“An epic glacier expedition across Snow Lake and Hispar Pass—where true adventure begins in the heart of the Karakoram.”
Trip Overview
The Biafo Hispar & Snow Lake Trek is one of the most iconic and demanding trekking adventures in Pakistan, linking the remote regions of Baltistan and Hunza–Nagar through an uninterrupted glacial wilderness. This legendary route crosses the massive Biafo and Hispar Glaciers, forming the longest continuous glacier traverse outside the polar regions.
Trekkers journey through vast ice fields, dramatic moraines, and high mountain passes, culminating at Snow Lake and Hispar La (5,151m). The trek offers absolute isolation, pristine campsites, and breathtaking views of some of the highest and most dramatic peaks of the Karakoram Range, making it a true expedition-style experience.
Trip Highlights
- Experience the legendary Biafo–Hispar route, forming the longest continuous glacier trek on Earth outside the polar regions.
- Camp at the vast Snow Lake, a surreal 77-square-kilometer expanse of snow surrounded by towering Karakoram peaks.
- Stand atop one of Pakistan’s highest trekking passes with breathtaking panoramic views of the Muztagh and Karakoram ranges.
- rek through days of complete isolation with no roads, villages, or modern infrastructure in sight.
- Walk beneath legendary mountains including Latok I, Baintha Brakk (The Ogre), Distaghil Sar, Spantik, and Rakaposhi.
- Follow an ancient high-mountain route that historically connected the Balti and Burusho communities across the Karakoram.
Itinerary
The Biafo Hispar & Snow Lake Trek is a legendary high-altitude expedition that crosses the world’s longest continuous glacier system, linking Baltistan and Hunza through the heart of the Karakoram. Trek across vast ice fields, camp at the iconic Snow Lake, and cross Hispar Pass (5,151m) while surrounded by some of Pakistan’s most dramatic mountain scenery.
Upon arrival at Islamabad International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative and transferred to the hotel.
After some rest, enjoy a guided city tour of Islamabad, visiting:
- Faisal Mosque – the largest mosque in Pakistan
- Pakistan Monument
- Lok Virsa Museum
- Daman-e-Koh viewpoint for panoramic city views
In the evening, your guide will conduct a full trek briefing and explain the journey ahead.
Overnight: Hotel in Islamabad
Drive Time: 10–11 hours
Early morning departure toward Chilas via one of two scenic routes:
- Naran–Kaghan & Babusar Pass (seasonal, June–October)
- Besham & Karakoram Highway (year-round)
Both routes offer spectacular mountain scenery, waterfalls, alpine meadows, and river valleys. Along the way, we encounter the Indus River and ancient rock carvings near Shatial.
Arrive in Chilas by evening.
Overnight: Hotel
Drive Time: 6–7 hours
Today’s drive along the Karakoram Highway is a highlight in itself. Weather permitting, enjoy dramatic views of:
- Nanga Parbat (8,126m)
- Rakaposhi & Haramosh Peaks
At Juglot, turn toward Skardu on a scenic road following the Indus River.
Arrival in Skardu by afternoon and transfer to the hotel.
Overnight: Hotel in Skardu
Skardu is the operational hub for trekking and mountaineering in Baltistan.
Today is dedicated to permits, logistics, and acclimatization, with optional sightseeing:
- Sadpara Lake
- Manthal Buddha Rock Carving
- Kharpocho Fort overlooking Skardu town
- Upper & Lower Kachura Lakes (if time allows)
Explore Skardu Bazaar to experience Balti culture.
Overnight: Hotel
Drive Time: 7–8 hours by jeep
A thrilling jeep journey through Shigar and Braldu Valleys, passing remote villages and rugged landscapes. The roaring Braldu River accompanies us most of the way.
Arrive at Shagaran, a green campsite near the snout of Biafo Glacier. Trek logistics and porters are finalized here.
Overnight: Camping
Altitude: 3,400M
Trek Time: 5-6 hours
Begin trekking on the lateral moraine of the Biafo Glacier. The trail involves boulder hopping and gravel sections before reaching smoother glacier terrain.
Magnificent views of Latok I, II & III dominate the skyline.
Camp at Namla, a grassy campsite with fresh water streams.
Overnight: Camping
Altitude: 3,650 M
Trek Time: 6–7 hours
Continue trekking along the Biafo Glacier, crossing crevassed sections and white ice. The walk is gradual but long.
By afternoon, reach Shagangfong, a scenic campsite with willow bushes and stunning mountain views.
Overnight: Camping
Altitude: 4020 M
Trek Time: 6–7 hours
A beautiful day walking on the glacier with occasional moraine sections. Cross small glacial lakes en route.
Arrive at Baintha, the last green campsite on Biafo Glacier, famous for views of the Ogre (Baintha Brakk – 7,285m).
Overnight: Camping
Altitude: 4,400 M
Trek Time: 5–6 hours
Roped glacier travel begins today due to hidden crevasses. The route gently ascends onto the vast white expanse of Snow Lake (Lukpe Lawo).
