General
Paloga Pass Trek (Kalam to Kohistan) – 08 Days (2026-27)
Paloga Pass Trek offers a lonely route from Kalam to Kohistan through stunning mountain scenery. It starts between Matiltan and Paloga, then ascends to alpine meadows, shepherd trails, and rough high passes. Furthermore, the route passes through glacier streams, snowy ridges, and calm campgrounds. This quirky Pakistan journey is ideal for experienced hikers seeking remoteness, rich culture, and less congested Himalayan landscapes.
In addition to this trek, we also offer the following Treks in Kohistan Valley, as listed in the table below.
Dates & Cost – Paloga Pass Trek
Summers are ideal for the Paloga 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 | 27-Jun-2026 | US$ 1,040 | Limited Space | US$ 260 | BOOK NOW |
| 20-Jun-2027 | 27-Jun-2027 | US$ 1,040 | Available | US$ 260 | BOOK NOW |
| Start Dates | End Dates | Price (USD) | Availability | Deposit | Registration |
Holiday Information
- Licensed professional guide (government requirement)
- Airport transfers on the first and last day
- All road transport in Pakistan
- Hotel accommodation in Pakistan (twin sharing rooms)
- Trekking accommodation in Pakistan (twin sharing tents)
- Hotel meals in Pakistan (breakfast, lunch and dinner)
- Trekking meals in Pakistan (breakfast, lunch and dinner)
- Trekking logistics (tents, non-personal equipments and tools)
- Support staff (cook, assistant(s) etc)
- Porters for trekking equipments, kitchen (supplies, tools, equipments, crockery, gas) and personal luggage
- Travel Insurance (recommendations only)
- Visa to Pakistan (supporting documents offered)
- International airfare
- Personal equipments (list provided on registration or request)
- Tips for guides, porters, staff etc
- Miscellaneous (drinks, phone calls, laundry, souvenir etc)
Highlights
Paloga Pass Trek has a lot to offer. Given below are the main highlights of the trek:
- Trekkers cross Paloga Pass between Swat and Kohistan.
- The trail reaches Jabba through steep meadows.
- Remote camps reveal Kandia Valley mountain scenery.
- The route begins near Kalam and Matiltan.
- High slopes offer Batin Sar peak views.
- Shepherd trails connect Paloga with alpine pastures.
- Trekkers enjoy glacial streams along the route.
- The descent enters Kohistan through rugged valleys.
- Small camps overlook snowy ridges and basins.
- The trek combines Swat-Kohistan culture and wilderness.
Itinerary – Paloga Pass Trek
The itinerary for the trek is listed below.
Day 02: Kalam to Matiltan and Paloga
On this Day
Drive from Kalam to Matiltan and then to Paloga, a picturesque town above the Ushu Valley. The path winds through forests, glacial streams, terraced farmland, and mountain views in the upper Swat region. Upon arrival, meet local porters and divide burdens in accordance with the trekking strategy. The rest of the day is dedicated to acclimatization, packing, and route briefing. Paloga is the primary access point for the high trail heading to Kohistan.
Day 03: Paloga to Jabba Campsite
On this Day
Begin walking from Paloga and follow the rising trail to the Jabba campground. The trail gradually climbs through lush slopes, grazing meadows, and open mountain terrain. Trekkers gain elevation while admiring views of Kalam's surrounding valleys and snowy hills. The trail becomes quieter when populations are left behind. After arriving in Jabba, set up a tent near any available water sources. The first trekking stage introduces the team to the physical challenges of the Paloga Pass Trek and prepares them for the higher terrain.
Day 04: Trek to Paloga Pass Base Camp
On this Day
Continue from Jabba to the top camping location below Paloga Pass. The trail climbs steeper and passes through alpine pastures, scattered boulders, and seasonal streams. As altitude rises, the vegetation thins and the environment gets wilder. Trekkers maintain a steady pace to aid acclimatization and conserve energy. The camp is located beneath the pass in a sheltered place. This portion provides stunning views and heightens anticipation for the passage into Kohistan.
Day 05: Cross Paloga Pass
On this Day
Cross Paloga Pass and enter the rural area going to Kandia Valley in Kohistan. The ascent comprises slippery scree, uneven footing, and high-altitude trekking, so keep a steady pace. Trekkers can enjoy panoramic views of the mountains, glacier-fed basins, and the stark difference between Swat and Kohistan from the summit. Following the pass crossing, gradually descend to the Kandia side camp. This is the most difficult and rewarding part of the trek.
Day 06: Trek down to Kandia Valley
On this Day
Trek deeper into the Kandia side, past open valleys, shepherd pathways, and remote summer pastures. As the path descends in elevation, the terrain transitions from exposed highland slopes to lush lower portions. Streams, grazing grounds, and scattered cottages indicate the transition to inhabited areas. Local interactions offer cultural depth to the adventure, particularly in villages that are rarely visited by trekkers. The walking portion is easier than the pass crossing, but it still demands caution on rough pathways. The team arrives at a lower valley stop and prepares for the egress to the roadhead.
Day 07: Drive to Besham
On this Day
Finish the final trekking section to the nearest available roadhead in Kohistan. Depending on the season, proceed by jeep to Pattan, Kamila, or Besham. The path travels through stunning river valleys, revealing the rocky character of Indus Kohistan. After leaving the trail, the crew transitions from camping to road travel. This day serves as a good buffer against delays due to weather, road access, porter movement, or changes in local trail conditions.
Day 08: Return to Islamabad
On this Day
Drive from Besham or the chosen roadhead back to Islamabad via the Karakoram Highway and related routes. The route traverses the Indus River corridor before eventually returning to inhabited towns and plains. Trekkers reflect on their journey from Swat to Kohistan, which included alpine scenery, cultural contacts, and remote mountain trekking. The Paloga Pass Trek ends in Islamabad, leaving behind memories of a difficult journey between two separate Himalayan regions.
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:
Map
Overview – Paloga Pass Trek
The Paloga Pass Trek (Kalam-Kohistan) is a wild alpine adventure in northern Pakistan. It starts near Kalam and continues via Matiltan, Paloga, and Jabba. The trail then climbs toward a high pass that connects Swat and Kohistan. Trekkers pass through alpine meadows, glacial streams, rocky slopes, and shepherd communities. Furthermore, the road provides breathtaking vistas of snowcapped peaks and pristine valleys. As a result, it is suitable for seasoned hikers seeking wilderness, culture, and rigorous mountain travel.
This Kalam to Kohistan journey is less congested than several well-known treks. As a result, it exudes rawness, tranquility, and adventure. The trek connects two distinct mountain regions via an ancient highland trail. However, the journey necessitates good fitness, local guidance, camping gear, and adaptable planning. The weather, terrain conditions, and road access can all change suddenly. Furthermore, the descent to Kandia Valley exposes Kohistan’s rough beauty and traditional village life. Overall, this journey is ideal for travelers looking for a unique Pakistan trekking experience.
Website Last Updated: January 15, 2026
