Rash Lake & Patundass Trek
Rash Phari means sparkling Lake. We walk on glaciers, through villages to explore the real life of those living in the footsteps of mighty glaciers, along the irrigated terraced fields with the impressive view of the Karakoram Mountains from the summit of Rush Peak (5098 Meters). The second part of the stunning trek goes along the Batura Glaciers.
-
Trip Code Start and Finish
- DP-TR-05
-
Altitude Best time
- 5098 meters
-
Activity Level Activity
- Medium
-
Duration Meals
- 16 days
-
Group Size Guide
- 8-12
-
Reviews 0 Reviews0/5
Rash Phari means sparkling Lake. We walk on glaciers, through villages to explore the real life of those living in the footsteps of mighty glaciers, along the irrigated terraced fields with the impressive view of the Karakoram Mountains from the summit of Rush Peak (5098 Meters). The second part of the stunning trek goes along the Batura Glaciers. Patungdass is a summer pasture at an altitude of 4200m on the ridge between the Passu and Batura Glaciers with spectacular views. The fascinating view of Passu Peak 7,284m, Batura Peak 7,500m, Shishper 7,619m, Dasteghil Sar 7,885, Momhil Sar 7,342, and Rakaposhi 7,788m, are all around you. The trek starts at Borit Lake and goes through Passugar, Luzdar, and Patungdass along the glaciers, an easy short trek that does not require any experience.
TRIP FACTSÂ Â Â
Trip code:Â Â Â DP-TR-05
Best time:Â Â Â Â Late May till early October,Â
Trek Standard:    Moderate, Â
Maximum Height:Â Â 5098 metersÂ
Trip Length (Islamabad-Islamabad): 15nights/16 days (7 hotel nights & 8 camping nights)Â
Rash Lake Trek only: 10 nights/11 days (6 hotel nights & 4 camping nights)Â
Patungdass Trek only: 10 nights/11 days (6 hotel nights & 4 camping nights)
Trip Highlights:
- Hunza Valley Paradise on the planet EarthÂ
- Rakaposhi King of the Mountains in the eastern Karakorum
- Rash Lake and Rash PeakÂ
- Hopar Valley and Hoper Glacier
- Attabad Lake is a blue-sky lake on the Karakorum Highway
- Borith LakeÂ
- Ghulkin GlacierÂ
- Passu GlacierÂ
- Batura Glacier is one of the longest glaciers in Karakorum out of the Polar Region
-
TRANSPORTATION
Airport transfers in Islamabad
Air-conditioned private transportation for one-day sightseeing in Islamabad
Air-conditioned private transportation from Islamabad to Raikot & Tarashing.
Air-conditioned private transportation from Bunardass to Islamabad.
Jeeps for Fairy Meadows -
ACCOMMODATION
7 nights’ hotel accommodation in standard hotels
2 nights in Islamabad in a 3* hotel on a twin/double sharing basis.
2 nights in Chilas in a standard tourist class hotel on a twin/double sharing basis.
2 nights in Karimabad in alpine huts or a standard tourist class hotel on a twin/double sharing basis.
Note: Please check the single supplement charges in case you wish to use a single room.3-FOOD (MEALS)
Breakfasts in Islamabad and full board (three meals) elsewhere during hotel stays.
A farewell dinner in Islamabad at the end of the trip4-MEAL DURING CAMPING
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Tea, green tea, or coffee
Menu: Breakfast: Combination of eggs, corn-flex, porridge, jam, honey, coffee, tea, etc.
Lunch: One dish lunch at the base camp and picnic lunch during the trek
Dinner: Complete meal; soup, two/three dishes (combination of rice, mutton/beef, chicken,
Pulses, vegetables, pasta, spaghetti, etc.), salad, and dessert5- TAXES AND FEES
Road taxes
Camping fees during the trek.
Bridge crossing fees.6- PORTERAGE
Porters trekking food, camping equipment, and personal gear of trekkers.
A free baggage allowance of 15 kilograms per trekker is for personal gear7- LOCAL STAFF
Services of the following staff are included in the price.
