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Step into the awe-inspiring Northern Pakistan wilderness with genuine captures from our journeys.
Tour Overview & Experience
Personalised journeys from start to finish
Custom pacing, private certified native guides & tailored group itineraries.
Every trip helps support Conservation
Fair-wage porter insurance, Leave-No-Trace practices & local community aid.
Seamless travel, every detail perfected
All permits, deluxe accommodations, private transport & 24/7 expert logistics.
The Biafo Glacier is almost 60 kilometers in length and joins the Hispar Pass at 5,151 meters, forming part of the largest glacier network outside the North Pole region. This massive ice river links the vast Baltistan region with the famous Hunza Valley. It is said to have been the access route for warriors from Hunza who attacked the Baltistan village of Askole; this conflict later evolved into a rather rival sport—"polo," a local word meaning "ball." The game was played on horseback, and rival matches were held on even grounds known as polo grounds, which normally exist in almost every town and village of Gilgit-Baltistan and are still played today.
Geographically, the Biafo Glacier is a vast glacier inhabited by wildlife such as the markhor and snow leopard. In 1937, there was a strange revelation by an English adventurer who claimed to have seen the "Yeti"—the huge humanoid gorilla—during his trek of the area. There is a snow lake spreading over an area of some 16 kilometers at the eastern flank of the Hispar Pass, located beside a granite pinnacle. This pinnacle is the focal point for adventurers to climb some days ahead. According to a glacio-geological survey, it was discovered that the base of the nearby lake is some 1.6 kilometers thick, deep down the crust layer.
From Islamabad to Askole, the travel is similar and equivalent to the trek to K-2 Base Camp in the first phase. Before heading westward to the Biafo Glacier, the trek normally proceeds from Askole to K-2 Base Camp. We reach the Baitha campsite after a four-day interminably long trek—a valley-type location just in the foreground of a granite summit of Ogre, which stands some 7,813 meters. You come across transparent, dazzling lakes with gorgeous patches of verdure and various herbs all around. The following couple of days are spent on the Biafo Glacier heading to the Snow Lake. After the Snow Lake visit, the next exciting journey takes you to the most exasperatingly awesome views of the Hispar Pass. After the incredible ascent of the Hispar Pass, which rises to 5,151 meters, you descend to the most amazing locations of Nagar and Hunza Valleys, which are absolutely different from the culture and language of Baltistan.
“Along the ancient Silk Road, every fortress, stone bazaar, and welcoming mountain hearth tells centuries of timeless history and vibrant living heritage.”
Tour Highlights
- Snow Lake (Lukpe Lawo): Crossing this colossal, 16-kilometre-wide high-altitude glacial basin at the head of the Biafo and Hispar glaciers, described by early explorer Martin Conway as an awe-inspiring "sea of ice".
- The Ice Highway: Trekking continuously across the combined Biafo and Hispar glaciers, forming one of the longest continuous glacial systems outside the polar regions that directly links Baltistan with Nagar/Hunza
- Staggering 7,000m+ Peak Views: Catching dramatic, close-up vistas of formidable alpine giants like The Ogre (Baintha Brakk - 7,285m) and the sheer granite walls of the Latok group.
- Extreme Wilderness & Solitude: Experiencing an ultra-remote ablation and glacial trail completely, offering a true expedition atmosphere.
- Lush Valley Descent: Dropping off the high ice fields into the vibrant green ablation valleys, wildflower meadows, and terraced orchards of Hispar Village.
Day-by-Day Itinerary (21 Days)
Arrive Islamabad and Transfer
You will be greeted by the team of Hunza Adventure Tours at Islamabad International airport. Then transfer you along with your luggage to centrally located hotel in Islamabad.
Overnight stay in Islamabad.
