Discover 4 Breathtaking Hikes Near Gilgit, Pakistan
The first time I visited Northern Pakistan was 10 years ago, since then I have found myself going there often, and longing to be there when I canβt. Something that always bothered me once I started hiking outside of Pakistan was how easy it is to plan your trips in other countries and how there is not enough resources or information available online to do the same in Pakistan. Most people that go hiking in Pakistan do it through tour operators, which may not be the most convenient, or the most enjoyable experience. I will try to bridge that gap here. Starting my Pakistan content with 5 relatively easy hikes to plan for yourself near Gilgit!
Introduction: Hiking in Pakistan
Pakistan has long been hailed as a haven for hikers, attracting outdoor enthusiasts from all around the world. Out of the fourteen mountain peaks above 8000m in the world, Pakistan hosts five of them, including K2 – the second highest mountain in the world. Its diverse topography boasts towering peaks, sprawling valleys, and crystal-clear lakes, making it a playground for intrepid adventurers seeking a thrilling escape. I may be a little biased when it comes to Pakistani mountains, but whether you are a seasoned trekker or a novice explorer, Pakistan offers a myriad of trekking options that cater to all skill levels, promising unforgettable experiences and unmatched natural beauty.Β
Gilgit: A Gateway to Adventure
Situated at the confluence of the Gilgit and Hunza rivers, Gilgit serves as the perfect gateway to the numerous hikes that lie in its vicinity. This bustling town not only provides essential amenities and accommodations for trekkers but also serves as a cultural and historical hub. The people of the Gilgit-Baltistan region in Pakistan are some of the most hospitable and warm people I have come across in all my travels.Β
Gilgit’s history stretches back thousands of years, and its strategic location on the ancient Silk Road has bestowed upon it a diverse cultural heritage. Explore the vibrant bazaars for handicrafts, clothes and jewellery, savor the local cuisine, and enjoy traditional music that showcase the region’s cultural richness. As you delve into the heart of Gilgit, you\’ll discover aΒ blend of history, folklore, and warm-hearted locals eager to share their stories and traditions.
Trek 1: Fairy Meadows and Nanga Parbat base camp
The hike to Fairy Meadows is a truly fairy-tale experience (haha) and the most easily accessible hike to do from Gilgit. Because of easy accessibility, itβs also one of the most commercial hikes you can do. Regardless, it truly is a magical mountain meadow tucked away in Northern Pakistan. Legend has it that German mountaineers stumbled upon this place during their climb up Nanga Parbat and named it MΓ€rchenwiesen, which means Fairy Tale Meadows.Β
To reach Fairy Meadows, you’ll need to make your way to Raikot Bridge on the Karakoram Highway. From Raikot, it\’s an adventurous ride in a jeep along a narrow (very scary) road to Tato Village. That’s where the real fun begins! The hike from Tato village to Fairy meadows is fairly easy, if hiking isnβt your cup of tea you also have the option of taking a horse (but if hiking isnβt your cup of tea, what are you doing on this blogpost?) Once you’ve arrived at Fairy Meadows, you’ll have a range of accommodation options to choose from. Spend the night camping, have chai by the fire, and spend the night stargazing!Β
From Fairy Meadows, you can head over to Beyal Camp that offers a truly breathtaking panoramic view of Nanga Parbat, I bet you didnβt think you could see the 9th Highest Mountain in the world and one of the most difficult ones to climb, nicknamed the βKiller Mountainβ through such an easy hike. If you want to do the longer hike to the South side of Nanga Parbat, you can find details about it here.Β
Trek detailsΒ
- Trail: Tato village to Beyal Camp
- Difficulty: Easy
- Elevation: Starts at approximately 2,600 meters (8,530 feet)
- Trek distance: Around 10 kilometers (6.2 miles)
- Duration: 4-6 hours, depending on your pace
Itinerary to and from Gilgit:
- Departure from Gilgit to Raikot Bridge: 3-hour drive
- Raikot Bridge to Tato Village: 2-hour jeep ride
- Trek from Tato Village to Beyal Camp: 4-6 hours
- Return from Fairy Meadows to Gilgit: Follow the same route in reverse
Trek 2: Kutwal Lake
The trek to Kutwal Lake is still one of my favourite hikes Iβve done in Pakistan. Nestled amidst the rugged Karakoram Range, Kutwal Lake presents a captivating trek that combines natural splendor with a sense of tranquility. Situated in Haramosh Valley, the 3-4 day hike takes you through meadows, crossing the Mani glacier and lush green forests. The trek starts at the village of Dassu, itβs a fairly easy hike to Iskere, a large clearing among many high mountain peaks including Miar peak and Dobani peak. From Iskere, it gets moderately challenging all the way to Kutwal Lake. Once at the lake, you can set up camp and soak in the surrounding scenery providing breathtaking views of some of the highest mountains in the world including Mani Peak, Haramosh LA, Malubiting peak.