Local trekking guide
Cook
Cook helper (s)8-INSURANCE OF LOCAL STAFF
Insurance premium of a local guide, cook, cook helpers, etc.
9-CAMPING EQUIPMENT & ACCESSORIES
Sleeping tent for camping shared by two pax
Toilet tent
Complete mess tent/table/chairs
Mattresses
Toilet papers etc
Note: Single tent can be provided, please check for single supplement charges10- MESS/KITCHEN EQUIPMENT
Complete kitchen equipment including kitchen tent, mess tent, tables & chairs etc.
11- EMERGENCY SUPPORT
A set of oxygen (4 litters gas cylinder, mask & regulator) will be available for emergencies.
A set of satellite phones for emergency calls
Basic first aid kit (we recommend bringing your own first aid medicine from your home country)12- WATER FILTERS
There will be water filters or purification pills. You can ask the cook to fill your bottle with boiled water every morning during the trek.
- International air ticket & airport taxes.
- Visa fee for Pakistan and personal insurance
- Extra hotel nights & meals due to change in plan
- Lunches & dinners in Islamabad
- Beverages & Laundry
- Sleeping bags, personal clothing, and trekking gear.
- Tips for trekking staff
- Tips for hotel & transport
- Any other service that is not mentioned in the list of services
Itinerary
-
1
Day 1 ARRIVAL ISLAMABAD -
2
Day 2 ISLAMABAD-CHILAS -
3
Day 3 CHILAS-KARIMABAD HUNZA -
4
Day 4 KARIMABAD HOPAR AND BARPUGRAM -
5
Day 5 BARPUGRAM GUTENS -
6
Day 6 GUTENS- RASH LAKE -
7
Day 7 FREE DAY AT RASH LAKE -
8
Day 8 RASH LAKE PHAHI PHARI -
9
Day 9 PHAHI PHARI HOPAR AND GULMIT -
10
Day 10 GULMIT BORITH LAKE AND TREK TO PASSUGHAR -
11
Day 11 PASSUGHAR LUZDHAUR -
12
Day 12 LUZDHUR-PATUNGDAS -
13
Day 13 PATUNGDAS- MULUNGHIL -
14
Day 14 MULUNGHIL-PASSU AND DRIVE TO GULMIT -
15
Day 15 KARIMABAD- BESHAM/NARAN -
16
Day 16 BESHSAM ISLAMABAD -
17
Day 17 TRANSFER TO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT FOR HOME FLIGHT
IMPORTANT NOTE:
We always do the best in our power to follow the set itinerary, however it can change occasionally based on temporary access restrictions, weather, lodging/campground availability, guest ability/injury, and natural disasters like heavy rains, flooding, and other potential causes. Sometimes we experience unforeseen happens to affect the plan.
CUSTOMIZE THIS TOUR
Would you like to customize this trip? We would be very happy to tailor made this experience for you and your companions. Our team is here to guide you through the process. We will take the time to listen to your aspirations, understand your travel style, and work closely with you to craft a personalized itinerary. Please click here to fill the trip information form.
PASSPORT AND VISA
Participants of all nationalities are required to have a valid passport with six months remaining validity and a visa for Pakistan. Visas must be applied online at https://visa.nadra.gov.pk/
The main category is MOUNTAINEERING & TREKKING and the sub-category is TREKKING. You will need a letter of invitation (LOI) which our office will provide along with the requisite documents like a Discover Pakistan license copy and the National Identity Card of the issuing authority.
PLEASE MAKE SURE YOU HAVE THE CORRECT TRAVEL DOCUMENTS AND A VISA FOR PAKISTAN.
TREKKING PERMIT
No trekking permit is required as the Rash Lake & Patungdass Trek falls in an open area.
PERSONAL INSURANCE
As the trip is strenuous, it is a mandatory requirement to have an insurance policy for accidents, medical and helicopter evacuation covering at least $ 30,000.
VACCINATIONS
Currently, all passengers entering Pakistan require a COVID VACCINATION CERTIFICATE (fully vaccinated). Those who do not have vaccination due to medicate reasons will need a certificate from a doctor. Those entering Pakistan without a Covid vaccination certificate need to show negative PCR as well.
