General

Polan La Trek – 17 Days (2026-27)

The Polan La Trek is a remote, high-altitude trek in northern Pakistan. It connects Arandu Village to the picturesque Nagar Valley. Furthermore, this hike passes through the difficult Polan La Pass at 5,840 meters. Along the trip, trekkers will encounter glaciers, harsh terrain, and dramatic peaks. As a result, it is perfect for experienced travelers seeking isolation, challenge, and stunning Karakoram scenery.

In addition to this trek, we also offer the following Extreme Adventures, as listed in the table below.

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Dates & Cost – Polan La Trek

Summers are ideal for Polan La 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.

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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

Polan La Trek has a lot to offer. Given below are the main highlights of the trek:

  • The journey begins from Arandu Village, a remote gateway.
  • Trekking along the mighty Chogolungma Glacier offers dramatic scenery.
  • Reaching Spantik Base Camp reveals stunning mountain perspectives.
  • Crossing the challenging Polan La Pass (5,840m) feels truly rewarding.
  • Panoramic views of Spantik Peak (Golden Peak) inspire awe.
  • Experiencing untouched wilderness throughout the Karakoram mountain range.
  • Descending into the lush and scenic Nagar Valley landscapes.
  • Cultural encounters in traditional villages near Hopar Village.
  • Transition from glaciers to greenery in Hunza Valley.
  • Enjoying solitude on one of Pakistan’s most remote trekking routes.

 

Itinerary – Polan La Trek – 17 days

The itinerary for the trek is listed below.

On this Day

Participants take an early morning trip from Islamabad to Skardu, which is one of the world's most picturesque air routes. With the right weather, you can witness breathtaking views of Nanga Parbat and other Himalayan peaks. After arrival, the remainder of the day is free for relaxation and acclimatization. In the event of a flight cancellation, participants will travel by road and spend the night in Chilas.

On this Day

After breakfast, participants embark on a jeep safari through the magnificent Shigar Valley, following the scenic Braldu River. The journey continues along the Basha River canyon before reaching Arandu Village, the route's final settlement. Depending on the road conditions, trekking may begin before or after reaching Arandu. The day consists of a mix of driving and walking, lasting around four to six hours in total.

On this Day

The hike officially begins with a steady ascent toward Chogo Brangsa camp, passing near the snout of the spectacular Chogolungma Glacier. The hike has gentle gradients and requires an elevation increase of approximately 700 meters. Participants traverse tough terrain with breathtaking glacier views and alpine scenery. The route takes about five to six hours and provides an exhilarating introduction to high-altitude trekking conditions and the desolate splendor of the Karakoram.

On this Day

This lengthy trekking day begins early, as hikers traverse the northern border of the Chogolungma Glacier to the Bolocho Glacier. The trail has a moderate elevation of about 400 meters, but the long distance makes the day extremely difficult. Trekkers explore the region's raw wildness, surrounded by towering peaks and glacier vistas. The trip takes about six to seven hours to reach the Bolocho campsite, where rest and rehabilitation are important.

On this Day

Participants continue their walk down the Chogolungma Glacier, leaving the valley behind as they approach Spantik Base Camp. The route includes glacier walking, an elevation rise of around 550 meters, and a final 200-meter ascent to the campsite. The terrain gets increasingly difficult, necessitating cautious navigation across ice and rocky areas. The journey lasts six to seven hours and ends at the base of Spantik Peak.

On this Day

Participants will trek from Spantik Base Camp to Polan La Base, gradually ascending through a more distant and less frequented area of the Karakoram. The track includes glacier crossings, rough moraines, and modest rises that need consistent pacing and focus. The environment grows rougher, with fewer traces of earlier trekkers. The travel usually takes five to six hours, giving you time to acclimate and prepare for the higher altitude challenges ahead.

On this Day

The rise continues toward High Camp, with the trail growing steeper and more difficult. Participants travel across snowfields and rugged terrain, gaining significant elevation. The thinner air necessitates gradual acclimatization and a modest, steady pace. Spectacular vistas of nearby peaks repay the effort, giving a thrilling high-altitude adventure. The hike lasts about five to six hours, culminating at a strategically located campground for the upcoming pass crossing.

