General
Central Karakoram National Park Tour – 15 Days (2026-27)
The Central Karakoram National Park Tour takes you across Pakistan’s northern mountains, where you may witness stunning splendor. This excursion includes glacier hiking, alpine valleys, and breathtaking Karakoram peaks. Furthermore, visitors can explore the picturesque Hushe and Charakusa valleys while immersing themselves in real Baltic culture. This journey provides an outstanding trekking experience in one of the world’s most stunning mountain regions, including views of K6 and K7 Base Camps as well as breathtaking scenery.
In addition to this tour, we also offer the following National Park tour packages, as shown in the table below.
| TOURS OF PAKISTAN'S NATIONAL PARKS | DURATION | Price per person (PKR) |
|---|---|---|
| Ayubia National Park Dunga Gali Tour | 02 Days | 85000 |
| Broghil National Park Tour | 08 Days | 335000 |
| Central Karakoram National Park Tour | 15 Days | 630000 |
| Deva Vatala National Park Tour | 02 Days | 85000 |
| Hazarganji-Chiltan National Park Tour | 03 Days | 125000 |
| Khunjerab National Park Tour | 10 Days | 420000 |
| Kumrat Forest Tour | 03 Days | 125000 |
| Lal Suhanra National Park Tour | 03 Days | 125000 |
| Machiara National Park Tour | 03 Days | 125000 |
| Murree Wildlife Park Tour | 02 Days | 85000 |
| Saif-ul-Mulook National Park Tour | 03 Days | 125000 |
| Kirthar National Park Tour | 01 Day | 42000 |
| Palas Valley Wildlife Sanctuary Tour | 03 Days | 125000 |
| Haleji Lake Wildlife Sanctuary Tour | 01 Day | 42000 |
| Miani Hor Wildlife Sanctuary Tour | 01 Day | 42000 |
| TOURS OF PAKISTAN'S NATIONAL PARKS | DURATION | Price per person (PKR) |
Itinerary – Central Karakoram National Park Tour
The itinerary for the Central Karakoram National Park Tour is below.
Day 02: Fly to Skardu, Karakoram (2,498m)
On this Day
GPS Data
Altitude: 2,498 m
Participants on this morning will take the spectacular flight from Islamabad airport to Skardu airport. You will be able to see Nanga Parbat if clouds allow. After arrival in Skardu, the day is free.
Day 03: Spend Free day in Skardu (2,598m)
On this Day
GPS Data
Altitude: 2,498 m
After breakfast, the participants will walk to Kharpocho Fort in Skardu, which is located up on a mountain. The Kharpocho fort gives a splendid view of the Indus and Skardu towns. The participants will also have an option to take a tour of Sadpara Lake followed by free shopping time in Skardu Bazaar.
During sightseeing, our staff will take care of further government documentation required in Skardu. This can sometimes take two days. We have contingency days towards the end of the trek in case of any delays.
Day 04: Drive to Hushe Valley (3,050m)
On this Day
GPS Data
Altitude: 3,050 m
Distance: 127 km drive
Time: 6 hours drive
We make a reasonably early start from Skardu, crossing the Shyok River to begin an exciting 6-hour jeep ride up to Hushe, through a number of small and picturesque villages in the lower Hushe Valley. En route we must cross a number of 'nullahs' or small tributary valleys. These nullahs are fed by meltwaters from the glaciers high above the valley and can become impassable by the afternoon as the hot sun goes to work. Our early start from Khaplu means that we should not have any problems in this respect. Hushe is the highest village in the area at 3050 metres and we set up our camp in a field just below the village with the huge bulk of Masherbrum (7821m) dominating the valley to the north.
Day 05: Trek to Saicho (3,348m)
On this Day
GPS Data
Altitude: 3,348 m
Distance: 10 km
Time: 2.5 hours
Today, we begin our approach to Gondogoro Peak, trekking up above the village on a rocky path through very impressive scenery. Immediately above the village is a farmed area with some bare grazing, fields of corn and turnips, flowering shrubs such as oleander, and a few sparse trees. Towering rocky peaks line both sides of the valley. The valley opens out and splits, as we turn towards the north-east alongside the river that has its source in the Gondogoro Glacier. We cross the tributary Charakusa River on a wooden cantilever bridge to reach the idyllic campsite at Saitcho. This camp lies at the junction of the Charakusa and Gondokoro valleys and is situated on a sandy, tree-shaded area beside a swift-flowing river. There are excellent views of Namika (6325m), the rock spire of K7, and from the trail leading to the camp, there is a sighting of the impressive Charakusa Spire. This is a short and easy day of trekking, good for acclimatization.
