fairy meadows
The Mega Trek

In the first part of the mega trekking trip, a visit to Fairy Meadows & Nanga Parbat Base Camp from Raikot Glacier will be completed. Nanga Parbat means ‘the naked mountain (8125m), is the second highest peak in Pakistan and 9th in the world is known as one of the three most challenging mountains above 8000M. The mountain has three famous faces known as Rupal, Diamir and Raikot. Our program will cover mountain from Raikot side to witness the beauty and culture of surrounding glaciers, villages and people. Next stop is Concordia known as “the Throng Room of Mountain gods” from here hikes to K-2 Gasherbrum base camps will be made.  Finally, there will be hiking to Gondogoro La 5450m in the Karakoram. If weather favors, this high pass offers the most overwhelming and extraordinary view of K-2, Broad Peak, G-I, G-II, G-III, G-IV, Masherbrum, & Chogolisa besides other peaks and glaciers in the region.

 

Trip Facts
  • Trip Code: ATP-TR-03
  • Route: Islamabad-Chilas-Raikot-Fairy Meadow-Nanga Parbat BC-Skardu-Askoli-Concordia-Broad Peak Base Camp- K-2 Base Camp-Gondogoro La-Hushe-Islamabad
  • Best time: Early June to Mid-September
  • Maximum Elevation: 5450 meters
  • Trek Grade: The first part is easy & the second part is Strenuous
  • Trip Length (Islamabad- Islamabad): 25 nights/26 days (8 hotel nights & 16 camping nights)

 

Day To Day Itinerary

 

NB: Flight between Islamabad and Skardu is subject to weather conditions. 

Standard Itinerary

(Shorter & Longer Itineraries Available)

DAY 1: ISLAMABAD

  • Altitude (Islamabad): 500M
  • Upon arrival at Islamabad Airport, transfer to hotel. Half-day city tour: Our representative/guide will meet our valued guest(s) at Islamabad International Airport and transfer them to the hotel (the new airport is about a 40-45-minute drive from Islamabad city). In the afternoon, a half-day city tour will include visiting Faisal Mosque, built in 1986, the Pakistan Monument, and Lok Virsa (an anthropological museum). At last, you’ll get a breathtaking aerial view of Islamabad from Daman-e-Koh. Overnight in hotel.

DAY 2: ISLAMABAD-CHILAS

  • Altitude (Chilas): 1265M
  • Distance: 365 kms/10 hours’ drive
  • After an early breakfast, drive to Chilas via the picturesque Kaghan valley, Naran Valley, and Babusar Pass. Overnight in hotel.

DAY 3: CHILAS – FAIRY MEADOWS

  • Altitude (Fairy Meadows): 3310M
  • Distance: Chilas – Raikot Bridge: 56 kms/1.5 hours’ drive
  • Departure for Raikot Bridge from Gilgit or Naran early in the morning. From Raikot Bridge, we will change our vehicle and take jeeps for Tato village (2560M). From Tato, after a scenic walk, we will reach the fairytale meadow (3310 m), an idyllic place amidst lush coniferous forests. Enjoy the great panoramic view of Nanga Parbat! Overnight stay in simple wooden bungalows or tents.

DAY 4: FAIRY MEADOWS

  • Altitude (Nanga Parbat Base Camp): 4000M
  • Altitude (Beyal Camp/View Point): 3550m – 3600m
  • Altitude gained: ↑700m (compared to Fairy Meadow camp)
  • The day is available for exploring the surroundings of the fairy meadow. A nice hike takes you closer to the ice giants in the direction of Nanga-Parbat base camp (4000m) if conditions (little or no snow) allow. If you do not want to go up the base camp, you can hike up to the viewpoint (near Beyal Camp) or stay at the fairytale meadow and enjoy the day at the foot of the ninth highest peak on Earth. Overnight stay as the day before.

DAY 5: FAIRY MEADOWS – SKARDU

  • Altitude (Skardu): 2250M
  • Distance: Fairy Meadows-Tato: 2 hours’ hike
  • Trek down to Tato and jeep drive to Raikot Bridge. Further drive to Skardu along Indus River. Overnight in hotel.

