Muztagh-Ata Expedition China
- Muztagh-Ata Expedition China
- Region
- Period
- Region
- Comfort
Tour Details
Duration of Trek: 30 Days
Mountain Range: Himalaya
Season: May to August
Maximum Elevation: 8,125 meters (26,660 feet)
OVERVIEW & ITINERARY
Details
Muztagh-Ata, often called the “Father of Ice Mountains,” stands at an impressive 7,546 meters in the Kun Lun and Tien Shan mountain ranges. Located near Karakul Lake and the Karakoram Highway, this towering peak is the third highest in the Western Kun-Lun range. The mountain is famous for its gentle snow slopes, making it a popular ascent for climbers, although its high altitude presents significant challenges.
This 30-day expedition is ideal for those with basic climbing experience and a good level of physical fitness. While the ascent doesn’t have significant technical challenges, the high altitude can make it difficult, requiring climbers to be well acclimatized and in peak physical condition. Muztagh-Ata was first summited in 1956 by a Sino-Russian expedition, and it remains one of the premier high-altitude climbing objectives.
ITINERARY – Muztagh-Ata Expedition China – 30 Days
Arrive in Islamabad, and transfer to your hotel for rest and preparation.
Begin your journey by driving to Chilas, check in at the hotel and rest.
Drive to Karimabad, a beautiful valley in northern Pakistan, for a night’s stay at the hotel.
Start the trek towards Hon Pass, passing through scenic Ulter Meadows. A long but rewarding day of trekking.
A scenic early morning drive towards Taxurgan, crossing the famous Khunjerab Pass.
Drive to Subash and then trek to the Muztagh-Ata Base Camp (4350-M).
Reserved for climbing and acclimatization at Muztagh-Ata. These days are dedicated to preparing for the summit, ensuring climbers are fully acclimatized to the altitude and ready for the final push.
Trek back to Subash, then drive to Kashgar for sightseeing.
Enjoy a day of sightseeing in Kashgar, exploring the cultural and historical landmarks.
Drive back to Taxurgan, preparing for the return journey.
Travel back through the Khunjerab Pass to Karimabad, checking in at the hotel.
Drive to Besham, where you will stay overnight.
Drive back to Islamabad.
Fly home or to your onward destination.
HIGHLIGHTS
Muztagh-Ata Expedition China
Karakul Lake: Witness the stunning Karakul Lake, nestled near the base of Muztagh-Ata.
Karakoram Highway: Traverse the iconic Karakoram Highway, offering breathtaking views of the region’s landscape.
Gentle Snow Slopes: Ascend Muztagh-Ata via its non-technical, gentle snow slopes that make it an ideal climb for beginners to high-altitude climbing.
Trekking through the Wilds: Trek through the scenic Ulter Meadows and Hon Pass, passing through remote and pristine landscapes.
Climbing: Spend 15 days acclimatizing and climbing Muztagh-Ata, a challenging yet achievable peak.
Cultural Insights: Experience the culture and hospitality of Taxurgan and Kashgar during the journey.
Majestic Views: Take in spectacular views of the Tian Shan Mountains and the surrounding peaks from the summit of Muztagh-Ata.
Prices & Other Options – Muztagh-Ata Expedition China
| Trekking Options in Shimshal | Price (USD) | Deposit | Min Pax |
|---|---|---|---|
| Short Treks | |||
| K 2 Expedition Tour (12 days) | US$1,560 | US$450 | 4 pax |
| Shimshal Pass Trek (10 days) | US$1,200 | US$350 | 4 pax |
| Minglik Sar Peak (9 days) | US$1,050 | US$300 | 4 pax |
| Medium & Hard Treks | |||
| Trango Base Camp Trek (14 days) | US$1,890 | US$500 | 4 pax |
| Minglik Sar Peak (9 days) | US$1,050 | US$300 | 4 pax |
| Climb Trekking Peaks | |||
| Minglik Sar Peak (9 days) | US$1,050 | US$300 | 4 pax |
| Minglik Sar Peak (9 days) | US$1,050 | US$300 | 4 pax |
Map/Route – Muztagh-Ata Expedition China
GALLERY
- Region
- Period
- Region
- Comfort
Tour Details
Duration of Trek: 30 Days
Mountain Range: Himalaya
Season: May to August
Maximum Elevation: 8,125 meters (26,660 feet)
Frequently asked questions
While the climb is non-technical, climbers should have some previous mountaineering experience and good physical fitness.
The ideal climbing season is from May to September, when the weather conditions are most favorable.
The trek takes 30 days with 15 days of climbing and acclimatization.
You will need full mountaineering gear, including snow gear, ice axes, crampons, high-altitude clothing, and personal climbing equipment.
Yes, a team of guides and porters will assist throughout the expedition.
While Muztagh-Ata is technically easier than other 7,000-meter peaks, the altitude poses significant challenges, making the climb strenuous.
You will camp during the trek, with a base camp set up near Muztagh-Ata for the climbing phase.
While Muztagh-Ata is less technical, climbers must be prepared for high-altitude conditions, and weather-related risks such as avalanches are always a possibility.
