Duration: 40 Days | Region: Chitral, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa | Range: Hindu Kush | Best Time: June – August
Organized by PakJourney – Your Premier Expedition Partner in Northern Pakistan
Overview
Towering at 7,708 meters (25,288 ft), Tirich Mir is the highest peak of the Hindu Kush range and the most prominent mountain outside the Himalayas and Karakoram. Located in Chitral, Pakistan, it is a majestic, glacier-laden giant that has captured the imagination of climbers for decades.
Tirich Mir is a true alpine expedition that offers stunning views of Afghanistan’s Wakhan Corridor and vast panoramas of the Hindu Kush. The mountain is surrounded by North Barum, Upper and Lower Tirich Glaciers, and sharp ridgelines that demand both endurance and high-altitude skill.
While not as commercialized as the Karakoram giants, Tirich Mir provides a unique experience for seasoned climbers looking for a quieter, equally rewarding adventure.
Historic Significance
The first ascent of Tirich Mir was made in 1950 by a Norwegian expedition led by Arne Næss, with P. Kvernberg, H. Berg, and Tony Streather of the Chitral Scouts. Notably, Professor Hameed Beg of the Karakoram Club also joined the ascent, reaching over 6,000 meters—a notable feat at the time.
The first major Pakistani expedition came a year later in 1951, led by Mian Abdul Rauf, which reached an impressive 6,553m but had to retreat due to limited supplies.
Why Climb Tirich Mir?
- Highest mountain in the Hindu Kush
- Unique, less-crowded climbing experience
- Challenging alpine environment with historical significance
- Trek through remote Chitral valleys rich in culture and nature
- Ideal for climbers aiming for pre-8000m training or remote Himalayan-style peaks
Expedition Route
There are two major approaches to Tirich Mir:
- Traditional Route: From Chitral → Reshun → Khosht → Zani Pass → Shagram → Shaikh Naik
- Shorter Route: Via Perpish → Barum village → Barum Glacier
(Recommended only for acclimatized climbers due to higher altitude risks.)
Expedition Itinerary
Days 1–6: Arrival and Trek to Base Camp
- Day 1: Arrival in Islamabad – transfer to hotel
- Day 2: Briefing at the Ministry of Tourism
- Day 3: Drive to Chitral through stunning mountain valleys
- Day 4: Drive to Arkari village
- Day 5: Trek to Dirgol – acclimatization begins
- Day 6: Trek to Tirich Mir Base Camp (~4500m)
Days 7–34: Climbing Period
- Establish high camps (Camp I, II, possibly III)
- Acclimatization and load ferrying
- Attempt the summit during optimal weather window
- Return to base camp after summit push
- Rest and prepare for descent
Days 35–40: Return and Debriefing
- Day 35: Trek back to Dirgol
- Day 36: Trek to Arkari
- Day 37: Drive to Chitral
- Day 38: Drive back to Islamabad
- Day 39: Debriefing at the Ministry of Tourism
- Day 40: Departure – End of services
What’s Included
- Islamabad & Chitral hotel accommodation
- Government climbing permits & documentation
- Briefing/debriefing with Ministry of Tourism
- Experienced guides, cook, porters, and liaison officer
- Tents, kitchen equipment, and all base camp logistics
- Meals (B/L/D) and bottled water during trek and climb
- Emergency evacuation coordination (rescue not included)
Who Should Join This Expedition?
- Experienced climbers aiming for non-technical but high-altitude summits
- Adventurers seeking remote Himalayan-style climbs
- Teams preparing for 8000m+ peaks
- Alpine and trekking clubs interested in lesser-known high-altitude goals
- Mountain photographers or documentarians seeking unspoiled terrain
Tirich Mir offers solitude, alpine beauty, and high-altitude challenge all in one. Let PakJourney organize your full expedition logistics—from Islamabad to summit and back.