Day 06: Trek to Spangsar
On this Day
GPS Data
Time: 5-6 hours
After the break, quickly hike east from Saicho into the ablation valley north of the Sarak Tsa Glacier. The high spires of K7 and Link Sar are seen ahead. Tikchumik (little spring), located in the ablation valley at the base of the ridge west of the Chogolisa Glacier, contains excellent water. Continue along the ridge's base until you reach the Chogolisa glacier's west border. Cross this glacier to reach the verdant and flowery Spangser, located above the junction of the Chogolisa and Tsarak Tsa glaciers. Granite slabs rise above Spangser, while Namika (6325m) looms across the Tsarak Tsa Glacier. Spangser (4000 metres) is the highest pasture and is utilized from mid-July until mid-August.
Day 07: Trek to K6/K7 Base Camp
On this day
Trek to the K6 and K7 Base Camps, which are located at 4600 meters. Beginning early, we go across the difficult ablation valley north of the Tsarak Tsa glacier, contending with uneven terrain and slippery rocks. We keep a steady pace, with occasional pauses for fluids and food. The ascent provides beautiful views of the glacier and adjacent peaks, ideal for photography. The final stretch is difficult because of the high altitude, but we take our time and breathe deeply. When we get to base camp, we relax, pitch up our tents, and acclimatize. The evening is spent hydrating, enjoying a warm dinner, and talking about the day's adventures while planning for the next day. We continue to be cautious of altitude issues, staying hydrated, layering clothes, shielding ourselves from the sun, and eating high-energy meals.
Day 08-09: Rest Day at Base Camp
On this days
We will explore the breathtaking surroundings of the K6-K7 Base Camp at 4600 meters, with free time for sightseeing, acclimatization, and relaxation. These days allow for leisurely excursions to local vantage points, where you may get panoramic views of the majestic peaks K6 and K7 while also viewing the distinctive alpine flora and animals. To limit the danger of altitude sickness, we focus on acclimatizing to the high altitude, keeping a calm pace, and providing adequate water and nourishment. Evenings are spent exchanging tales, analyzing photographs, and planning our future moves, which enriches our trekking experience and allows us to fully immerse ourselves in the peaceful beauty of this high-altitude setting.
Day 10: Trek to Saicho
On this Day
The participants will continue hiking down, Since the hike downwards would be comparatively easy the climbing equipment i.e. ropes, and crampons will be packed while descending. The mountainous and rocky terrain will be taken over the lush green landscapes of Hushe Valley.
After lunch, the participants will continue hiking to the edge of the Gondogoro Glacier, upon reaching the edge they will find a trail that will lead them to the beautiful valley of rhubarb and grass.
At the end of the valley, there are 02 different routes to the destination. Our guide with the consent of local porters will decide the trails they are being frequently used.
The trek gets easy when the two trails meet. The members will see the huts made of stones by herders and local settlers. On this day the participants will experience the sign of the settlements in the area and will be able to breathe easily due to big trees and lower altitude. The camp will be set up at Saicho (3,350m), a part of sand with little grass along the flowing glacier water streams.
Day 11: Trek to Hushe and drive to Skardu town
On this Day
GPS Data
Altitude: 2,498 m
Distance: 20 km trek + 127 km drive
Time: 5-7 hours trek + 6 hours drive
On this day the participants have to trek down for only 3-4 hours, the river stream of glacier melted water of Charakusa, Ailling, Masherbrum and Gondogoro Glaciers. The participants will start see the signs of residences, shelter, fiels and signs of people living.
The participants will experience the 02 storey shelters of the Hushe village, where the ground floor is for cattles and the first floor is for the family to live. After setting up the camp the participants can explore the beautiful hushe valley and interact with the locals. This would be the last camping day of the Gondogoro La Trek.
Upon reaching Hushe, the participants will depart for Skardu town from Hushe and the journey offers a lot of beautiful scenes of the different small village of the Hushe Valley. The participants will cross a suspension bridge above Shyok River (which flows from Ladakh, India) to get to the other side.
In the past traditional rafts which were made of goat skin fill with air were use to cross the river. The suspension bridge which is use now to cross was built in 1990’s. Upon crossing the bridge, the participants will the reach Khaplu.
The drive from Khaplu to Skardu becomes smooth and the route to be followe is the paved road along the shayok river which leads to the confluence with Indus River. Upon driving along Indus River the Participants will reach Skardu in 4 hours. The participants can have the facilities which they did not have for 02 weeks. The first on that list would be taking a hot shower and secondly having a good meal.