Fly to Skardu or Drive to Chilas/Besham
a) Weather permitting, we take a spectacular flight to the high mountain region of Baltistan in the north east. On a clear day we should be able to see Nanga Parbat (8124m) and K2 (8611m) towering above all other mountains. (It is quite possible adverse weather in Islamabad or Skardu may affect our flight plans and make it necessary to drive by the Karakoram Highway to Skardu, a journey of approx. two days).
b) In case of cancellation of flight drive 10-12hrs by air-conditioned coach/car to Chilas (480km) Overnight at Chilas
Drive to Skardu from Chilas In case of flight cancellation
a) Overnight Masherbrum Hotel. Preparations for our trek and depending on our time of arrival into Skardu, there may be time to visit the town and possibly an excursion to Kachura Lake situated at the edge of the valley. Skardu is the regional capital of Baltistan, lying at the edge of a broad floodplain that is the confluence of the Shyok, Indus and Basha Rivers.
b) If we are driving the road journey today will be 7-8 hrs to Skardu (275km) or 10-12 from Chilas. On route are spectacular views of Nanga Parbat (8125m) overnight stay in Skardu.
Drive to Askole 3000m (Approx 7-8 hours).
We will travel by jeep with our crew and supplies along the Shigar and Braldu valleys to Askole. Villages in Shigar have changed little in over five hundred years; farms with fields of barley, wheat and vegetables surrounded by stone walls and stands of poplar, willow and apricot trees. The apricot is a very important crop in the north, having a multitude of uses to the Balti and Hunzakut people. Villagers greet us as we pass through on the rugged dirt and stone road that leads to Baltoro. As we approach, the landscapes become desert like and once within the sheer valley of the Braldu, it is necessary to cross the river several times by suspension bridges. At various points the road may have collapsed due to erosion and we will transfer the gear across on foot to a vehicle on the other side.
Meals: (Include: B-L-D) O/N Camping in Askole.
Trek to Namla 3650m/11,800 ft (Approx 6-8 hours).
The walk from Askolie to Namla is on an easy gentle plain first and then becomes difficult as we get on to the snout of Biafo Glacier. This will take about 6 to 8 hours. The first sight of the pinnacles of the Paiyu Group is stunning.
Meals: (Include: B-L-D) O/N Camping.
Hike to Mango 3700m/12,130ft (Approx 7 hours).
This can take 7 hours or more. We walk on the moraines of Biafo Glacier as well as in an ablation valley.
This is not an easy walk as we trek on rocks most of the time.
Meals: (Include: B-L-D) O/N Camping.
Trek to Biantha 4000m/13,120ft.
From Mongo we get on to the white Biafo Glacier where the walking is easier and then we diagonally walk across the Biafo to reach its other side near Biantha. The difficult parts here are getting on to the glacier and then getting off it. This takes about 6 hours of walking and will give us our first sight of the Latok Group. The campsite is located in a green meadow.
Meals: (Include: B-L-D) O/N Camping.
Acclimatisation at Baintha 4000m/13,120 ft.
Camp, rest day. Wash up, relax, read, climb on a steep ridge for outstanding views behind the camp, sing and dance with the porters! There are several different walking options for today, and in particular there is a small peak above the camp which can be climbed to give fantastic views across to the peaks of Ogre and Latok.
Meals: (Include: B-L-D) O/N Camping.
Trek to Marphogoro 4400m/14,430 ft (Approx 6-8 hours).
Six to eight hours of walking. Getting on to the glacier is tricky. Once on it, the walk is pretty straight forward on the white glacier. However, we are careful to avoid crevasses here. The greenery of Biantha campsite is only a memory now. We are in the dramatic and awesome expanse of the Biafo with its jagged pinnacles. The Ogre (7,813 m.) towers high above us on our right. There is only snow and rock now.
Meals: (Include: B-L-D) O/N Camping.
Trek to Snow Lake 4800 m/15,750 ft (Approx 6-7 hours).
The trek takes about 6 to 7 hours over ice and snow. Once again we are careful to avoid crevasses along the way.
