🌄 Introduction

Tucked deep within the majestic Karakoram, the Chapchingol Pass Trek is a raw and rarely explored trekking route that connects the lush Shishal Valley with the dramatic glacial wilderness of the Gondogoro region. A perfect alternative to the crowded K2 trails, this off-the-beaten-path adventure offers unmatched solitude, wild landscapes, and dramatic alpine beauty.

With panoramic views of K6, K7, Laila Peak, and untouched side valleys, this trek is ideal for experienced hikers and adventure lovers seeking to discover a secret corner of Gilgit-Baltistan.

✨ Highlights

→Cross the wild and stunning Chapchingol Pass (approx. 5,000m)

→Explore the Shishal Valley, rich with flowers, pastures, and alpine culture

→Get breathtaking views of Laila Peak, K6/K7, Drifika, and Gondogoro Glacier

→Rarely visited route – ideal for trekkers looking to avoid commercial trails

→Connect with the traditional Balti communities of Hushe and Shishal

🧭 Trek Overview

🗺️ Suggested Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Skardu

Fly in from Islamabad or arrive via Karakoram Highway. Meet your guides and prepare gear.

Day 2: Drive to Shishal Village (3,000m)

A scenic jeep ride through the Hushe Valley leads to the starting point of the trek.

Day 3: Trek to Talis Camp

Walk through lush fields and rocky terrain to reach your first alpine camp.

Day 4: Trek to Chapchingol High Camp

Climb steadily into high alpine pastures surrounded by snow-capped peaks and glaciers.

Day 5: Cross Chapchingol Pass (5,000m)

A challenging day crossing the glaciated pass with jaw-dropping views on both sides.

Day 6–7: Descent toward Gondogoro Region

Descend into the upper reaches of the Gondogoro Valley, camp near glacier rivers.

Day 8–9: Trek back to Hushe via Saitcho Camp

Rejoin known trails and reach Hushe village.

Day 10: Drive to Skardu

Return by jeep through the same route, with time to explore the town or relax.

🥾 Trek Difficulty & Requirements

→Physical Fitness: This trek requires stamina and comfort at high altitudes

→Terrain: Includes rocky paths, steep ascents, glacier crossings, and river fords

→Support: Fully guided with porters, cooks, and experienced high-altitude crew

📸 Scenic Attractions

→Hanging glaciers and wild meadows of Shishal Valley

→Uninterrupted views of Laila Peak’s iconic needle

→Unique angles of K6/K7 unseen from standard base camp trails

→Starry night skies and dramatic sunsets over snow towers

→Crystal-clear glacier rivers and turquoise pools

🌿 Environmental & Cultural Notes

The Chapchingol region is pristine and untouched. We follow strict eco-friendly trekking practices:

→All waste is packed out

→Campsites are rotated to minimize damage

→Local guides and porters are employed to support the Balti community

🎒 Essential Gear Checklist

→High-altitude down sleeping bag (-10°C or better)

→Crampons and trekking poles (for glacier days)

→Layered clothing (thermal, fleece, windbreaker, rain shell)

→UV sunglasses, sunscreen, headlamp

→Waterproof hiking boots

→Water purifier/filter tablets

→Backpack (50-70L), duffel bag for porter load

📝 Permits & Logistics

Since the trek is near sensitive border zones, special permits are required. Our agency arranges all necessary:

→Trekking permits

→NOC from local authorities

→Police and military clearances

→Porters, guides, cooks, tents, food, and gear (if needed)

🧭 Who Should Do This Trek?

The Chapchingol Pass Trek is ideal for:

→Trekkers who’ve already done K2 Base Camp or Concordia

→Climbers scouting alternative routes in the Karakoram

→Photographers and explorers seeking remote valleys and lesser-seen peaks

→Hikers who prefer isolation and raw wilderness

💬 Traveler Reviews

“Chapchingol is the Karakoram’s best-kept secret. No crowds, no trash, just raw beauty.”
— Thomas H., Switzerland

“Unbelievable views. The pass day was hard but the glacier scenery made it worth every step.”
— Sana R., Pakistan