You do not need to show proof of any other vaccination but highly recommend having other vaccines.
DRESS
In the cities like Islamabad, there is no problem if you are in Western dress but in remote regions including Skardu, you will need to have a full dress (covering your body)
LOCAL CREW
The local crew includes a licensed guide, cook, assistant cook, porter’s Sirdar, and porters. Our guides and cooks are well-experienced, strong, supportive, and friendly. They performed their duties with full dedication to facilitate our valued clients.
GROUP JOINING INSTRUCTIONS
The tour starts and ends in Islamabad. Discover Pakistan (DP) guide or representative will be at the airport to pick up the clients with the welcome signboard of DP. We can also make reservations for pre and post-nights if anyone arrives early or departs late.
HIKING AT ALTITUDE
Rash Lake & Patungdas Trek is rated as a moderate hike on the rocky, glacial terrain and some exposed section makes a tough trek but provides some of the most stunning views in the world. All members must be physically fit and capable of walking for long hours a day as the highest point of the trek is above 4000m. However, the itinerary is designed in such a way that provides acclimatization by gaining height gradually, which allows the body to adjust to reduce air pressure at higher altitudes. For more details, you can click on the link below.
Here’s What Flatlanders Need to Know About Hiking at Altitude
PERSONAL GEAR
A list of personal equipment is provided below you can make personal kits according to your needs.
- Gore-Tex Trekking Shoes (1 pair)
- Socks (2-3 pairs)
- Gaiters (1 set)
- Crampons (1 set)
- Slippers (1 pair)
- T-shirts (2-3)
- Trousers (2-3 pairs)
- Fleece Jacket
- Warm Clothing including inner dress/thermals
- Gore-Tex Jacket (1 piece)
- Down Jacket (1 piece)
- Sun Cap (1 piece)
- Warm Hat (1 piece)
- Neck Cover (1 piece)
- Hand Gloves/Mittens (2 pairs)
- Rucksack (backpack) 50-60L
- Trekking poles
- Sleeping Bag (-20C—30C)
- Umbrella
- Headlamp (with extra batteries)
- Ultraviolet Protection Sun Glasses
- Sun Cream
- Chap Stick or Lip Balm
- Water bottle
- Personal medication (if advised by the physician)
- Note: Some equipment is available for rent or sale in Skardu
LOCAL TIME
Pakistan uses a one-time zone, which is Pakistan Standard Time (PKT). This is UTC+05:00 — that is, five hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time.
ELECTRICITY
The power plugs and sockets in Pakistan are of type C and D. Type C plug has two round pins & the type D plug has three round pins arranged in a triangular pattern. The standard voltage is 230 V and the standard frequency is 50 Hz. It is recommended to bring a power plug adapter.
CURRENCY AND EXCHANGE
Most major currencies are US Dollar & Euro, these are easily changed in Islamabad and Skardu as well. However, the exchange rate in Skardu is not as good as compared to Islamabad. You can check the foreign currency exchange rate at https://www.nbp.com.pk/RateSheet/index.aspx. The exchange rates in the open market differ from the bank rate.
TIPS
Tips for a guide, cook, assistant cook, Porter’s Sidar, and porters are customary. However, it is absolutely at the discretion of clients to decide about the amount of tips.
BAGGAGE ALLOWANCE
Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) offers 20 kg (1 piece) on a domestic flight in economy class to/from Skardu. For extra baggage (1 piece up to 20 kg), they charge PKR 5800 currently which is subject to change.
EQUIPMENT (SHOPPING/RENTAL)
Personal clothing, packing items or bags, personal medical kits, and personal trekking gear can be purchased/rented in Skardu. Some of the items may not be available for rent and need to be purchased. Please confirm with us in advance.
DEPARTURE TAXES
No departure taxes are applicable at Pakistan international airports. However, you can check with your concerned international carrier before traveling.
MEALS
3 meals a day will be provided during the hotel stay except for lunches and dinners in Islamabad. There will be one farewell dinner in Islamabad at the end of the trip.