Snow Lake is a magical place. Be sure to get out of the tent to experience the stars in the night. It is an unforgettable experience! Meals: (Include: B-L-D) O/N Camping.
Trek to Hispar Pass 5151m/16,895 ft (Approx 6-7 hours).
A 6 to 7 hour walk on slopes of about 30 degrees takes us to the top of the pass. Once again, we are careful to avoid crevasses. Even though the climbs on gentle slopes, we find it difficult due to the rarefied air. When on top we see a panorama described by an early explorer: “Beyond all comparison the finest view of mountains it has been my lot to behold.” On one side the Biafo lies and on the other side we look towards the Hispar Glacier and the peaks above Hunza valley. The view of sunrise from the pass is another sight to behold.
Meals: (Include: B-L-D) O/N Camping.
Trek to Kani Basa 4500m/14,760 ft (Approx 8 hours).
This is a long day’s walk and can take more than 8 hours. We want to make sure that we leave the pass early before the snow becomes soft. On the way down, once again, we are careful to avoid crevasses.
We will have to cross the Kani Basa Glacier before we can camp on a green campsite, which is a welcome sight and site after being on snow for the last few days. On the way we can see the famous Kanjut Sar (7,760 m.) towering high above the Kani Basa Glacier.
Meals: (Include: B-L-D) O/N Camping.
Trek to Jutmal 4200m/13,780 ft (Approx 7 hours).
This will take about 7 hours and on the way we will cross the Jutmal Glacier. It is tricky here as the route through the glacier is like a maze with high ice walls. After crossing it, another hurdle that we face is the climb up on a loose cliff face. Once up the face, we now enter a beautiful campsite with lovely views across the Hispar Glacier. Some streams have to be crossed on the way.
Meals: (Include: B-L-D) O/N Camping.
Hike to Bitanmal 3600m/ 11,800 ft (8 hours).
This section takes about 8 hours. On the way Pumory Glacier is crossed and also a stream. The crossing of Pumory is not that difficult as the Jutmal. However, once again, we have to descend on to the ablation valley and once again we have to climb the cliffs on our right to get to the campsite. This is an exhaustive process.
Meals: (Include: B-L-D) O/N Camping.
Trek to Falaling Chhish 3600m/11,800 ft (Approx 4 hours).
One more glacier to cross! This is Kunyang Glacier. The walking does get a little easier. However, crossing the Kunyang is tedious and the climb on rocks on the other side can be difficult. This is a short day consisting of about 4 hours. Our camp is in a shepherd’s meadow where villagers from Hispar bring their yaks for the summer. The view of Makrong Chhiish (6,607 m.), on the other side of Hispar Glacier, is outstanding.
Meals: (Include: B-L-D) O/N Camping.
Hike to Hispar Village 3400m/ 11,150 ft (Approx 4 hours).
Another short day of about 4 hours. Some streams have to be crossed on the way, but the walking is relatively gentle. A bridge over the Hispar stream has to be crossed and then a climb on a good path brings us into the Hispar village, the first habitation we will have seen since leaving Askole.
Meals: (Include: B-L-D) O/N Camping.
Trek to Huru 3000m/ 9,840 ft and Drive to Hunza (Approx 4-5 hours).
This takes about few hours of walking on a jeep road and here our epic trek ends. We further drive to Hunza.
Meals: Breakfast O/N Camping.
Drive to Besham 1280m (10-12 hours).
Early Morning after breakfast drive to Besham short stay in en route for photography, Lunch and toilet stop.
Overnight stay in Besham.
Drive to Islamabad
Early morning, we will drive to Islamabad, en-route we will visit the Taxila Museum. Construction of Taxila museum started in 1918, its foundation stone laid by Lord Chemsford, vicery of India in 1918.
