The Mega Trek Five 8,000s Base Camps
Visiting base camps of five 8000M peaks in Pakistan
The mega trekking expedition is a combination of the magical sight of Fairy Meadows and one of the most exciting and challenging treks. The journey takes adventure-seekers through the mesmerizing Fairy Meadows and Nanga Parbat Base Camp towards Concordia, K-2, and Gasherbrum Base. The return route passes through Gondogoro La, the most famous mountain pass in the Karakoram Range.
-
Trip Code Start and Finish
- DP-TR-03
-
Altitude Best time
- 5560 meters
-
Activity Level Activity
- Extreme
-
Duration Meals
- 25 days
-
Group Size Guide
- 08-12 pax
-
Reviews 0 Reviews0/5
The mega trekking expedition is a combination of the magical sight of Fairy Meadows and one of the most exciting and challenging treks. The journey takes adventure-seekers through the mesmerizing Fairy Meadows and Nanga Parbat Base Camp towards Concordia, K-2, and Gasherbrum Base. The return route passes through Gondogoro La, the most famous mountain pass in the Karakoram Range.
The trip starts with exploring Fairy Meadows, the land of lush green valleys and clear starry skies. Located in the Gilgit-Baltistan region, Fairy Meadows is known for its thick alpine forest. It’s truly a sight to behold with the beautiful green plateaus and the monumental Nanga Parbat peaks on the north side of it. Moving forward, the next part of the journey proceeds to the Nanga Parbat Base Camp via Raikot Glacier, a 15 km glacier located on the northern side of the base camp. The 2nd highest in Pakistan and the 9th highest mountain in the world, Nanga Parbat, reaches a height of 8126m. Nanga Parbat translates to ‘Naked Mountain’, but is more famously nicknamed as the Killer Mountain. The northern Raikot side of this mountain will depict the captivating sight of snow-covered peaks, glaciers, and the local villages.
Once we have fully explored the Nanga Parbat Base Camp, the next venture will be Concordia, otherwise called the “Throne Room of Mountain Gods”, this spot gives a rooftop view of some of the highest surrounding peaks in the region and worldwide. From here, you will see K-2, Broad Peak, Gasherbrum IV, Baltoro Kangri, Chogolisa, and many more peaks. The expedition will continue from Baltoro Glacier and commence towards K-2, the second-highest peak in the world reaching 8611m, and Gasherbrum Base Camps. After fully exploring and sightseeing these spots, we trek towards Gondogoro La, the popular mountain pass of the Karakoram Range situated at a height of 5450m. This unique mountain pass offers an incredible view of the K-2, Broad Peak, G1, G2, G3, G4, Masherbrum, Mustagh Tower, Biarchedi, Gasherbrum Range, Mitre Peak, G6, Chogolisa, Trango Tower, and Liligo Glacier.
TRIP FACTS
Trip Code: DP-TR-03
Best time: Early June to Mid-September
Maximum Elevation: 5560 meters
Trek Grade: The first part is easy & the second part is Strenuous
Trip Length (Islamabad-Islamabad): 24 nights/25 days (9 hotel nights & 15 camping nights)
Who can join? Those who have previous high-altitude experience
Guide: The group will be headed by a local guide
Group Size: 08-12 pax
Route: Islamabad-Chilas-Raikot-Fairy Meadow-Nanga Parbat BC-Skardu-Askoli-Concordia-Broad Peak Base Camp- K-2 Base Camp-Gondogoro La-Hushe-Islamabad
1-TRANSPORTATION
- Airport transfers in Islamabad and Skardu
- Domestic flights between Skardu-Islamabad in economy class with 20 kg checked baggage
- Air-conditioned private transportation for one day of sightseeing in Islamabad
- Private transportation for one day of sightseeing in Skardu.
- 4×4 jeeps/Toyotas for Raikot Bridge-Tato-Raikot Bridge & Skardu to Jhula and from Hushe/Jhula to Skardu for members and luggage.
Note: Flights to the northern areas of Pakistan are subject to weather conditions. In case of a flight cancellation, the surface transfer will be provided with one-night accommodation in Chilas or Naran.