FOOD ON TREKKING
We do cater to any special food requirements during trekking if any client has food allergies or special dietary needs like vegetarian and vegan etc.
BREAKFAST
Below is the list of major items we provide in the breakfasts with a combination of four or five items a day.
- Porridge
- Corn Flacks
- Eggs (Omelets/Fried or according to demand)
- Paratha (a local form of bread)
- Muesli
- Jam
- Honey
- Marmalade
- Black tea
- Coffee
- Milk etc.
LUNCH
Below is the list of major items we provide at the lunches with a combination of three to four items a day during trekking.
- Peanut butter
- Tuna Fish
- Sardine Fish
- Paratha (Continued on next page)
- Cookies Sweet
- Cookies Saltish
- Dry Fruit
- Tin Fruit
- Potatoes/peas
- Green tea/Mixed tea
- Tang etc.
DINNER
You will have a complete dinner with soup, two curries plus rice or Spaghetti or Macaroni & chapatti. There will be a dessert & green tea and coffee etc. as well.
- Chapatti
- Spaghetti
- Macaroni
- Pasta
- Meat (Chicken, Mutton & Beef)
- Fresh vegetables
- Backed beans
- Green peas
- Noodles(Meggi)
- Salad
- Lentils
- Green tea etc.
DESERT
- Pudding
- Kheer Mix
- Custard
- Jelly
Any intolerance or allergies to the food items must be communicated in advance. If you have any personal choices that we can meet will also be provided.
DRINKING WATER
It is highly recommended to use mineral water in the cities and boiled/ filtered or purified water during the trekking. Do not drink running water from the rivers and streams.
WEATHER
The weather in Islamabad is extremely hot during the summer season. You can expect a temperature between 30-40 degrees centigrade. If you travel by road to Gilgit-Baltistan, expect the weather to be very hot as well. In North Pakistan, the weather is similar to Islamabad, except 25-38 degrees centigrade. During the trekking on sunny days, expect the weather to be warm without any shade. Especially during the trek in some parts, the weather will be extremely hot on those days. It is advised to have proper sun protection in the form of an umbrella, a wide-brim hat, and plenty of sunscreens. However, the weather in the nighttime is cooler above 4000 meters, you can even expect the temperature to get down to below zero and experience snowfall.
WHO SHOULD DO THE TREK?
Rash Lake and Patungdas Trek is a wilderness trek, with no access to towns/villages and limited inhabitants during the whole duration (two weeks) of the trek. You will hike as high as 5000 meters and the trekking route is strenuous with river crossings, uneven terrain, glaciers, crevasses, and boulders on the way. The trek is recommended even for beginners with physical fitness and good health. And should also know the techniques for using trekking equipment.
BOOKING & DEPOSITS
The trip can be reserved as an initial deposit of 30% at the time of booking. The initial deposit shall not be refunded but can be transferred for a future trip.
FINAL PAYMENT
We accept full trip cost 30 days before the commencement of the tour. The payments are only accepted in cash/bank transfers in a bank account. We don’t accept payments through credit cards. Please do not accept any invoice which is not generated by Discover Pakistan and sent through the official email id.
1) Cancellations must be notified in writing to Discover Pakistan or the agent through which the trip is booked. Cancellation charges shall be levied as follows:
Cancellation before 30 days or more-After a deduction of 30%, the remaining amount will be refunded. If the deposit is retained with the consent of our client no cancellation charges will be applied. The full amount will be adjusted with a future trip.
Cancellation within 2 weeks before departure –50 % of the package offer
Cancellation within one week of departure or no-show –Loss of full payment
2) There shall be no refunds if you leave the trip for any reason whatsoever, either voluntarily or involuntarily, after the trip has begun. No refunds shall be made for any meals, accommodation, or services not utilized.
WHY BOOK WITH DISCOVER PAKISTAN?
Discover Pakistan is one of the Tour Companies founded to meet the travel needs of explorers, researchers, mountaineers, and trekkers from all around the world. We always strive to focus on the safety, integrity, and comfort of our valued clients without any discrimination. The best is all digital based while finding information, booking, payments, etc. Visitors will find us on the internet and chat 24/7 to plan holidays with Discover Pakistan.