Construction was concluded in 1928 and the museum was opened for public by Sir Habibullah then the ministry for Education. Sir John Marshall who was going to be retired from the post of Director General of Archaeological survey of India in 1928, could not complete its original plan. The government of Pakistan constructed the northern gallery in 1998. There are 4000 objects displayed, including stone, stucco, terracotta, silver, gold, iron and semiprecious stones. Mainly the display consists of objects from the period 600 B.C to 500 AD. Buddhist, Hindu and Jain cults are well represented through these objects discovered from three ancient cities and more than two dozen Buddhist stupas and monasteries and Greek temples.
Taxila Museum is located 35 km from Islamabad on the Grand Trunk Road to Peshawar. It is famous for remains of Gandhara art. Most of the sites at Taxila, dating back 600 BCE to 500 CE, are located around the Taxila Museum. We will reach in Islamabad in the evening.
Overnight stay in Islamabad.
Rest day in Islamabad/Contingency day.
Extra 'cushion' day!
*Note: Day 20 will be used as a 'cushion' day in case of delays in travel due to weather, route change, health, acclimatization issues during the trek, etc.
For those who want to escape the heat of the city a very pleasant excursion is up to the former British hill station at Murree. The faded remnants of the town’s colonial past can be seen in its gable-roofed buildings and small Anglican churchyard, whilst the grassy lawns of the imposing Hotel Cecil make a splendid place to enjoy afternoon tea. This excursion is not included in the trip price but if several members of the group wish to make this journey a private vehicle and driver can be hired locally for a very modest sum. Back in Rawalpindi we enjoy a final evening meal usually taken at one of the best restaurants in Islamabad.
Trip Concluded in Islamabad.
After breakfast you will transfer to the airport for your return flights
Please Note:
1. The above schedule should be taken as a guide only. Inclement weather may cause delays in our journey, whether we are on foot or travelling by vehicle. Our schedule has been planned to allow for variations and where necessary, spare days will be used to compensate for these changes. Our guide reserves the right to make modifications or alterations to the trip schedule in the best interests of all involved. A flexible approach by all allows us to alter plans efficiently and effectively and achieve trip objectives.
What's Included & Excluded
Package Inclusions
- Transport & Transfers: All domestic flights and ground transportation included.
- Accommodations: Twin-sharing hotel stays and high-grade trekking camps (including D3V sleeping tents, toilet tents, and shower tents).
- Meals & Catering: Full board (daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner) prepared by our dedicated camp cook and kitchen staff.
- Permits & Official Fees: Complete government trekking permits, official paperwork, bridge tolls, campsite fees, and mandatory waste management dues.
- Logistics & Camp Gear: Comprehensive trekking logistics, communal gear, and non-personal equipment.
- Dedicated Crew: Licensed professional mountain guide, kitchen assistants, and porters (up to 15 kg personal luggage allowance per guest).
- Safety & Emergency Support: Comprehensive first-aid medical kit and satellite phone connectivity for emergency communication.
Package Exclusions
- Travel & Visas: International airfare, airport departure taxes, and Pakistan visa fees.
- Insurance: Comprehensive personal travel, medical, and emergency evacuation insurance.
- Accommodations & Upgrades: Single room supplement (available upon request).
- Separate Transfers: Airport transfers for participants arriving or departing outside the group schedule.
- Personal Gear & Expenses: Sleeping bags, room service, laundry, phone/internet charges, beverages (soft drinks, mineral water, and alcoholic drinks), and items of a purely personal nature.
- Custom Activities: Optional excursions, extra sightseeing, or custom deviations from the fixed itinerary.
- Gratuities: Tips for mountain guides, camp staff, porters, and drivers.
- Unlisted Services: Any expense or service not explicitly specified in the "Included" section.
Trek & Route Map
Interactive geographical route & terrain map for Biafo Hispar La & Snow Lake Trek | 2027-28 | BOOK NOW
Terms & Conditions
Hunza Adventure Tours promulgates its terms and conditions for all tours, treks, expeditions, and safaris operated by the company in Pakistan.
Reservation & Advance Payment Requirements
- 50% advance deposit is required upon confirmation to secure permits, hotel rooms, transport, and certified mountain guides.
