Overview
Embark on an unforgettable 18-day Naltar to Chitral Trek through the heart of Pakistan’s spectacular Hindu Kush Mountains. This challenging expedition links three of the region’s most scenic mountain passes—Naltar Pass (Shani Pass), Asumbar Pass, and Thui Pass—taking you across remote alpine valleys, pristine glaciers, colorful wildflower meadows, and traditional mountain communities rarely visited by tourists.
Beginning in Islamabad, the journey travels to the beautiful Naltar Valley, renowned for its turquoise alpine lakes and dense birch forests. From there, you’ll trek across the untouched wilderness of Ishkoman, Yasin, and Yarkhun Valleys, crossing high mountain passes with breathtaking views of Trich Mir (7,708m), Thui I, Thui II, Qalander Zom, and countless snow-capped peaks.
Along the way, camp beside crystal-clear streams, explore remote summer settlements, meet welcoming local shepherds, and experience the rich cultures of Gilgit-Baltistan and Chitral. The adventure concludes with a scenic drive to Chitral before returning to Islamabad.
Perfect for experienced trekkers seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure, this expedition offers an extraordinary combination of rugged landscapes, cultural encounters, and some of Pakistan’s finest high-altitude trekking.
Trip Highlights
- 18-day guided trekking expedition through the spectacular Hindu Kush Mountains.
- Cross three legendary high mountain passes: Naltar Pass, Asumbar Pass, and Thui Pass.
- Trek through the remote valleys of Naltar, Ishkoman, Yasin, and Yarkhun.
- Visit the stunning Seven-Colored Kutu Lake in Naltar Valley.
- Camp beside glaciers, alpine lakes, crystal-clear streams, and colorful wildflower meadows.
- Enjoy panoramic views of Trich Mir (7,708m), Shani Peak, Thui I (6,666m), Thui II, Qalander Zom, and numerous Hindu Kush summits.
- Walk through dense birch, pine, willow, and juniper forests.
- Enjoy panoramic views of Trich Mir (7,708m), Shani Peak, Thui I (6,666m), Thui II, Qalander Zom, and numerous Hindu Kush summits.
- Relax in comfortable hotels in Islamabad, Gilgit, Chatorkhand, Mastuj, and Chitral with wilderness camping during the trek.
- Professional local guides, experienced porters, and full camping support throughout the expedition.
- An ideal adventure for experienced trekkers seeking one of Pakistan's most rewarding and least-traveled trekking routes.
Itinerary
Beginning in Islamabad, the journey travels to the beautiful Naltar Valley, renowned for its turquoise alpine lakes and dense birch forests. From there, you'll trek across the untouched wilderness of Ishkoman, Yasin, and Yarkhun Valleys, crossing high mountain passes with breathtaking views of Trich Mir (7,708m), Thui I, Thui II, Qalander Zom, and countless snow-capped peaks.
Welcome to Pakistan! Upon arrival at Islamabad International Airport, our representative will greet you and transfer you to your hotel. Depending on your arrival time, you may enjoy a short sightseeing tour of Islamabad, visiting landmarks such as Faisal Mosque, Daman-e-Koh, or the Pakistan Monument. In the evening, meet your trekking guide for a detailed expedition briefing and equipment check.
Overnight: Hotel in Islamabad
Begin your adventure with a scenic drive along the Karakoram Highway, one of the world's most spectacular mountain roads. Pass through the beautiful valleys of Hazara, Besham, and Chilas before reaching Gilgit. Throughout the journey, enjoy magnificent views of rivers, towering mountains, and traditional villages.
Driving Time: 12–14 Hours
Overnight: Hotel in Gilgit
After breakfast, drive to the enchanting Naltar Valley. Continue by 4x4 jeep to the famous Seven-Colored Kutu Lake, surrounded by dense birch forests. From here, begin trekking along the Naltar River through lush forests and traditional Gujar settlements.
As the trail gradually ascends, spectacular views of Shani Peak (5,887m) and the surrounding Hindu Kush mountains unfold. Reach Lower Shani, a beautiful alpine meadow covered with wildflowers and fed by crystal-clear streams.
Driving: 2 Hours
Trekking: 4–5 Hours
Altitude: 3,800m
Overnight: Camping
Today's trek follows the edge of the magnificent Shani Glacier. The trail climbs steadily through colorful alpine flowers, grassy slopes, and panoramic mountain scenery. During the summer months, the hillsides bloom with wildflowers while grazing yaks, horses, and cattle add to the peaceful atmosphere.
Reach the vast Upper Shani Plateau, where breathtaking views of hanging glaciers and towering snow-covered peaks surround your campsite.
Trekking: 5–6 Hours
Altitude: 4,100m
Overnight: Camping
Today is one of the most rewarding days of the expedition. Trek over the spectacular Naltar Pass, where panoramic views stretch across the Hindu Kush and Karakoram ranges toward Passu and Hunza.
