Thui Shah Janali Pass Trek

Traveling from Islamabad to Chilas via the Karakorum Highway is an incredible journey! We will experience some of Pakistan’s most breathtaking and remote landscapes. The route is roughly 360 km and should take around 8-10 hours to complete, along with stops for pictures and views. We will stop for water and snacks to keep you hydrated and energized during your journey. Above all, the Indus River from Thakot all the way to Chilas stays on your journey with the fantastic landscapes along the Kohistan Valley. Shatial Rock Carvings are another fascinating highlight of the day. Overnight stay in hotel.

Altitude: 4,150 ft (1,265M)
Traveling Time: 360 Km 10 hours via Besham 9 hours via Naran and Kaghan Valley

CHILAS-GILGIT

The journey from Chilas to Gilgit is full of unique highlights. The trip will take you through the picturesque Karakoram Highway, one of the highest-paved international roads in the world. We will stop at the Nanga Parbat Viewpoint at Thalichi. Some of the major highlights of this trip include the Nanga Parbat Mountain, the Rakaposhi Peak, Haramosh Peak, Bagrote Peak, and several dry hills along the road. Most importantly, it is the junction of the three great mountain ranges: Karakoram, Hindukush, and Himalaya, as well as the confluence of the Indus and Gilgit Rivers from the exact location. We will visit Gilgit City and the nearby Kargah Buddha in the afternoon. Our crew here will prepare all the logistics for the next trekking adventure. You will stay overnight in a hotel, giving you time to relax and sleep.

Altitude: 4,921 ft (1500M)

Traveling Time: 3-4 hours 180 Km

The hike begins on a jeep road for the first hour and continues on a clear trail alongside the Thui River, offering breathtaking landscapes and views of Thui-I, which stands at 6,666 meters, as well as many other peaks in the surrounding area. After a three-hour hike, we will reach Lasht, a summer village known for its crystal-clear spring water and a campground that provides comfortable accommodations. Our porters will entertain us with songs around the campfire, creating a delightful atmosphere. We will enjoy a wonderful evening with camping food and spend the night in tents.

Altitude: 9514 ft (2,900M)

Traveling Time: 5-6 hours 12.9 Km

Walking alongside the summer homes and across the river is a delightful experience on this beautiful day. The breathtaking sceneries encompass hanging glaciers, cascading waterfalls, and the snow-capped peaks of the Hindukush mountains. As we continue our journey, we will encounter people residing in the summer homes who kindly offer us tea. It is essential to graciously accept their offer as a sign of appreciation and cultural respect. Exploring these various highlights promises to be an enjoyable and enriching experience.

What sets this trip apart from trekking in the Himalayas and the Karakorum is the unique encounter it offers. The combination of stunning landscapes, hospitable locals, and distinct cultural experiences creates a truly memorable adventure. Our campsite for the night will be situated close to the river, nestled in the snout of the Gashochi Glacier at an altitude of 3,800 meters. Spending the night in a tent allows us to fully immerse ourselves in the beauty of this untouched wilderness.

Rest assured, every precaution will be taken to ensure a safe passage throughout our journey. The team organizing this trip has meticulously planned the route, minimizing the possibility of any errors or mishaps. With their expertise and attention to detail, we can focus on enjoying the wonders of nature and creating lasting memories.

 Altitude: 12,467 ft (3,800M)

Traveling Time: 8 Km 4-5 hours

Approaching Gashochi can be a bit tough initially, especially when navigating the moraine of the Gashochi Glacier until you reach the white ice. The absence of large crevasses on this glacier makes the initial approach a little challenging. However, as you continue to ascend, you will eventually reach Ghoshochi, a grassy area abundant with wild onions. The locals call this place Ghashu, which means ”onions” in the Brushaski language spoken by the people of Yasin and Hunza. The campsite at Ghoshochi offers a picturesque setting with vibrant flowers, snow-capped mountains, and lush pastures. It is one of the most fascinating campsites on my trip. The campsite is located at an altitude of 4100 meters, providing a unique experience of spending the night in a tent.

Altitude: 13451 ft (4100M)

Traveling Time: 6-7 hours  8.8 Km

GASHOCHI-GOLPIGAL ACROSS THUI PASS (4499M)

  The most interesting day of the trek will be when you cross Thui Pass, which is located at an elevation of 4,999 meters, and enter the beautiful Yarkhun Valley in the Chitral district of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) Province, formerly known as N.W.F.P.

