Karakorum-Shimshal Minglik Sar & Chapchingo
- Karakorum-Shimshal Minglik Sar & Chapchingo
- Region
- Period
- Region
- Comfort
Tour Details
Duration: 22 Days
Trek Reference: KKE/KK-10
Trek Grade: D(E)
Mountain Range: Karakoram
Season: June to September
Camping Days: 15
Maximum Elevation: 4745 m
Optional Climb: Minglik Sar 6050 m
OVERVIEW & ITINERARY
Details
The Karakorum Shimshal Minglik Sar & Chapchingo Trek is a true off the beaten path adventure, designed for trekkers who want raw wilderness, isolation, and the spirit of early exploration. Deep inside the remote Shimshal Valley, this trek passes through high alpine pastures, ancient caravan routes, and dramatic mountain passes rarely visited by outsiders. Villages appear like small islands of life in an otherwise harsh landscape, reflecting centuries of survival in one of the most remote corners of the Karakoram.
This region is also rich in history, linked to the era of the Great Game, when British and Russian explorers crossed these high passes. Wildlife sightings may include blue sheep, ibex, wolves, and with luck, the elusive snow leopard. Towering above the route is Distaghil Sar (7,885m), dominating the skyline. The optional ascent of Minglik Sar (6050m) adds a serious alpine challenge for strong trekkers seeking more than a standard trek.
ITINERARY – Karakorum Shimshal Minglik Sar & Chapchingo (22 Days)
Arrive in Islamabad, meet with the team at the Alpine Club of Pakistan for a briefing about the expedition and overnight stay at the hotel.
Fly to Gilgit or drive to Chilas depending on weather. Overnight stay.
Drive to Passu along the Karakoram Highway. Overnight in hotel.
Jeep drive to Shimshal village, entering one of the most remote valleys in the Karakoram.
Rest and acclimatization day in Shimshal.
Trek from Shimshal to Furzin through alpine terrain. Camp overnight.
Trek from Furzin to Arbab Parian. Camp overnight.
Trek from Arbab Parian to Shunjerab, crossing wide pastures. Camp overnight.
Trek to Shimshal Pass (4745m) with vast panoramic views. Camp overnight.
Optional ascent of Minglik Sar (6050m) for strong trekkers.
Return to base camp and rest after the climb.
Trek back to Arbab Parian. Camp overnight.
Trek from Arbab Parian to Maidur. Camp overnight.
Trek from Maidur to Shapodin. Camp overnight.
Trek from Shapodin to Mandik Shlaq. Camp overnight.
Trek from Mandik Shlaq to Werbin. Camp overnight.
Trek to Chapchingo Pass Base Camp. Camp overnight.
Cross Chapchingo Pass and descend to Kuksil near Karakoram Highway. Camp overnight.
Drive to Karimabad Hunza. Overnight in hotel.
Drive from Karimabad to Besham. Overnight stay.
Drive from Besham to Islamabad. Overnight in hotel.
Transfer to airport for onward flight.
HIGHLIGHTS
Discover the Wild Heart of Shimshal
Explore the remote Shimshal Valley, one of the least visited regions of Pakistan
Cross Shimshal Pass (4745m) and Chapchingo Pass
Optional ascent of Minglik Sar (6050m) for experienced trekkers
Views of Distaghil Sar (7885m) and surrounding Karakoram giants
Encounter rare wildlife in untouched alpine environments
Experience ancient trade routes and high mountain culture
True expedition style trekking with daily route flexibility
Prices & Other Options – Shimshal Minglik Sar & Chapchingo Trek
| 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 – Shimshal Minglik Sar & Chapchingo Trek
GALLERY
- Region
- Period
- Region
- Comfort
Tour Details
Duration: 22 Days
Trek Reference: KKE/KK-10
Trek Grade: D(E)
Mountain Range: Karakoram
Season: June to September
Camping Days: 15
Maximum Elevation: 4745 m
Optional Climb: Minglik Sar 6050 m
Frequently asked questions
This is a demanding trek suited for experienced trekkers with strong physical fitness.
No, the ascent of Minglik Sar is optional and only for those with mountaineering experience.
June to September offers the safest weather window.
Hotels in cities and full camping during the trek.
Blue sheep and ibex are common. Snow leopard sightings are rare but possible.
Extremely remote. Supplies and routes are flexible depending on conditions.
Yes, all necessary permits are arranged by the tour operator.
No, this trek is recommended only for experienced trekkers.