After crossing the pass, descend across glacial terrain and rocky moraines before entering the lush meadows of Uch. Dense pine, birch, and willow forests create a beautiful setting for your campsite.
Trekking: 7–8 Hours
Highest Point: Naltar Pass
Overnight: Camping
Descend through forests, waterfalls, and narrow mountain gorges on a well-defined trail leading into Ishkoman Valley. Upon reaching Pakhora Village, transfer by vehicle to Chatorkhand for a well-earned rest after several days of trekking.
Trekking: 5 Hours
Drive: 1 Hour
Overnight: Hotel
Drive to Asumbar before beginning another beautiful section of the trek. Follow a clear trail through forests, mountain streams, and traditional summer settlements while enjoying excellent views of surrounding alpine meadows.
Reach Charunji, a peaceful campsite nestled at 3,600 meters.
Drive: 1 Hour
Trekking: 5–6 Hours
Overnight: Camping
Continue trekking through pristine alpine landscapes toward Janali Gari. Pass Gujar shepherd camps, colorful rock formations, and crystal-clear streams while gradually ascending above the tree line.
Janali, meaning "Playground" in the local language, is a beautiful grassy plateau where shepherds traditionally played polo during the summer months.
Trekking: 5 Hours
Altitude: Approximately 4,000m
Overnight: Camping
Today's highlight is crossing the spectacular Asumbar Pass (4,410m). From the summit, enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Trich Mir (7,708m), Pakistan's highest peak in the Hindu Kush, along with countless snow-covered mountains.
Descend into the beautiful Mayur Valley, where lush meadows, streams, and small summer huts create one of the trek's most scenic campsites.
Trekking: 6–7 Hours
Highest Point: Asumbar Pass (4,410m)
Overnight: Camping
Descend through the beautiful Asumbar Valley, passing shepherd settlements, wheat fields, and grazing livestock before reaching Sandi Village. Visit the historic Mudori Fort and admire panoramic views of Yasin Valley.
Continue by vehicle to Darkot, where you will prepare for the final section of the expedition.
Trekking: 5–6 Hours
Drive: 1 Hour
Overnight: Camping or Guesthouse
Drive into the dramatic Thui Valley before beginning the final trekking section. Follow the Thui River along an easy trail surrounded by magnificent mountain scenery.
Enjoy excellent views of Thui-I (6,666m) before arriving at the peaceful summer settlement of Lasht. In the evening, relax around the campfire while local porters share traditional music and stories.
Drive: 2 Hours
Trekking: 5–6 Hours
Overnight: Camping
Today's trail follows rivers, waterfalls, hanging glaciers, and picturesque summer villages. Meet friendly local shepherds while walking through one of the least explored valleys of northern Pakistan.
Camp beside the Gashochi Glacier in the beautiful Sholtaling Valley.
Trekking: 4–5 Hours
Altitude: 3,800m
Overnight: Camping
Ascend gradually onto the moraine of Gashochi Glacier before reaching the lush campsite of Gashochi. The landscape transforms into alpine meadows filled with wild onions, colorful flowers, and dramatic mountain scenery.
This is considered one of the most beautiful campsites of the entire expedition.
Trekking: 6–7 Hours
Altitude: 4,100m
Overnight: Camping
The most challenging and rewarding day of the trek begins with a steep ascent to Thui Pass (4,999m). From the summit, enjoy unforgettable views of Thui I, Thui II, Qalander Zom, Gazin Glacier, and the magnificent Yarkhun Valley in Chitral.
Descend to the green meadows of Golpigal, where fresh spring water and panoramic mountain views await.
Trekking: 6–7 Hours
Highest Point: Thui Pass (4,999m)
Overnight: Camping
Enjoy the final trekking day as you descend through alpine pastures toward Gazin Village. Celebrate the successful completion of your expedition before driving to the historic town of Mastuj.
Trekking: 5 Hours
Drive: 4 Hours
Overnight: Hotel in Mastuj
Travel through the scenic Yarkhun Valley toward Chitral, passing beautiful villages, rivers, orchards, and towering Hindu Kush peaks. Upon arrival, explore Chitral Bazaar and visit the historic Chitral Fort if time permits.
Driving Time: 5–6 Hours
Overnight: Hotel in Chitral
Depending on weather and flight availability, take a spectacular domestic flight from Chitral to Islamabad. If flights are unavailable, travel by road through the Lowari Tunnel and Dir Valley back to Islamabad.
Upon arrival, enjoy a farewell dinner celebrating your unforgettable Hindu Kush trekking adventure.
Overnight: Hotel in Islamabad
Transfer to Islamabad International Airport for your onward flight. Depart with unforgettable memories of crossing three spectacular mountain passes, exploring remote valleys, and experiencing the unmatched beauty of Pakistan's Hindu Kush.