This day will be challenging as you have to climb about 500 meters from the campsite on a steep and grassy path in the first two hours. Along the way, you’ll be treated to superb views of the white peaks such as Thui-I (6,666m), Thui-II (6,600m), Qalander Gom (6,100m), and more, on both sides of the trail. As you approach the pass, the path becomes rocky. On the Yarkhun side of the pass, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Gazin Zom (5,900m), Gazin Glacier, and the stunning Yarkhun Valley. If you’re fortunate enough to have clear weather, the views from the pass will be incredible.

After crossing the pass, you’ll descend to the Golpigal campsite, which is a wonderful location with access to clear spring water for drinking and washing. This campsite provides a serene atmosphere and offers immense joy to nature lovers, surrounded by fascinating attractions. You will spend the night in tents at this campsite.

his is the last day of your wonderful trek. You have two options: you can stay in Gazin after a smooth 3-hour walk, or you can continue to Mastuj or Chitral town frits people’its people’slpigal. Both optionunities to enjoy your holidays. In the Yarkhun Valley, you can experience amazing trekking and climbing opportunities. Alternatively, you can explore the historical city of Chitral, which also has its own charm.

If you’re interested, you can go to Gilgit by taking the bus through Shandur Pass or using your own transportation. Another option is to drive to Peshawar via Lawori Tannul. If you prefer flying, there is a weekly flight from Islamabad to Chitral, but please note that it depends on the weather conditions.

On the other hand, if you choose to go on another four-day trek, you can explore the Shah Janali Pass and the Torikoh Valley.

 Altitude: 13123 ft (4,000M)

Traveling Time: 3 to 4 hours 7. 7 Km

An enchanting walk of four to five hours on a scenic jeep road alongside the mesmerizing Yarkhun River will lead you to the charming village of Yashkhist, which serves as the perfect campsite for the upcoming adventure to Shah Janali Pass. Prepare to be amazed by the incredible hospitality of the villagers, as they gather around you, eager to assist in setting up your camp and pitching the tents. Their warm-heartedness knows no bounds, as they invite you into their traditional homes and offer mouthwatering local dishes that you simply must savor to fully appreciate their kind hospitality.

Take a moment to soak in the breathtaking views that stretch before you, capturing the majestic beauty of Kurumbar and Darkot Pass. These awe-inspiring sights will captivate your senses, leaving an indelible mark on your memory. For those seeking an extraordinary trekking experience, the charismatic path via Korumbar Lake to Chapursan Upper Hunza or Ishkoman Ghizer awaits, promising unparalleled adventure and discovery.

As the day draws to a close, rest peacefully in the embrace of nature, spending a memorable night under the stars in your cozy tent. Allow yourself to be transported to a world where tranquility reigns supreme, a world where the wilderness becomes your sanctuary.

Embrace this incredible journey and immerse yourself in the wonders that await you along the Yarkhun River. Experience the genuine warmth of the villagers, revel in the stunning vistas, and let the spirit of adventure guide you as you embark on this unforgettable expedition.

Altitude: 10170 ft (3100M)

Traveling Time: 5-6 hours 9 Km

The ascent to the campsite along the Ishperu Dok stream takes approximately six to seven hours, covering a distance of about 800 meters. The stream originates from the hills above and offers picturesque views of the surrounding villages of Yarhkun. Along the way, you can marvel at the majestic snow-capped peaks of the Hindukush range.

To reach the campsite, you will cross the stream using small, rustic bridges. Once you arrive, you’ll find a wide, flat meadow with a spring where you can access fresh water. This campsite is located at an elevation of 3,900 meters. Ishperu Dok, which means ”white hillside,” serves as a summer settlement for the Yarkhun people. In this area, you’ll find around ten to twelve huts where women reside with their herds of goats and sheep. The men take on the role of herd guards, while the women engage in milking the animals in the mornings and evenings. Inside the huts, they produce butter.

Upon your arrival, the shepherds will warmly welcome you and offer you yogurt, milk, and butter. You’ll have the opportunity to visit inside the huts and experience the simple way of life of the people who spend their summers in such remote locations. This experience is truly remarkable for both local residents of towns in Pakistan and foreigners accustomed to more luxurious living standards. You will thoroughly enjoy your time at the campsite.

Altitude: 12795 ft (3,900M)

Traveling Time: 6-7 hours 10 km

A five to six-hour exciting day awaits you on your trek. You will start your day by climbing up towards Shah Janali Pass, which stands at an impressive 4,252 meters. Along the way, you will be treated to spectacular views and encounter beautiful flowers on the white sandy ridge. From this vantage point, you can admire the northward view of the granite spires of Chapkar Peak (5,804 meters), a majestic mountain marked by a glacier strewn with black rubble. The surrounding hillsides consist of overgrazed pastures, crisscrossed by goat paths. Here, you will come across herds of horses, cattle, goats, and sheep from Yarkhun Valley.