Day 12: Contingency day/rest in Skardu
On this Day
GPS Data
Altitude: 2,400 m
This day is allocated for any potential delays during trekking/climbing. We do not want our guests to miss their return flights/other arrangements due to delays that can be caused by multiple factors including (but not limited to) road blocks.
Note: All expenses in Skardu (e.g. hotel, meals, transportation after hotel drop) on this day will be incurred directly by our climbers/guests and is not part of the adventure package. Your adventure with Apricot Tours ends upon returning in Skardu.
Day 13: Fly to Islamabad (590m)
On this Day
GPS Data
Altitude: 590 m
On this day the participants will take a flight from the airport in Skardu to Islamabad airport. You will have a good time to relax at the hotel in Islamabad.
The domestic flights sometime get cancelled due to weather conditions. Incase of flight cancellation, you will drive to Chilas for overnight. It takes eight to ten hours by a vehicle.
Day 14: Contingency day for flight cancellations
On this Day
GPS Data
Altitude: 538 m
This day is allocated for any potential delays in case the domestic flight does not operate the previous day. Our guests will depart early morning from Chilas to Islamabad which can take up to ten hours. However, it will be a free day in case the participants make it to Islamabad on the domestic flight. This time can be utilized for sightseeing in Islamabad.
Day 15: Fly to home country
On this Day
Meals included: Breakfast
Our staff will transfer all our guests to the airport on their respective departure timings. The checkout time of all our partner hotels is 12pm.
Extra nights/time in Islamabad (hotel check-in/out is 12pm) - additional USD 59 per night
Dates & Cost – Central Karakoram National Park Tour
All seasons are considered good for the tour. Considering the inflow of tourists all year round, our dates are open throughout the year, and your bookings will be 100% guaranteed, even if you are a single traveler. Our prices and dates for the tour (all seasons) are below.
| Season | Months | Tour Start Date | Price Per Person (PKR) | Minimum Travellers Required | Register |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Winter | Mid-November to February, 2026 | Daily | 630000 | 1 pax | BOOK NOW |
| Spring | March to May, 2026 | Daily | 630000 | 1 pax | BOOK NOW |
| Summer | June to Mid- September, 2026 | Daily | 630000 | 1 pax | BOOK NOW |
| Autumn | Mid-September to Mid November, 2026 | Daily | 630000 | 1 pax | BOOK NOW |
| Season | Months | Tour Start Date | Price Per Person (PKR) | Minimum Travellers Required | Register |
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
The tour has a lot to offer. The main highlights are given below.
- Witness stunning views of K6 and K7 peaks.
- Explore remote trails across the beautiful Charakusa Valley.
- Camp beside the breathtaking Charakusa Glacier landscapes.
- Enjoy scenic jeep rides through picturesque Hushe Valley.
- Experience panoramic mountain scenery from Kharpocho Fort viewpoints.
- Discover alpine beauty near the massive Masherbrum Peak.
- Trek across rugged terrain beneath towering Link Sar.
- Visit peaceful campsites surrounded by majestic Namika Peak views.
- Experience authentic culture in traditional Balti village settlements.
- Capture unforgettable landscapes inside Central Karakoram National Park.
As Featured In:
Overview – Central Karakoram National Park Tour
The Central Karakoram National Park journey provides a memorable journey across Pakistan’s most beautiful mountain scenery. This breathtaking region in Gilgit-Baltistan is home to towering peaks, vast glaciers, and picturesque alpine valleys. Furthermore, the vacation mixes exciting trekking adventures with real Balti cultural encounters. Travelers begin their voyage in Skardu before venturing into the gorgeous Hushe Valley and the famous Charakusa region. Visitors will be treated to breathtaking vistas of K6, K7, Link Sar, Masherbrum, and Namika Peak along the way. In addition, the trail travels past picturesque campsites, glacial streams, and remote alpine communities surrounded by pristine scenery. As a result, this excursion is great for hikers, photographers, and environmental enthusiasts seeking breathtaking mountain vistas.
Furthermore, the tour offers a fantastic opportunity to visit one of the world’s most heavily protected national parks. The adventure combines breathtaking flights over the Karakoram Range with fascinating walks through harsh glacier terrain. Meanwhile, travelers can spend calm nights amid snow-capped peaks and starry skies. The Charakusa Glacier and K6-K7 Base Camp remain important highlights of this amazing adventure. Aside from adventure, the journey introduces tourists to the wonderful hospitality and customs of the Balti people. As a result, each step displays a unique combination of natural beauty and cultural heritage. With beautiful vistas and amazing trekking trails, the tour promises a genuinely unforgettable experience in northern Pakistan.
