General
Katicho La Pass Trek – 10 Days (2026-27)
The Katicho La Pass Trek (4,588m) provides a remarkable adventure across Pakistan’s isolated Karakoram landscapes. Beginning in Skardu, this walk combines adventure, culture, and natural beauty. Furthermore, it takes trekkers through steep valleys and high-altitude terrain. As the journey ascends, the sights grow more stunning. As a result, it attracts experienced hikers looking for isolation and difficulty. Finally, the trek promises stunning views and a true mountain experience.
In addition to this trek, we also offer the following Extreme Adventures, as listed in the table below.
| EXTREME ADVENTURES | Price (USD) | Deposit | Min Pax |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dadreli Pass Trek - 11 Days | 1430 | 450 | 4 pax |
| Surgus La Pass Trek - 16 Days | 2080 | 450 | 4 pax |
| Spordin Pass Trek (Shimshal) - 12 Days | 1560 | 450 | 4 pax |
| Alampi La Pass Trek - 10 Days | 1300 | 450 | 4 pax |
| East Muztagh Pass Trek - 20 Days | 2600 | 450 | 4 pax |
| Savoia Pass Trek - 28 Days | 3640 | 450 | 4 pax |
| KhalKhal Pass Trek - 22 Days | 2860 | 450 | 8 pax |
| Ste Ste Saddle Climb - 22 Days | 2860 | 450 | 4 pax |
| Gasherbrum La Pass Trek - 26 Days | 3380 | 450 | 4 pax |
| Polan La Trek - 17 Days | 2210 | 450 | 4 pax |
| Baskai Col Trek - 15 Days | 1950 | 450 | 4 pax |
| Masherbrum La Pass Trek - 22 Days | 2860 | 450 | 4 pax |
| View all SNOW LAKE FIXED DEPARTURES | - | - | |
| View all K2 BASE CAMP FIXED DEPARTURES | - | - | |
| EXTREME ADVENTURES | Price (USD) | Deposit | Min Pax |
Dates & Cost – Katicho La Pass Trek
Summers are ideal for the Katicho La Pass Trek. The start and end dates in the table below are your dates of arrival and departure from Pakistan. The months listed below are ideal for trekking in the Karakoram region of Pakistan. We have guaranteed departures every year, operating until October. Our dates and costs are listed below.
| Start Dates | End Dates | Price (USD) | Availability | Deposit | Registration |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20-Jun-2026 | 29-Jun-2026 | US$ 1,300 | Limited Space | US$ 260 | BOOK NOW |
| 20-Jun-2027 | 29-Jun-2027 | US$ 1,300 | Available | US$ 260 | BOOK NOW |
| Start Dates | End Dates | Price (USD) | Availability | Deposit | Registration |
Holiday Information
- All domestic flights (Checked Baggage Allowance: 20kg, Hand Carry: 7kg)
- All road transfers, including airport transfers
- All hotel accommodation in Pakistan (twin-sharing room)
- All trekking accommodation in Pakistan (twin-sharing dome tent)
- All camping site fees and bridge fees
- All trekking logistics (all tents, non-personal equipment, and tools, etc.)
- All meals (breakfast, lunch & dinner) and beverages/water during meals
- Snacks, including dry fruits and tea/coffee, during the trek
- Licensed professional guide (government requirement)
- Government paperwork
- Support staff (cook, assistant(s) etc)
- Porters - personal luggage (14kgs) and mountaineering equipment (8kgs)
- First aid medicine kit (very basic)
- Personal travel insurance (suggestions only)
- Visa to Pakistan (five supporting documents will be offered)
- International airfare
- Personal equipment (e.g. trekking shoes, down jacket, walking sticks etc)
- Personal mountain equipment for crossing pass (crampon, mountaineering boot, ice axe, harness, two carabiners, helmet etc)
- Extra nights in Islamabad (hotel check in/out is 12pm) - additional USD 67 per night
- Additional trek weight/baggage: USD 11 per kg
- Tips/gratuities for guides, porters, staff etc
- Miscellaneous (minibar, bottled water, phone calls, laundry, souvenir etc)
Highlights
Katicho La Pass Trek has a lot to offer. Given below are the main highlights of the trek:
- Experience Skardu as the gateway to Karakoram adventures.
- Explore the remote beauty of Kharmang Valley during the journey.
- Pass through traditional villages like Gole and Sermik.
- Begin trekking from the scenic trailhead at Mehdiabad village.
- Camp in the wilderness at serene Katicho Base Camp.
- Conquer the high-altitude Katicho La Pass at 4,588 meters.
- Enjoy panoramic views from the summit of the Karakoram Mountains.
- Witness untouched landscapes around Katisho Khas along the route.
- Experience the authentic culture of the Balti communities in remote areas.
- Relax beside the crystal-clear waters of Upper Kachura Lake.
Itinerary – Katicho La Pass Trek – 10 days
The itinerary for the trek is listed below.
Day 02: Fly to Skardu
On this Day
In the morning, you will fly from Islamabad to Skardu for stunning aerial views of the Karakoram range, featuring peaks such as Nanga Parbat. Upon arrival in Skardu, you will be transferred to your accommodation and given time to unwind. The remainder of the day is free to acclimate to the altitude, visit the local market, or take small walks about town.
Day 03: Drive to Thala Khor
On this Day
Depart Skardu by jeep for the Kharmang District, going via the picturesque villages of Gole and Sermik before arriving at the trailhead in Mehdiabad. The drive rewards travelers with panoramic vistas of the Indus Gorge and terraced apricot orchards. From Mehdiabad, the path passes through the traditional village of Katicho Khas before arriving at Thala Khor, the trek's starting site. Set up camp and plan for the days ahead.