Upon reaching the pass, you will be greeted by a green, flat, and gentle area known as the polo ground of the king, which gives the pass its name (4,259 meters). Numerous lakes dot the landscape, and it’s an ideal spot to pause and take in the breathtaking views of the white towering mountains of the Hindu Kush. If you are fortunate enough to have good weather on this day, it’s well worth spending additional time here. Personally, I often choose to stop here for lunch during my trek, as it feels like paradise on earth and is one of the most beautiful spots I’ve encountered in Pakistan. I have explored other parts of the country, but this place stands out.

From the pass, you will embark on a gentle descent towards the camp of Janali Gari. This deserted shepherds’ settlement is situated beside a clear stream, adorned with a few willow bushes. Three stone circles mark the area, and it serves as a peaceful camping spot for the night, situated at an elevation of 3,700 meters.

Enjoy your time at Janali Gari, and embrace the tranquility of the surroundings as you prepare for the next leg of your trek.

 Altitude: 12139 ft (3,700M)

Travel Time: 6-7 hours 12 km

A four to five-hour gentle walk takes you through knee-high grass and flowers, crossing numerous side streams surrounded by groves of willows, with the Shah Janali River flowing below on your right. You will eventually reach a summer settlement where people from the village of Rich stay in the month of June before moving up in July. In this area, you’ll find shepherd’s huts situated in a flat pasture, surrounded by birch trees at an elevation of 3,350 meters. It is a wonderful campsite, and if you have the time, it’s worth considering a rest day to relax and enjoy the scenery. The views down to the valley are breathtaking. You will spend the night in a tent.

Altitude: 10990 ft ( 3,350M)

Traveling Time: 4-5 hours  9.8 Km

On the last day of this trek, you will embark on a five to six-hour journey. The path follows the southern bank of the Shah Janali River, winding through juniper bushes as it gradually descends. If the weather is clear, expect a hot day due to the barren land consisting of stones and scree along the west bank of the Rich River. This section takes approximately two hours to reach the village. Along the way, you will enjoy breathtaking views of a towering mountain wall to the north, reaching heights of 6,000 meters, which acts as a barrier to Afghanistan.

The village of Rua marks the end of the Rich Valley, and it takes around six to seven hours by jeep to reach Chitral from there. Rua offers a great camping site with clear water, and your jeeps are expected to arrive by evening on the day of your arrival. If you have pre-planned, you may choose to depart for Chitral on the same day. However, it is common to spend the night in Rua and continue to the next destination the following morning. The journey from here to Chitral is truly amazing, passing through enchanting villages with unique cultures and traditions.

Altitude:  9251 ft (52,820M)

Traveling Time:  5 hours 11.0 km

A scenic drive of five to six hours along the charming villages of Rich Valley, which is part of Torikoh Valley, will take us to the point where Tirich Valley begins. From there, we can access the base camp of Tirich Mir, which stands at an impressive 7,790 meters and is the highest mountain in the Hindukush Range. This valley offers an exhilarating experience, and it takes approximately four days of trekking to reach the base camp. It’s worth noting that very few people embark on this trek, making it a truly unique adventure.

If you’d like, we can also include a day drive to the last village called Shagram, allowing you to see more captivating sights along our journey to Chitral. Alternatively, we can continue our drive directly to Chitral for an overnight stay.

 Altitude: 4888 ft (1,490 M)

Traveling Time: 5-6 hours 140 km

The flight to Gilgit, like the Chitral flight, depends on the weather conditions. Currently, there is one weekly flight to Chitral, specifically on Wednesdays. In the past, this flight used to operate on Fridays.

You can travel to Swat Valley via the Lowari Tunnel and Dir District in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province if you prefer a scenic drive. This route is filled with numerous highlights and offers breathtaking views. It is definitely worth visiting Swat Valley to experience the rich Gandhara Civilization and trace the footsteps of Alexander the Great during his journey to the Subcontinent. Along the way to Peshawar, you will discover several Buddhist sites to explore and immerse yourself in their historical significance.

Additionally, spending an extra day in Peshawar, the capital city of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, is highly recommended. The town boasts a fascinating history and has various historical sites to enhance your holiday experience.

 Altitude: 3215 ft (980M)

Travel Time: to Sawat 6 hours 242 km

Traveling Time: to Islamabad 9-10 hours 394 km via Lowari Tunnel

If you are fond of history, we can visit Taxila, an ancient Buddhist site in the Gandhara region, en route to Islamabad. It is a two-and-a-half-hour drive from here. I hope you will enjoy exploring the rich ancient history of Pakistan during this trip. In the evening, our company will host a farewell party for you at Kabul Restaurant in Islamabad, where you will be served authentic Afghan cuisine.

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