Snow Lake & Hispar La Trek Pakistan 

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2776
  • 22 Days & 21 Nights
  • Min People :10
  • Wifi Available
  • Jan 18’ - Dec 21'
  • Min Age : 18+
  • Pickup: Airport

Take a journey through Pakistan’s wild Karakoram mountains with the Snow Lake & Hispar La Trek. This trek is famous for its incredible views, challenging trails, and untouched landscapes. Along the way, you’ll see Snow Lake, Hispar Glacier, and the amazing Hispar La Pass. If you’re looking for a truly unique adventure, this trek promises an unforgettable experience.

Overview of the Snow Lake & Hispar La Trek

What is the Snow Lake Trek?

The Snow Lake Trek is a one-of-a-kind experience. Known for its remote location and high elevation, Snow Lake is a glacial basin over 4,800 meters high. It covers 16 kilometers of beautiful, icy terrain. Although challenging, this trek offers some of the most stunning sights in Pakistan’s mountains.

Exploring the Hispar Glacier

The Hispar Glacier stretches over 49 kilometers and connects with Snow Lake, creating an impressive route for trekkers. This glacier has rugged terrain, deep crevasses, and ever-changing landscapes. Each step on Hispar Glacier reveals a new view, making it a must-see for adventurers.

Crossing Biafo and Hispar La Pass

The trek includes crossing the famous Biafo and Hispar La Pass. At over 5,150 meters, this pass links the Biafo Glacier with Hispar Glacier. Although it’s challenging, crossing this pass rewards you with spectacular views and a sense of achievement.

Duration
Snow Lake & Hispar La Trek – (22days)
Start Date End Date Availability Register
02-July 24-July Available Book Now
22-July 14-August Available Book Now
01-August 23-August Available Book Now
Customize Date Jan-Dec Available Book Now

 

Location & Scenic Highlights

The Karakoram Mountain Range

Snow Lake & Hispar La are part of the Karakoram mountain range, home to some of the world’s tallest peaks, including K2. This rugged, remote range offers awe-inspiring scenery and is a true paradise for trekkers and nature lovers.

Shigar Valley & Hunza Valley

Before reaching Snow Lake, you’ll pass through the beautiful Shigar Valley and Hunza Valley. These lush valleys are a contrast to the snowy peaks and give a glimpse of Pakistan’s rich culture and welcoming communities.

Snow Lake Trek Packages

We offer a variety of Snow Lake trek packages to fit your experience level. From beginner-friendly routes to advanced trails, each package includes guides, porters, and camping gear so you can focus on enjoying the trek.

Departure & Return Location

Islamabad International Airport (Google Map)

Departure Time

3 Hours Before Flight Time

Price Includes

  • 2 nights at a hotel stay in Islamabad and one night each at Hunza and Gilgit.
  • Two men sharing a tent during trekking.
  • All meals while on the trek
  • Breakfast and Dinner during Hotel stay.
  • All ground transport.
  • Porterage of up to 5kgs
  • Airport pickup and drop.
  • Local crew as per requirement. A group would typically have a mountain guide and an assistant guide in a group of 4 people plus the necessary number of porters.

Price Excludes

  • Personal Rescue
  • Travel insurance
  • Pakistani Visa
  • International air ticket
  • Equipment and items of Personal nature
  • Tips/gratuities
  • Extra nights not included in the Itinerary
  • Charging Device and Wi Fi
  • Mineral water
  • Emergency Medicine and First Aid Kit

Complementaries

  • Walking Cap
  • Local Handicraft Gift
  • T-Shirt
  • Entrance Fees As per Itinerary

Toiletries To Pack

  • Gel / Biodegradable wet wipes
  • Small biodegradable bags to take toilet tissue off the mountain
  • Toilet paper
  • Sunscreen & lip block
  • Personal medication

First Aid Kit including:

  • Anti-diarrhea tablets (Imodium)
  • Painkillers
  • Anti-inflammatories
  • Throat Lozenges
  • Rehydration Sachets
  • Blister Plasters
  • Vaseline - to rub on feet to reduce friction
  • Diamox for altitude sickness (only after consultation with a medical professional)
Recommended Equipment List
  • Waterproof Jacket
  • Lightweight Down Jacket
  • Waterproof Trousers
  • Lightweight Trekking Trousers
  • Hiking Shorts
  • Thermals (Top and Bottom, Merino Ideal)
  • Two to Three Trekking t-Shirts/Shirts
  • Fleece or Warm Mid-Layer
  • Waterproof Thick Gloves
  • Glove Liners
  • Hiking Socks and Lighter Walking Socks
  • Wool Hat
  • Sun Hat
  • Sunglasses
  • Spare Underwear
  • Buff or Similar
  • One Pair of Worn-in, Waterproof Hiking Boots
  • One pair of lightweight trainers (for the camp, in the evenings)
  • Extra warm layers (add an extra warm item to all key items above)
  • Extra set of thermals (pair to walk in, pair to sleep in)
  • Merino trekking socks
  • Merino glove liners
  • Gaiters
Photos
Itinerary

Day 1Welcome to Islamabad - Explore the Capital

Meeting upon arrival at Islamabad Airport and transfer to centrally air-conditioned hotel Blue Sky. After bar b Q lunch in hotel we move for sightseeing tour of twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad, which includes a visit to the Folk Heritage Museum, World biggest mosque The Shah Faisal Mosque, Shakir Parian, Daman e koh for taking a bird eye view of Islamabad. Passing by government buildings of the federal capital we will stop at Jinnah Super Market to see most expensive carpets from China, Iran, Afghanistan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan at bargaining price. Our dinner will traditionally be in Afghan Restaurant. Evening return to hotel for overnight.

Day 2Islamabad to Chilas - Journey Along the Silk Road

After an early breakfast at our hotel we depart for Chilas, driving on the Karakoram Highway (The Silk Road) along the river Indus. Our first stop will be at Taxila museum for one hour to see the world best collection of Gandhara art. It is the same place from where Buddhism spread to China, Japan, Korea and to Central Asia. We will stop for lunch at Hotel in bustling city of Besham. We will make also make several photos stops en route e.g. at Shatial rock inscriptions and at other viewpoints. On arrival at Chilas transfer to hotel Indus for overnight.

Day 3Chilas to Skardu - Gateway to Little Tibet

After breakfast at the hotel drive to Skardu, through world deepest gorges of the river Indus. We will take a photo stop at point where all the three highest mountain ranges of the world meet and then at the foot of Nanga Parbat the ninth highest mountain in Himalayan range. We will come across many villages en route were people are living in traditional way without getting influenced by modern culture. Skardu is the capital town of Baltistan or little Tibet. Satpara and Katchura lake are the main attractions of the area. In the town one can visit Khorpocho Fort perched on a high cliff and antique shops. At Skardu our accommodation will be at the very interesting Concordia motel, famous among trekkers and mountaineers for its calm and quite location and excellent Chinese food.

Day 4 Skardu to Thangol - Amidst Fertile Valleys

After breakfast at our hotel we will drive to the end of the jeep road crossing the fertile and green valley of Shigar, famous for its fruit orchards, wooden temples and mosques. At Thongol our stay will be in tents.

Day 5Thongol to Qaiser Ground - Trekking into Wilderness

After breakfast at the campsite we shall start our trek and will reach Askole, a legendary village on the way to K-2. This is the last civilization some 500 years old and we buy goat and chicken to be consumed during the trek. We will continue our walk up to Qaiser ground, locally known as Shaghran. Packed lunch en route. Dinner & overnight in tents.

Day 6Qaiser Ground to Namla - Glacier Exploration Begins

After breakfast start trekking along Biafo Glacier. The first campsite is Namla. Meals & overnight at the campsite at 3400 meters above sea level

Day 7Namla to Mungo - Enchanting Yak Herders' Abode

Trekking in the heart of Biafo Glacier we will reach Mungo, where yak herders from Askole live during the summer. It has beautiful green grassy grounds. Altitude of campsite is 3650m above sea level.