DAY 6: SKARDU

  • Altitude: 2250M
  • Distance: Chilas – Skardu: 260 kms/7 hours’ drive
  • We will go on a half-day sightseeing tour today. This includes Kharpocho Fort, Manthal Buddha Rock, and Sadpara Lake. If our valued guests wish to do so, they can visit Upper Kachura Lake and Broq. Or they can just make final preparations, as Skardu is the last town where shopping is possible. Overnight in hotel.

DAY 7: SKARDU-ASKOLI

  • Altitude (Askoli): 3100M
  • Altitude Gained: ↑850M compared to the previous night
  • Distance and Driving Time: 130 kms / 6 hours’ drive
  • We will drive in four-wheel vehicles through the lush green Shigar and Braldu valleys until we reach Askoli, the last settlement. Askoli is a small town of eighty-five households. This will be the first night in tents.

DAY 8: ASKOLI – JHOLA

  • Altitude (Jhola camp): 3200M
  • Altitude Gained: ↑100M compared to the previous night
  • Distance and Hiking Time: 17.5 km / 5-6 hours
  • Our first trekking day, accompanied by a caravan of porters and kitchen staff. We will cross Korophong (3109m) at the snout of the Biafo Glacier, the third-biggest glacier in the Karakoram range. Those undertaking the Snow Lake trek turn left and hike on Biafo Glacier. After lunch at Korophong, we’ll proceed to Jhola along the Domardo River. Today’s hike is on barren land, and on a sunny day, it can be quite warm, so trekkers are advised to have an umbrella and enough drinking water. Overnight at Jhola camp, in the wilderness, in the shade of Bakhor Dass Peak (5809m), a beautiful pyramid with seracs on the top. Overnight in tent.

DAY 9: JHOLA – PAIJU

  • Altitude (Paiju camp): 3600M
  • Altitude Gained: ↑400M compared to the previous night
  • Distance & Hiking Time: 18.8 km / 7-8 hours
  • The trek continues to Bardumal (3253m), which is situated in the Biaho-Lungma valley. The Ching-Kang valley appears on the opposite side with a view of one of the beautiful peaks, Mango Gusar (6820m). Afterwards, the path proceeds via Bardumal to Paiju in another 4 hours. Today, if weather conditions permit, you will see Broad Peak (8051m), your first peak above 8000m. Paiju is a lush green campsite in the shadow of Paiju Peak (6611m). Overnight in tent.

DAY 10: PAIJU – KHUBURTSE

  • Altitude (Khuburtse): 4000M
  • Altitude Gained: ↑400M compared to the previous night
  • Distance & Hiking Time: 13 km / 5 hours
  • After an hour’s walk from Paiju, you will meet the Baltoro glacier. Baltoro is one of the biggest glaciers outside polar regions and is 62km long. A narrow and winding trail leads along the terminal moraine up to the back of the great ice stream. It takes roughly 4-5 hours across the glacier to the Khuburtse camp. One gets a glimpse of Liligo Peak (6251m) if facing southwards. To the northwest, the world-famous rock faces of Trango Towers rise up into the sky. Overnight in tent.

DAY 11: KHUBURTSE – URDUKAS

  • Altitude (Urdukas): 4240M
  • Altitude Gained: ↑240M compared to the previous night
  • Distance & Hiking Time: 8.1 km / 4-5 hours
  • Urdukas is the most beautiful campsite on solid ground. It offers superb views of Biale (6729m), Uli Biaho Tower (6417m), Chorich, the Trango group, and the Muztagh Glacier. Overnight stay in tent.

DAY 12: URDUKAS – GORO-II

  • Altitude (Goro-II): 4500M
  • Altitude Gained: ↑260M compared to the previous night
  • Distance & Hiking Time: 11.6 km / 6 hours
  • The trek continues along the Baltoro glacier, the trail becoming progressively icier. Goro I is reached within 3-4 hours. Then it’s another 2-3 hours to reach Goro II. At the junction of the Baltoro with Yermanandu Glacier, there are spectacular views of Muztagh Tower (7270m), Masherbrum (7821m), and Gasherbrum IV (7925m, 6th highest peak in Pakistan and 17th highest peak on earth). This is the first campsite on ice and the coldest of the whole trek. It doesn’t provide much comfort, yet it is a pleasing experience. Overnight stay in tent.