Trek details
- Trail: Dassu to Kutwal Lake
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Total trek distance: 36km
- Starting elevation: 1845 meters
- Max elevation: 3340 meters
- Duration: 10-12 hours, depending on your pace
Itinerary to and from Gilgit
- Departure from Gilgit to Sassi: 2-hour drive
- Day 1: Dassu to Iskere
- Day 2: Iskere to Kutwal Lake
- Day 3: Kutwal to Iskere
- Day 4: Iskere to Sassi, and ride back to Gilgit
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Trek 3: Rakaposhi Base CampΒ
Rakaposhi base camp is located in the Nagar Valley in the north of Pakistan. Rakaposhi is probably the most recognizable mountain in the Gilgit region, visible from the Karakoram Highway, Gilgit and Hunza.Β Β
The trek itself begins in Minapin village, on towards Hakapun which is a small campsite where you can camp and visit the Diran glacier. The following day, the trail takes you onwards to Rakaposhi base camp. This trek offers a captivating experience as you navigate through a trail adorned with alpine forests, gushing streams, and awe-inspiring views throughout till your final stop at the base camp where youβll be greeted by the towering presence of Rakaposhi, dominating the skyline.Β
If you want to extend your trek, you can do Diran base camp which is considered more adventurous and definitely not recommended going there without a local guide as it involves crossing a glacier with deep crevasses.
Trek details
- Trail: Minapin Village to Rakaposhi Base Camp
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Elevation: Starts at approximately 1,550 meters (5,085 feet)
- Trek distance: Around 20 kilometers (12.4 miles)
- Duration: 2-3 days, depending on your pace and acclimatization needs
Itinerary to and from Gilgit
- Duration: 2-3 days, depending on your pace and acclimatization needs
- Departure from Gilgit to Minapin Village: 2-hour drive
- Trek from Minapin Village to Hakapun (3- 4 hours)
- Trek from Hakapun to Rakaposhi base camp (3-4 hours)
- Return from Rakaposhi Base Camp to Gilgit: Follow the same route in reverse
Trek 4: Naltar Valley TrekΒ
Naltar Valley is located 34km away from Gilgit valley. Itβs known for having multiple lakes all of different colors. Naltar Valley is also a popular spot for skiing in the winter, but breathtaking year round. There are three lakes in the Naltar valley known as ‘Bashkiri Lakes’ at a distance of 13 kilometers (08 mi) from Naltar Bala. The trek starts with a fairly easy walk along the Naltar river. The terrain throughout the trek includes beautiful lakes best knowns for their different shades of green and blue, streams, pine forest and meadows.Β You slowly through an easy steady incline progress towards Lower Shani. The Naltar Glaicer lies just next to the campsite and the majestic Hindukush peaks are seen on the horizon. From Lower Shani, itβs a small hike up to Upper Shani situated on the outskirts of Naltar Lake, where you will also get to see Naltar peak.
Trek details
- Trail: Nomal to Naltar Lake
- Difficulty: Easy
- Total trek distance: 32kmStarting elevation: 2950 metersMax elevation: 3550 meters
- Duration: 2 daysΒ
Itinerary to and from Gilgit
- Departure from Gilgit to Naltar: 3 hour drive
- Trek from Naltar Bala to Naltar Lake
- Trek from Nalter Lower Shani to Upper ShaniΒ Return from Lakes to Gilgit: Follow the same route in reverse
Safety precautions
While embarking on any hiking adventure near Gilgit, it is essential to prioritize safety. Proper planning and preparation are crucial aspects of ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. Familiarize yourself with the trek routes, study the terrain, and gather relevant information about weather conditions. Additionally, allow yourself time for acclimatization, especially if you are ascending to higher altitudes. Physical fitness plays a vital role as well, as the trails can be demanding and require endurance.
Navigating weather conditions and potential risks
Gilgit\’s weather can be unpredictable, with rapid changes in temperature and occasional rainfall or snowfall. Stay informed about the weather forecast before setting off on your trek and be prepared with appropriate clothing layers to adapt to varying conditions. Familiarize yourself with the potential risks associated with each hike, such as steep sections, rocky terrain, and river crossings. Carry essential safety gear, including a map, compass, headlamp, and a whistle, to ensure you are well-prepared for any unforeseen circumstances.
Emergency preparednessΒ
Prioritize safety by being prepared for emergencies. Carry a well-stocked first aid kit and learn basic first aid techniques. It is advisable to hike with a partner or in a group, as it provides an extra layer of safety and support. Ensure that someone knows your itinerary and estimated return time. Stay connected with reliable communication devices, such as a fully charged mobile phone or a two-way radio, in case of emergencies.