Day 8Mungo to Baintha - Across Glacial Plains

Baintha is the local name for Ogre, this is an easy day walking on the glacier. Hispar Pass can be viewed while walking. Baintha camp is at 4020m above sea level.

Day 9Baintha to Napina - Amidst Abundance of Nature

Napina is a green campsite in an ablation valley with fresh water but there are no bushes etc. On the way you may cross several small crevasses. Campsite is at 4400m above sea level.

Day 10Napina to Base of Hispar - Edge of Snow Lake

This a steady walk on snow covered ice. Today we shall rope up to avoid the danger of snow bridged crevasses. Camp at 4780m above sea level. You are on the edge of Snow Lake. This lake has depth of I mile as per the latest research.

Day 11Free Day at Snow Lake - Acclimatization and Exploration

Day free at the campsite for acclimatization. Optional walk to explore the vast snow lake from where several treks lead to Shimshal. We may come across the rare species of snow leopard here.

Day 12Base Camp to Khanibasa - Crossing the Hispar Pass

Today we shall cross the Hispar Pass at 5151 m. At the beginning it is an easy walk up to the top of pass. On the top there are several giant crevasses. Descending to Khanibasa again requires you to be roped. Camp at 4580m above sea level.

Day 13Khanibasa to Yutmaru - Majestic Mountain Views

On the way you can see the view of the smooth white dome of Kanjut Sar at 7760 m. The campsite is at 4330m on a flat, sheltered field in the ablation valley with running water. Few bushes and wildflowers surround the campsite.

Day 14

We cross some ice walls and crevasses. Water is a long way from the track so fill your bottles before leaving the campsite. Camp at 4150m.

Day 15 Red Star Camp to Dachigan - Tackling Boulder Hopping

This is a tiresome day of boulder hopping. Behind, you can see the last views of Hispar Pass Dachigan to Hispar Village  (5/7 HRS).

Day 16

This is an easy day of walking through pastures in the ablation valley past willow and cedar shrubs. Crossing several deserted dwellings, we reach Hispar Village at 3250m. There is a guest house without kitchen or toilet facilities.

Day 17Hispar Village to Huru - Scenic Walk Amidst Dwellings

Again, we will cross some small dwellings and reach at Huru at 2800m.

Day 18Huru to Nagar/Hunza - Journey Back to Civilization

The jeep track come up to this place and our jeep will be waiting to take us back to civilization. After breakfast we move in 4 by 4 powered jeeps and pass by famous village of Nagar and then drive to Karimabad, the Capital of Hunza. On arrival transfer to hotel Hunza View or similar for overnight.

Day 19Hunza to Gilgit - Exploring Historical Palaces

After breakfast we shall visit Baltit Fort museum and Altit Village. These are the Palaces of Ruler of Hunza over 700 years old located on the Silk Road connecting China with Europe. We will also enjoy the overwhelming beauty of the surrounding mountains especially four peaks above 7000 m including Rakaposhi and Ultar. After lunch we will move to Gilgit via Silk Road or Karakoram Highway. We pass near the base camp of Rakaposhi the 27 highest peak and the steepest place on earth. We will transfer to hotel Indus located on the banks of River Gilgit

Day 20Gilgit to Islamabad - Aerial View of the Peaks

After breakfast at the hotel we shall drive to Gilgit Airport for flight to Islamabad. This is a most fascinating flight when you take the view of the highest peaks of the earth in such a concentrated form. The view of Nanga Parbat is superb especially its successive ridges, elegantly adorned in thick coat of ice and so far, engulfed 48 mountaineers. We will also observe world biggest earth filled dam Tarbella on river Indus on our right. This is one-hour flight and after arrival at Islamabad transfer to hotel Shalimar

Day 21Day at Leisure in Islamabad - Exploring Rawalpindi

This day is at leisure to explore the ancient city of Rawalpindi. Its Raja Bazaar is the hub of business spread in dark and mysterious lanes. The whole day is not enough to explore Kalan Barar, Sarafa Bazzar, Moti Bazzar, Barra Bazar, Saddar Bazzar etc. This day may also be utilized on road journeys from Gilgit to Islamabad in case of flight cancellation due to inclement weather.