Our Values
We have a designed set of values for our company that guides us to deliver the best travel experience to our clients, these values include:
- Integrity
- Communication
- Client Safety and Security
- Customer Oriented Services
- Continuous Improvement
- Customer Satisfaction
RESPONSIBILITY TOWARDS COMMUNITY
We are aware of our responsibility towards the local communities, their customs, and the environment. Therefore, a part of our income is specifically allocated towards humanitarian activities including student support, skill development programs & micro-credit loans to women without interest, etc. Details can be provided on request.
OUR CLIENT
We have worked with both local & foreign clients, and are proud to say that Discover Pakistan has a long list of satisfied partners and individual clients around the world. We maintain a balance between cost and quality. Our business philosophy, and the secret to our success, is “LESS PROFIT EQUALS MORE CLIENTS AND MORE CLIENTS EQUALS MORE PROFIT’.
At Discover Pakistan, we offer the opportunity to prolong and enrich your travel experience beyond the initial itinerary. Whether you’re exploring a new city, venturing into the wilderness, or embarking on a cultural immersion, our trip extensions allow you to delve deeper into the destination and discover hidden gems that may have otherwise remained undiscovered. By extending your journey, you can embrace new adventures, indulge in authentic experiences, and create lasting memories. Whether it’s an extra day, few days, or a week, trip extensions provide the flexibility to personalize your travel and make the most of your time away.
Our team of travel experts is available to provide detailed itineraries, answer any queries you may have, and tailor the extensions to meet your preferences and requirements. Whether you are interested in extending your journey to explore cultural destinations, indulge in luxury experiences, or venture into off-the-beaten-path destinations, we are committed to creating an unforgettable experience for you.
Below are some sample extensions, however they can be customized to suit your needs, please feel free to contact us via email or phone. Our dedicated team will be delighted to assist you, providing comprehensive information, and helping you plan your dream vacation.
HUNZA VALLEY EXTENSION
Embark on an enchanting trip extension to the captivating Hunza Valley after conquering the challenging K2 Base Camp trek. Nestled amidst the majestic Karakoram Mountains in northern Pakistan, Hunza Valley is a gem waiting to be discovered. Renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality, this extension promises an unforgettable journey into a paradise on Earth.
DAY 01:Â SKARDU-KARIMABAD
DAY 02:Â KARIMABAD
DAY 03: KARIMABAD-KUNJERAB PASS-PASSU
DAY 04: PASSU-CHILAS
DAY 05: CHILAS-ISLAMABAD
DAY 06: DEPARTURE
LAHORE EXTENSION
Indulge in the cultural richness and historical splendor of Lahore with a four-day extension after your K2 Base Camp trek. Discover the city’s captivating architecture, explore its ancient landmarks, and immerse yourself in its vibrant arts and culture scene.
DAY 01:Â ISLAMBAD-LAHORE
DAY 02: LAHORE EXPLORATION
DAY 03: LAHORE EXPLORATION
DAY 04: LAHORE-ISLAMABAD
DAY 05:Â DEPARTURE
DUBAI EXTENSION
After conquering the challenging K2 Base Camp trek, treat yourself to a luxurious three-day extension in the mesmerizing city of Dubai. This vibrant metropolis is renowned for its opulent lifestyle, futuristic architecture, and world-class entertainment. Indulge in unparalleled luxury and immerse yourself in the city’s extravagant offerings.
DAY 01: Dubai
DAY 02: Explore Dubai
DAY 03:Â Explore Dubai
DAY 04:Â Departure
TURKEY EXTENSION
Congratulations on completing the exhilarating K2 Base Camp trek! As you conclude your adventure in the stunning Karakoram Mountains, why not treat yourself to a well-deserved five-day extension in captivating Turkey? This extension will allow you to unwind, explore a new culture, and indulge in the rich history and captivating landscapes of this transcontinental country.
DAY 01: Arrive in Istanbul
DAY 02: Explore Istanbul
DAY 03: Explore Istanbul
DAY 04: Departure