- The full balance settlement must be cleared upon arrival in Pakistan before departure.
- Advance deposits can be directly wired to our official corporate bank account at Bank Alfalah.
Official Corporate Bank Account Details
Direct all international wire transfers to our official account at Alfalah Bank Pakistan:
A 50% advance deposit is required upon confirmation. Deposits are non-refundable in case of client cancellation, but 100% refundable if the company encounters unforeseen logistical impediments.
All tour packages provide hotel rooms on a twin-sharing basis. A single room supplement charge applies for single occupancy requests.
No refunds will be made to participants who voluntarily leave the tour before completion for any unused nights, transport, or meals.
Our certified tour directors hold complete operational authority. Disruptive or unlawful behavior may result in immediate dismissal from the tour group.
All participants are advised to secure comprehensive international travel insurance covering emergency medical expenses and trip cancellation prior to arrival.
Passports must be valid for at least 6 months. We issue official DTS-licensed LOI documentation for the Pakistan online eVisa portal within 24 hours of booking.
Packing & Travel Essentials
- Sturdy trekking boots / trail walking shoes
- Comfortable slip-on shoes for camps & lodges
- 3-4 pairs of wool/synthetic socks
- Thermal base layers & warm fleece jacket
- Waterproof & windproof outer shell
- Sun hat, warm beanie, and lightweight gloves
- High SPF 50+ sunscreen & polarized sunglasses
- Camera / action cam with extra batteries
- Portable power bank & universal adapter
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of visa is needed for the Snow Lake Trek?
All participants planning to join the Snow Lake Trek must apply for a Pakistani Trekking and Mountaineering Visa, which differs from the standard tourist visa. It's important to note that you will not be applying for a tourist visa.
Hunza Adventure Tours will supply all the necessary documentation for your visa application, including the essential Letter of Invitation (LOI). We are proud to have maintained an excellent success rate in ensuring our clients receive their visas on time — a reflection of our commitment to a seamless experience.
Why do I need to book a tour for Snow Lake? Can I do the trek on my own?
Due to the Central Karakoram National Park's proximity to restricted military zones (with natural borders shared with China and India), it is mandatory to have a guide and obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC). Only licensed tour companies can issue these documents for the region.
Hunza Adventure Tours handles all necessary permits well in advance of the trek and coordinates with park authorities when entering the Central Karakoram National Park.
Independent trekkers are not permitted to access the park or attempt the trek without an organized guiding service.
How difficult is the Snow Lake Trek and Hispar La?
Quite difficult — even more so than the trek to K2 Base Camp. This is a very isolated region in an already very isolated part of the world, and it requires us to be self-sufficient.
Participants must be in good physical condition and capable of trekking over varied terrain for extended periods. While most trekking days average about 5 hours, some can be as long as 8 hours. To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience, we employ local porters and mules to carry supplies, easing the load on participants as we ascend and cross Hispar La (5,154m) .
Can anyone come on this trip?
Participants must be at least 20 years old and no older than 55. Prospective guests should have prior mountain trekking experience, a good level of fitness, and a positive attitude to enjoy this incredible experience with a diverse group of adventurers from around the globe.
If you are over the age of 55 but believe you can handle the physical demands of hiking Snow Lake, please reach out to us via email to schedule a consultation with our adventure team to determine your eligibility.
This one-on-one pre-tour preparation sets us apart from other companies, highlighting our commitment to providing exceptional support before, during, and after your trip.
Do the guides carry satellite phones?
Your trip leader is equipped with Thuraya satellite phone, ensuring reliable communication with emergency first responders from anywhere in Pakistan.
Guests may also use the satellite phone for personal calls during the trek, with usage charged at a set rate per minute.
Is insurance included in the Snow Lake tour?
No, it is not.
