General
Matiltan Pass Trek (Kalam to Kohistan) – 08 Days (2026-27)
The Matiltan Pass Trek from Kalam to Kohistan is a remote excursion through forests, glaciers, and alpine valleys. Furthermore, trekkers travel through peaceful pastures, rugged hills, and high alpine terrain. As the path descends into Kandia Valley, it shows Kohistani culture and breathtaking scenery. As a result, this journey is best suited to experienced adventurers looking for isolation, challenge, and true northern Pakistan scenery beyond the tourist paths.
In addition to this trek, we also offer the following Treks in Kohistan Valley, as listed in the table below.
Dates & Cost – Matiltan Pass Trek
Summers are ideal for the Matiltan 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
Matiltan Pass Trek has a lot to offer. Given below are the main highlights of the trek:
- Trekkers begin near scenic Kalam Valley trails.
- The route passes historic Matiltan Village landscapes.
- Remote Paloga introduces the Upper Swat wilderness.
- Peaceful Jabba Campsite offers secluded mountain views.
- Rugged Matiltan Pass connects Swat with Kohistan.
- A blue alpine lake enhances the crossing.
- Dramatic Kandia Valley reveals Kohistani mountain life.
- Shepherd grazing pastures create authentic trekking charm.
- Rocky Kohistan landscapes contrast with green Swat.
- The journey ends along the Indus Highway scenery.
Itinerary – Matiltan 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, a picturesque town surrounded by glaciers, forests, and towering peaks. Continue toward Paloga, which is a key starting place for the Matiltan Pass path. The day is dedicated to acclimatization, burden distribution, and collaboration with local guides. Trekkers can visit local communities and prepare their gear for the path ahead. The scene depicts Upper Swat's distant beauty and wild nature.
Day 03: Trek from Paloga to Jabba
On this Day
Begin your walk from Paloga and follow the climbing trail toward Jabba. The trail leads up through grassy hills, occasional trees, and open grazing pastures used by local shepherds. As the elevation rises, the views extend to include surrounding ridges and distant snow-covered summits. The slow climb necessitates patience and a relaxed pace. Arrive at Jabba camping and relax in the peaceful surroundings, where the valley feels more solitary and undisturbed.
Day 04: Trek to Matiltan Pass Base Camp
On this Day
Continue from Jabba to the upper grazing meadows below Matiltan Pass. The trail steepens as it enters the high alpine zone. Green slopes gradually give way to stony terrain, moraines, and cooler mountain views. The campsite is located below the pass to facilitate acclimatization and safe passage. Trekkers can experience breathtaking views of steep peaks, hidden valleys, and the natural border between Swat and Kohistan.
Day 05: Cross Matiltan Pass
On this Day
Cross Matiltan Pass, the high peak that connects Swat's Kalam area and Kohistan's Kandia Valley. The ascent consists of loose stones, steep parts, and careful navigation through exposed terrain. Near the pass, hikers may notice a little blue lake and spectacular views of the surrounding peaks. After enjoying the scenery, cautiously descend to the Kohistan side. The environment becomes drier, more rugged, and dramatic than the greener Swat side.
Day 06: Descend into Kandia Valley
On this Day
Continue descending from the top camp to Kandia Valley in Upper Kohistan. Before arriving at the lower inhabited areas, the trail traverses steep slopes, stream crossings, and isolated grazing villages. The environment gradually softens as the road approaches woodlands, fields, and village settings. This section provides an insight into Kohistani mountain life and the region's secluded nature. Depending on road conditions, meet local transport or remain near a village once the trekking phase is completed.
Day 07: Drive to Dassu
On this Day
Leave Kandia Valley in a local jeep or other appropriate mode of transportation and head to Dassu. Floods, landslides, and mountain weather all have the potential to disrupt road conditions in this area. The drive takes tiny valley roads before connecting to the main Kohistan highway at the Indus corridor. This day will remain flexible to accommodate delays, road maintenance, and local access difficulties. After arriving, check into a cheap hotel and recover after your walk.
Day 08: Return to Islamabad
On this Day
Continue driving toward Islamabad through the Indus and Hazara regions. Before arriving in the plains, the route travels by mountain roads, river valleys, and through varied scenery. Depending on road conditions, the drive may take you through Besham, Mansehra, Abbottabad, and the Hazara Motorway. The expedition concludes in Islamabad, marking the culmination of a difficult mountain journey from Kalam in Swat to Kandia Valley in Upper Kohistan.
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 – Matiltan Pass Trek
The Matiltan Pass Trek (Kalam-Kohistan) is a remote alpine excursion across Upper Swat and Kohistan. It starts in Kalam and progresses to Matiltan and Paloga before entering harsh alpine terrain. Furthermore, the path includes forests, grazing meadows, glaciers, streams, and breathtaking mountain views. As the trail ascends, the scenery gets rougher and more serene. Trekkers cross through Jabba and proceed to the base of the Matiltan cross. As a result, this walk is great for adventurers seeking solitude, natural beauty, and cultural depth.
After passing through Matiltan Pass, the path falls into Kandia Valley in Upper Kohistan. In contrast to the verdant Swat, Kohistan has stony valleys and distant communities. Trekkers can also encounter native mountain life, shepherd pathways, and an undisturbed environment. The trek continues to Dassu, before returning to Islamabad via the Indus and Hazara regions. Overall, the Matiltan Pass trip is a difficult cross-valley trip with unique views. It connects two distinct mountain ranges via a historic and lesser-traveled road. As a result, it is ideal for experienced trekkers wishing to venture beyond the most popular trails in northern Pakistan.
Website Last Updated: January 15, 2026
