The Shimshal Trek is more than a mountain walk — it’s a journey into the soul of the Karakoram. Tucked away in the farthest northeastern corner of Hunza, Shimshal Valley is often referred to as the “Valley of Mountaineers.” Isolated, untouched, and breathtakingly beautiful, it is one of the last strongholds of authentic Hunza culture.
This 23-day expedition blends rich cultural immersion with rugged mountain adventure. The route begins near Passu, climbs through narrow ravines and wild terrain to Shimshal village, and then crosses the Boesam and Chapchingiol passes into the high-altitude Pamir pastures of Khunjerab National Park — one of the most remote and pristine ecosystems in the world.
For those seeking true wilderness, wildlife encounters, ancient trails, and the warmth of isolated mountain communities, the Shimshal Trek is unparalleled.
Tour Overview
- Total Duration: 23 Days
- Camping Nights: 14 Nights
- Hotel Nights: 8 Nights
- Max Altitude: 2,880 meters (passes and high camps go higher)
- Trek Difficulty: Tough (river crossings, steep terrain)
- Best Season: Late May – Early October
- Location: Karakoram Range, Hunza-Gojal Region
- Trek Zone: Open (no special permit required)
What Makes This Trek Unique?
✅ Traverse from Hunza to Khunjerab through ancient footpaths
✅ Walk to Shimshal, once a prison colony of Hunza royalty
✅ Experience the hospitality of Shimshalis, famous across Pakistan
✅ See rare wildlife: Ibex, Marco Polo sheep, Markhor, and maybe Snow Leopard
✅ Explore high-altitude Pamir meadows filled with wildflowers
✅ Cross two remote passes: Boesam and Chapchingiol
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Islamabad
Receive a warm welcome, transfer to hotel, gear check, and short city tour.
Day 2: Fly to Gilgit / Drive to Chilas (if flight cancelled)
Scenic flight over Nanga Parbat or overland journey via the Karakoram Highway.
Day 3: Drive to Passu
We travel deep into the Hunza Valley, stopping at viewpoints like Rakaposhi and the famous Attabad Lake. Overnight in Passu.
Day 4: Trek Begins – Drive to Dut & Trek to Camp
Short drive to Dut – trailhead. Trek begins into a deep gorge, clinging to trails carved into cliffside. Overnight in camp.
Day 5: Trek to Ziarat
We continue along the narrow Shimshal gorge, reaching Ziarat, where a saint is believed to have stayed. Spectacular scenery.
Day 6: Trek to Malunguti
The valley opens up as we trek toward Malunguti, crossing wooden suspension bridges and scenic streams.
Day 7: Trek to Shimshal Village
We arrive at Shimshal, a large village surrounded by lush fields, welcoming locals, and a peaceful ambiance. Overnight in a traditional house or camp.
Day 8: Rest Day in Shimshal
Explore the village, visit the local school, or relax. Enjoy home-cooked meals and learn about Shimshal’s mountaineering legacy.
Day 9: Trek to Zardgarben
We head north into Pamir pastures, surrounded by wildflowers and shepherd camps. Camp in open meadows.
Day 10: Jaffar Wasshk
The trek becomes wilder and steeper. Reach Jaffar Wasshk, with views of snow-capped ridges.
Day 11: Hindjerab
We move deeper into Khunjerab National Park, with chances to see ibex and Marco Polo sheep grazing.
Day 12: Trek to Wierben
A long but scenic walk through rocky terrain and meadows. Camp under starry skies.
Day 13: Chapchingiol Valley
We ascend into a remote, flower-filled valley, preparing for the final pass crossing.
Day 14: Chapchingiol High Camp
Base camp for the pass — high, cold, and isolated. Ropes provided where necessary.
Day 15: Cross Chapchingiol Pass – Enter Kuksel Valley
A tough but rewarding day. After crossing the Chapchingiol Pass, we descend into Kuksel Valley with its unique high-altitude terrain.
Day 16–17: Kuksel Springs & Rest Day
We relax at Kuksel Springs, enjoy hot water from natural mineral springs, and rejuvenate in the silence of the Pamirs.
Day 18: Drive to Karimabad, Hunza
Our jeeps pick us up at Kuksel and we drive down to Karimabad, the cultural capital of Hunza. Visit Baltit Fort, Altit Fort, and enjoy the comfort of a hotel.
Day 19: Drive to Gilgit
Return to Gilgit via the Karakoram Highway. Evening free for shopping or sightseeing.
Day 20: Drive to Besham
A long but scenic drive through lower valleys, transitioning from the mountains to pine forests.
Day 21: Return to Islamabad
Final leg of the road journey. Reach Islamabad and relax in a comfortable hotel.
Day 22: Free Day in Islamabad
Enjoy the city, explore markets, or rest after your long adventure.
Day 23: Departure
Transfer to Islamabad International Airport for your flight home.
What’s Included
- Domestic flights or ground transportation
- Jeep support throughout the trek
- English-speaking local guide (Ahmed)
- Porters, cooks, kitchen staff, and full trekking team
- Hotel stays in major towns (Islamabad, Gilgit, Hunza)
- All meals during the trek
- Tents, mats, kitchen, and sleeping gear
- Entry fees and coordination for national park access
What to Bring
- Strong trekking boots
- Down jacket and thermal layers
- Sleeping bag (available on request)
- Personal water bottle and headlamp
- Camera – for wildlife and landscape shots
- Adventure spirit – you’ll need it!
Conclusion
The Shimshal Trek isn’t just a walk in the mountains — it’s a journey through time, a dive into authentic Hunza culture, and an escape into the true wilderness. With rivers to cross, valleys to explore, and wildlife to discover, this is one of Pakistan’s most exclusive and unforgettable treks.