Getting to Gilgit: Travel Tips and Recommendations
Transportation options for reaching Gilgit
Reaching Gilgit is an adventure in itself, and one that I donβt enjoy very much at all. Though you can take a flight into Gilgit Airport from a few major cities in Pakistan, my luck has not been great with flights and Iβve always ended up doing the long stressful drive. Hope your luck turns out better than mine! If you choose to drive, it can be quite a scenic road trip and there are many public transport options you can go for.Β
Accommodation suggestions and local hospitality
Gilgit offers a range of accommodations, from budget-friendly guesthouses to comfortable hotels. Consider staying in the heart of the town to access amenities conveniently, or choose accommodations closer to the trek starting points for a seamless experience.Β
Best time to visit Gilgit for optimal hiking conditions
The ideal time to visit Gilgit for hiking is during the summer months, from May to September when the weather is relatively stable and the trails are more accessible. However, each trek has its own unique seasonal considerations, so research and plan accordingly. Be mindful of peak tourist seasons, as it may impact accommodation availability and trail congestion.
Essential Packing List for Hiking in Gilgit
Clothing recommendations for different seasons and altitudes
When preparing for hiking in Gilgit, pack clothing suitable for the specific season and altitude you will be trekking in. Layering is key to adapting to changing weather conditions, so include lightweight, moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers, and waterproof outer shells. Don\’t forget to pack a warm hat, gloves, and a sturdy pair of hiking boots to ensure comfort and protection on the trails.
Must-have gear and equipment for a comfortable and safe hike
In addition to clothing, certain gear and equipment are essential for a safe and comfortable hiking experience in Northern Pakistan. These include a sturdy backpack, a reliable trekking pole for stability, a high-quality sleeping bag, a lightweight tent, a water filtration system, a headlamp, a multi-tool, and a portable stove for cooking meals on longer treks. Invest in high-quality gear to ensure durability and reliability throughout your journey.
Packing tips to ensure a lightweight backpack
Efficient packing is crucial to maintain a lightweight backpack, allowing you to hike with ease and comfort. Prioritize essential items, such as clothing, camping gear, and safety equipment. Pack lightweight, compact items whenever possible. Opt for multi-purpose gear to minimize weight and bulk. Consider the duration and difficulty level of your trek when deciding on the quantity of supplies to carry. Remember, a lighter backpack translates to a more enjoyable hiking experience.
Exploring Beyond Hiking: Additional Activities in Gilgit
While the breathtaking hikes near Gilgit take center stage, there are additional attractions and landmarks worth exploring in the vicinity. Visit the ancient Altit and Baltit Forts in Hunza Valley to delve into the region\’s rich history. Marvel at the stunning Attabad Lake, created by a massive landslide. I would advise you to extend your stay and venture beyond the hiking trails
Conservation Efforts and Responsible Hiking
Leave Only Trace behind principles and responsible hiking practices
As tourism has increased in the Gilgit-Baltistan region of Pakistan in recent years, it has been extremely disappointing to see people leaving their trash behind. As visitors to these mountains, it is essential to uphold responsible hiking practices.Β Respect the environment by carrying out any waste you generate, minimizing your impact on natural places, and adhering to designated trails. Avoid disturbing wildlife and sensitive ecosystems. By leaving the trails as you found them, you ensure that future generations can experience the same untouched beauty.
Supporting local conservation initiatives and sustainable tourism
Supporting local conservation initiatives and embracing sustainable tourism practices can make a significant difference in preserving the natural wonders of the area. Consider contributing to organizations working towards the conservation of the region\’s fragile ecosystems. Choose local tour operators and accommodations that prioritize sustainable practices, such as waste management and eco-friendly initiatives. Please support and advocate for responsible and sustainable tourism in Pakistan.Β
Creating a positive impact on the environment and local communities
By being mindful of your actions and choices while hiking in Gilgit, you have the opportunity to create a positive impact on the environment and local communities. Respect the local culture and customs, engage in meaningful interactions with the locals, and support local businesses and artisans. Contribute to the local economy by purchasing locally made products and handicrafts. By fostering a sense of respect and appreciation, you become a responsible traveler, leaving a positive footprint in your wake.
Happy trekking!
Pakistan truly is a paradise for hikers, with its awe-inspiring trails that lead to hidden gems of natural beauty. From the enchanting Fairy Meadows to the majestic Rakaposhi Base Camp, the captivating Kutwal Lake, the wonders of Naltar Valley lakes, each hike offers a unique blend of adventure and serenity. Exploring these treks will leave you with unforgettable memories that linger in your heart long after you\’ve returned home.
*Note:For most of the hikes in Pakistan, it is important to have a local guide. You can reach out to me for recommendations.Β
Happy trekking! And if you do end up planning a trip to Pakistan, say hi to my mountains for me! πΒ