General
Palesar Pass Trek (Mahodand Lake to Tangir) – 09 Days (2026-27)
The Palesar Pass Trek starts near Mahodand Lake, above Kalam. Furthermore, it takes calm pathways to the secluded Tangir Valley. Trekkers pass through meadows, streams, ridges, and secret grazing lands. This Swat-to-Kohistan adventure is ideal for experienced hikers seeking raw nature. Furthermore, the journey provides isolation, cultural contacts, and breathtaking high mountain views. It is suitable for those who enjoy tough, less-traveled Pakistan hikes.
In addition to this trek, we also offer the following Treks in Kohistan Valley, as listed in the table below.
Dates & Cost – Palesar Pass Trek
Summers are ideal for the Palesar 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 | 28-Jun-2026 | US$ 1,170 | Limited Space | US$ 260 | BOOK NOW |
| 20-Jun-2027 | 28-Jun-2027 | US$ 1,170 | 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
Palesar Pass Trek has a lot to offer. Given below are the main highlights of the trek:
- Discover tranquil Mahodand Lake before remote trekking begins.
- Visit scenic Ushu Forest on the drive.
- Trek toward Palesar Base Camp through meadows.
- Cross rugged Palesar Pass into Kohistan.
- Explore quiet Kandia side grazing valleys.
- Discover remote high pastures beyond the watershed.
- Trek isolated Tangir approach trails with guides.
- Visit traditional Tangir Valley mountain settlements.
- Experience dramatic Indus corridor scenery near Chilas.
- Complete rare Swat-to-Tangir traverse across wilderness.
Itinerary – Palesar Pass Trek
The itinerary for the trek is listed below.
Day 02: Kalam to Mahodand Lake
On this Day
Drive from Kalam through Ushu Forest and Matiltan to Mahodand Lake, the main access point for this isolated crossing. The road travels through steep terrain, waterfalls, pine forests, and glacial streams before entering the lake basin. When you arrive at Mahodand, set your tent near a suitable meadow and review the route with guides. The remaining walk around the lake helps hikers adjust to the altitude, manage their loads, and prepare for the journey to upper grazing villages.
Day 03: Trek to Palesar Base Camp
On this Day
Begin your journey from the Mahodand Lake basin, following shepherd pathways away from the major tourist area to the higher Ushu side valleys. Before ascending to the Palesar approach, the trail travels through pine-edged meadows, glacial streams, scattered rocks, and seasonal grazing shelters. Guides inspect river crossings, snow areas, and camping conditions along the journey. Camp is set just below the pass in a protected spot with access to water and views of the surrounding ridgelines.
Day 04: Cross Palesar Pass
On this Day
Ascend from base camp to Palesar Pass, passing through steep slopes, loose stones, and sometimes snow patches depending on the season. The climb necessitates precise timing, route finding, and close coordination with guides and porters. After reaching the pass, take in the panoramic views of the Swat and Kohistan basins before descending onto Kandia. The descent is across rugged terrain into a gentler valley system, with camp put up near a stream or meadow below the pass.
Day 05: Trek down to Kandia Side
On this Day
Trek down the upper Kandia side, following water channels and grazing paths utilized by locals. The trail switches between open pastures, mountainous traverses, and narrow valley parts. This stage provides a stark change after the pass, with softer meadows, flowing streams, and more camping options. The group continues toward high fields that connect the Kandia drainage to routes heading to Kohistan and Tangir. Camp is set up near the water, with time for route checks and recuperation.
Day 06: Trek to Tangir Approach
On this Day
Leave the high pastures and proceed up distant peaks and side valleys that eventually lead to the Tangir approach. Depending on the local route taken, the topography may consist of rough paths, scree, grassy shelves, and occasional forest areas. This is one of the most solitary phases; therefore, guide support is still required. The views begin to shift to the Indus side of the mountains, and the trekking path follows natural corridors utilized by herders and valley inhabitants.
Day 07: Descend to Tangir Valley
On this Day
Descend toward Tangir Valley via diminishing valleys, farmed areas, and towns, which mark the end of the wilderness passage. The pathway gets more distinct as it approaches the local paths that connect communities, fields, and waterways. After several days in distant camps, the arrival in Tangir marks a cultural shift, with traditional residences, terraced land, and mountain villages. Set up a small guesthouse or camp, clean up your stuff, and enjoy your successful trek of the Palesar Pass.
Day 08: Drive to Chilas
On this Day
Travel by jeep from Tangir Valley to the Indus corridor and then to Chilas, depending on road conditions and local approvals. Before connecting to the main route, the trip takes you through magnificent mountain terrain, river views, and tiny access roads. This day serves as a buffer following the trek, particularly if the crossing was delayed due to weather or trail difficulties. When you arrive in Chilas, check into a hotel, organize your trekking gear, and allow the support crew time to finalize logistics.
Day 09: Return to Islamabad
On this Day
Return to Islamabad from Chilas via the Karakoram Highway or the seasonal Babusar route, depending on access and road conditions. Before heading down to the plains, the journey travels through rocky valleys, river crossings, and varied mountain views. Short comfort pauses are made en route as needed. The Palesar Pass Trek from Mahodand Lake to Tangir concludes in Islamabad, capping off a remarkable Swat-to-Gilgit-Baltistan journey through secluded valleys and high mountain terrain.
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 – Palesar Pass Trek
The Palesar Pass Trek (Mahodand Lake to Tangir) is a remote Swat-Gilgit-Baltistan trekking route. It starts near Mahodand Lake, above Kalam, and continues across the upper Ushu Valley. The trail then climbs toward Palesar Pass, also known locally as Palesar An. Furthermore, this route connects the upper Ushu-gol side to Kohistan’s untamed mountain valleys. Trekkers travel through alpine meadows, glacial streams, rocky basins, and peaceful grazing lands. As a result, the route is best suited to experienced hikers looking for isolation, wildlife, and true wilderness. Unlike most Swat tours, this trip seems both adventurous and emotionally gratifying. It also connects famous lake views to hidden mountain passages.
After crossing the pass, the trail drops to the Tangir side, one of Gilgit-Baltistan’s lesser-known mountain areas. The terrain progressively shifts from high grasslands to rural valleys, small communities, and breathtaking Indus Valley vistas. Furthermore, the walk provides significant cultural significance through local shepherd camps and remote settlements. However, public route information is scarce; thus, professional local guides are required. Weather, snow, and trail conditions may also have an impact on the program. Overall, the Palesar Pass Trek is great for adventurous visitors looking for a unique Pakistan trek. It is best suited for fit hikers who prefer tough paths and flexible mountain plans.
Website Last Updated: January 15, 2026