2-ACCOMMODATION
- 9 nights’ hotel accommodation in standard hotels (4 nights in Islamabad in a 3* hotel, 2 nights in a mountain hut at Fairy Meadows, and 3 nights in Skardu in a good 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 trip
4-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 dessert
5-TAXES AND FEES
- Trekking Fee (US $ 50/-)
- Environment Fee (US $ 150/-)
- Road taxes
- Camping fees during the trek.
- Bridge crossing fees.
6-PORTERAGE
- Porters’ trekking food, camping equipment, and personal gear of trekkers.
- Free baggage allowance of 15 kilograms per trekker is for personal gear
7-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 charges
10-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.
SERVICES NOT INCLUDED IN THE OFFER
Below mentioned services are not included in our package, but some of them can be provided on request in advance. Please contact Discover Pakistan for further detail.
- 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
TERMS & CONDITIONS
- All trekking members will go together in one group and come back together. If the group splits for personal reasons, the cost will also be charged.
- Any extra cost due to road blockade or any other unforeseen reason will be charged in addition to the normal package offer.
Itinerary
-
1
Day 1 ISLAMABAD -
2
Day 2 ISLAMABAD - CHILAS -
3
Day 3 CHILAS-FAIRY MEADOWS -
4
Day 4 FAIRY MEADOWS -
5
Day 5 FAIRY MEADOWS – SKARDU -
6
Day 6 SKARDU -
7
Day 7 SKARDU-ASKOLI-JHULA -
8
Day 8 TREK-1: JHULA-PAIJU -
9
Day 9 TREK-2: PAIJU-KHUBURTSE -
10
Day 10 TREK-3: KHUBURTSE – URDUKAS -
11
Day 11 TREK-4: URDUKAS – GORO-II -
12
Day 12 TREK-5: GORO-II – CONCORDIA -
13
Day 13 TREK-6: CONCORDIA -
14
Day 14 TREK-7: CONCORDIA – K-2 BASE CAMP-CONCORDIA -
15
Day 15 TREK-8: CONCORDIA-SHAGRING -
16
Day 16 TREK-9: SHAGRING – GASHABERBRUM BASE CAMP -
17
Day 17 TREK-10: REST DAY -
18
Day 18 TREK-11: GASHABERBRUM BASE CAMP- ALI CAMP -
19
Day 19 TREK-12: ALI CAMP-GONDOGORO LA- HUISPANG -
20
Day 20 TREK-13: HUISPANG – SAICHO -
21
Day 21 TREK-14: SAICHO –HUSHE -
22
Day 22 Trek 15: HUSHE-SKARDU -
23
Day 23 SKARDU-ISLAMABAD/CHILAS -
24
Day 24 ISLAMABAD -
25
Day 25 DEPARTURE FROM ISLAMABAD
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 National Identity Card of the issuing authority
PLEASE MAKE SURE YOU HAVE THE CORRECT TRAVEL DOCUMENTS AND A VISA FOR PAKISTAN.
TREKKING PERMIT
As the K-2 Base Camp & Gondogoro La (The Circular Trek) falls in the restricted areas, a trekking permit is required and the security clearance process usually takes 30-45 days. It is high recommended to apply at least 60 days in advance for delays. Your application for a visa is linked with the application for the trekking permit.
PERSONAL INSURANCE
As the trip is of strenuous nature, it is a mandatory requirement to have an insurance policy for accidents, medical and helicopter evacuation covering at least $ 30,000. Digital Nomad Insurance Company SafetyWing which offers amazing coverage and benefits as well easy to purchase and claim online.
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, a guide or representative will be at the airport to pick up the clients with the welcome signboard of Discover Pakistan. We can also make reservations for pre and post-nights if anyone arrives early or departs late.
HIKING AT ALTITUDE
The Mega Trek is rated as a strenuous 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 about 6-8 hours a day as the highest point of the trek is above 5000m. 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 bellow 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
- Head lamp (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
- Fruit (Water Melon, Mangoes) for the first weeks
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 Skardu, expect the weather to be very hot as well. In Skardu, 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 between Askole/Jhula to Urdukas, 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?
K-2 Base Camp Hike 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 5560 meters (K-2 Base Camp) and the trekking route is strenuous with river crossings, uneven terrain, glaciers, and boulders on the way. The trek is recommended for individuals with physical fitness and in good health. And should also know the techniques of using trekking equipment.
