Quick Overview
Trip Duration: 16 Days Season: June – September Trek Grade: Moderate to challanign Maximum Altitude: 4,735m (Shimshal Pass) Optional Peak: Minglik Sar 6,050m Zone: Open Price: US$ 2000 per person
Shimshal Pass Trek 2026 – Pakistan
High-Altitude Trekking & Minglik Sar (6,050m) Climb in the Karakoram
The Shimshal Pass Trek 2026 is one of the most unique high-altitude trekking experiences in Pakistan. Located at 4,735m in the remote Shimshal Valley of Hunza, this expedition-style journey combines breathtaking mountain landscapes, authentic Wakhi culture, and the optional climb of Minglik Sar (6,050m).
Organized by Shams Alpine Mountaineering & Trekking, this 16-day adventure begins in Islamabad and takes you deep into the heart of the Karakoram.
Why Choose the Shimshal Pass Trek?
The Shimshal Pass Trek is one of the most authentic and culturally rich trekking experiences in the Karakoram, offering far more than a typical mountain walk. Unlike commercial trekking routes, Shimshal remains remote and untouched, preserving its traditional Wakhi mountain culture and centuries-old pastoral lifestyle. The trail leads through dramatic gorges, high suspension bridges, alpine meadows, and glacier-carved landscapes before reaching the vast Pamir plateau at 4,735 meters. Along the journey, trekkers witness shepherd settlements, grazing yaks, and the seasonal migration of local families who spend their summers producing cheese and butter in the high pastures. Surrounded by trekking peaks such as Mingligh Sar (6,050m), Velyo Sar (6,030m), and Quz Sar (5,900m), the region also offers opportunities for acclimatization hikes and optional summit climbs. Rich wildlife, including ibex, blue sheep, and occasionally snow leopard, further enhances the wilderness experience. For travelers seeking raw natural beauty, genuine cultural immersion, and a true high-altitude adventure away from the crowds, Shimshal Pass stands as one of Northern Pakistan’s most rewarding and meaningful trekking destinations.
Scenic Journey to Shimshal Valley
The approach to Shimshal is a journey through the heart of the Karakoram’s most spectacular landscapes. Traveling along the legendary Karakoram Highway, you pass beneath towering peaks, lush Hunza villages, and the majestic face of Rakaposhi (7,788m). Beyond Passu’s dramatic cathedral-like spires, the route leaves the main highway and enters the breathtaking Shimshal Gorge — a narrow mountain road carved high above the river. This remarkable drive sets the tone for an exclusive adventure into one of Pakistan’s most remote and pristine valleys.
About Shimshal Pass – The Gateway to the Pamirs
Shimshal Pass (4,735m) stands as one of the most historic and culturally significant high-altitude crossings in the Karakoram, widely known as the “Gateway to the Pamirs.” For centuries, this ancient route has remained the main grassy pastureland of the Shimshal community, where families traditionally migrate during the summer season with their livestock. In these high Pamir pastures, locals spend months grazing yaks, sheep, and goats, producing cheese, butter, and other dairy products as part of their enduring mountain lifestyle. Today, the trek to Shimshal Pass remains one of Northern Pakistan’s most authentic and rewarding wilderness journeys. The route winds through dramatic gorges, alpine meadows, and glacial landscapes before opening onto the vast high-altitude Pamir — locally known as Shuijerab. Along the way, trekkers encounter remote shepherd settlements, pristine campsites, and sweeping views of snow-covered peaks that define the raw beauty of the Karakoram. Organized and led by the experienced local team at Shams Alpine Mountaineering & Trekking, this expedition blends cultural heritage, untouched nature, and professional logistical support, offering an unforgettable journey into one of Pakistan’s last true mountain frontiers.
The region is rich in wildlife, including: Brown Bear, Himalayan Ibex, Blue Sheep, Snow Leopard, Golden Eagle, Snow Cock
This makes Shimshal Valley one of the most culturally and environmentally significant trekking destinations in Pakistan.
Shimshal Pass Trek 16-Day Itinerary
Day 01 – Arrival in Islamabad
Hotel stay.
Day 02 – Fly to Gilgit or drive to Naran
Hotel.
Day 03 – Drive to Hunza Valley
Hotel in Karimabad.
Day 04 – Drive to Shimshal Village
Hotel.
Day 05 – Trek to Gharsar (3–4 hrs)
Camp.
Day 06 – Trek to Peryan-e-Sar (7–8 hrs)
Camp.
Day 07 – Trek to Shuijerav (6–7 hrs)
Camp.
Day 08 – Trek to Shimshal Pass (4,735m) (2–3 hrs)
Camp.
Day 09–10 – Acclimatization & Climb Minglik Sar (6,050m)
Camp.
Day 11–13 – Trek back to Shimshal Village
Camp & Guesthouse.
Day 14 – Drive to Gilgit (6–7 hrs)
Hotel.
Day 15 – Fly or Drive to Islamabad
Hotel.
Day 16 – Final Departure
✔ Services Included
Experienced licensed mountain guide
Full board meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) during trek
Cooking staff & dining tent
Quality tented camps (shared basis)
Hotels in cities (twin-sharing basis)
Transportation (Islamabad – Hunza–Shimshal– Islamabad)
Porters for group equipment
Trekking permits & park fees
Staff insurance
Visa invitation letter
Minglik sar 6050m climbing services
❌ Services Not Included
International airfare
Travel insurance (mandatory)
Personal trekking gear (sleeping bag, crampons, harness, ice axe)
Bottled water & personal beverages
Personal snacks & energy food
Laundry & phone calls
Tips for staff
Single room supplement
Guides & Porters
Our local guides and porters are experienced professionals from Shimshal and surrounding regions. Porters will carry your main kit bag (maximum 20kg). Trekkers carry only a personal daypack with essentials such as:
- Water bottle
- Rain jacket
- Sun protection
- Camera
- Snacks
- Extra layers
Book Your Shimshal Pass Trek 2026
If you are planning trekking in Hunza or exploring remote routes in the Karakoram, the Shimshal Pass Trek is an excellent choice for adventure travelers.
Contact Shams Alpine Mountaineering & Trekking for customized departures, private groups, or combined trekking and climbing programs.
📧 Email: info@shamsalpine.com.pk
📱 WhatsApp: +92-3445289842
Rush Lake Trek and Rush peak climb -2026
Fast facts
Country Visited
Pakistan
Visas
Yes*
Vaccinations
Please consult a travel vaccination specialist for up to date information
Singles
A single supplement is not always possible on this trip. In many instances campsite size is limited and it will be necessary to share with another team member. This also applies to mountaineering expeditions. Single supplement in hotels is available. Please contact Shams Alpine Mountaineering & Trekking Pvt Ltd for specific detail, relevant to your trip.
Entry points
Shimshal can be reached from Islamabad by plane to Gilgit city or else by road along the Karakoram Highway to Hunza. Another way is by road from Tashkurgan, China on the Karakoram Highway through Khunjerab National Park and the Old Silk Route to Passu valley.
Leader
Discover the spectacular hidden Karakoram with English speaking,
world renowned Shimshali mountain guides
Adventure travel
By its very nature adventure travel involves an element of the unexpected. In remote and developing countries do not expect standards you are used to at home. Remote areas are sometimes unpredictable and itineraries may be altered. To get the most out of your adventure it is important that you are flexible, positive and eager to take on all the challenges that arise. If you are uncertain about your suitability for this trip we recommend that you contact us with any concerns. We are happy to answer any questions.
Responsible travel
The environments we travel through are fragile. It is our responsibility as visitors to minimize the impact of our presence
