General
Kharfaq Lake Trek (2-Day Trip from Skardu) (2026-27)
The Kharfaq Lake Trek takes you into the isolated regions of Ghanche District, Gilgit-Baltistan. The trek begins at Kharfaq Village and climbs through difficult Karakoram landscape to a lovely high-altitude lake. Furthermore, the walk rewards hikers with breathtaking mountain views, peaceful surroundings, and crystal-clear alpine waters. The lake is around two kilometers from the settlement and normally requires three hours of hiking. As a result, this walk is great for anyone seeking adventure, natural beauty, and a satisfying short mountain getaway.
In addition to this trek, we also offer the following Skardu Tours & Treks, as shown in the table below.
Itinerary – Kharfaq Lake Trek (2 Days)
The itinerary for the trek is given below.
Day 01: Skardu to Kharfaq Valley – Trek to Kharfaq Lake
Depart Skardu and drive through the stunning vistas of Ghanche District to Kharfaq Valley, along the Khaplu road. Prepare for the uphill journey to Kharfaq Lake, which is roughly two kilometers from the village. The trail climbs steadily via rocky hills and open alpine landscape, providing stunning views of the surrounding valley. Continue walking for around three hours until you reach the high-altitude lake. Set up camp beside the lake, enjoy the peace, and spend the night beneath the Karakoram mountains.
Day 02: Lake Exploration – Return to Skardu
Spend time exploring Kharfaq Lake and its tranquil alpine environs, including walks along the beach to observe the jagged hills reflected in the lake. After admiring the distant landscape, continue the descent into Kharfaq Village, following the same steep mountain trail used for the ascent. Rejoin the van in the village and drive back to Skardu through Ghanche’s picturesque valleys and towns. The voyage ends in Skardu after a rewarding two-day trek that includes alpine views, nature, and the quiet beauty of Kharfaq Lake.
Dates & Cost – Kharfaq Lake Trek
All seasons are considered good for the Kharfaq Lake Trek. 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 this trek (all seasons) are given below.
| Season | Months | Tour Start Date | Price Per Person (USD) | Minimum Travellers Required | Register |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Winter | Mid-November to February, 2026 | Daily | 260 | 1 pax | BOOK NOW |
| Spring | March to May, 2026 | Daily | 260 | 1 pax | BOOK NOW |
| Summer | June to Mid- September, 2026 | Daily | 300 | 1 pax | BOOK NOW |
| Autumn | Mid-September to Mid November, 2026 | Daily | 260 | 1 pax | BOOK NOW |
| Season | Months | Tour Start Date | Price Per Person (USD) | Minimum Travellers Required | Register |
Holiday Information
- Pickup from hotel or vacation rental before sightseeing
- Drop at hotel or vacation rental after sightseeing
- Guided sightseeing tour according to itinerary above
- Map (hard copy)
- Licensed professional guide (english speaking)
- SUV/mini-van/car (depending on number of people)
- Driver
- All entry/admission tickets
- Bottled water in car (fair usage policy)
- Toll & parking fees
- Drop after 10 pm (Drivers & Guide's working hours end at 10pm)
- Gratuities/tips for guides/drivers, etc
- Meals, snacks and drinks (our guide will make recommendations after consultation with guests)
- Accommodation (can be arranged at additional cost according to your budget)
- Personal travel insurance (Recommendation/Rescue Partners: Global Rescue)
- Visa to Pakistan (supporting documents can be offered if requested for multiday tours)
- Refunds in case of early tour windup/closure due to any reason
- Anything not mentioned in inclusions
Highlights
The trek has a lot to offer. The main highlights are given below.
- Travel from Skardu into scenic Kharfaq Valley.
- Begin the uphill trek from Kharfaq Village.
- Follow the rugged mountain trail toward lake.
- Admire sweeping views across Ghanche District mountains.
- Reach tranquil Kharfaq Lake after sustained climbing.
- Camp beside Kharfaq Lake beneath Karakoram peaks.
- Explore the peaceful lakeshore and mountain reflections.
- Experience remote Karakoram scenery around the lake.
- Descend the rocky trekking route toward village.
- Complete the return drive from Kharfaq Valley.
As Featured In:
Photo Gallery
Overview – Kharfaq Lake Trek
The Kharfaq Lake Trek provides a delightful retreat to the wild mountain landscape of Ghanche District, Gilgit-Baltistan. The lake, located above Kharfaq Village, is part of the majestic Karakoram Range. Furthermore, the journey includes gorgeous drives, village views, and a strenuous mountain hike. The lake is just two kilometers from Kharfaq Village, but the ascent normally takes three hours. Hikers should expect steep terrain despite the short distance. Along the walk, varied vistas reveal steep slopes, vast valleys, and breathtaking alpine scenery. Eventually, trekkers arrive at Kharfaq Lake, where tranquil water and wilderness create a serene alpine environment.
For those looking for an adventurous short walk from Skardu, the Kharfaq Lake walk is a wonderful alternative. Furthermore, a two-day plan gives you more time to explore the lake without hurrying the entire trip. Before descending, visitors can walk along the seashore, photograph the neighboring peaks, and enjoy the peaceful scenery. Meanwhile, Kharfaq Lake supports indigenous fish species such as trout, which adds ecological importance to the site. July and August are considered the finest months to visit the lake. As a result, the trek is ideal for trekkers seeking nature, seclusion, and a true Karakoram trekking experience.
Website Last Updated: January 15, 2026