To participate in this tour, purchasing travel insurance is mandatory. We will provide recommendations for suitable policies as the trip approaches. Without valid travel insurance, you will not be permitted to join the trek.
Additionally, all participants are required to obtain a Global Rescue Membership, as it is one of the few services that can arrange helicopter evacuations in Pakistan during emergencies. Please note that this membership is not a substitute for full medical travel insurance. While Global Rescue does offer comprehensive medical travel insurance, it is not mandatory to use their policy for this purpose. However, the Global Rescue Membership covering helicopter evacuations is non-negotiable for all participants.
What will the food be like on the Snow Lake Trek?
Food in Pakistan tends to be quite repetitive, with staples like daal (lentils), chicken, and rice forming the core of most meals. However, whenever possible, especially in cities, we'll try to add variety by visiting excellent local restaurants.
While camping, the food will be of the highest quality our cooks can provide, though it's important to have realistic expectations of what can be prepared in remote settings. There won't be gourmet meals like lasagna and wine (unless you bring the wine!), but you can expect healthy and tasty dishes.
Meals Overview:
Breakfast: Omelets or fried eggs, paratha (fried Pakistani bread), pancakes, jam, Nutella, honey, and green tea or coffee.
Lunch: A packed lunch for convenience during the trek — typically a boiled egg and potato, chapatis (flatbread), cheese, nuts, chocolate, and sweets.
Dinner: The highlight of the day! It starts with a soup course, followed by dishes such as vegetable curries, rice, noodle dishes (like chow mein or pasta with red sauce), lentils, meat (chicken or mutton), French fries, and salad.
Dessert: Something different every night, with fresh mangoes and melon served during the first week of the trek.
Can you cook for special diets?
Yes!
We can accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and lactose-free diets. However, it's worth noting that Pakistani food is generally spicy, particularly in regions like Punjab. While we strive to provide non-spicy and vegetarian options, choices may be limited, so it's important to set realistic expectations.
If you are vegetarian or vegan, consider bringing some personal snacks or breakfast items, as catering to specific dietary needs in a large group can be challenging. Please inform us early about any restrictions or preferences so we can plan accordingly.
Is there a luggage allowance?
Each team member is allowed a 20-kilogram (44 lbs) porter allowance for luggage, which will be transported to each camp during the trek. You'll only need to carry your daypack, which should include essentials like water, snacks, extra layers, sunscreen, and other items needed for the day.
If your duffel bag exceeds the 20-kilogram limit, an additional fee will apply for the extra weight. This cost will be determined locally, as porter rates vary depending on the season.
Unlike many other companies that offer a 12.5-kilogram porter allowance, we've increased the limit to ensure you can bring everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable trek without leaving behind important items.
Is there a minimum and maximum group size?
We need a minimum of 5 people to run this trip — because there is safety in numbers and because of the complex logistics involved in running this trip.
How does the Snow Lake Trek compare to K2 Base Camp?
The Snow Lake Trek and the K2 Base Camp Trek are both challenging and visually stunning treks in Pakistan, but they differ in scenery, difficulty, and overall experience.
Snow Lake Trek:
Takes you to a remote glacial basin at the junction of the Biafo and Hispar glaciers
Known for vast, surreal landscapes of ice fields surrounded by towering peaks
Ideal for those seeking solitude and pristine wilderness
Requires crossing glaciers, navigating crevasses, and remote camping
Offers a more exploratory and less crowded experience
Often considered more technical and isolated
K2 Base Camp Trek:
Renowned for iconic views of K2, Broad Peak, and the Gasherbrum massif
Route along the Baltoro Glacier is more well-trodden
Features awe-inspiring landscapes including the famous Trango Towers
Attracts more trekkers and has better-established campsites
Offers the allure of iconic mountain views and a connection to mountaineering history
In terms of difficulty, both are demanding, but Snow Lake is often considered more technical and isolated. K2 Base Camp has the allure of iconic mountain views, while Snow Lake offers an otherworldly escape into raw wilderness.
