)
- All meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner, and hot drinks)
- Experienced English-speaking guide and local support staff (porters, cooks, assistants)
- National park and trekking permits
- Group climbing/trekking gear (kitchen tent, mess tent, toilet tent, etc.)
- Porterage of personal gear (weight limit varies by trek)
- Emergency first aid kit and communication equipment
- Sightseeing where applicable (cultural sites, valleys, viewpoints)
Services Not Included
- International flights and visa fees
- Travel insurance (must include high-altitude trekking coverage)
- Personal trekking gear (clothing, sleeping bag, trekking poles, etc.)
- Tips for guide, porters, and support staff (customary but not mandatory)
- Extra hotel nights beyond itinerary due to delays (weather, road closure, etc.)
- Personal expenses (laundry, snacks, hot showers, internet, satellite calls)
- Any unforeseen costs due to natural disasters, political issues, or itinerary changes
- Optional excursions or activities not included in the original itinerary
- AS REQUIRED - TENTS
- AS REQUIRED - SLEEPING BAGS
- AS REQUIRED - SLEEPING MATS
- AS REQUIRED - KITCHEN GEAR
- AS REQUIRED - DINING SETUP
