General
Phashkarey Lake Trek (Gabbar Nala Kohistan) – 06 Days (2026-27)
The Phashkarey Lake Trek provides a remote journey across Gabbar Nala in Upper Kohistan. Furthermore, the route passes through rocky valleys, alpine pastures, pristine streams, and serene campgrounds. Trekkers steadily trek toward the secret mountain lake, taking in the breathtaking natural vistas. This route is ideal for experienced hikers seeking isolation, natural beauty, and true exploration. Additionally, local guides and proper planning contribute to a safer trekking trip.
In addition to this trek, we also offer the following Treks in Kohistan Valley, as listed in the table below.
Dates & Cost – Phashkarey Lake Trek
Summers are ideal for the Phashkarey Lake 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 | 25-Jun-2026 | US$ 780 | Limited Space | US$ 260 | BOOK NOW |
| 20-Jun-2027 | 25-Jun-2027 | US$ 780 | 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
Phashkarey Lake Trek has a lot to offer. Given below are the main highlights of the trek:
- Discover Phashkarey Lake within remote Kohistan wilderness.
- Trek beside Gabbar Nala through rugged valleys.
- Visit Dassu before entering the mountain trails.
- Explore Upper Kohistan beyond commercial trekking routes.
- Camp near high pastures and clear streams.
- Cross rocky trails with dramatic valley views.
- Experience Karakoram Highway access through Indus gorges.
- Enjoy alpine scenery around peaceful lakeside camps.
- Meet local guides supporting safe exploration.
- Capture hidden landscapes across Gabbar Valley.
Itinerary – Phashkarey Lake Trek
The itinerary for the trek is listed below.
Day 02: Drive to Gabbar Nala - Trekking
On this Day
Begin with a jeep trip to Gabbar Nala, taking the local mountain route as far as conditions permit. The terrain changes gradually from roadside towns to narrow ravines, terraced farmland, and wild side valleys. Begin walking from the final jeep stop and follow the stream via rocky parts and occasional summer huts. Continue to a suitable lower camp near water, where the crew will organize supplies, inspect equipment, and prepare for higher terrain.
Day 03: Trek to High Pastures
On this Day
Continue deeper into Gabbar Nala, gaining elevation amid a shifting environment of rocks, woodland areas, and open grazing slopes. The track may include stream crossings, loose ground, and short steep portions, so movement should be steady and careful. As the valley widens, alpine pastures arise, offering better vistas of the surrounding hills. Reach a secluded campsite in the high meadows, allowing enough time for rest, acclimatization, and route assessment with local guides in safety.
Day 04: Trek to Phashkarey Lake
On this Day
Trek from the upper pastures to Phashkarey Lake, via the tougher alpine route above the main nala. Before arriving at the lake basin, the path ascends grassy shoulders, moraine-like terrain, and open slopes. Enjoy views of the clean lake, surrounding peaks, and Upper Kohistan's secluded environment. Spend time exploring the lakeside region, shooting spots, and neighboring vistas before returning to the constructed high camp for a rest and dinner.
Day 05: Trek back to Gabbar Nala and Dassu
On this Day
Retrace your steps from the top camp to Gabbar Nala, taking caution as you descend over loose portions, stream crossings, and meadow pathways. The return trip provides new vistas of the valley and neighboring slopes, as well as opportunities to watch local livestock and mountain plants. Meet the jeeps at the accessible roadhead and proceed back to Dassu. After arriving, check into your accommodations, organize your trekking gear, and enjoy the end of the Phashkarey Lake Trek.
Day 06: Return to Islamabad
On this Day
Leave Dassu and go back to Islamabad along the Karakoram Highway, traveling through the Indus Valley, Besham, Mansehra, and Hazara regions. The return route provides a final view of Kohistan's cliffs, riverside settlements, and mountain roads. Continue toward the capital, stopping for comfort along the way. The Phashkarey Lake Trek culminates in Islamabad with unforgettable experiences in Gabbar Nala and Upper Kohistan's undiscovered alpine scenery.
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 – Phashkarey Lake Trek
The Phashkarey Lake Trek in Gabbar Nala, Kohistan, is a remote alpine route through Upper Kohistan’s rugged terrain. The walk begins near Dassu, which is connected to Islamabad by the Karakoram Highway. The trail then continues into Gabbar Nala, a lesser-known side valley with breathtaking beauty. The route features rocky paths, stream crossings, grazing hills, and tranquil campsites. As a result, it is great for hikers seeking pristine vistas off the beaten path. The highlight is Phashkarey Lake, also known locally as Pashkari Lake. It’s pure water, a peaceful basin, and the surrounding peaks provide a strong wilderness experience.
Although the trek is not widely promoted, it offers significant potential for adventure tourism in Kohistan. In addition, the path is suitable for experienced hikers who prefer exploratory walking and basic camping. The excursion mixes mountain culture, rugged valleys, and breathtaking views of the Indus region. However, due to limited resources, adequate preparation remains necessary. Before departing, make preparations for local guides, jeeps, weather checks, and route verification. As a result, this walk provides a unique opportunity to discover Gabbar Nala Kohistan with safety, authenticity, and a stronger connection to nature.
Website Last Updated: January 15, 2026