Day 22Departure - Bid Farewell to Pakistan's Splendor

After breakfast at hotel transfer to airport for your onward journey. Assistance at departure 

What to Expect on the Snow Lake & Hispar La Trek

Trek to Snow Lake – Difficulty and Elevation

The Snow Lake trek is challenging due to its high altitude, often over 5,000 meters. This trek has steep climbs, icy paths, and unpredictable weather. It’s ideal for fit, experienced trekkers who love adventure and enjoy pushing their limits.

Breathtaking Views and Wilderness

This trek offers unforgettable views. From the vast glacial lake to jagged mountain peaks, Snow Lake & Hispar La Trek is a journey through pure wilderness. The remote setting also means you’ll experience quiet, untouched landscapes far from busy trails.

Cross Hispar La and Adventure Beyond

For the most adventurous, Hispar La Pass offers the ultimate test. The thrill of crossing this high pass brings panoramic views of the Karakoram range. It’s a challenging yet rewarding part of the trek.

Preparing for the Snow Lake & Hispar La Trek

Essential Gear and Packing Tips

This trek requires careful packing. Bring layered clothing for changing temperatures, durable hiking boots, crampons, trekking poles, and high-energy snacks. We provide a detailed packing guide with our packages to ensure you’re fully prepared.

Best Time for the Snow Lake Trek

The best time to trek Snow Lake & Hispar La is from June to August. During these months, the weather is more stable, making it safer and allowing for clearer views of the landscape.

Why Choose Alpine Trekkers and Tours for Snow Lake Trekking?

Professional Guidance for Snow Lake & Hispar La Trek

Alpine Trekkers and Tours is dedicated to making your Snow Lake & Hispar La trek safe and enjoyable. Our experienced guides know the trails well and prioritize your safety, helping you enjoy every moment of this adventure.

Tailored Snow Lake Trek Packages

We offer Snow Lake trek packages that cater to different experience levels. Whether it’s your first trek or you’re a seasoned adventurer, we have options to fit your needs. Each package includes local guides, porters, and all necessary gear.

FAQ

How hard is the Snow Lake & Hispar La trek?

It’s considered challenging. This trek has steep climbs, high altitudes, and unpredictable weather, making it best suited for fit, experienced trekkers.

What altitude is Snow Lake?

Snow Lake sits at over 4,800 meters, and the trek reaches altitudes above 5,000 meters. Proper acclimatization is essential.

What should I pack for the Snow Lake trek?

Important items include layered clothing, waterproof boots, crampons, trekking poles, and high-energy snacks. We offer a full packing list with every trek package.

When is the best time to go?

June to August is the ideal time for this trek, as the weather is more stable, allowing for safer and clearer trekking conditions.

Why is the Biafo Glacier famous?

The Biafo Glacier is famous for its impressive length (about 67 kilometers), making it one of the longest glaciers outside the polar regions. It’s also renowned for its rugged beauty, its connection to the Hispar Glacier, and its position in the Karakoram Range, linking Snow Lake with the broader glacier system. This glacier attracts trekkers for its challenging terrain and the scenic views of untouched wilderness.

What is the elevation of Snow Lake in Pakistan?

Snow Lake is situated at an elevation of around 4,877 meters (approximately 16,000 feet) above sea level. This high altitude, combined with its glacial basin landscape, makes it a remote and challenging destination for trekkers.

Where is Biafo Glacier located?

Biafo Glacier is located in the Karakoram mountain range of northern Pakistan. It lies in the Gilgit-Baltistan region, stretching from the Shigar Valley and connecting with the Hispar Glacier near Snow Lake.

What is the elevation of Biafo?

The Biafo Glacier starts at an elevation of around 3,200 meters (10,500 feet) at its lower end near the Shigar Valley and ascends to about 5,128 meters (16,824 feet) near its highest point as it approaches Hispar La.

Map

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