On this Day

This is the most difficult and rewarding day, as participants traverse Polan La Pass. The trek to the pass includes steep snow and ice portions that require stamina and careful footing. Upon reaching the summit, hikers are rewarded with stunning panoramic views on both sides of the Karakoram. After crossing, a camp is set up near the pass, allowing time to recover and take in the breathtaking high-altitude scenery.

On this Day

Participants begin their descent toward the southern side of Spantik Base Camp, eventually entering the Nagar Valley region. The trail features glacial portions, rocky hills, and moderate downhill walking. The descent offers shifting scenery and new views of the neighboring peaks. Careful navigation is essential on loose terrain, although the lower elevation makes traveling more comfortable. The journey takes about five to six hours and ends at the southern base camp.

On this Day

The trip continues to Girgindil, passing through a stunning alpine landscape and glacial valleys. The terrain gradually declines, providing a more leisurely walking pace than in prior days. Lush areas of greenery begin to sprout, in contrast to the arid landscapes that existed before. The trip takes about five to six hours and provides a welcome change from high-altitude conditions to more pleasant territory.

On this Day

Participants hike toward Hapakun, passing through meadows, rocky slopes, and modest descents. The landscape grows greener, with streams and tiny communities visible along the road. The journey provides a welcome change after days spent on glaciers and high hills. The excursion takes around five hours and allows people to experience the natural splendor while gradually adjusting to lower elevations.

On this Day

The final hiking day takes you to Hopar Village, known for its breathtaking views of glaciers and peaks. Participants travel from Hopar to Karimabad by road. The tour concludes the trekking phase, providing comfort and cultural delights in Hunza. The day combines trekking and driving, delivering a satisfying finale to the excursion.

On this Day

Participants enjoy a well-deserved rest day in Karimabad, seeing the region's cultural and historical treasures. Visits may include local forts, traditional marketplaces, and magnificent vistas overlooking the Hunza Valley. The day is ideal for relaxation, photography, and connection with local communities. It also allows time to think on the excursion and thoroughly heal before commencing the return trip.

On this Day

After breakfast, participants travel to Gilgit along the magnificent Karakoram Highway. The tour provides stunning views of rivers, mountains, and local communities. The trip takes many hours but is more comfortable than previous trekking days. Upon arrival in Gilgit, participants check into their accommodation and relax for the evening before their return journey.

On this Day

You will fly from Gilgit to Islamabad in the morning, with amazing mountain vistas if the weather permits. However, flights in this area are heavily weather-dependent. In the event of cancellation, you will travel by car via the Karakoram Highway, a legendary route with breathtaking landscapes. Although the travel is longer, it offers a unique opportunity to see the landscapes up close before arriving in Islamabad.

On this Day

Following breakfast, participants are transported to the airport for their overseas departure. The adventure culminates with unforgettable recollections of the Karakoram, including glacier crossings, high mountain passes, and cultural encounters in Hunza. The trip from Arandu to Nagar via Polan La was a one-of-a-kind and satisfying experience, marking the end of this remarkable expedition.

 

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.

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Overview – Polan La Trek

The Polan La Trek (5,840m) is one of the most distant and rewarding treks in northern Pakistan. It connects the rugged valleys of Arandu Village to the picturesque sceneries of Nagar Valley. This high-altitude walk takes you across the beautiful Polan La Pass, which offers stunning vistas of glaciers and towering peaks. Furthermore, trekkers encounter pristine terrain away from busy routes. The route takes you along the enormous Chogolungma Glacier before arriving at the base camps for Spantik Peak. As a result, it attracts experienced trekkers looking for isolation, adventure, and true exploration of the Karakoram range.

Furthermore, the trek provides an ideal balance of action and cultural discovery. Trekkers begin in the rough wilderness before gradually descending into the lush beauty of Hunza Valley. Along the route, the terrain changes from freezing glaciers to verdant meadows and medieval villages. In addition, the walk requires stamina due to the altitude and glacier crossings. However, the pleasures include breathtaking sights and a genuine sense of accomplishment. As a result, this trek is suited for experienced adventurers looking for something out of the ordinary. Overall, trek (5,840m) stands out as a hidden treasure among Pakistan’s trekking routes.

Website Last Updated: January 15, 2026

 

Summary
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User Rating
5 based on 1 votes
Company
Apricot Tours Pakistan
Adventure
Polan La Trek
Price
USD 2,210
Product Availability
Available in Stock
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