Paradise Discovered: A Trek To Charakusa Valley
About this tour
Much of climbing & trekking happens on the giant of Baltoro whereas not far, the superb valley of Charakusa is growing by isolated towers and superb granite spires which remain out of the world. A challenging trek leading into the heart of the one of the most isolated and pristine mountain valleys on earth.
Nestling at the head of the Charakusa glacier, hidden from the giants of the Baltoro, lies one of the most impressive areas in the Karakoram. Here rise fairy tale mountains, the sort most people only dream of. Perfect granite, massive rock walls and easy access combine to produce one of the greatest mountains showcases on the planet.
• A beautiful & challenging trek to the pristine hidden paradise i.e., Charakusa Valley
• An asylum of wild excellence with various ice & rock towers.
• Opportunities to spot famous local species including Ibex & Markhor.
• Some of the most iconic peaks of the region including K6 (Baltistan Peak), K7, Link Sar, Nayser Brakk, Haji Peak, Farhat Peak, Fati Peak and many more.
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1: lslamabad International Airport, Islamabad, Pakistan to Islamabad Serena Hotel, Islamabad, Pakistan
Arrival at Islamabad International airport and transfer to the hotel. Participants will enjoy leisure time to relax and recover from the journey on this day.
Day 2: Islamabad, Pakistan to Skardu
Fly from Islamabad airport to Skardu (1-hour scenic flight). Free day for sightseeing and necessary purchasing from Skardu Bazar. We will visit Manthal Rock Budha, Kharpocho fort, Organic village and Skardu Bazar. Or In case of flight cancellation due to weather, drive from Islamabad via Karakoram Highway with short stops at various touristic spots.
Day 3: Skardu to Hushe
After breakfast at hotel we will drive to Hushe valley. Passing through small villages and witness diverse cultural heritage of the Ganche district. We will have short stops at the meeting point of Shayok & Indus Rivers, Thorgo Pari, and Sailing. Check into the hotel and have free time in the evening.
Day 4: Hushe to Saicho Campsite, Hushe
After breakfast at hotel, we will leave the last inhabited village of Hushe & trek to Saitcho campsite (3400m). An easy and short trek with free time in the afternoon for natural exploration.
Day 5: Saicho Campsite, Hushe to Spangsear Hotel, Keris
After breakfast at campsite, trek to Spangsar (3850m). Today we will traverse through the Wali Changkhalil and cross the Charakusa glacier.
Day 6: Spangsear Hotel, Keris to K7 Basecamp
Down onto the glacier, our path follows the center of the ice river, sometimes walking on moraine and sometimes on snow and ice. We get our first views of the K-7 and the stunning spire of Nayser Brakk.
Day 7: Free Day at K7 Basecamp to Free Day At K7 Basecamp
Free Day at K7 Base Camp (4550m) to explore the area. You can enjoy the splendid view of K-7 and many other peaks.
Day 8: K7 Basecamp to Saicho Campsite, Hushe
Trek back to Saitcho (3400m) from K-7 Base Camp.
Day 9: Saicho Campsite, Hushe to Shigar
Trek back from Saitcho to Hushe and then drive to Shigar valley for overnight stay. Check into the hotel in Shigar and have free time in the afternoon. A visit to Shigar fort and fort museum in the late afternoon.
Day 10: Shigar to Islamabad, Pakistan
Drive from Shigar to Skardu airport (1 hour) and fly to Islamabad (1 hour). Transfer to hotel and sightseeing after lunch.
Day 11: Islamabad, Pakistan to Islamabad Serena Hotel, Islamabad, Pakistan
If we cannot fly due to the weather, we will travel down to Islamabad by road. If we fly from Skardu to Islamabad, there are plenty of sightseeing & cultural attractions in the capital region. The leader will advise on the options available, e.g. day excursion to the Taxila museum and archaeological sites or a visit to the famous Raja Bazar.
Day 12: Islamabad Serena Hotel, Islamabad, Pakistan to lslamabad International Airport, Islamabad, Pakistan
After breakfast, transfer from the hotel to the airport for international flights.
What's included
• Airport transfers (on the first and last day in Islamabad) • All land transport involved in the itinerary • Internal flights and associated airport transfers • All hotel accommodations (twin sharing) • All meals throughout the holidays • Licensed professional local guide • Sightseeing mentioned in the itinerary • Implementation of all sustainable tourism protocols • NOC/Trekking Permits/National Park permit fees • All entry tickets (forts, parks) • Up to 15 kgs of porter services per person • Access to the group satellite communication
• Travel Insurance • Pakistan Visa (supporting documents will be offered) • International airfare • Personal equipment (clothes, boots etc.) • Tips for guiding and supporting staff • Miscellaneous expenses – drinks and souvenirs etc.
What to know
This tour can be customized. Please get in touch with me.
Route & locations
lslamabad International Airport, Islamabad, Pakistan to Islamabad Serena Hotel, Islamabad, Pakistan