Surrounded by giant Karakoram peaks, this is one of the most unforgettable campsites on Earth.
Overnight: Camping on snow
Altitude: 4,700M
Trek Time: 5–6 hours
Roped glacier travel begins today due to hidden crevasses. The route gently ascends onto the vast white expanse of Snow Lake (Lukpe Lawo).
Surrounded by giant Karakoram peaks, this is one of the most unforgettable campsites on Earth.
Overnight: Camping on snow
A full day to explore the 77 sq. km Snow Lake plateau, relax, photograph, and acclimatize.
Overnight: Camping
Altitude: Hispar La 5,151m
Trek Time: 5 hours
Cross the legendary Hispar Pass, the highest point of the trek. Enjoy breathtaking views of:
- Distaghil Sar
- Spantik
- Kunjut Sar
Camp on the broad saddle of the pass, an unforgettable night above 5,000 meters.
Overnight: Camping
Altitude: 4,580M
Trek Time: 6–7 hours
Descend carefully onto the Hispar Glacier, navigating steep snow slopes and moraine. The descend is tricky and need be very careful and crampons are necessary.
Reach Khani Basa, a green oasis amidst ice and rock.
Overnight: Camping
Altitude: 4,330M
Trek Time: 4–5 hours
Cross Khani Basa Glacier with impressive views of Kunjut Sar (7,760m).
The trail follows the right bank of Hispar Glacier to the campsite at Yutmaro.
Overnight: Camping
Altitude: 4,050M
Trek Time: 7–8 hours
A demanding day involving glacier crossings, ablation valleys, and steep climbs.
Reach Pumari Chhish, surrounded by dramatic peaks and rugged terrain.
Overnight: Camping
Altitude: 3,600
Trek Time: 4–5 hours
Cross Pumari Chhish Glacier, flowing from Khuyang Chhish (7,852m).
Descend into wide alpine pastures and arrive at Bitanmal, a lush campsite ideal for rest and washing.
Overnight: Camping
Altitude: 3,200M
Trek Time: 6 hours
Cross the terminal end of the glacier and walk through cultivated fields. Cross a suspension bridge and climb into Hispar Village, marking the end of the trek.
Overnight: Camping
Drive Time: 4 hours
Jeep drive from Hispar to Karimabad Hunza. Afternoon free to explore local bazaars with views of Rakaposhi.
Overnight: Hotel
Visit:
- Baltit Fort
- Altit Fort
- Duiker (Eagle’s Nest) for sunset views
Enjoy panoramic scenery of Hunza & Nagar Valleys. In the evening drive to Gilgit to stay
Overnight: Hotel
If you are lucky to have an hour flight to Islamabad. If the flight doesn't operate then drive 6-7 hours Naran over Babusar Pass 4,100 m is an exciting journey as well. Overnight in Hotel.
Optional visit to Taxila, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, before final departure preparations.
Overnight: Hotel
Transfer to the airport for homebound flight
Have nice Journey with unforgettable memories with Trips Nomad Adventure!
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 affects the plan.
Services Included & Excluded in the Cost
Includes
- Airport pick-up and drop-off in Islamabad
- All domestic ground transportation in private vehicles
- Hotel accommodation in Islamabad, Chilas, Hunza, and Gulmit on twin sharing basis
- All camping accommodation during the trek
- Full board meals during trekking days (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- Professional licensed trekking guide
- Experienced local porters for trekking sections
- Cook and kitchen staff during the trek
- Tents, sleeping mats, and dining tent
- Trekking permits and government fees
- Basic first aid kit and satellite communication (where available)
- Cultural village visits and sightseeing as per itinerary
Excludes
- International flights to and from Pakistan
- Pakistan visa fees
- Personal trekking gear and clothing
- Travel insurance (mandatory)
- Personal expenses such as snacks, drinks, or souvenirs
- Tips for guides, porters, and staff
- Extra hotel nights due to weather or personal reasons
- Any services not mentioned under “Inclusions”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
No. This trek is suitable only for experienced trekkers with prior high-altitude trekking experience.
Technical climbing is not required, but basic glacier travel skills and comfort with ropes and crampons are important.
Night temperatures can drop well below freezing, especially above 4,800 meters.
Trekking permits is not needed for this trek however, we pay CKNP Fee, porters, camping equipment, and meals during the trek are fully arranged.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
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 (TNA) 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
Some Treks in Pakistan fall 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 to delays. Your application for 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. We recommend you insure with SafetyWing Travel Insurance that their benefits and coverages are amazing for travelers around the world. The best is they provide online services without hastles.
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. TNA, guide or representative will be at the airport to pick the clients with the welcome signboard of TNA. We can also make reservations for pre and post nights if anyone arriving early or departing late.
BOOKING & DEPOSITS
The trip can be reserved upon as an initial deposit of 50% one month before arrival. The initial deposit shall not be refunded but can be transferred for a future trip.
FINAL PAYMENT
We accept full trip cost before 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 and sent through official email ID.
1) Cancellations must be notified in writing to Trips Nomad Adventure 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 10%, 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