DAY 13: GORO-II – CONCORDIA

  • Altitude (Concordia): 4687M
  • Altitude Gained: ↑187M compared to the previous night
  • Distance & Hiking Time: 12.9 km / 6 hours
  • The next lap of the trek proceeds from Goro II to Concordia (4687m). The name Concordia has its origin in the British explorer Godwin Austen, who invented the name due to its almost 40km wide part where 14 glaciers come together from all directions. It’s the campsite with the best views. If lucky with the weather, we will have the most magnificent views of the mountain giants of Karakoram, including the crown K-2, which majestically stands just in front of you to the north. The peaks tower over you, and all appear to be tantalizingly close: Gasherbrum-IV & V, Mitre Peak, Chogolisa (7665m), Golden Throne (also known as Baltoro Kangri, 7312m) and Broad Peak (8051m) are just the most prominent of them. Overnight stay in tent.

DAY 14: CONCORDIA

  • Altitude (Concordia): 4687M
  • Rest day at Concordia.

DAY 15: CONCORDIA – BROAD PEAK BASE CAMP

  • Altitude (Broad Peak Base Camp): 4900M
  • Altitude Gained: ↑213M compared to the previous night
  • Distance & Hiking Time: 7 kms / 3 hours
  • It takes 3 hours to reach Broad Peak Base Camp (4900M). An amazing day during which we will enjoy the dramatic views of the giant Karakoram Mountains along with large glaciers all around. A look back offers magnificent views of Chogolisa and other beautiful mountains. Parallel streaks of white ice and dark moraine conjure up the idea of Zebra stripes. Overnight stay in tent.

DAY 16: BROAD PEAK BASE CAMP – K-2 BASE CAMP – CONCORDIA

  • Altitude (K-2 Base Camp): 5050M
  • Altitude (Concordia): 4687M
  • Distance & Hiking Time (Broad Peak BC to K-2 BC): 5.1 km / 2 hours
  • Distance & Hiking Time (K-2 BC to Concordia): 12.1 km / 5 hours
  • Altitude Gained/Lost: ↑150M & ↓213 compared to the previous night
  • We’ll visit K-2 base camp today, giving the opportunity to meet many mountaineers if they are not in higher camps. We will also visit the Gilkey Memorial with its many memory plaques for climbers who died on K2. After lunch, trek back to Concordia. Overnight stay in tent.

DAY 17: CONCORDIA – ALI CAMP

  • Altitude (Ali Camp): 5000M
  • Distance & Hiking Time: 12 km / 5-6 hours
  • Altitude Gained: ↑313 compared to the previous night
  • Continue walk on Vigne Glacier, providing superb views of Chogolisa, and Mitre Peak, a rare mountain panorama, and camp just below pass. Overnight in tents.

DAY 18: ALI CAMP – GONDOGORO LA – HUIPANG

  • Altitude (Gondogoro Pass): 5650M
  • Altitude (Huispang): 4600M
  • Distance & Hiking Time: 20 km / 10 hours
  • Altitude Gained/Lost: ↑650M & ↓400 compared to the previous night
  • We start quite early in the morning (1:00 am) with the traverse of the Vigne Glacier to the Gondogoro. The trail continues via several 45-degree inclined steps – always alongside massive crevasses – up to Gondogoro-La in 4-6 hours. The Pass, with its altitude of 5,650m, provides a breathtaking view of the Karakoram’s great mountains in good weather conditions. The descent to Huispang requires secure walking since it is quite long and tedious. The terrain has a maximum gradient of 45 degrees, with icy and stony ground, and can be reached in 4-6 hours. An overnight in tents.

DAY 19: HUIPANG – SIACHO

  • Altitude (Saicho): 3300M
  • Distance & Hiking Time: 16 km / 5-6 hours
  • Altitude Lost: ↓300 compared to the previous night
  • Proceeding along the lateral moraine, we descend to Saicho, a pleasing campsite with a small shop and toilets. The trek is full of highlights all the way to Saicho, passing through small lakes, lush green meadows, and spectacular views of snow-covered mountains. The best is the most beautiful campsite. Our porters will celebrate the crossing of Ghondoghoro La by the evening with local songs and dances, which makes it fun. An overnight in tents.

DAY 20: SIACHO – HUSHE

  • Altitude (Hushe): 3000M
  • Distance & Hiking Time: 8 km / 3-4 hours
  • Trek down to Hushe (3000m), from where we will get jeeps to Skardu. Today is the last day with porters. We will say goodbye to our porters. Overnight in tents.