Services Includes/Excludes
Includes
- All domestic flights (Checked Baggage Allowance: 20kg, Hand Carry: 7kg)
- All road transfers including airport transfers
- All hotel accommodation (twin sharing room)
- All trekking accommodation (twin sharing dome tent)
- All camping site fees and bridge fees
- All trekking logistics (all tents, non-personal equipment and tools etc)
- All meals (breakfast, lunch & dinner) and beverages/water during meals
- Snacks including dry fruits and tea/coffee during the trek
- Licensed professional guide (government requirement)
- Government paperwork
- All National Parks fees (government requirement)
- All sightseeing during the trip including all entry fees
- Support staff (cook, assistant(s) etc)
- Porters - personal luggage (14kgs)
- First aid medicine kit (very basic)
Excludes
- Personal travel insurance (suggestions only)
- Visa to Pakistan (five supporting documents will be offered)
- International airfare
- Personal equipment (e.g., trekking shoes, down jacket, walking sticks etc)
- Extra nights in Islamabad (hotel check in/out is 12pm) - additional USD 67 per night
- Additional trek weight/baggage @ of recent porters’ rate.
- Tips/gratuities for guides, porters, staff etc
- Miscellaneous (minibar, bottled water, phone calls, laundry, souvenir etc)
Additional Information
Trip Name: Naltar, Assumbar & Thui Pass Trek
Trekking Zone: Open Zone
Main Visa Category: Mountaineering & Trekking
Sub Visa Category: Trekking
Permit requirement: Permit is not required as the trek falls in the open zone
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 Trips Nomad Adventure Pakistan license copy and National Identity Card of the issuing authority.
VALIDITY OF VISA
Usually, a trekking visa is issued for three months with 30 days validity. Do note that the 30 days’ validity starts on the date of arrival. For example, your visa is issued on March 15 and valid for three month but you arrive Pakistan on June 20th, your visa will expire on July 19th. In case your stay is longer than 30 days, an extension is possible after arrival in Pakistan.
PLEASE MAKE SURE YOU HAVE THE CORRECT TRAVEL DOCUMENTS AND A VISA FOR PAKISTAN.
TREKKING PERMIT
Some treks in Hindukush fall in the restricted areas, a trekking permit is required and the security clearance process usually takes 30-45 days. It is highly recommended to apply at least 60 days in advance to avoid delays. Your application for visa is linked with the application for the trekking permit. Always remember for restricted zones to apply trekking and mountaineering visa while filling the visa application form.
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. We recommend you insure with SafetyWing Travel Insurance that their benefits and coverages are amazing for travelers around the world.
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. Trips Nomad Adventure Pakistan, guide or representative will be at the airport to pick the clients with the welcome signboard o Trips Nomad Adventure Pakistan. We can also make reservations for pre and post nights if anyone arriving early or departing late.
HIKING AT ALTITUDE
Trekking in Hindukush is rated as a comfortable hike on the green, meadows, terrain and some exposed section makes a tough trek while crossing passes, 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.
https://www.backpacker.com/skills/backpacking-fitness/how-to-hike-strong-at-altitude/
PERSONAL GEAR
A list of personal equipment is provided bellow you can make personal kit 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 physician)
Note: Some equipment are available for rent or sale in Skardu
LOCAL TIME
Pakistan uses 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 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 differs from the bank rate.
TIPS
Tip 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
The Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) offers 20 kg (1 piece) on a domestic flight in economy class to/from Skardu. For an 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 kit, personal trekking gears can be purchased/rented in Skardu. Some of the items may not be available on 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 travelling.
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 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 (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 watermelon, Mangoes (in 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 Gilgit-Baltistan and Chitral expect the weather to be very hot as well. In GB and Chitral, 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, 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?
Trekking in Hindukush is easy comfortable even for beginners. People who like to experience the local communities along the trek. There are no high mountains like Karakorum and Himalaya. The highest mountain here is Terich Mir 7,879 m (the highest peak in Hindukush). However, there are numerous tiny and beautiful peaks and breath-taking landscape to enjoy the nature. This is the trek rarely people do it unlike any other trek in Pakistan. There is a lot explore in the Hindukush Range of Pakistan. We can plan a day hike to a month long trek with in the region.
The most interesting highlights in Hindukush are blue sky lakes, waterfalls, rivers, lush green meadows and summer pastures where the local communities go with herds of animals during the summer. It provides a great opportunity to experience the local cultures and traditions while traveling in Hindukush.
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 at 30 days prior to the commencement of the tour. The payments are only accepted in cash/bank transfers in bank account. We don’t accept payments through credit cards. Please do not accept any invoice which is not generated by Trips Nomad Adventure Pakistan and sent through official email ID.
1) Cancellations must be notified in writing to Trips Nomad Adventure 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%, of 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 TRIPS NOMAD ADVENTURE PAKISTAN?
Trips Nomad Adventure 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 which 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 Trips Nomad Adventure 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’.