BOOKING & DEPOSITS
The trip can be reserved upon 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 prior to 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 the 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 leading Destination Management and Tour servicing company 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.
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’.
Extension Program to Mega Trek
To enhance our tour plan, let’s spice it up with an additional 5 days for delving deeper into the captivating villages tucked away amidst the valleys surrounding Gilgit-Baltistan.
Day 1: Skardu to Shangrila Resort (Also known as “Heaven on Earth”)
Morning: Start your journey from Skardu, which is often considered the gateway to some of Pakistan’s most beautiful landscapes. Depart early to make the most of your day.
Stop 1: Shangrila Resort (Approx. 30 minutes): Arrive at the Shangrila Resort, also known as “Heaven on Earth.” Explore the breathtaking Shangrila Lake and spend some time in the Shangrila Resort’s lush gardens.
Lunch: Enjoy a delicious local or continental meal at the resort’s restaurant.
Stop 2: Upper Kachura Lake (Approx. 30 minutes):
After lunch, drive to Upper Kachura Lake, a serene alpine lake surrounded by picturesque mountains. You can take a short boat ride on the lake if you wish.
Evening: Return to Shangrila Resort and spend the evening relaxing or exploring the beautiful surroundings.
Day 2: Skardu to Hunza Valley
Morning: Check out from Shangrila Resort and start your journey towards Hunza Valley. The journey is exciting along the Indus Gorge all the way to Gilgit and traverses into enjoying the beauty of Hunza Valley driving through captivating highlights.
Stop 1: Karimabad, Hunza (Approx. 7-8 hours): The drive to Hunza is long but incredibly scenic. You’ll pass through small villages, terraced fields, and stunning mountain vistas. Arrive in Karimabad, the main town in Hunza, by evening.
Check in to your hotel in Karimabad and unwind. Hunza is known for its amazing hospitality and tourist friendly environment and welcoming atmosphere.
Day 3: Exploring Hunza Valley
Wake up early to capture the sunrise over the iconic Baltit Fort. It’s a short hike uphill, but the view is worth it. Return to your hotel for breakfast.
Visit Baltit Fort (Approx. 2 hours)
Visit the historic Baltit Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the museum inside to learn about the history and culture of Hunza.
Enjoy a traditional Hunza meal at a local restaurant.
Altit Fort
Visit Altit Fort, another historical gem with stunning views of the Hunza Valley. Drive Duiker for the Sunset scene from the Eagle Nest and enjoy the views of Hunza and Nagar Valley.
Return to Karimabad, and you can spend your evening leisurely exploring the local bazaars and cafes.
Day 4: Karimabad to Gilgit
Morning: Check out from your hotel and prepare for a scenic drive to Gilgit.
Rakaposhi Viewpoint
En route to Gilgit, stop at the Rakaposhi Viewpoint for panoramic views of the Rakaposhi mountain range.
Lunch: Have lunch at a local restaurant along the way.
Stop 2: Gilgit City (Approx. 2-3 hours):
Arrive in Gilgit, the capital of Gilgit-Baltistan. Visit the Gilgit Bazaar, where you can shop for local handicrafts and souvenirs. Explore the city’s culture and tradition.
Check in to your hotel in Gilgit and relax for the evening. You can also explore the local cuisine for dinner.
Day 5: Gilgit to Islamabad
Morning: Depart from Gilgit early in the morning for your journey to Islamabad.
Stop 1: Nanga Parbat Viewpoint (Approx. 2-3 hours):
On your way, stop at the Nanga Parbat viewpoint for a breathtaking view of the world’s ninth-highest mountain.
Lunch: Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.
Stop 2: Babusar Top (Approx. 3-4 hours):
Continue your drive through the scenic Kaghan Valley and make a stop at Babusar Top, a high mountain pass (4,100m) with mesmerizing views.
Evening: Reach Islamabad by evening, concluding your journey. Depending on your schedule, you can either check into your hotel in Islamabad or head to the airport for your departure.
This 5-day tour from Skardu to Hunza and Gilgit to Islamabad will allow you to experience some of the most stunning landscapes and cultural treasures that Pakistan has to offer. Enjoy the natural beauty, historical sites, and warm hospitality of the region throughout your journey.
For more information and planning stay connected with us.