DAY 21: HUSHE – SKARDU

  • Altitude (Skardu): 2250M
  • Distance & Hiking Time: 168 km / 6 hours
  • Jeep drive to Skardu, traveling through the beautiful villages of Ganche district and then along Shayok and Indus Rivers. Overnight in hotel.

DAY 22: SKARDU – ISLAMABAD

  • After breakfast, transfer to the airport for the flight to Islamabad. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel. Rest of the day at leisure.

DAY 23: ISLAMABAD

  • Day at leisure for shopping or visit Taxila, the ancient center of Gandhara civilization. Overnight in hotel.

DAY 24: DEPARTURE FROM ISLAMABAD

  • Transfer to Islamabad International Airport for the departure flight.

Trip Name: The Mega Trek (Fairy Meadows & Baltoro Gondogoro La Trek)

Trekking Zone: Fairy Meadows in an open zone and Baltoro Trek in the restricted zone 

Main Visa Category: Mountaineering & Trekking 

Sub Visa Category:  Trekking

Permit requirement: A trekking permit is required as the trek falls in the restricted 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/   

You will need a letter of invitation (LOI) which our office will provide along with the requisite documents including Adventure Tours Pakistan license copy and National Identity Card of the host. 

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 VALID VISA FOR PAKISTAN. 


TREKKING PERMIT

As the Mega 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 to avoid 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. You can choose an insurance company of your choice but SafetyWing Travel Insurance has great benefits and coverage. They provide online services without hassles. 

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. Adventure Tours Pakistan Pakistan, guide or representative will be at the airport to pick the clients with the welcome signboard of Adventure Tours Pakistan.  We can also make reservations for pre and post nights if anyone arriving early or departing late. 

HIKING AT ALTITUDE

The K-2 Base Camp Trek (the Classic 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 participants must be physically fit and capable of walking for about 6-8 hours a day as the highest point of the trek is above 5150m. 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.       

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  
  • Gore Tex Jacket (1 piece)
  • Down Jacket (1 piece) 
  • Chap Stick or Lip Balm 
  • Warm Clothing including inner dress / thermals
  • Sun Cap (1 piece)
  • Warm Hat (1 piece) 
  • Neck Cover (1 piece)
  • Personal medication (if advised by physician)
  • Note: Some equipment are available for rent or sale in Skardu 
  • Sun Cream
  • 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 
  • Water bottle

LOCAL TIME

Pakistan falls in 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. 

Power plugs and sockets type C are used in Pakistan
Power plugs and sockets type D are used in Pakistan


CURRENCY AND EXCHANGE

Major currencies including US Dollars, Euro & GB Pounds can be exchanged 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

Airlines offering domestic flights including PIA offer 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. 

FOOD ON TREKKING
We do cater any special food requirements during trekking if any client has food allergies/intolerances 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

  1. Pudding
  2. Kheer Mix
  3. Custard
  4. Jelly
  5. 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 Skardu, expect the weather to be very hot as well. In Skardu, the temperature in Skardu to lower than Islamabad. However, day time is warm. Expect 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 5150 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 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 Adventure Tours Pakistan and sent through official email ID. 

1) Cancellations must be notified in writing to Adventure Tours Pakistan or the agent through which the trip is booked. Cancellation charges shall be levied as follows:

  1. 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. 
  2. Cancellation within 2 weeks before departure –50 %  of the package offer
  3. 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. In such situations, the client will pay extra accommodation and transportation cost. 

WHY BOOK WITH ADVENTURE TOURS PAKISTAN?

Adventure Tours Pakistan is one of the leading Destination Management and adventure Tour Company with over 35 year years’ experience. ATP has a chequered history handling more clients on this trek than any other adventure outfitter in Pakistan. We always strive to focus on the safety, 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 Adventure Tours Pakistan has competitive advantage over other service providers. 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’

WILL BE UPDATED SOON
WILL BE UPDATED SOON
WILL BE UPDATED SOON
WILL BE UPDATED SOON

 

 

DATES FOR 2025 DEPARTURES
EX-ISLAMABAD From (First day of trip) To (End of trip) No. of days/nights
1st Departure 08-07-2025 31-07-2025 24 days/23 nights
2nd Departure 15-07-2025 07-08-2025 24 days/23 nights
3rd Departure 05-08-2025 28-08-2025 24 days/23 nights