Day 04: Trek to Katicho Base
On this Day
The walk begins with a steady ascent through narrow valleys and rugged terrain, flanked by high cliffs and alpine views. As you travel deeper into the wilderness, the trail gradually displays the remote beauty of the Karakoram. After several hours of walking, you will arrive at Katicho Base Camp, which is located in a tranquil and solitary area. The campground has breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks, making it an excellent place to recover and prepare for the impending summit assault.
Day 05: Katicho La Pass (4,588m)
On this Day
Today is the most difficult but rewarding section of the walk, as you climb to Katicho La Pass at 4,588 meters. The track includes steep climbs, slippery scree, and high-altitude conditions that test stamina and determination. When you reach the pass, you're greeted with panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and wide valleys. After celebrating your accomplishment, you will pitch up camp near the pass and spend the night beneath the stars in a wonderfully remote location.
Day 06: Trek back to Base Camp
On this Day
After seeing the spectacular sunrise over the mountains, you will begin your descent from Katicho La Pass back to base camp. The return ride provides a distinct perspective on the area, with broad views and varying light conditions that highlight the countryside. Even though the walk is downward, there are still rocky areas that demand careful footing. Once you arrive at base camp, you can unwind and reflect on your successful summit adventure while enjoying a calm evening.
Day 07: Trek back to Thala Khor - Skardu
On this Day
Today, you retrace your steps back to Thala Khor, descending through familiar valleys and relishing the last moments of trekking in this secluded region. Upon arrival, vehicles will be waiting to transport you back to Skardu. The drive offers additional opportunity to observe the spectacular scenery and local settlements along the way. After days in the wilderness, you'll get into your hotel in Skardu and relax for the evening.
Day 08: Explore Skardu
On this Day
This day is dedicated to discovering the best of Skardu and its surroundings. You may visit Shangrila Resort, Upper Kachura Lake, and Skardu Fort. The day combines natural beauty and cultural legacy, allowing you to relax after the journey. Before returning to your accommodation, you might visit local markets to purchase handicrafts and souvenirs.
Day 09: Fly to Islamabad
On this Day
After breakfast, you'll be transferred to Skardu Airport for your return journey to Islamabad. Weather permitting, the flight once again provides breathtaking vistas of the Karakoram Mountains. When you arrive in Islamabad, you will be transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is free for relaxation, last-minute shopping, and optional touring. This signals the end of the experience in the mountains and the return to city life.
Day 10: Fly to Home Country
On this Day
On your final day, you will be taken to Islamabad International Airport to catch your trip home. Depending on your departure time, you may have enough time for a relaxing morning or a quick exploration of the surrounding area. As your journey comes to an end, you'll have lasting recollections of the Katicho La Pass walk, the breathtaking scenery of Gilgit-Baltistan, and the cultural richness you encountered along the way.
Why Register Early?
1. Early Bird Discount: The given prices for the holiday are limited-time discount offers and are subject to change. Service providers including (but not limited) to airlines and hotels increase prices in peak-season. Early reservations cost less than peak-season.
2. Limited Flight Seats: Domestic flight seats to the Karakorams and Himalayas are sold out way ahead of time because there are only two daily flights during peak season. Among other things, the deposit is used to book domestic flights for you in advance.
3. Pay Balance after arrival in Pakistan: In these unusual times, we appreciate that paying the final balance for your trip may cause concern. Our policy is to only receive your final balance once you arrive in Pakistan. The only payment before arrival is the deposit.
4. Deposit valid for 3 years: We understand the uncertainty surrounding the pandemic (Covid-19). As part of our relaxed booking conditions following Covid-19, deposits are valid for 2 years.
6. Pay Minimum Deposit: The deposits for the holiday are also early-bird discounts and automatically change accordingly:
- 1st October: USD 190
- 1st November: USD 290
- 1st January: USD 350
- 15th February: USD 400
- 1st March: USD 450
- 1st May: USD 490
Note: The same dates above apply to next season's deposits.
Refund Policy for All
Deposit: Once paid, the deposit is non-refundable (but valid for 2 years) as it will be spent on making in-country arrangements.
Balance: Pay the balance only after arrival in Pakistan on the first day. Payment guidelines will be shared timely.
Currency
All international travelers can pay in US Dollars (USD) or equivalent in Euros (EUR) or Pound Sterling (GBP). Pakistani travelers are charged the equivalent in Pakistani Rupees (PKR).
Single Supplement
Separate hotel rooms (single supplement) will cost an additional USD 290. This includes all hotel nights. This payment should be made with the balance upon arrival.
Separate tents (single tent) will cost an additional USD 180. This includes the cost of additional porterage. This payment should also be made with the balance in Pakistan.
As Featured In:
Overview – Katicho La Pass Trek
The trek is a breathtaking high-altitude excursion in Pakistan’s Karakoram mountains. It starts in Skardu and continues into the isolated Kharmang Valley. This walk offers breathtaking scenery, rocky routes, and unspoiled alpine beauty. Trekkers also get the opportunity to visit traditional Balti settlements and learn about mountain culture. The road gradually climbs via small gorges and picturesque valleys. As a result, it offers both a task and a visual reward. Unlike popular paths, this walk is quieter and less explored. As a result, it is great for those who value solitude and raw nature.
Furthermore, the highlight is traversing Katicho La Pass, which is 4,588 meters above sea level. Trekkers who reach the summit can enjoy amazing views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. However, the ascent necessitates endurance and sufficient acclimatization. In addition, the excursion allows for camping under clear night skies. Every day brings new scenery, from rocky trails to high-altitude meadows. As a result, the walk is best suited to experienced hikers seeking excitement. Overall, the trek offers natural beauty, cultural diversity, and fascinating discovery. It is regarded as one of the most rewarding hikes in northern Pakistan.
Website Last Updated: January 15, 2026
